It’s still a long ways between Denver and Canton, Ohio, but at least three former Bronco greats have taken the next step.
A board of Pro Football Hall of Fame selectors included linebacker Randy Gradishar, left tackle Gary Zimmerman and running back Terrell Davis among their 26 semifinalists for the Class of 2008.
All three have made it this far before, but only John Elway among Broncos has been allowed through Canton’s hallowed doors. The 26 remaining candidates — plus Emmitt Thomas and Marshall Goldberg, who were nominated earlier by a senior’s committee — will be pared to 17 finalists in mid-January. And then a minimum of four and a maximum of seven former players and executives will be elected the Saturday before Super Bowl XLII, Feb. 2, 2008, in Phoenix.
There are only two newcomers among this year’s semifinalists, receiver Cris Carter and defensive back Darrell Green. Among Bronco semifinalists, Zimmerman figures to receive the strongest consideration.
Mike Klis: 303-954-1055 or mklis@denverpost.com.
