In the twelfth of Thin Air’s series on considerations for the Broncos Ring of Fame is John Mobley (1996-2003).
Loading ...Yesterday, Al Wilson’s consideration was met with considerable positivity. Due to this, I think it’s prudent to compare Wilson to someone who had a similar career in many mays.
Like Wilson, John Mobley was a first round pick of the Broncos at linebacker. Like Wilson, Mobley was a Broncos lifer, each spending eight seasons with the team. Mobley and Wilson had an equal number of career interceptions at five, and while Mobley had a slightly lower number of tackles (485 to Wilson’s 555) and forced fumbles (five to Wilson’s eight), also remember that Mobley missed a season and a half of play. And sadly, like Wilson, Mobley’s career ended sooner than expected due to a serious neck injury.
What likely sets Wilson ahead of Mobley is taking on a leadership role at linebacker while the two played together. That may be reflected in the lack of postseason honors for Mobley, although he did earn a more prestigious first team All-Pro bid in 1997. But make no mistake, Mobley was quite productive for the Broncos.
And speaking of production, as a Broncos fan I believe I am required by the bylaws to link to this any time a discussion of John Mobley emerges.