Originally Posted by
cardboardbelt
I was involved heavily in pushing for Art Monk to get into the HoF a couple of years ago, and several factors seem to go into the voting process.
I'll just address some of the stuff I've seen here and give some advice, since I'm rooting for Ward.
1) Please stop quoting Ward's position as the team's all-time receiving leader. This does not help him. The Hall of Famers he outpaced in these stats played in a different era and the voters appear to understand this. Besides, there are lots of guys who can say the same thing about whatever team they played for, but who would never even be considered. Emphasize his place historically and compare his stats and accomplishments to a) his contemporaries and b) the other WR nominees when the voting starts happening.
2) Another good thing to emphasize with Ward is not just his team's success in the post season and not just his Super Bowl MVP, but his overall strong play in the playoffs during his career. This appeared to work wonders in our support of Monk, disspelling some misconceptions and pointing out the weaknesses of some of the other nominees in comparison. Ward's post season numbers are overall very good. This should help him.
3) Anybody with access to some of Ward's best highlights should edit them together and create a "splash reel" that shows impressive plays: TDs, downfield catches, explosive tackle-breaking, and Ward's infamous blocking prowess. Most importantly, include all of his most FAMOUS plays. The voters have short memories, so don't get cute and think they remember the obvious stuff. Include it.
4) Nothing you do will help if the man himself doesn't pitch in with 2-3 more reasonably strong seasons. He needs to make it to about 1,100 catches, 13,500 yards and 90 TDs to get strong consideration. 100 TDs would be a real plus, but that might not be doable at this point.
5) Be patient, but keep reminding the voters how great your guy is/was. Get contact info for all of the HoF voters and canvas them POLITELY. Don't be overly contentious, or you could hurt your candidate. Ward will NOT get voted in on his first try. Do not pretend he should have after it doesn't happen. I see him going in after several years if he hits the above numbers. Again: be patient, but resolute and polite. You CAN help.