In what could be considered a shocker to many — but a sharp reality to most — Terrell Owens will not be a first ballot Hall of Famer — after announcing that he missed out the necessary votes for election.
Unfortunately I did not make it. CONGRATS to the 2016 HOF CLASS. Thanks to ALL MY FANS for ur unwavering love & support. #ONLYGODCANJUDGEME
— Terrell Owens (@terrellowens) February 7, 2016
According to Rick Gosselin of the Dallas Morning News, Owens was discussed the longest among voters.
The longest discussion of the HOF meeting was Eddie DeBartolo Jr. at 50 minutes, 33 seconds. The shortest? Brett Favre at six seconds.
— Rick Gosselin (@RickGosselin9) February 6, 2016
Brett Favre was a lock, and got in immediately. The former Packers and Vikings great will be joined by Marvin Harrison Tony Dungy, late Oakland Raiders quarterback Ken Stabler and former 49ers owner Eddie DeBartolo.
Owens merits no discussion based on numbers — as he’s ranks second in receiving yards (15,934) — third in receiving touchdowns (153) — while being sixth in receptions all-time in league history.
The medias perception of Owens is another matter, as his career with the 49ers, Eagles, Cowboys, Bills and Bengals was marred by controversy — accusations of selfishness and locker room splintering.
Only Jerry Rice is ahead of Terrell in all three statistical categories.
