Chargers vs. Lions: The NFL Preseason Kickoff
The Los Angeles Chargers and the Detroit Lions will face off in the traditional Hall of Fame game, kicking off the NFL preseason in 2024. This match, which has been held since 1962, will take place at the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium, located in Canton, Ohio. In this highly anticipated duel, the Chargers announced that Trey Lance, the young 25-year-old quarterback, will make his debut with the team after his recent signing in April.This game not only marks the beginning of NFL activity, but also the incorporation of the new members of the 2024 generation into the Hall of Fame. This prestigious venue honors the legends of professional American football, displaying the bronze busts of its 378 members. Sterling Sharpe, Antonio Gates, Jared Allen, and Eric Allen will be honored in a pre-game ceremony. They will receive the traditional gold jacket on Friday and will be officially recognized in the Hall of Fame on Saturday with the unveiling of their busts. Sterling Sharpe, considered one of the best receivers in NFL history, played his entire career with the Green Bay Packers, where he was a three-time All-Pro and five-time Pro Bowl. In his seven seasons, he accumulated 595 receptions for 8,134 yards and 65 touchdowns. He was the first NFL player to record two seasons with more than 100 receptions (108 in 1992 and 112 in 1993). Antonio Gates, also known for his loyalty to a single team, the Chargers, defended their colors for 16 seasons, accumulating 11,841 receiving yards. In addition, he holds two NFL records: the most touchdowns for a tight end, with 116, and the most receptions in that position, which he shares with Tony Gonzalez, with 955 each. Jared Allen, recognized for his consistency throughout his 12 seasons with the Chiefs, Vikings, Packers, and Panthers, achieved his induction into the Hall of Fame. He accumulated 136 sacks, 648 tackles, 32 forced fumbles, 19 recoveries, 57 passes defended, 6 interceptions, and 2 defensive touchdowns. This player, a five-time Pro Bowler and four-time All-Pro, holds the records for causing the most own-scores in his career (4) and the most own-scores in a season (2). Eric Allen, a former cornerback who played with the Eagles, Saints, and Raiders, completes the list of new Hall of Fame members. In his 14 seasons in the NFL, he stood out for his anticipation, achieving 54 interceptions, 8 of which were returned for a touchdown. He was selected six times for the Pro Bowl and four times All-Pro.Trey has had a fantastic camp. I want him to get out on the field and get the rhythm that we know he can achieve.
Jim Harbaugh, Chargers coach
