Sad news: Hall of Fame LB and former HC with Lions Passed away.
Joe Schmidt, a former head coach and linebacker with the Lions, passed away yesterday, the team reported. The veteran was ninety-two.
After being chosen in the seventh round of the 1953 draft, Schmidt quickly established himself as a valuable player. The next season, Schmidt received the first of ten straight Pro Bowl invitations, which tied a franchise record. During that time, he also started a run of All-Pro awards. From 1954 to 1962, he was named to the first or second team in each campaign. Schmidt was a major contributor to his club’s success, helping them win two NFL titles (1953 and ’57) and earning a spot on the 1950s All-Decade squad.
Schmidt, who was the first person to wear the Lions ring of honor, carried on with his illustrious career in the Motor City by leading the team as head coach from 1967 to 1972. Before the Pitt alum concluded his second football career, Detroit had a winning record for the last four years of that run.
Schmidt was admitted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1973. Considered the best defender in Lions history, he is recognized as a trailblazer for middle linebackers using their style of play to act as the defense’s quarterback.
According to a statement from the owner Martha Firestone Ford, “Joe Schmidt had the heart of a Lion, which made it appropriate that he was also the heart of our team.” “Until his demise, Joe was a vital component of our organization and played a major role in our championship seasons. Joe settled in Detroit and brought his on-field excellence here to our city. Although I am sorry to learn of his demise, I only have positive recollections of the man. I send Marilyn and his kids my sincerest condolences.
Schmidt’s career totals across 159 regular and postseason games included 27 interceptions and 17 fumble recoveries (including a league-high eight in 1955). Along with being a part of the NFL’s 100th Anniversary All-Time team, the Lions have retired his No. 56.
