The Pro Football Hall of Fame announced 54 semifinalists in the “Seniors” and “Coaches/Contributors” categories for the 2023 Hall of Fame Class on Thursday. Among them are former Green Bay Packers receiver Sterling Sharpe and former Packers coach Mike Holmgren.
Sharpe, now a member of the “Seniors” category, was a five-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro. He led the NFL in receptions three times (1989, 1992, 1993), led the NFL in receiving touchdowns twice (1992, 1994) and led the NFL in receiving yards once (1992). In 1992, he completed the receiving triple crown by leading the NFL in all three categories. Sharpe’s career was cut short by a neck injury. Over seven seasons, he averaged 85 catches, 1,162 yards and 9.3 touchdowns per year.
From the PFHOF: “Sharpe made five Pro Bowls and three first-team All-Pro teams during his seven-year career with the Green Bay Packers. His 18 touchdown receptions in his final season is still good for third best all-time.”
Holmgren won two Super Bowls as an assistant coach before winning three NFC titles and a Super Bowl (XXXI) as a head coach. Overall, he won 174 games as a head coach, including 13 playoff games. Holmgren was the Packers’ coach from 1992-98 and led the team to back-to-back Super Bowls. He helped develop future Hall of Fame quarterback Brett Favre and turn around the franchise overall. The Packers won 67 percent of games during Holmgren’s tenure. His teams captured eight total division crowns and made the playoffs 12 times.
By July 27, the committee will reduce the field to 12 “Seniors” and 12 “Coaches/Contributors.” Three finalists from “Seniors” and one “Coach/Contributor) will eventually be selected for final review.
Who is the better candidate for enshrinement into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Sharpe or Holmgren? Vote in our polls below!
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Better Pro Football Hall of Fame candidate, Sterling Sharpe or Mike Holmgren?
— The Packers Wire (@ThePackersWire) July 8, 2022