Julius Peppers, Dwight Freeney lead rush into Hall of Fame

(Photo credit: Julie Vennitti Botos / Canton Repository / USA TODAY NETWORK)Dwight Freeney was too short. Devin Hester undersized, and without a natural NFL position. Julius Peppers and Andre Johnson? Physical freaks and blue-chip talents viewed as potential greats.

On Saturday, a new and lasting label applies: Hall of Famer.

San Francisco 49ers tackle machine Patrick Willis, Denver Broncos linebacker Randy Gradishar -