The Detroit Lions, originally named the Portsmouth Spartans, relocated and renamed the team in 1934. Between the years 1935 and 1957, the Lions secured four NFL Championships. Two of those championships occurred in 1953 and 1957, with the help of legendary Lions linebacker Joe Schmidt, who recently passed away at the age of 92. Schmidt was a seventh-round pick in the 1953 NFL Draft and helped the Lions secure the 1953 NFL Championship as a rookie, recording two interceptions in his first season. He continued to excel as a defensive threat, earning All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors in 1954.
Schmidt continued to dominate as a linebacker for the Lions over 12 seasons, earning numerous accolades including eight First-team All-Pro nods, two Second-Team All-Pro nods, and 10 Pro Bowl selections. His jersey number 56 was retired by the team, and he was honored with multiple recognitions such as being part of the NFL 1950s All-Decade Team, NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team, and a member of the Pride of the Lions. Schmidt’s impressive career statistics include 24 interceptions, 297 interception yards, two defensive touchdowns, and 17 fumble recoveries. After his playing career, Schmidt transitioned to coaching, serving as the Lions’ linebackers coach in 1966 and then as head coach from 1967 to 1972. He led the team to the playoffs in 1970 but did not achieve another playoff run during his tenure.
Many consider Joe Schmidt to be one of the few players who excelled both as a player and as a coach in the NFL. He was a true legend in the sport, leaving a lasting impact on the Detroit Lions organization. A tribute video was posted by the Lions to honor Schmidt’s illustrious career, featuring interviews from individuals who knew him well. Schmidt reflected on his unlikely journey to the Lions as a seventh-round pick, admitting he never thought he had a chance to make the team as they were champions the season before. Despite the odds, Schmidt’s passion and dedication to the game led to his success both on the field as a player and on the sidelines as a coach. His legacy as an NFL icon will always be remembered and celebrated.
In 2015, Schmidt was honored alongside other Pro Football Hall-of-Fame members Lem Barney and Barry Sanders with the Pro Football Hall of Fame Rings of Excellence during a halftime show at the Ford Field. This event served as a celebration of their contributions to the sport and their induction into the Hall of Fame. Schmidt’s impact on the Detroit Lions and the NFL as a whole was evident through his exceptional performance as a player and coach, earning him a place among the all-time greats in football history. His leadership, dedication, and talent continue to inspire fans, players, and coaches to strive for excellence both on and off the field. Schmidt’s legacy will endure as a key part of the storied history of the Detroit Lions and the NFL.
