Broncos emergency QB Hinton immortalized in HOF
Jul 9, 2021, 3:29 PM
While Broncos Country awaits the enshrinement of Peyton Manning into the Pro Football Hall of Fame next month, one Denver “quarterback” has already landed a spot in Canton.
The Pro Football Hall of Fame announced on Thursday updates to its “season review” display, which now features artifacts from a 2020 campaign that was deeply impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Among the items, which all have ties to the pandemic, is the game-worn quarterback wristband used by Denver’s Kendall Hinton in a Week 12 loss to the New Orleans Saints.
Hinton, a rookie practice squad wide receiver, was inserted as Denver’s emergency quarterback after the entire Broncos roster of quarterbacks was declared ineligible due to violations of COVID-19 protocols.
In a 31-3 loss, Hinton tossed 9 passes, completing one to tight end Noah Fant for 13 yards along with two interceptions.
On Twitter, Hinton called the honor a “blessing” while joking that he’ll have to one day explain to his children what a “negative QBR is.”
What a blessing🙏🏾 still unreal.. unfortunately I’ll have to explain to my kids what a negative QBR is someday😂🤦🏽♂️ https://t.co/9OwtaqRny0
— Kendall Hinton (@Kendall_Hinton2) July 8, 2021
Hinton has garnered a lot of attention for his play at wide receiver this offseason, even landing on ESPN.com’s list of surprise players to watch.
During mandatory minicamp, Broncos head coach Vic Fangio said Hinton has been the player who’s caught his eye thus far through the offseason.
“The guy that has had a really good camp from the start of OTAs until now has been Kendall,” Fangio said. “He’s really looked good as a receiver, and he’s improved a lot. He’s in the hunt for one of those spots.”
