69. Jay Hilgenberg

The Chicago Bears had many stars throughout the 1980s, and many were flashy and unforgettable. Jay Hilgenberg was an unsung hero of that squad and an anchor of the Offensive Line.

For eleven seasons, Jay Hilgenberg played Center for Chicago. On seven of those campaigns, Hilgenberg was named to the Pro Bowl and twice was a First Team All-Pro. His game really blossomed in the magical Super Bowl Season of 1985, and it was there that he became one of the most consistent centers of the decade, though he is often overlooked because of the loaded team he played on.

Despite those seven consecutive Pro Bowl appearances, he was always in the shadow of much bigger stars in Chicago. Still, his resume may warrant a look from the Hall in the future.

Should Jay Hilgenberg be in the Hall of Fame?

Definitely put him in! - 81.4%

Maybe, but others deserve it first. - 11.6%

Probably not, but it wouldn't be the end of the world. - 3.1%

No opinion. - 0.8%

No way! - 3.1%

The Bullet Points

Country of Origin: Iowa City, Iowa, U.S.A.
Eligible Since: Friday, 01 January 1999
Position: Right Guard
Games Played: 188
Notable Statistics: 152 Games Started
4 Fumble Recoveries
-43 Fumble Recovery Yards
104 Approximate Value

12 Playoff Games
12 Playoff Games Started
Played For: Chicago Bears, Cleveland Browns, New Orleans Saints
College: IowaKansas State
Drafted: Undrafted in 1981
Major Accolades and Awards: Super Bowl Rings (1) (Chicago Bears, Super Bowl XX)
First Team All-Pro Selection (2) (1988 & 1989)
Second Team All-Pro Selection (2) (1986 & 1990)
Pro Bowl Selection (7) (1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990 & 1991)
Other Points of Note: None
Notable All Time Rankings: None
Years Nominated for the Hall of Fame: Never