10 NFL players who should not be in the Hall of Fame
Roger Wehrli, DB, St. Louis Cardinals, 1969-82
Wehrli’s election in 2007 came as a complete surprise to nearly everyone. Defensive back is one of the tougher positions to get elected at, and Wehrli’s accomplishments were not as extensive as some other candidates.
While Wehrli was certainly good throughout the 1970s, he never put up elite numbers. He recorded just 40 interceptions for his career and never picked off more than six passes in a season.
Wehrli likely stood out a bit for a strong peak rather than longevity, as he was named to three straight All-Pro teams between 1975-77. Even his career-high six interceptions in 1975 only ranked tied for seventh in the NFL, and he finished outside the top 10 the next two seasons.
Obviously numbers for cornerbacks look different in today’s landscape, but Wehrli never led the league in interceptions. In fact, he only led or was tied for the lead in interceptions on his own team four times. His interception total is ranked 77th in NFL history, and numerous contemporaries who aren’t in the Hall of Fame sit ahead of him.
Seven Pro Bowls and three All-Pros rank ahead of others on this list, but are still far less impressive than some contemporaries. Wherli didn’t even get a boost for being on a successful team, as he only played in two career playoff games for the struggling Cardinals.
Wehrli’s enshrinement is particularly interesting, as he wasn’t even on the radar until 2005 – well after he was first eligible. His sudden election in 2007 came as a shock to many fans and analysts.
Next: Frank Gatski