Former Chief players Derrick Thomas and Emmitt Thomas have made the cut as finalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.  The list is now down to 17 players.

Derrick is the Chiefs all-time sacks leader at 126.5 during his 11 year career.  Emmitt, is a nominee from the senior committee, and is the Chiefs all-time interception leader at 58.  He coached the Atlanta Falcons this season on an interim basis, after Bobby Petrino split after thirteen games.  This year’s winners will be announced the day before the Super Bowl. 

Emmitt deserves a slot in Canton.  His 58 interceptions is more than 10 of the 17 defensive backs that are in the Hall of Fame, plus he played on two Superbowl teams.  I think the same should be for Derrick.  He was the face of the Chiefs defense for so many years, and while Lawrence Taylor revolutionized the blitzing linebacker position, L.T. finished with 132.5 career sacks. (142 if you include the sacks he had before they considered sacks an official stat)  Thomas’ mark is comparable and I really can’t believe this is Derrick’s third time on the ballot.