The South Carolina football legend could finally make it into the Pro Football Hall of Fame

This week, the Pro Football Hall of Fame announced five finalists for election to the Hall in the coach, contributor and senior categories. Of the five finalists, a maximum of three (and only those who receive 80% of the total votes) will be nominated. If no one reaches the 80% mark, the Hall will elect the candidate with the highest number of votes. The list of five finalists includes South Carolina football legend Sterling Sharpe.

Earlier this year, former Gamecock quarterback and NFL coach Dan Reeves and sack artist John Abraham made it no further than semifinalists in the Hall of Fame process in the voting of coaches and modern players, respectively.

Sharpe will compete for votes with fellow seniors Maxie Baughan and Jim Tyrer, coach Mike Holmgren and contributor (owner) Ralph Hay.

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Sharpe was one of the best receivers in the world in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Tragically, his career was cut short by a neck injury after just seven seasons, all with the Green Bay Packers. But even with a shortened career, Sharpe is worthy of induction into the Hall of Fame.

In seven years as a professional, Sharpe made five Pro Bowls and recorded five 1,000-yard campaigns. He was one of only three receivers, along with Jerry Rice and Henry Ellard, to achieve this during this time.

Sharpe also led the NFL in receptions three times, touchdown catches twice and yardage once. He won the Triple Crown in 1992 with 108 receptions, 1,461 yards and 13 touchdowns. Only four other players have won the Triple Crown during the Super Bowl era.

His 108 grabs in 1992 set a then-NFL record; In 1993, he surpassed that number with 112. Then, in his final season in 1994, he caught 18 touchdown passes. Only two receivers have ever posted more receiving scores in a single season, Jerry Rice in 1987 and Randy Moss in 2007.

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During his football career at South Carolina, Sharpe was a two-time All-American. When he left the program, he owned the majority of the Gamecocks’ recording materials. After being selected in the first round of the 1988 NFL Draft (Troy Williamson and performances. Sharpe was also one of the few Gamecocks to ever return a punt and a kickoff for a touchdown.

In recognition of his outstanding achievements, the University of South Carolina retired his jersey while he was still active on the team. Sharpe was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2014.