The Pro Football Hall of Fame released their 2017 nominees this week, and one player's inclusion has caused an outcry across the nation.

Darren Sharper, the five-time Pro Bowler with the Packers, Vikings, and Saints, was convicted of drugging and raping 16 women in four different states. He was sentenced to 18 years in prison in August.

Yet, the Hall of Fame in Canton has nominated him for inclusion into next year's class. Character isn't officially a part of the selection process, but the outcry on Twitter and from fans throughout the United States has been palpable.

Article Continues Below
More NFL News
Retired NFL player Peyton Manning stands on the sidelines of Empower Field at Mile High before the game between the Carolina Panthers Denver Broncos.
Peyton Manning makes major NWSL Denver expansion announcementErin Achenbach ·
Cleveland Browns offensive tackle Jedrick Wills Jr. (71) against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field.
Former Browns first-round OL makes big decision on 2025 campaignDouglas Fritz ·
New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) is shown after he led Gang Green to a 32-20 victory against the Miami Dolphins.
Steelers, Jets would make Week 1 history if Aaron Rodgers signsBenjamin Adducchio ·
Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts (8) prepares for a game against the New York Giants at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
NFL rumors: Falcons’ Kyle Pitts drawing legitimate trade interestBen Strauss ·
Jan 18, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Philadelphia Eagles former player and ESPN commentator Jason Kelce reacts before in a 2025 AFC divisional round game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Houston Texans at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
Jason Kelce hits USA Flag QB with fiery ‘not the best’ reality checkMike Gianakos ·
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase (1) tracks a deep pass as Los Angeles Rams cornerback Jalen Ramsey (5) defends in the first quarter during Super Bowl 56, Sunday, Feb. 13, 2022, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif.
NFL rumors: Insider dumps cold water on Rams’ Jalen Ramsey trade pursuitBen Strauss ·

It's unlikely that Sharper will be elected, but the fact that he's even nominated doesn't sit well with most fans. There are still several cuts before the 2017 class is chosen; don't expect Sharper to get that far.

(h/t to the Associated Press)