I think it's difficult to compare Monk's numbers to the numbers generated today. It's a different game with teams passing more frequently and the rules slanted to encourage passing.
Monk was truly a great reciever (I should say I'll always think of him as an Eagle, but that's just me ;-)), but just being great isn't enough to justify inclusion in the HOF. In fact, I'd rather go through the HOF for a few years and throw guys out than keep adding each year. Further, WR/RB/QB are heavily over represented and OL/DL/DB is under represented. I'd be much easier swayed to include one of the Hogs than Monk.
Twice he made the AP's All-Pro Team, which honors the top two receivers in football. He never made the second-team.
This is the real clincher. Being a top teir player for a long time is a great accomplishment and he ought to have a plaque or bust at FedEx field. His name should be revered by Redskins fans, and respected by others, but it's not enough for the NFL HOF. That's an honor reserved for the truly legendary players, the Jim Browns, the Ant Munoz's, the John Hannahs.
HL, bet you'll have a different take (or maybe not)
Owl_Eagle
”Unleash the Hogs of Peace.”
P.J. O'Rourke Parliament of Whores
Which player today reminds you the most of Art Monk? (Or are there two who combined remind you of Monk)?
Owl_Eagle
”Unleash the Hogs of Peace.”
P.J. O'Rourke Parliament of Whores
I totally agree.
I think he belongs, no doubt about it. Look at it this way: When Art Monk retired, he led the NFL in many receiving categories and had three Super Bowl rings. Emmitt Smith has three rings and will retire as the leading rusher of all time, but will there be any doubt or argument as to his induction? Art Monk represents class, determination, longevity, success, and was an instrumental part of four conference championship teams - not many players can make that claim, and those that do are in the HOF. The real controversy should be why he's not in. One of the main reasons is that he doesn't politic the issue (much like Mel Gibson not promoting his films among the Oscar judges).