One NFL player on each team most destined for Hall of Fame

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JANUARY 12: J.J. Watt #99 of the Houston Texans huddles with his team prior to the AFC Divisional playoff game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium on January 12, 2020 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Peter Aiken/Getty Images) /

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CARSON, CA – DECEMBER 15: Harrison Smith #22 of the Minnesota Vikings in action during the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at Dignity Health Sports Park on December 15, 2019 in Carson, California. The Vikings defeated the Chargers 39-10. (Photo by Rob Leiter via Getty Images) /

Minnesota Vikings: S Harrison Smith

The former Notre Dame standout was the second of the team’s two first-round draft choices in 2012 and safety Harrison Smith is still getting the job done for the Purple Gang. The rangy five-time Pro Bowler has returned four of his 23 interceptions for scores, to go along with eight fumble recoveries, 13 sacks and 56 passes defensed.

New England Patriots: WR Julian Edelman

With Tom Brady off to Tampa, wide receiver Julian Edelman is now one of the New England Patriots’ elder statesmen. His postseason production has arguably been more impressive than his regular-season numbers and those aren’t shabby either. And it’s the former category that has some believing he belongs in the Hall of Fame.

New Orleans Saints: QB Drew Brees

No player in NFL annals has thrown for more yards (77,416) and more scores (547). Quarterback Drew Brees has also led the New Orleans Saints to the last three NFC South titles and, of course, was the Most Valuable Player of the club’s Super Bowl XLIV win over the Colts in 2009. The 13-time Pro Bowler continues to put up big numbers.

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