Extraordinary blocker Willie Roaf goes into Hall of Fame

CANTON, Ohio (AP) - Willie Roaf was tough to get around, an extraordinary blocker at tackle. He was impossible to ignore for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Roaf was the first player inducted Saturday in a six-man group that included four linemen. Dermontti Dawson, Chris Doleman and Cortez Kennedy joined him, along with running back Curtis Martin and cornerback Jack Butler.

Roaf made 11 Pro Bowls during a career with New Orleans and Kansas City. He was one of the best players in Saints history during his nine seasons there, and his induction gave the franchise something to celebrate after an offseason overshadowed by the bounty scandal.

Roaf was presented by his father, Clifton, who drove from Arkansas to attend every home game except one during his college and pro career.