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It’s well overdue but at least it’s finally happened: former Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Harold Carmichael has been selected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Statement from Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie:
“Congratulations to Harold Carmichael on being selected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Our entire organization is so proud to see Harold earn this well-deserved honor. Harold revolutionized the wide receiver position and became one of the most productive players of his era and in the history of our franchise. He was inducted into the Eagles Hall of Fame in 1987 and his records will always rank among the all-time greats but Harold’s true contributions to our game extend far beyond his on-field accomplishments. Harold has served as a role model, mentor, and friend to so many during his four-plus decades in Philadelphia as a player, executive, and ambassador. He is a one-of-a-kind person who loves this organization, who loves this city and its fans, and who treats everyone with dignity and respect. We are excited to celebrate this honor with Harold and his family.”
Carmichael is the Eagles’ all-time leader in receptions (589), receiving yards (8,985), and touchdowns (79). He led the entire NFL in those three categories from 1973 through 1983, which speaks to how dominant he was during an era that wasn’t as nearly pass-friendly as today’s modern game.
As Lurie noted, Carmichael will always be remembered as more than just a great player. Everyone I’ve ever known that knows Carmichael personally has nothing but complimentary things to say about him.
And so it’s great to see that Carmichael is finally getting recognized as the legend that he is. Here’s to you, No. 17.
If you want to get choked up, listen to Carmichael getting his call:
Exclusive Look: HOF President David Baker calls @lookitin to inform him that he has been elected to the Hall of Fame.#PFHOF20 | @Eagles pic.twitter.com/qYH2ZfwvNs
— Pro Football Hall of Fame (@ProFootballHOF) January 15, 2020
Eagles alumni reactions:
This is a big day. My friend and brother finally gets his just due. Big H will have a bust in the Pro Football Hall of Fame
— Mike Quick (@MikeQuickSix) January 15, 2020
I’m so PROUD and HAPPY right now!!!! This man is so humble and kind. Not to mention he was one of if not the BEST WR to play during his era. Met #HaroldCarmichael in 1998 when I first arrived in Philadelphia. He’s been a big bro, mentor and most importantly a friend. @lookitin pic.twitter.com/lswq7QryGv
— @Ike58Reese (@Ike58Reese) January 15, 2020
Congratulations to Hall of Famer Harold Carmichael!
— Ron Jaworski (@JawsCEOQB) January 15, 2020
Love you man!
Can’t wait for the trip to Canton!
Congratulations to my man Harold Carmichael!!!! pic.twitter.com/WyqqiTedBE
— Tra Thomas (@72TraThomas) January 15, 2020
So happy for my man Harold Carmichael #FlyEaglesFly https://t.co/G2qMH5WYAu
— Hugh Douglas (@Bighugh53) January 15, 2020