The Pro Football Hall of Fame officially has a list of former NFL talent as finalists for the Class of 2022.
But one notable name was missing among those who are eligible for the first time.
Former Carolina Panthers star Steve Smith was nowhere to be seen on the list of 15 finalists.
That is a bit shocking given the fact Andre Johnson was selected as a finalist, as was Devin Hester.
The NFL world, and plenty of Smith fans, are reacting to his absence from the list as the year comes to a close.
Bro Steve Smith wasn’t named a finalist what is going on? He should’ve been first ballot no question https://t.co/GLMadeK47d
— William Just (@william_just18) December 31, 2021
Any list of finalists being announced leads to controversy.
For Smith, plenty of fans are in his corner and don’t understand why he is not featured.
NFL Fans React To Smith’s Absence
Smith retired with 14,731 receiving yards and was a three-time All-Pro.
He also had eight seasons with at least 1,000 receiving yards.
Steve Smith not being a hall of fame finalist is a joke.
— Brian Stevens (@bstevens150) December 31, 2021
Steve Smith got robbed
— D. Evans (@D_Ev4ns) December 31, 2021
Love Andre Johnson but no Steve Smith is a little crazy to me. https://t.co/zg3WXzJIh4
— InvaderYim (@_CucciMane_) December 31, 2021
This is always a tricky process and it’s possible Smith shows up as a finalist next year.
But then that raises the question of why he wasn’t worthy this year.
Sometimes, the process does not make much sense and the goal may be to get a wide range of positions and eras on any given ballot.
They spelled Steve Smith Sr. wrong that’s weird. https://t.co/l3sfR5125Q
— Mr. 360 NO HOPE (@TIG_Ronin) December 31, 2021
Somebody is going to have to explain to me how Steve Smith Sr. isn’t a finalist for the Hall of Fame.
— Jazz J (@MrDoNumbers) December 31, 2021
Steve Smith gets overlooked in the HOF arena because he played for the Panthers.
— Tommy Strawn ⚯͛ (@HisTweets2Trash) December 31, 2021
Smith is only 42 years old and has plenty of time to show up on the ballot in the future.
What has become clear is that a player like Johnson is seen as more Hall-of-Fame worthy right now, even though Smith finished with more yards and touchdowns in his career.
Andre Johnson and Steve Smith should be inducted the same year just based on the QBs throwing to them. Aside from Smith getting a few years of Cam, this is quite the list for two guys who are all-time greats. pic.twitter.com/PGd9h2mXMf
— David Fucillo (@davidfucillo) December 31, 2021
Steve Smith is a first ballot hall of famer in my heart
— abbie 🏈💙 (@panther_abbie1) December 30, 2021
Panthers fans are not going to be happy about this perceived snub and are being loud about it on social media.
That may lead to more traction for Smith in the future as he seeks a gold jacket and enshrinement for a memorable career in the NFL as a wide receiver.
NEXT: Russell Wilson Reveals His Wish For 2022
