The greatest wide receiver in Philadelphia Eagles franchise history is heading to Canton.
Harold Carmichael, who spent 13 of his 14 NFL seasons in The City of Brotherly Love, finally got the call on Wednesday that he will be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame this year.
“I never thought this would happen, but thank you, God,” Carmichael told Hall of Fame president David Baker in their released phone call. “I feel like I’m dreaming. I don’t know what to feel. I feel so numb.”
Carmichael played 180 games from 1971-1983 with the Eagles, setting franchise records in career receptions (589), receiving yards (8,978), and receiving touchdowns (79).
The four-time Pro Bowler, who remains an active member within the organization, helped lead the Eagles to an NFC title in the 1980 season and the franchise’s only Super Bowl appearance until Super Bowl XXXIV in February of 2005.
The Jacksonville, FL native’s finest season came in just his third season in 1973 when he led the NFL with 67 receptions and 1,116 yards.
Carmichael’s steady presence on the outside saw him become one of the best in the game as he set a then-NFL record with 127-straight games with a reception from 1972-1980.
“The first thing I thought about is growing up and the people I was around, from Jacksonville, Florida to here,” Carmichael said. “Just thinking of all the people I’d like to share this with. It wasn’t me by myself… This is such an honor”
His induction prompted an outpouring of support from the Eagles community, who are celebrating the enshrinement of the 19th player associated with the franchise to gain induction into the Hall of Fame.
“Our entire organization is so proud to see Harold earn this well-deserved honor,” Eagles chairman and CEO Jeffrey Lurie said. “Harold revolutionized the wide receiver position and became one of the most productive players of his era and in the history of our franchise.”
“Harold has served as a role model, mentor, and friend to so many during his four-plus decades in Philadelphia as a player, executive, and ambassador. He is a one-of-a-kind person who loves this organization, who loves this city and its fans, and who treats everyone with dignity and respect.”
Former Eagles linebacker turned radio host Ike Reese echoed Lurie’s sentiments.
“I’m so PROUD and HAPPY right now!!!!” Reese wrote. “This man is so humble and kind. Not to mention he was one of if not the BEST WR to play during his era. Met Harold Carmichael in 1998 when I first arrived in Philadelphia. He’s been a big bro, mentor and most importantly a friend.”
“Amazing honor! Congrats Harold!” Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz added.
Another Eagles fan-favorite, former running back Brian Westbrook, also chimed in.
“I woke up this morning to some GREAT NEWS!!” he wrote. “My guy… will be inducted into the Pro Football HOF!! Long overdue and well deserved big fella!!!”
As a part of the Hall of Fame’s Centennial Class that will feature 20 members, Carmichael will officially be inducted during Enshrinement Week from Aug. 6-9.
