Eberts_fat_lip
Newbie
Art Monk is a absolute no Brainer for the hall of fame. To truely appreciate his career you must look at it from a 1988 perspective, not a 2008 perspective.
I see everyone comparing his numbers to other ,mostly more modern players, as noted by others, the proliferation of the NFL passing game skews these numbers, also missing is the fact that Monk never was a huge numbers man, mainly a possesion receiver and a first rate blocking WR in a mostly conservitive offense, Monk was the king of 3rd and 5, Not a deep threat. I also don't understand how we so easily dismissthe fact that he was the all time leader in catches at the time of his retirement "because he played so long", why is being reliable and taking care of your body a negative? being able to be a effective player in the NFL for 15 seasons is a great accomplishment.
His contribution to 4 Super Bowl teams should not be ignored, I don't agree that "Super Bowls only count if you have a big day" perhaps those teams may not have made it without his contributions through the season. Jerry Rice had Joe Montana, Marvin Harrison has Peyton Manning, Irvin+Aikman Reed+Kelly. Art Monk found sucess with some pretty medicore QBS, outside of Theisman for a few years and one year wonder Mark Rypien, he caught passes for legends like Jay Schroeder and Doug Wlliams.
I think the Pro Bowl is geared toward the WRS with the Big numbers, I don't think his lack of appearences means he was not respected by his peers. I also don't agree that he was never considered a elite WR, as a fan in the 80's I certainly remember a great deal of respect for Monk.
If you are one that thinks character matters ( I for one, think it should play a small role) Monk would score a 10/10, a tremendous teammate, never would Art Monk get in a screaming match on the sidelines or ack like a jackass, or in anyway be a distraction to his team ( Chad Johnson ) his work ethic was legendary. When I go to see him enshrined this summer it will be one of the very few times I have heard his voice.
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