HOUSTON — Will the third time be the charm for former Houston Texans’ star receiver Andre Johnson? He was just named again as a semifinalist for The Pro Football Hall of Fame’s class of 2024 in year three of eligibility.
Johnson was a finalist for the honor the last two years, but both times didn’t get the required 80 percent of the vote to slide into the gold jacket.
This year, Johnson, one of only three members of the Texans' Ring of Honor, is among 28 semifinalists picked from a group of 173 Hall of Fame nominees. From the semifinalists, the field will be narrowed to 15 before the final voting in January.
Johnson, who was drafted third overall in 2003 out of the University of Miami, spent 12 seasons with the Texans. Johnson remains still holds several of the team’s records, including being the all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards, receiving touchdowns and 100-yard games.
After the Texans, Johnson went on to play for Tennessee and Indianapolis. Houston signed him to a one-day contract to allow him to retire as a Texan.
Johnson has the support of fellow Texans’ legend and team Ring of Honor member J.J. Watt. After the announcement of this year's semifinalists, the team posted video of Watt talking about how deserving Johnson is, though it's not clear when it was shot.
“Dre deserves to be in the Hall of Fame. Dre’s a legend. He’s the GOAT,” Watt said. “So I’m very happy to be side by side with Dre. He’s incredible.”
Johnson joins a class of semifinalists that includes another former Texans player, Vince Wilfork, though he played most of his career for the Patriots. Julius Peppers and Antonio Gates are also on the ballot. Jared Allen, Dwight Freeney, Devin Hester, Torry Holt, Patrick Willis, Willie Anderson and Darren Woodson return to the ballot after falling short last year.
The other semifinalists are Eric Allen, Anquan Boldin, Jahri Evans, London Fletcher, Eddie George, James Harrison, Rodney Harrison, Robert Mathis, Steve Smith Sr., Fred Taylor, Hines Ward, Ricky Watters, and Reggie Wayne.
Four finalists previously announced are Buddy Parker in the coaching category, and Randy Gradishar, Steve McMichael and Art Powell in the senior category.
They also will get in if they get support from at least 80 percent of voters.
