Derrick Thomas to be honored with Pro Football Hall of Fame Ring of Excellence 

Hall of Famers Published on : 10/9/2023

  • Former Chiefs linebacker to be celebrated in Kansas City on ‘Thursday Night Football’ during Week 6


The Pro Football Hall of Fame and Kay® Jewelers, the Official Provider of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Ring of Excellence, will honor Class of 2009 member DERRICK THOMAS with a pregame ceremony Thursday, Oct. 12.

Thomas will be recognized with a presentation of his Ring of Excellence as his Kansas City Chiefs host the Denver Broncos at Arrowhead Stadium. Adrian Allison, Chief Relationship Officer at the Hall of Fame, will be on hand for the ceremony before the game kicks off at 8:15 p.m. ET.

Thomas will be represented by Clark Hunt, Kansas City Chiefs Chairman and CEO; Betty Brown, President of Thomas’ Third & Long Foundation; and his former teammate and current officer for the Third & Long Foundation, Neil Smith. Thomas’ Ring of Excellence will be displayed in the Chiefs Hall of Honor alongside other items from his career.

Last November, the Hall revised its policy regarding the presentation of the Ring of Excellence to Enshrinees elected posthumously. Previously, only living Hall of Famers received the ring; however under the new policy, members enshrined posthumously receiving a ring are those who are survived by a spouse, an adult child or a parent.  

The Hall of Fame Ring of Excellence is one of three iconic symbols, along with the Hall of Fame Gold Jacket, created by Haggar, and the Bronzed Bust, that represent the elite status of being a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. 


Hall of Fame Ring of Excellence

The spectacular Hall of Fame Ring of Excellence is set in 14K gold with a total diamond weight of 1.75 carats. It is much more than a beautiful piece of jewelry, however. Intricate details on the ring reflect the special significance of enshrinement.
  • The outer diamonds create a “stadium” effect surrounding the football-shaped diamond center.
  • The vibrant blue gemstone was selected both for appearance and meaning, as blue is often associated with confidence, power and integrity — all traits of these incredible, legendary football icons. 
  • Thomas’ Hall of Fame Ring of Excellence is customized to reflect his unique career. A likeness of his Bronzed Bust, along with “Linebacker” and “1989-1999” (his years in the NFL), appear on one side, while “Thomas,” the Pro Football Hall of Fame logo and “Class of 2009” are included on the other.
  • Additionally, a special arbormark (or engraving) appears on the inside of the ring – 251 – which is his Enshrinee number.



 
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