Stanley Morgan's path to Canton remains alive.
The former Patriots wide receiver has advanced to the next stage of voting in the Pro Football Hall of Fame's Seniors category for the Class of 2026. Morgan is one of 34 players still under consideration, with the list set to be trimmed to nine semifinalists in the coming weeks.
Morgan's inclusion is a reminder of just how impactful he was, not only as one of the NFL's premier deep threats, but as a foundational figure in Patriots history. Drafted in 1977, Morgan spent 13 seasons in New England and a final one with the Indianapolis Colts, finishing his career with 10,716 receiving yards and 72 touchdowns. His 19.2 yards per catch remains one of the highest marks in league history, a testament to his game-breaking speed and precision as a route runner.
Though he played in an era before passing stats exploded, Morgan's production and consistency rival those of many Hall of Fame receivers. He was named to four Pro Bowls, earned a spot on both the Patriots All-1970s and 1980s teams, and was inducted into the team's Hall of Fame.
Yet his impact went beyond numbers, he helped define the Patriots identity during a time when the franchise was still searching for one.
Morgan's legacy will be revisited this December in the latest edition of A Super Bowl Sound Odyssey, a 10-part podcast series chronicling the 1985 Patriots, the first team in franchise history to win the AFC and reach the Super Bowl. From a middling start to a near-impossible slate of three playoff road games to get to the Super Bowl, Morgan was a key figure on the team that made New England believe a winning Patriots team was possible.
As the Hall of Fame voting process continues, Morgan's candidacy deserves serious consideration. He was a pioneer for the Patriots, a consistent playmaker, and a player whose contributions helped elevate a franchise. Canton may still be calling, and for Stanley Morgan, it would be a long-overdue honor.
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