On Saturday three-time All-Pro Devin Hester had his Hall of Fame commencement speech and shouted out former Washington specialist Brian Mitchell.
“I’m not the only returner that deserves to be in the Hall of Fame. I’m just the first.” – Devin Hester
: @ProFootballHOF Enshrinement on NFLN/ESPN
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— NFL (@NFL) August 3, 2024
“I hope me being here today opens up the doors and brings some attention to other guys like Brian Mitchell and Josh Cribbs,” Hester said. “Because I’m not the only returner who deserves to be in the Hall of Fame; I’m just the first.”
Hester’s mention of Mitchell has sparked lots of discourse over Mitchell’s absence, including from Commanders senior executive Martin Mayhew.
Brian Mitchell should be the second!! #HTTC https://t.co/HGjmM9sKng
— Martin Mayhew (@MartinMayhew35) August 3, 2024
Commanders fans have been pounding the table for Mitchell to be selected since he became eligible in 2008. Mitchell’s resume speaks for itself, even though he’s yet to be named a semifinalist.
The two-time All-Pro is second behind Jerry Rice in all-purpose yards and is the NFL’s leader in kick return and punt return yards. He should, without question, be the next returner named to the Hall of Fame.
Hopefully Hester’s comments can knock some sense into the selection committee sooner rather than later, so Mitchell doesn’t end up as another Washington Hall of Fame snub.