When you look at the list of other finalists from the Contributors category, it's almost insulting that Pat Bowlen wasn't selected as a finalist. Do you think it is because of the logistics his Alzheimer's would cause in awarding him, like since he probably can't accept it in person they won't give it to him? It's an award that seems designed for a Pat Bowlen.
-- Trevor Coughlin
Although it's unfortunate that Bowlen was not named a finalist for the 2017 Hall of Fame class, his battle with Alzheimer's disease had no impact on the subcommittee's choice.