Fourth time's the charm.
In his fourth year as a finalist, former Patriots defensive end Richard Seymour has been elected into the Pro Football Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2022.
Seymour spent eight of his 12 NFL seasons with the Patriots. He played in four AFC Championship Games and four Super Bowls, including victories in Super Bowls XXXVI, XXXVIII and XXXIX. In addition, he was a first team All-Pro in three consecutive seasons (2003-05) and second team twice (2006, 2011). Seymour was voted to seven Pro Bowls and named to the NFL’s All-Decade Team of the 2000s.
“I am thrilled that Richard Seymour will forever be recognized as one of the greatest players in the 102-year history of the NFL,” said Patriots Chairman and CEO Robert Kraft. “He laid the foundation for a defense that helped propel the Patriots to three Super Bowl championships in his first four seasons in the NFL. Richard was the consummate professional and leader, always accepting the roles he was assigned, putting team goals ahead of personal ones, and in turn, raising the game of everyone around him. Yet as great as he was as a player, he is a hall of fame-caliber person, as well. Of all the memorable moments I shared with Richard, my favorite was the week I spent with him in Israel. There, I saw how devoted he is, both to his faith and to his family. I couldn’t be happier for Richard and the Seymour family, and I am looking forward to celebrating with them as Richard takes his rightful place in Canton.”
The rest of the class includes offensive tackle Tony Boselli, wide receiver Cliff Branch, safety LeRoy Butler, official Art McNally, linebacker Sam Mills, coach Dick Vermeil and defensive tackle/defensive end Bryant Young.