There exists different levels of greatness in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

For instance, quarterbacks Bob Griese and Joe Montana are both enshrined, but fans recognize that they belong on opposite ends of the spectrum of great signal callers.

Drew Pearson believes he belongs somewhere in the hierarchy of wide receivers with hall of fame busts and fans all over the country found that out last week thanks to a very unflattering video of the former Dallas star.

When the hall announced the final members of its “Centennial Slate” — a special 15-member class to commemorate its 100th anniversary that will be inducted next September — Pearson was certain he would be included.

He gathered with friends and family, who were ready to celebrate with the 69-year old upon learning of his selection.

The only problem was Pearson was not chosen. Someone at the party decided to get Pearson’s reaction on video.

It wasn’t pretty.

He went on a bit of a tirade, saying, “They broke my heart ... and they strung it out like this,” referring to the class being announced over several days.

“What have I done wrong,” he continued. “I played the game, did everything right ... represented the Cowboys in every way possible, never brought shame to the name.”

By the time next September’s inductions are over with, Pearson will be the only member of the NFL’s All-1970s Team to not be a hall of famer. That fact is adding fuel to the fire for those arguing he should be fitted for a gold jacket.

He had a very solid 11-year career (1973-83), spent entirely with Dallas. He caught 489 passes for 7,822 yards and 48 touchdowns. Those numbers earned him three All-Pro honors and three trips to the Pro Bowl.

Pearson helped the Cowboys to three Super Bowls, winning Super Bowl XII against Denver.

I certainly would not criticize his selection, but I also have no problem with him being left out. He’s borderline, at best.

I think several factors added to his frustration.

With being left out of this expanded class, Pearson may believe it means he’ll never get in.

Also, a former teammate of his, safety Cliff Harris, was selected. Pearson said he’s happy for Harris and I’m sure that’s true. But it must add to his feeling of being underrated when it comes to the players who made Dallas a Super Bowl contender for a full decade.

Finally, Harold Carmichael will be included in the class. Also a wide receiver, Carmichael played for rival Philadelphia during Pearson’s era.

While Carmichael ended his career with considerably more catches, yards and touchdowns than Pearson, it’s just another pinch of salt to throw in the latter’s wounded ego.

Regardless of Pearson’s reaction, the only reason so many people, including me, know about it is because it was thrown on Twitter. It was a weak moment for a very proud man. Maybe it was believed that by broadcasting the aftermath, Pearson’s chances of one day being voted in will increase.

It could, however, have the opposite effect.

Either way, it was a private moment that should have remained exclusive.

Derek Pyda is a staff writer for the Butler Eagle