Philip Rivers’ Return Could Impact Richmond Webb’s Hall of Fame Path
Philip Rivers was enjoying a well-earned retirement-coaching high school football, spending time with his large family, and staying close to the game in his own way. But now, in a surprise twist, the longtime NFL quarterback is back on a practice field, preparing for the possibility of starting a game for the first time in five seasons. And while that comeback storyline is captivating in its own right, it could have ripple effects beyond the field-particularly for one former Miami Dolphins legend.
Richmond Webb, a dominant left tackle throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, is once again a finalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. And with his final year of eligibility approaching in 2027, the window for Webb to get his gold jacket is narrowing. This year, 2026, marks his penultimate shot.
Webb was a finalist last year but didn’t make the final cut for the 2025 class. Now, with Rivers potentially rejoining the active player pool-even if just on the Colts’ practice squad-there’s a chance the list of finalists shrinks by one. That could open a door for Webb, who has long been considered one of the most underappreciated linemen of his era.
A Crowded Hall of Fame Class
The Hall of Fame selection process is always a numbers game. Voters can induct up to eight candidates in a given year, with a minimum of four.
This year’s class is already shaping up to be a tough one. Drew Brees is a virtual lock for first-ballot induction, and Larry Fitzgerald, another first-year eligible, is widely expected to join him.
Bill Belichick is also eligible as a coach and, given his historic run with the Patriots, is likely to be a headliner. Patriots owner Robert Kraft is also in the mix.
So where does that leave Webb?
If Rivers is deemed eligible and remains on the ballot, he adds another high-profile name to an already stacked class. Rivers’ Hall of Fame candidacy is a hot topic-his numbers are impressive, but he lacks the postseason success that often cements a player’s legacy. Whether he’s a first-ballot guy is up for debate, but his presence alone could shift the dynamics of the vote.
Webb’s Case: Built on Dominance and Durability
Richmond Webb’s résumé speaks for itself. A seven-time Pro Bowler and two-time First-Team All-Pro, Webb was the cornerstone of the Dolphins’ offensive line during the prime of Dan Marino’s career. He earned a spot on the NFL’s All-1990s Team and was known for his consistency, technique, and ability to neutralize elite pass rushers.
One stat that jumps off the page: In 14 career matchups against Hall of Fame defensive end Bruce Smith, Webb allowed just 3.5 sacks. That’s not just solid-that’s elite.
Smith himself has praised Webb over the years, calling him one of the toughest tackles he ever faced. Coming from the NFL’s all-time sack leader, that’s high praise.
Webb’s dominance often flew under the radar, in part because offensive linemen rarely get the spotlight. But make no mistake-he was one of the best at his position for over a decade.
The Road Ahead Doesn’t Get Easier
Even if Webb doesn’t get in this year, the path only gets steeper. The 2027 class will feature first-time eligible players like Ben Roethlisberger, Adrian Peterson, and Rob Gronkowski-three names that will almost certainly draw strong support. And that’s before factoring in any carryover finalists from this year’s class who fall short.
For Webb, this year might be his best remaining shot.
The Hall of Fame conversation is always layered. It’s not just about stats or accolades-it’s about impact, legacy, and how a player shaped the game.
Richmond Webb checked all those boxes. He protected one of the most prolific passers in NFL history, held his own against the best defensive players of his era, and did it with a level of consistency that defined greatness.
As the Hall of Fame voters prepare to make their selections, Webb’s case deserves a long, hard look. And depending on what happens with Philip Rivers’ unexpected return, the door to Canton might just crack open a little wider.