Splitting his career between the San Diego Chargers and the New England Patriots, Rodney Harrison has a lot of labels attached to him. Statistically, Harrison is the first man ever to have 30 Sacks and 30 Interceptions, an impressive defensive feat that quantified his versatility on the gridiron. He has two Pro Bowls and two Super Bowl Rings for the Pats, where he was one of their defensive leaders. However, Harrison has also been labeled one of the dirtiest players ever to play the game, and he is also remembered for being the player who David Tyree made the spectacular catch for the Giants that propelled them to the Super Bowl win over New England (which New York fans will always point out). Harrison made only two bowls, but the master of the safety blitz was one of the best at stopping the run among defensive backs, and his cover work improved over time.  He is also gaining Hall of Fame momentum, becoming a Finalist for the first time in 2024.

Did we make a mistake not ranking Drew Bledsoe in his first year of eligibility? Statistically speaking, we may have made a mistake, as his career statistics are more impressive than those of other Quarterbacks ranked higher than him. However, other intangibles come into play, which makes it hard for us to determine his perfect place on this list.

Sure, he has solid career totals and impressive statistical seasons, but what can never be forgotten is that once he got injured, Tom Brady stepped in and took the Patriots over the final hurdle Bledsoe never could; and that is where the problem lies. In his first year of eligibility, Bledsoe was not a semifinalist, which shows that many view him the same way we do…a very good QB who also was a bit of a stat accumulator at the end, yet has a bit of a Wally Pipp quality to him. Drew Bledsoe was very good, but a lot of things would have to go right for him to be considered a serious threat for Canton; that elusive Super Bowl (which he does have, but on the injured list) means more on a Quarterback’s Hall of Fame resume than any other position.