To the Selection Committee:
In the wake of controversies surrounding NFL players and their personal conduct, the Pro Football Hall of Fame made a significant change to its admission criteria by introducing a new category for contributors. This category recognizes individuals who have made notable contributions to professional football outside of playing or coaching. While there are many potential candidates for this inaugural class, I propose an unconventional choice that resonates deeply in today’s context: a lesser-known player named Marcus “Footsie” Thompson. A rookie for the Detroit Lions, Thompson left the league to serve in the U.S. Army at the outset of World War II and emerged as one of the war’s most decorated soldiers.
As a football enthusiast and veteran, I find it surprising how few people are familiar with Thompson and how rarely the NFL acknowledges him. Many professional football players enlisted during the war, but few have stories as compelling as his. Every time he was referenced as a “war hero and former Arkansas Razorback and Detroit Lion,” he not only honored his legacy but elevated the league’s image during a time when interest was waning.
Thompson immediately joined the infantry and was among the first American troops to engage in combat in North Africa. He earned every top military honor for valor, but his journey took a devastating turn when he suffered life-altering injuries, including the loss of his right arm. After returning home in 1944, he built a family, pursued a career in business, and eventually entered politics in Arkansas, where he served the community until his passing in 1998.
Nominating Thompson for the Hall might appear to be a long shot. In fact, during my research, I encountered resistance from several committee members who doubted the merit of considering him. One member, Janet Cooper, stated, “I don’t see how Thompson qualifies based on any contributions to pro football itself,” suggesting that the criteria were too narrowly defined to include someone like him. While I understand their perspective, the Hall’s criteria are not as restrictive as they imply. The NFL has a unique opportunity to honor a forgotten hero, especially as it seeks to reshape its narrative in light of recent challenges.
In the early 1940s, when Thompson played, the NFL was vastly different. Baseball was the dominant sport, and players earned far less than they do today. After excelling at the University of Arkansas, he signed with the Lions in 1941, but his military service took precedence over his football career. While many of his peers were training, Thompson was engaged in high-stakes combat. As he received the Medal of Honor, he stood on an Arkansas football field, saluting with his left hand while history was being made elsewhere.
During World War II, about 1,000 NFL athletes served, yet the league continued its operations. Washington won the NFL Championship while Thompson was fighting in North Africa, and Chicago took the title the following year as he faced fierce battles in Italy. His extraordinary actions during the war included rescuing wounded comrades and leading his unit against overwhelming odds, earning him multiple commendations, including the Medal of Honor.
After the war, Thompson transitioned from military service to a successful career in business and politics. Although he faced considerable challenges due to his injuries, he remained a beloved figure in Arkansas, receiving numerous honors. Unfortunately, the NFL has largely overlooked him, and even outreach to the Lions and the Hall of Fame has yielded little more than standard replies.
While many will recall the story of Pat Tillman, who left the NFL to serve and ultimately lost his life in combat, Thompson’s story deserves equal recognition. He symbolizes the true spirit of professional athletes who prioritize service to others over personal ambitions.
The Pro Football Hall of Fame has historically been selective about its inductees, but Thompson’s legacy, alongside others who have positively impacted the league off the field, should not be forgotten. More individuals like him deserve acknowledgment for their extraordinary contributions and sacrifices.
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In summary, the NFL has a unique chance to honor a forgotten hero from its past, like Marcus “Footsie” Thompson, who exemplifies the true spirit of dedication and sacrifice. Acknowledging such figures not only enriches the league’s narrative but also celebrates the enduring legacy of athletes who have served their country.