Packers: Top 10 Green Bay Packers not in the Pro Football Hall of Fame

John Anderson, shown in an undated handout photo.

6. John Anderson, LB (1978-89)

John Anderson left Waukesha South High School in 1974 to go to the University of Michigan, where he became an All-American as a senior in 1977 before being taken by the Packers with the 26th overall pick in the 1978 NFL Draft.

He battled injuries throughout his career, but was nevertheless an outstanding player in Green Bay.

He finished his 12-year career with 19½ sacks and 25 interceptions to go with 15 fumble recoveries.

Anderson was never selected for a Pro Bowl in his career, yet was one of seven linebackers named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s All-Decade team for the 1980s, earning second-team honors.

When you consider the others on the list included Lawrence Taylor, Ted Hendricks, Andre Tippett, Carl Banks, Mike Singletary and Jack Lambert, that’s some pretty heady company to keep.

Anderson was also versatile, filling in for an injured Chester Marcol and taking on the kicking duties in a 27-22 loss to the New York Jets in 1979, making a 39-yard field goal and kicking an extra point.

His 25 interceptions are tied with Ray Nitschke for the most in franchise history by a linebacker.

“It’s nice to be recognized, but I think it speaks more to longevity,” Anderson told Packers.com in 2011 about his inclusion on the All-1980s team. “There was a guy in New York named Lawrence Taylor that I competed against for honors during my career and I was far behind him, rightfully. He was the best I’ve ever seen. There were a number of linebackers who were perennially good players during that time, so it’s something I’m proud of.”

Anderson, now 59, was inducted into the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame in 1996.

Realistic Hall Chances: Not good, unless a seniors panel in the future takes note of that All-Decade designation.

Next: Another Long-Time Center