Letters

500 Squabbles

You will certainly hear from many bruised egos in reaction to Peter King's ranking of the NFL's top 500 players (The King 500, Sept. 3), but the loudest outcry should come from kickers. Six placekickers and six punters on the whole list! How many games are decided by the heroics--and miscues--of these unsung athletes?
Russell E. Ruthig, Cortland, N.Y.

King ranked Marvin Harrison 42nd and described him as "slipping." But Harrison, 35, is still outplaying other wide receivers who are in their primes. His 1,366 receiving yards were the second most in the NFL last year, and his 95 receptions were third best.
Lucas Button, Syracuse

Ranking Ray Lewis at No. 86, as the 14th-best linebacker--and third-best Ravens linebacker--will no doubt inspire him to have an MVP-caliber season. I guess it's a good thing I have Baltimore as my fantasy team defense.
Greg Stillman, Avon, Conn.

Brett Favre is the best 113th-ranked player in the history of the NFL.
Bruce Gilbert, Penn Valley, Pa.

Deuce McAllister at 289? Is he playing with one leg this year?
Roy Thagard Jr., Fayetteville, N.C.

I had to search all the way to 392 to find the best fullback of the last 25 years, Lorenzo Neal of the Chargers. He has blocked for a 1,000-yard rusher for 10 straight seasons.
Brandon John L'Herault
Santa Clarita, Calif.

How can Ravens running back Willis McGahee miss the top 500 but Cowboys punter Mat McBriar make the top 300?
Tyler Steinhardt, Baltimore

The Steelers' Willie Parker was way too low at No. 173--he and the Eagles' Brian Westbrook (96) are the same guy, just in different uniforms. That being said, after careful review for four hours, I've concluded that King's list was ... awesome.
Lee Schwartz, Fargo, N.D.

Law of Order