Lance Briggs, linebacker
Chicago Bears (2003-2014)
Charles Tillman, cornerback
Chicago Bears (2003-2014), Carolina Panthers (2015)
I think at least one more member of the Lovie Smith 2000’s Bears defense will get in after Brian Urlacher made it in 2018, and it’s possible that Olin Kreutz joins them from the offensive side one day. All three were among 128 HOF candidates a year ago, but none were named semifinalists. Briggs might have a slightly stronger résumé on paper than Tillman, and he’s been eligible one more year than Tillman, but don’t overlook the power of the Peanut Punch. Tillman dislodged a stunning 44 fumbles in his career, and his trademark punchout is still referenced regularly in media and by fans. That reputation, which seemingly has only increased since retirement, could be enough to push Tillman through. Virginia McCaskey, the Second City’s first lady for many decades, is a sleeper candidate to beat them into the Hall, but there is only one contributor finalist per cycle, making it tougher to forecast exactly when the late Bears matriarch and daughter of George Halas will make it.
