Steve Atwater
Before the Denver Broncos had T.J. Ward, there was another hard hitting safety that terrorized opposing offenses for a good part of his ten year career with the Broncos. Nicknamed the “Smiling Assassin,” Atwater had some solid numbers for the Broncos, recording 1,180 tackles and five sacks during his ten year career with the Broncos and Jets.
He also recorded 24 interceptions. His career saw him go to eight pro bowls and twice was a member of the first-team All-Pro team. It is a shame that he is not in the Hall of Fame, and this is one player who I do not see why he is being overlooked.
It is no secret why Atwater was such a huge playmaker for the Denver Broncos. His defensive coordinator when he first came to the league was none other than Wade Phillips. In his first year with the Broncos, the safety led the team in tackles with 129.
Why is he not in the Hall of Fame? It honestly surprises me that he is not. Hopefully somewhere down the road.
Next: Randy Gradishar