There are two former Seattle Seahawks among the 15 modern-era finalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame: guard Steve Hutchinson and running back Edgerrin James.
Both James and Hutchinson hope to be among the five candidates chosen for the Hall of Fame class of 2020, but a very competitive group of first time candidates and a solid group of returners will make it challenging to break through this year.
Led by Troy Polamalu, this year’s Hall of Fame finalists also include receivers Torry Holt, Isaac Bruce and Reggie Wayne, safeties Leroy Butler, John Lynch and Steve Atwater, linebacker Zach Thomas and tackle Tony Boselli, among others.
James is one of many Hall of Famers to finish out their careers in the Emerald City. He played in seven games with Seattle in 2009, rushing 46 times for 125 yards before calling it a career at age 31.
James was a four-time Pro Bowler and an All-Pro in 1999, his rookie season, when he lead the league in carries, rushing yards and total touchdowns.
He finished his career with 12,246 rushing yards, 13th all-time, along with 80 career rushing touchdowns.
James’ numbers are comparable to numerous other Hall of Fame running backs, making him appear on paper as a worthy candidate, but he has yet to see much support for enshrinement.
With a crowded ballot this year and only five spots available – four if you assume Polamalu will get one – will James sneak his way into Canton this year, or will he have to keep waiting?
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