Chicago Bears: 5 recent players deserving of Hall of Fame

Cornerback Charles Tillman

Not only was Charles Tillman an example of how to play the cornerback position in the NFL, he was an example of how to be an exceptional man in the NFL. Tillman, pictured above, won the Walter Payton Man of the Year award in 2013 for all of the work he does off the field to benefit his community, as well as families and children everywhere.

On the field, there was never another cornerback like Tillman. During his career with the Bears, spanning from 2003 to 2014, Tillman completely changed the way a corner plays the game. He took it to a different level, proving that defensive backs could affect the game much more so than most thought.

Over his career, Tillman only made it to two Pro Bowls. He was by far and away the most disrespected and overlooked defensive player in the league during that time. Tillman finished his career with 38 interceptions, which would be a fairly impressive number in and of itself.

But, he took his game to a different place by becoming known for the “Peanut Punch,” where he would literally punch the ball out of the hands of those carrying it. Whether it was a running back or receiver, Tillman was often there knocking the ball loose and changing the momentum of the game.

Tillman finished his career with a whopping 44 forced fumbles — the most from any defensive back in the history of the NFL. For good measure, he recovered nine fumbles during his time in the NFL. Tillman also scored nine defensive touchdowns.

Get him a jacket — as soon as possible.