Two beloved Detroit Lions icons, wide receiver Herman Moore and kicker Jason Hanson, have missed out on advancement to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Despite their impressive careers and contributions to the team, they fell short of the coveted spot.

Herman Moore’s Incredible Career

Herman Moore’s four-year peak from 1994 to 1997 was nothing short of phenomenal. During this period, he hauled in 405 receptions for 5,448 yards and 42 touchdowns, cementing his status among the elite receivers of his era. Moore’s impressive statistics earned him four consecutive Pro Bowl appearances and three First-Team All-Pro honors. Although he played for the Lions from 1991 to 2001, Moore’s on-field accomplishments are still revered in Detroit. He remains second all-time in Lions receiving yards, and his precise route-running and reliable targets made him a favorite among quarterbacks ¹.

Jason Hanson’s Consistency and Legacy

Jason Hanson, on the other hand, was the epitome of consistency throughout his 21-year career with the Lions. Drafted in the second round of the 1992 NFL Draft, Hanson went on to play 327 games, the most in franchise history. His impressive resume includes 495 field goals made on 601 attempts, a remarkable 82.4% conversion rate. Hanson’s dependability earned him two Pro Bowl selections and the 1992 PFWA Offensive Rookie of the Year Award. As one of the most respected specialists of his generation, Hanson’s legacy extends beyond his playing career, with his number still remembered fondly by Lions fans ¹.

Legacy and Impact on the Lions

Both Moore and Hanson left an indelible mark on the Detroit Lions organization. Their dedication, work ethic, and passion for the game inspired teammates and fans alike. Although they may not have received the ultimate recognition of being enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, their contributions to the team are undeniable. The Lions’ history is rich with talented players, and Moore and Hanson are certainly among the most iconic.

Other Detroit Lions in the Pro Football Hall of Fame

The Detroit Lions have a total of 23 players in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, including ² ³:

– Running Backs: Barry Sanders, Doak Walker, John Henry Johnson, Hugh McElhenny, and Ollie Matson

– Wide Receivers: Calvin Johnson and Herman Moore’s fellow receiver, Dick Stanfel’s teammate,

– Quarterbacks: Bobby Layne

– Defensive Players: Dick “Night Train” Lane, Lem Barney, Dick LeBeau, Joe Schmidt, and Curley Culp

– Linemen: Lou Creekmur and Alex Karras

– Tight Ends: Charlie Sanders

These legendary players have helped shape the team’s history and legacy, and their contributions continue to be celebrated by fans today ³.