Greg Landry, Former Lions QB and Bears Coach, Dies at 77

Greg Landry, a longtime NFL quarterback who also coached the Detroit Lions and won a Super Bowl with the Chicago Bears as their offensive coordinator, passed away at 77.

Legendary NFL quarterback and coach Greg Landry has sadly passed away at the age of 77, the Detroit Lions announced on Friday. Landry played the majority of his career with the Lions, from 1968 to 1978, leaving a significant mark on the team and the league.

Landry was drafted 11th overall by the Lions in 1968 and quickly established himself as one of the top running quarterbacks in the NFL. Throughout his career, he accumulated 16,052 passing yards, 98 passing touchdowns, 2,600 rushing yards, and 21 rushing touchdowns, earning him the NFL's Comeback Player of the Year award in 1976.

Greg Landry, Former Lions QB and Bears Coach, Dies at 77

Apart from his playing career, Landry also had a successful stint as a coach. He returned to the Lions in 1995 as an assistant coach and later became the Bears' offensive coordinator, helping them win the Super Bowl in 1986. He also left an indelible imprint at UMass, where he played quarterback and was inducted into the university's Athletics Hall of Fame in 1980.

Landry's passing has sent shockwaves through the NFL community. The Lions released a statement expressing their condolences, saying they "join the NFL community in mourning the loss of former Lions quarterback and coach Greg Landry."

Greg Landry, Former Lions QB and Bears Coach, Dies at 77

The NFL also paid tribute to the late quarterback, highlighting his impressive career and his contributions to the sport. Commissioner Roger Goodell stated, "Greg Landry was a true legend of our game. He was a competitive and passionate player, coach, and broadcaster who made a lasting impact on our sport."

Landry's legacy as a player and coach will continue to inspire future generations. His talent, determination, and leadership qualities left an enduring mark on the NFL and the countless lives he touched. The sports world mourns the loss of a true icon whose spirit will forever be etched in the annals of football history.

Greg Landry, Former Lions QB and Bears Coach, Dies at 77