NFL Hall of Fame: 10 worst omissions

5. Kenny Stabler

Sadly, Stabler passed away earlier this month after a battle with colon cancer. With his passing, many brought up the injustice of Stabler not being in the Hall of Fame despite one of the more famed career that he enjoyed with the Oakland Raiders, Houston Oilers and New Orleans Saints. Stabler was not only a terrific quarterback but one of the league’s most colorful characters throughout the 1970’s.

The argument against Stabler is that he was not great for a long period of time. Stabler was the backup quarterback behind Daryle Lamonica from 1970-72 until earning the starting job. Stabler then led the Raiders to the AFC Championship game in each of his first three seasons as a starter, only to fall each time. In 1976, Stabler had his best season while guiding Oakland to a 13-1 mark and the franchise’s first Super Bowl victory.

Stabler threw for 27,938 yards in his career with 194 touchdowns. However, Stabler did toss 222 interceptions, something that has long been a detraction from his career. Stabler was one of the best in the 70’s, though, and should be remembered as one of the most clutch quarterbacks to ever take a snap. His stats belie the great player he truly was.

Next: 4. Terrell Davis