Should Peyton Manning be in the Broncos Ring of Fame? (Denver Broncos)
Has Peyton already earned a spot in the Broncos' Ring of Fame? (And of those already in, who had the shortest stint with the Broncos?)
-- Steven Divide, Denver
Steven - If the Broncos win the Super Bowl this Sunday, Manning cinches Ring of Fame. If the Broncos lose to the Seahawks, then I believe Manning needs to tack a tad more on to his body of Broncos work. A third season like his first two would do it.
Read more: Broncos Mailbag: Seahawks to test Peyton Manning, O-line in Super Bowl - The Denver Post
Interesting question for me. We complain so much how the O's HOF has been devalued and even the Ravens with someone like Earnest Byner. If Peyton doesn't win the SB, I think the answer is a clear no. Even if he wins, I think it's hard to say someone who only played two years even at a high level should get in. Now, if he comes back next year and plays at the same level, I think he should be in. I like to think you need 3 years minimum in football, preferably 5.
It's not like this Ravens Ring of Fame with 23 members is incredibly selective. Gary Zimmerman got in with 5 years of service. Craig Morton got in with six year and on that level, Peyton's contributions are likely larger if he wins the big game since Morton led them to ONE SB and was 2-3 in playoff games. He did win the AFC Offensive POY the year he led them to the SB and Comeback Player of the Year as well. Apparently 1981 was actually a better year for him statistically, but I don't see any honors after his 1977 season for him. Frank Tripucka actually only played four years for the Broncos, but he probably gets some credit for being their first QB (I think). Charley Johnson only played four seasons for the Broncos.
Edit: So after reading all that, Peyton has an even better case even if he loses on Sunday.