Lions Hall of Famer Joe Schmidt passes away

Allen Park — Barry Sanders might have the statue in front of Ford Field, but Joe Schmidt is arguably Mr. Detroit Lion. The franchise icon and Pro Football Hall of Famer passed away this week. He was 92 years old.

"Joe Schmidt had the heart of a Lion, which made it appropriate that he was also the heart of our team,” Lions former owner Martha Firestone Ford said in a statement. “Joe was a key part of our Championship seasons and continued to be an important part of our organization until his passing. Joe made his home in Detroit and carried his success from the field into our community. I am saddened to hear of his passing, but I have nothing but fond memories of the person he was. I share my deepest condolences with Marilyn and his children."

Schmidt spent 20 years with the Lions, first as a player, then as a coach. He was an integral part of two championship rosters, including the team’s last in 1957. The star linebacker was named a first-team All-Pro eight times and he was selected to 10 Pro Bowls during his storied career.

Schmidt played during an era before tackles were an official stat. Appearing in 155 games for the Lions, including 151 starts, he recorded 24 interceptions and recovered 17 fumbles.

After hanging up the cleats in 1965, Schmidt went on to coach the team’s linebackers for one season before taking over as head coach from 1967-72. While not nearly successful as he was during playing career, he steered the team to a winning record — 43-34-7 — and a playoff appearance in 1970. He resigned from the position after the 1972 campaign.

In 1973, Schmidt was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame and 27 years later he was added to the College Football Hall of Fame for his time at Pitt, where he earned first-team All-American honors as a senior. He was also named to the league’s 100th anniversary team in 2019.

The Lions have honored Schmidt a number of times over the years, including adding him to their Pride of the Lions and retiring his No. 56.

"I am heartbroken to learn of Joe Schmidt's passing,” Lions owner Sheila Hamp said in a statement. “Joe was one of the greatest players to ever wear the Honolulu Blue and Silver. He played a brand of football that struck fear into the entire league and propelled our franchise to two championships. My family and I will be forever grateful for Joe's contributions to the Lions organization, and we are praying for his family during this difficult time."