Why Darrelle Revis is on track to be a first-ballot Hall of Famer

The Pro Football Hall of Fame announced 129 modern-era nominees for the 2023 class on Tuesday, a group that will be slashed to 25 semifinalists in November and 15 finalists in January. 

Among the newcomers was former Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis, one of the most accomplished defensive players of the last two decades.

Revis was a four-time All-Pro and seven-time Pro-Bowler, as well as a Super Bowl XLIX champion during his only season with the Patriots. Over 11 seasons, Revis totaled 29 interceptions and 139 pass deflections. Revis' 2009 season is considered one of the greatest ever by a defensive back. 

First-year Hall of Fame candidates have had mixed results in recent years. Three of the five modern-era inductees in 2021 were first-year candidates, with Calvin Johnson earning his place in Canton despite a short career, but DeMarcus Ware was denied earlier this year in favor of candidates who didn't have as many accolades but had been on the ballot longer. 

With only five spots available, Ware should be a near-lock for one of them. Former Browns tackle Joe Thomas is also a likely inductee in his first year on the ballot. 

While there are still some deserving candidates who have been on the ballot for a long time, including Zach Thomas and Torry Holt, this is where last year's cleanup of overdue candidates might help Revis. Without names like Tony Boselli and LeRoy Butler crowding the discussion this year, the door is wide open for first-year candidates. 

As one of the true game-changing defenders of his era, Revis' chances are strong.