Why Doesn't Broncos Legend Karl Mecklenburg Receive HoF Consideration?

We continue to shine a light on the careers of those former Denver Broncos who deserve Hall-of-Fame recognition.

When Karl Mecklenburg entered the NFL as a Denver Broncos 12th-round selection in the 1983 draft, coaches and fans did not expect much. He decided to prove them wrong in spectacular fashion.

Not only did Mecklenburg vastly exceed all expectations, but he played a game not seen before and one unlikely to ever be seen again. He lined up at every front-seven position in a 3-4 defensive formation for the Broncos. Actually, he played every front-seven position at an All-Pro level.

To put that feat into perspective, one must understand that Mecklenburg had to possess the intelligence to learn seven different positions, the athletic ability to play all four linebacker roles, and the strength and tenacity to hold the point of attack at the three different down-lineman positions. Achieving it with the level of proficiency that Mecklenburgh displayed is nearly unbelievable and is quite exceptional.

The Case for Mecklenburg

This seven-headed monster could seamlessly shift from defensive end on one play to inside linebacker on the next and be completely disruptive to the offense. Anytime a mismatch was identified, Mecklenburg often lined up at the spot.

Mecklenburg wasn’t playing in the olden days of the NFL when players had to line up at multiple positions. He did this in the modern game because his defensive coordinator recognized his abilities and knew he could wreak havoc on an offense by shifting around.

Nearly every inside linebacker who plays in the NFL plays one position — inside linebacker. That player can gain an expert level of proficiency because they can focus on one position to hone their craft.

The level of excellence Mecklenburg displayed at each spot made him more than a jack-of-all-trades player. He was a master of all trades. 

That's remarkable and truly unprecedented. With players becoming more and more specialized in the NFL, this will never be seen again.

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Hall-of-Fame Resume

Mecklenburg displayed the leadership, work ethic, grit, and skill worthy of being honored in the hallowed halls of Canton. His production and awards make him more than worthy. 

In Mecklenburg’s 12 seasons in the league, he played in three Super Bowls, was selected to the Pro Bowl six times, was a first-team All-Pro three times, and second-team All-Pro once. His 1989 season was Defensive Player of the Year worthy, even if he wasn’t recognized for his outstanding play with the award.

When Mecklenburg retired, he had tallied 1,104 tackles, sacked the quarterback 79 times, forced 16 fumbles, and scored a safety. Those 79 sacks rank him No. 1 for any player who ever played the inside linebacker position.

Mecklenburg is also one of the select few who has more than 1,000 tackles and at least 75 sacks. The only knock on an otherwise stellar career was his 0-3 mark in the Super Bowl. 

So what? There are several linebackers in the Hall of Fame with no victories in the big dance. Sam Mills was just inducted, and his resume isn’t even close to Mecklenburg’s.

Bottom Line

Unfortunately, Mecklenburg has not been given his due. He has more than enough production and career accomplishments to qualify for Canton. Plus, he has that 'one-of-a-kind player status' that can only be recognized as greatness.

The Broncos still have several bonafide Hall-of-Fame snubs whose worthiness has been ignored and overlooked. Mecklenburg is among the most egregious. 

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