In many ways the Baltimore Colts are the equivalent of NFL orphans. They have no home, at least not one recognized by the NFL and that is a sad statement considering the Baltimore Colts historical relevance. The players who left parts of their broken bodies on 33rd Street at Memorial Stadium in Baltimore are aging and unfortunately some have passed, like Hall of Famers John Unitas and Jim Parker. Others are ailing.

The time has come to distinguish these men in the Pro Football Hall of Fame as Baltimore Colts. Restoring the Baltimore Colts tradition is a simple yet grossly overdue change that will enable future generations of NFL fans to properly recognize the contributions of these men. This is the choice of the players -- to be recognized in the Hall of Fame as Baltimore Colts. And let's face it, they've earned it.

Baltimore deserves its own heritage just as much as the city of Indianapolis deserves theirs. It is time to help both cities firmly establish their own place and identities in the NFL's illustrious history and in Pro Football's ultimate shrine -- the Hall of Fame.

It's the right thing to do for the players and for all fans of the National Football League.

Thank you for your time and consideration.