Chris Doleman was such a speedy pass rusher during his career as an NFL defensive end that he said he viewed himself as a wide receiver running a route. It’s just that his route was a path straight to the quarterback.
Doleman recorded 150.5 sacks in a 15-year NFL career with the Vikings, 49ers and Falcons, and as one of the most impressive pass rushers in the NFL in the 1980s and 1990s, he earned his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Saturday night. His son presented him at the ceremony in Canton, Ohio, and his fellow inductees were among those applauding as Doleman’s bust was unveiled.
“I want to give thanks to my son Evan, who’s done a wonderful job with my introduction,” Doleman said in his enshrinement speech. “I’m honored to be here. I’m honored to stand before you as an inductee, with the players on my right and left.”
A star linebacker at the University of Pittsburgh, Doleman spoke of his pride in his alma mater, and paid tribute to great teammates and great opponents. But it was Doleman’s greatness that was recognized on Saturday night, when he got his bust in Canton.