By Hays Carlyon
Football immortality has come to Jacksonville in a major way.
Both Jaguars great Tony Boselli and Jacksonville native LeRoy Butler, who starred at safety for the Green Bay Packers, were elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Thursday night. They represent two of the five-man class who will be inducted on Aug. 6 in Canton, Ohio.
Boselli — the greatest Jaguars player ever – finally has his rightful place in the Hall after an amazing career at left tackle.
The 49-year-old Boselli played for the Jaguars from 1995-2001 after being selected with the second-overall pick out of USC. Boselli was named to the All-Decade Team of the 1990s, was a three-time All-Pro and a five-time Pro Bowler.
A shoulder injury cut his career short, but voters finally looked past the length of his career and focused on the important piece: his greatness.
Butler, a standout at Florida State, was also a member of the All-Decade Team of the 1990s with the Packers. He intercepted 38 passes, recorded 20.5 sacks, forced 13 fumbles and recovered 10 fumbles. Butler’s career ended after the 2001 season.
Take a bow, LeRoy.
Take a bow, Tony.
Thank you for your contributions to our city.
We can’t wait to celebrate with you both in Canton.
(You can email Hays at [email protected] and follow him on Twitter @HaysCarlyon).
