Derrick Mason nominated for Pro Football Hall of Fame

Derrick Mason, the Baltimore Ravens all-time leading receiver, has received a nomination for the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2017.

Mason was drafted in the fourth round of the 1997 NFL Draft by the Houston Oilers and went on to have a very productive run with the team that would eventually become the Tennessee Titans.

He signed with the Ravens on March 7, 2005, and immediately became the team’s number one receiver. His 103 receptions in 2007 are a franchise record, as are his four 1,000 yard seasons with the club.

Mason’s 477 receptions for 5,777 yards are still the most in franchise history, and are unlikely to be broken anytime soon. He was also instrumental in the development of quarterback Joe Flacco. The two quickly developed a rapport that would only ever be matched by other great Ravens pass catchers Anquan Boldin and Steve Smith Sr.

After a few short stints with the New York Jets and Houston Texans, Mason announced his retirement in 2012 by signing a one-day contract with Baltimore, a sign of loyalty to his former club.

While it is unlikely that Mason makes it into the Hall of Fame this year, the nomination is still a great accomplishment for a highly productive and highly underrated player.