Four football legends from the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 1980 are being honored for their contributions to the sport on the 45th anniversary of their induction. The ceremony took place on August 2, 1980, in Canton, Ohio, where cornerback Herb Adderley, defensive end David “Deacon” Jones, defensive tackle Bob Lilly, and center Jim Otto were enshrined.
Herb Adderley was a first-round draft pick by the Green Bay Packers in 1961. He quickly made his mark by earning All-NFL honors within two years. Over his career, he achieved five All-NFL honors and played in five Pro Bowls. Adderley recorded 48 interceptions and scored seven touchdowns. He also participated in four of the first six Super Bowls, winning three.
David “Deacon” Jones was selected by the Los Angeles Rams in the 14th round of the 1961 NFL Draft after scouts noticed him while reviewing film of another player. Jones excelled as a defensive end, earning unanimous All-League honors for six consecutive years and participating in eight Pro Bowls. He was named the top defensive player twice during his career.
Bob Lilly, known as “Mr. Cowboy,” played as a defensive tackle for the Dallas Cowboys throughout his entire career. He earned first-team All-Pro honors multiple times and was selected for 11 Pro Bowls. Lilly scored four defensive touchdowns and recorded 95.5 sacks over his career.
Jim Otto spent his entire 15-year career with the Oakland Raiders without missing a game. As a center, he dominated both the AFL and NFL from 1960 to 1974. Otto was part of seven divisional championship teams and played in all eight AFL All-Star Games.
Adderley was inducted into the Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility after being drafted by both the Green Bay Packers and New York Titans in different drafts.
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