Hall Of Very Good

The Pro Football Researchers Association (PFRA) recently announced their Hall of Very Good Class of 2021. 

Grady Alderman

Russ Francis

Mike Kenn

Tony Latone

Stanley Morgan

John Niland

Clark Shaugnessy

Bill Stanfill

Bob Vogel

Abe Woodson

It’s a fine Class. I was especially pleased to see the inclusion of former Minnesota Vikings offensive tackle Grady Alderman. He was the team’s first left tackle and only left tackle through the franchise’s first 13 seasons. He was a terrific player with six Pro Bowls and an All-Pro. When Hall of Famer Ron Yary stepped into the starting lineup in 1969, the Vikings had their greatest pair of offensive tackles. Even among the team’s fans, Alderman is one of the most underrated players in Vikings franchise history. Perhaps it’s due to his playing during those rocky, early expansion years. Perhaps it’s due to his playing his final five years on an offensive line with Yary and Mick Tingelhoff. Perhaps it’s simply due to the position that he played. Whatever the reason, Alderman has never received the post-career attention that his great career deserved. He should be in the Vikings Ring of Honor. Thankfully, the PFRA recognized the player that Alderman was and the career that he had. 

Hopefully, linebacker Matt Blair joins Alderman soon. He’ll be on my nomination list until he does. 

The PFRA created the Hall of Very Good in 2002. Their objective was simple. Honor outstanding players and coaches who are not in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. 

Of the now 167 players and coaches in the Hall of Very Good, 26 have gone on to finally making it to Canton.

Robert Brazile

Jack Butler

Harold Carmichael

Curley Culp

Bobby Dillon

Kenny Easley

Carl Eller

Benny Friedman

Chris Hanburger

Cliff Harris

Bob Hayes

Gene Hickerson

Winston Hill

Claude Humphrey

Alex Karras

Jerry Kramer

Floyd Little

Dave Robinson

Johnny Robinson

Donnie Shell

Duke Slater

Mac Speedie

Ed Sprinkle

Ken Stabler

Dick Stanfel

Mick Tingelhoff

A little tip to the Pro Football Hall of Fame voters. Take a look at the PFRA’s Hall of Very Good. Your next senior candidate should be found among the players honored there. If you need it narrowed more, you can start with Lavvie Dilweg and Al Wistert.