Benson Bayley would be my nomination for the hall of fame. Bayley was among the top cornerbacks of his generation with 6 NSFL pro bowl nominations. He was either considered the best or among the best at his position over an extended period of time. He played at a level during his prime years that truly set the bar for the position. He was a player who impacted games and game plans and consistently did his best work against the best opponents. His former teammates consistently laud his work ethic in practice at a position where it is difficult to maintain physical dominance for multiple seasons. Bayley had just 27 career interception but that's at least partially due to quarterbacks being so conditioned to avoid him at almost any cost. But don’t let the interceptions alone fool you. Bayley also recorded 490 whopping total tackles, and 134 total pass deflections. This is a guy who essentially erased half of the field with footwork and the route recognition to suffocate wide receivers in coverage. Pure lock down stuff. And with 27 career interceptions, to pair with his 6 Pro Bowl nominations, Bayley belongs in the discussion with the premier corners in NSFL history. It is unfortunate that Bayley did not make it the first time around but I am hoping that one day Bayley can don that gold hall of fame jacket.
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(231 words)