In 2014, the NFL suspended Johnson for 4 video games after testing constructive for a banned substance. Two years later, he examined constructive once more and obtained a 10-game suspension. Since then, he has been phenomenal. Previously six years, Johnson has had 4 Professional Bowl nominations, two All-Professional choices, two Tremendous Bowl appearances and one Lombardi Trophy.
Even on the age of 33, Johnson reveals no indicators of slowing. The previous Oklahoma star hasn’t allowed a sack since Week 10 of the 2020 season or a quarterback hit since Week 7 of 2021. These numbers are unbelievable, however are they ok to make voters overlook the PEDs? That is TBD.
Younger gamers who may grow to be Corridor of Famers
Jalen Hurts, quarterback: Why not? His jersey is already there. Hurts’ NFL profession bought off to a gradual begin, but when his 2022 season is any indication, a gold jacket might be in his future. His 3,701 yards passing final 12 months have been Tenth-most by any quarterback and his 13 dashing touchdowns tied for second-most amongst NFL gamers no matter place. Consider 10 dashing scores from 2021 and Hurts is the primary quarterback in NFL historical past to hurry for 10 or extra touchdowns in consecutive seasons.
Extra importantly, what Hurts did in Tremendous Bowl LVII can’t be overstated. His 70 yards dashing have been probably the most by a Tremendous Bowl quarterback. His three dashing scores tied Terrell Davis’ report for many TD runs by any participant within the Tremendous Bowl and he joined Steve Younger and Joe Montana as the one gamers to account for not less than 370 yards and 4 touchdowns in a Tremendous Bowl.
With stats like that, it’s simple to overlook that Hurts, who’s solely 24, has solely been the staff’s beginning quarterback for 2 years. Not each season will finish with a Tremendous Bowl, but when Hurts can keep his present degree of efficiency, he’ll be a lock for the Corridor of Fame someday.
A.J. Brown, huge receiver: Earlier than being drafted in 2019, Brown educated with Corridor of Fame receiver Jerry Rice. No matter they did seems to be working. After three excellent seasons with the Titans, Brown had the very best season of his profession with Philadelphia in 2022. Brown’s 1,496 receiving yards have been ok for fourth place final 12 months and his 11 touchdowns tied for third-most within the league.
Brown, who’s solely 25, enters 2023 because the NFL’s seventh-best receiver, per Pro Football Focus, and he ought to get to play with Hurts for not less than 4 extra years. So long as they’re collectively, Brown’s Corridor of Fame possibilities look fairly good.