glory of the 'Skins

Art Monk, Darrell Green are selected for the NFL Hall of Fame

Date published: 2/5/2008

FINALLY. That's what Redskins fans said when one of the NFL's greatest all-time wide receivers won election to the Hall of Fame on Saturday. Characteristically, Art Monk himself was more humble: "Whether I deserved to play in the NFL or deserve even to be in Hall of Fame, I just loved the game, loved to play, loved being out there," he told sportswriters.

Mr. Monk was one of a trio of receivers dubbed "the posse" who played in the 1980s. Former coach Joe Gibbs said he "sacrificed for the team" as an inside receiver, blocking and catching short passes rather than snaring highlight-film bombs. Former defensive end Charles Mann called his friend "Mr. Third Down," the go-to guy when the team needed six or seven yards. In his 16-year career, Mr. Monk went to four Super Bowls with the 'Skins, helping secure three victories. The first player to have more than 900 career receptions, he was a three-time all-pro selection.

Joining Mr. Monk in the Hall is his friend Darrell Green, a Washington cornerback from 1983-2002. His teammates dubbed Mr. Green "The Ageless Wonder" for his high level of play late into his career. He retired at age 42, the oldest Redskin. During his career, he had 54 interceptions, went to the Pro Bowl seven times, and was an all-pro selection four times.

On the field talented athletes provide thrills. In these two cases, athleticism overlays sterling character. Mr. Monk's humility, his team-mindedness, and his work with The Good Samaritan Foundation reveal his values, which Mr. Green shares: The Darrell Green Youth Life Foundation helps many young people in the metro area.

Washington can be proud of the latest 'Skins to make it into the Hall. On and off the field, these men are exemplary.

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Date published: 2/5/2008