As Taysom Hill winds down what’s been one of the most unconventional careers in recent NFL memory, a surprising question has started to bubble up among some New Orleans Saints fans: Could Hill be Hall of Fame material?
It’s a fair question-at least in terms of curiosity-when you consider just how unique Hill’s role has been over the years. But when you dig into the criteria for Canton, the answer becomes pretty clear: barring a dramatic late-career surge, Hill won’t be eligible for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
That’s not a knock on Hill, but rather a reflection of how the system works. To even be considered for Hall of Fame candidacy, a player must have received at least one recognized postseason honor-think Pro Bowl or All-Pro nod.
Hill, despite his versatility and value to the Saints, has never received either. That technicality alone disqualifies him from being in the conversation, at least officially.
It’s the same reason Saints legend Marques Colston hasn’t been eligible. Colston posted strong numbers during his time in New Orleans and was a key piece of that Super Bowl-winning offense, but without a Pro Bowl or All-Pro selection, he never even made it onto the Hall of Fame ballot. It’s a tough break for players who may have flown under the national radar but were invaluable to their franchises.
Now, back to Hill-because his story deserves more than just a technical disqualification.
Undrafted out of BYU, Hill carved out a role in the NFL that simply didn’t exist before he came along. He’s lined up at quarterback, tight end, wide receiver, running back, and on special teams. He’s been a Swiss Army knife in the truest sense, a player who could do a little bit of everything and, at times, do it all in the same game.
Take Week 16 against the Jets, for example. Hill threw a touchdown pass, ran the ball 12 times for 42 yards, and caught four passes for 36 yards.
That’s not just versatility-that’s production across multiple roles in a single afternoon. There are very few players in league history who can say they’ve done that, and even fewer who’ve done it consistently over several seasons.
But while Hill’s impact on the Saints has been undeniable, Hall of Fame recognition is typically reserved for players who’ve dominated at their position or changed the game in a way that’s statistically undeniable. Hill’s contributions have been more nuanced-more about utility, toughness, and adaptability than eye-popping numbers or accolades.
Still, within the walls of the Saints’ facility-and certainly among the fans in the Superdome-Hill’s legacy is secure. He’s been a tone-setter, a spark plug, and at times, a lifeline for an offense looking for answers. He’s the kind of player coaches love and teammates respect, and that’s not something you measure with a plaque in Canton.
So while the Pro Football Hall of Fame may not be in the cards, the Saints’ Hall of Fame? That feels like a lock. Hill has earned his place in franchise lore-not just for what he’s done, but for how he did it.