Former Detroit Lions great Alex Karras was named to the Centennial Class of the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Wednesday morning.

Karras, who passed away in 2012, was drafted out of Iowa in the first round of the 1958 NFL Draft by the Lions.  He was a four-time Pro Bowler and was voted to the 1960's All-Decade team.

Alex was suspended for the 1963 season by then-Commissioner Pete Rozelle after he admitted that he gambled on NFL games.  And many people believe that is the reason it has taken so long for Karras to be honored in Canton, Ohio.

After his retirement in 1970, Karras became an actor.  His most famous appearances were as "Mongo" in 1974's "Blazing Saddles" and the 1980's situation comedy "Webster."

Karras died on October 10th, 2012 at the age of 77.

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