Ramsey: Hall of Fame lacking many Broncos'

Floyd Little is thrilled he’s finally gaining entrance into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

But he remains confused he will join so few Denver Broncos.

John Elway, a 2004 inductee, is the only Bronco in the hall who spent the majority of his career in Colorado. Offensive tackle Gary Zimmerman, a 2008 inductee, played seven seasons in Minnesota and five seasons in Denver.

Tight end Shannon Sharpe is expected to earn election in the near future.

“It’s very difficult to understand,” Little said. “The Broncos have been to six Super Bowls, and all the great players that they’ve had. … But those players are totally overlooked by the voters.”

Little wonders about these players:

Rich Jackson, a defensive tackle for the Broncos from 1967-72. His career, and his bid for the hall, was cut short by a severe knee injury.

Billy Thompson, a defensive back from 1969-81. Thompson collected 40 interceptions and returned three for touchdowns.

Louis Wright, a defensive back from 1975-86. Wright had 29 interceptions and played in five Pro Bowls.

Randy Gradishar, a linebacker from 1974-83. Gradishar was a prime force in the “Orange Crush” defense that led the 1977 Broncos to the Super Bowl. His early retirement might have hurt his chances of election to the hall.

Steve Atwater (1989-98) and Dennis Smith (1981-94). These defensive backs were two of the most fearsome hitters in NFL history.

Karl Mecklenburg, a linebacker from 1983-94. He was voted to play in six Pro Bowls.

“I know what kind of players they were,” Little said, “but they seem to get no consideration whatsoever.”