It is with heavy hearts that we bid farewell to one of the Detroit Lions’ greatest icons, Joe Schmidt. A towering figure in the history of our beloved club, Schmidt passed away on September 11, 2024, at the age of 92.
Schmidt’s legacy with the Lions is unparalleled. Drafted in the seventh round in 1953, he quickly became a cornerstone of the team’s defense. Over his 13-season playing career, Schmidt led the Lions to two NFL championships in 1953 and 1957. His exceptional play earned him 10 consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 1955 to 1964 and eight All-Pro honors. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1973 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000. citeturn0search6
Beyond his playing days, Schmidt continued to shape the Lions as head coach from 1967 to 1972, achieving a 43-34-7 record and leading the team to a playoff berth in 1970. His leadership and dedication left an indelible mark on the franchise. citeturn0search6
Schmidt’s impact extended beyond the field. He was known for his humility, resilience, and commitment to excellence. His contributions to the Lions and the broader football community will be remembered and cherished.
As we mourn the loss of Joe Schmidt, we celebrate the life of a true Lion whose legacy will inspire generations to come.
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