Hall of Fame: 10 Broncos that should be enshrined

Aug 20, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; General view of the historical monument pillars of former Denver Broncos players at the Ring of Fame plaza at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. From left: Karl Mecklenberg (77), John Elway (7), Louis Wright (20), Tom Jackson (57) and Randy Gradishar (53). Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Randy Gradishar

Perhaps the best linebacker to date to ever play for the Denver Broncos, Randy Gradishar was the centerpiece of the Denver Broncos Orange Crush defense back in the 1970s and 1980s. He recorded over 2,000 tackles during his 10-year career with the Denver Broncos as well as 20 interceptions and 20.5 sacks.

His awards include winning the Defensive Player of the Year in 1978 for his role as a middle linebacker of the Orange Crush 3-4 defense. He led a defense that was second only to the Pittsburgh Steelers in points allowed in a season. The Broncos defense that year only gave up 198 points.

There should be no reason why Randy Gradishar, who was one of the best linebackers against the run, should not be in the Hall of Fame. His numbers speak for themselves and the low recognition that the Broncos get when it comes to the Hall of Fame have allowed the voters to miss such a big player during his time in the NFL.

Next: Pat Bowlen