The Los Angeles Rams were able to congratulate one of their own in former wide receiver Issac Bruce being elected into the Pro Football Hall of Fame during Super Bowl weekend.
Bruce had been a four-time finalist since his retirement in 2009. Although it may have taken longer than initially expected, he was finally able to join his fellow members of The Greatest Show on Turf in quarterback Kurt Warner, running back Marshall Faulk, and left tackle Orlando Pace as part of this prestigious club.
The induction was a long time coming for Bruce, who had good reason to believe he filled all the requirements during his illustrious career. As a result, he made sure to get a small amount of payback when the time finally came.
Bruce admits making Hall of Fame president and CEO David Baker wait at the door for a few extra moments until finally answering, via Stu Jackson of the team’s official website:
“For me, my knock experience was – I wanted Mr. Baker to wait just a little while, I wanted him to knock two rounds of knocks, just to let him feel what I’ve been feeling the last couple of years,” Bruce said during a panel appearance with the other inductees Saturday night at NFL Honors. “I wanted to keep my power in my control, so after the first knock, I went and told my family, ‘Yo, this is the knock, so gather around, let’s answer the door.’ Shook his hand and answered the door, and it was a great handshake.”
Bruce was happy to see how his plan came to fruition after learning of the good news:
“I was excited man,” Bruce said. “I thought it was a great moment and I was excited about the whole situation.”
The Rams legend added that he no longer harbors any type of resentment toward being snubbed and is just happy to be part of such a prestigious group:
“The frustration is gone, man. The anger, the bitterness, it’s totally eliminated,” Bruce said. “I plan on going home and rejoicing and just having a great time.”
Bruce’s comments are indicative of just how much it means for these players to have their efforts recognized with the NFL’s highest honor. While there are still many that are waiting for the call to come, there is no question that Bruce is among those that were truly deserving.
Bruce accumulated four trips to the Pro Bowl, an All-Pro selection, and a Super Bowl before retiring as one of the NFL’s all-time leading receivers. He can now add his status as a member of the 2020 Hall of Fame class to his impressive resume.
