Randy Gradishar is one of two Senior alumni who will be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame this Saturday as a member of the 2024 Class.
Gradishar last played for the Broncos, his only NFL team, in 1982. He becomes the first member of the team’s famed “Orange Crush Defense” to be voted into Canton.
“Our defense in those days wanted to score more points than our offense in each game,” the 72-year old former linebacker recalls. “At least, that was our goal…and we almost did it.”
The other Senior member to be inducted this weekend is the Bears’ defensive tackle Steve McMichael, who is bedridden with ALS. He was such a special player (Bears 1981-93) and a unique person that he is getting VIP treatment from the Hall. His wife Misty has been representing him in Canton this week. She is flying home Saturday and will be there to present Steve with his Gold Jacket and Hall of Fame bust that day in his home.
One of the five Modern-Day alumni who will be honored in Canton is Bears kick returner Devin Hester. He holds the NFL record with 19 TD-returns (14 punt returns, 5 kickoff returns).
“I am just pleased to show people that special teams matter,” says Hester who played in Chicago from 2006-13. “That’s the number one reason I am proud to be inducted. Now folks can’t overlook special teams.”
In addition to Gradishar, McMichael and Hester, the other members of the 2024 Class are:
- A seven-time Pro Bowler, DE Dwight Freeney
- The first Houston Texan to be enshrined in Canton, WR Andre Johnson
- A member of the NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 2000s, DE Julius Peppers
- A seven-time Pro Bowl selection who only played 8 seasons in the league, LB Patrick Willis
We at NFL Alumni take great pleasure in applauding the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2024!
