Hall of Fame: Edgerrin James praises Peyton Manning, talks work ethic in speech
Edgerrin James finally was recognized as a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2020 last night. In his inspirational speech, James praised his former teammate Peyton Manning, and spoke about the work ethic that made him a Hall of Famer.
“Peyton Manning. We couldn’t have been more different as people,” said James in his speech. “When it came to football, the way we worked, we connected like brothers.”
In addition to Manning, James also shouted-out many of his former Indianapolis Colts teammates. From Marvin Harrison to Reggie Wayne, James’ speech brought back memories of the dynamic offenses led by Manning.
“Marvin Harrison, every day we’d meet up during special teams period and talk post football life. Reggie Wayne, my homeboy from The U to The Shoe,” said James.
In addition, the former Miami running back couldn’t forget his NFL head coach. After running though some more teammates including Dwight Freeney and Jeff Saturday, he spoke on what it meant to play for Tony Dungy.
“It was also dope to play for fellow Hall of Famer, Tony Dungy,” stated James. “A great coach, but even better man, who related to his players on a personal and professional level.”
“Do the job. That’s what I did.”
Afterwards, James related issues we face in society today to the world of football. Using metaphors about blocking for his quarterback, he shines a light on a different, inspirational perspective.
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“Now as a running back, I had to block and protect the quarterback. Just imagine if I don’t protect him from the pass rush,” said James. “In society, we have witnessed a lot of people turn the other cheek. Since we in the football world, imagine if I turn the other cheek and don’t protect my quarterback.”
“What happens to my team, if I don’t do my job and protect him? Now think about what happens to our culture, and to our families when we don’t get the protection we’re supposed to. It tears us down . . . kills our confidence . . . divides us.”
“Do the job. That’s what I did. I put my body on the line and I protected my quarterback. We have a lot of things going on in this country, it’s only right we keep the light shining on these issues. Just do your job. If everybody did their job, the world would be a better place.”
James’ inspirational metaphor for football and life was met with widespread acclaim. For a man who’s been vocal that he wasn’t supposed to make it to the NFL, much less the Hall of Fame, the professionalism and intellect shown by James is next-level.
Edgerrin James’ story is an inspirational tale that proves to people everywhere that you can accomplish your dreams. It’s only right that his Hall of Fame speech featured him calling us to action, to make the world a better place.
Image courtesy of Ron Schwane-Pool / Getty Images