We are in an election year. However, unlike the United States Presidential election, which only takes place every four years, the election this article focuses on takes place every year: voting for a former New England Patriots franchise great to be inducted into the team's very own Hall of Fame.
Yesterday, the Patriots announced this year's finalists and they truly are three of the greatest to ever don the red, white and blue: cornerback Raymond Clayborn, running back Kevin Faulk and linebacker Mike Vrabel. Let's take a closer look at the trio.
Raymond Clayborn (CB, 1977-1989): The Patriots drafted Clayborn in the first round of the 1977 draft and he became one of the best cornerbacks and most dangerous kick returners in the NFL, as well as an integral member of New England's defense throughout his 13 seasons with the team. A three-time All-Pro selection and member of the Patriots' all-decade teams of the 70s and 80s as well as their 35th anniversary team, Clayborn played a key role on the Patriots' first Super Bowl squad and helped the franchise to 10 winning seasons and four postseason berths. His 36 interceptions with the team are a franchise record that still stands today (tied with Ty Law); as are his 161 consecutive games played.
Kevin Faulk (RB, 1999-2011): After getting drafted in the second round of the 1999 draft, Faulk became one of the most productive offensive players in franchise history as well as a key member of three Super Bowl-winning teams. During his 13 seasons in Foxboro, Faulk set numerous team records including all-purpose yards (12,349) and return yardage (5,041) while helping his team to 11 winning seasons and five conference titles. A true dual-threat running back, the former LSU Tiger is a member of the Patriots' team of the 2000s and 50th anniversary team.
Mike Vrabel (LB, 2001-2008): As opposed to Clayborn and Faulk, Mike Vrabel was not drafted by the Patriots but instead signed as a free agent. During his eight years in Foxboro, he became one of the best linebackers in the NFL and one of the league's most versatile players: the 2007 All-Pro was not only used on defense but as a tight end as well. Vrabel caught 10 passes, all of them for touchdowns, including two in back-to-back Super Bowls. Vrabel, a four-time team captain was an integral member of three Super Bowl-winning teams and has been voted to the Patriots' team of the 2000s and 50th anniversary team.
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Voting is open now and can be done via patriots.com/2016hof. Polls close on May 14, and the team will announce its 25th inductee on a later date.