Hall of Fame Linebacker Joe Schmidt Passes Away at 92

Joe Schmidt, a Hall of Fame linebacker who played a pivotal role in the Detroit Lions' two NFL Championships in the 1950s, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 92. He later served as head coach of the Lions.

Joe Schmidt, a legendary linebacker who contributed to the Detroit Lions' two NFL Championships in the 1950s before going on to coach the team, has passed away at the age of 92. The Lions announced Schmidt's passing on Wednesday, with the cause of death remaining undisclosed.

"We are saddened to hear of the passing of Joe Schmidt. Joe was a Lion through and through, having spent his entire career in Detroit, including 13 years as a linebacker and six seasons as our head coach," the team said in a statement. "He patrolled the middle of our defense with such ferocity that he was named to 10 consecutive Pro Bowls from 1955 to 1964."

Hall of Fame Linebacker Joe Schmidt Passes Away at 92

Schmidt, who hailed from Pittsburgh, was drafted by the Lions in the seventh round of the 1953 draft. Despite his modest draft position, he emerged as a standout linebacker for the Lions, earning Pro Bowl honors in 10 of his first 11 seasons.

In addition to his Pro Bowl selections, Schmidt was named a first-team All-Pro eight times and was selected to the All-1950s team. He played a crucial role in one of the NFL's most memorable playoff comebacks, as the Lions overcame a 27-7 deficit against the San Francisco 49ers in 1957 to win 31-27.

Hall of Fame Linebacker Joe Schmidt Passes Away at 92

"We just decided to go after them, blitz them almost every down," Schmidt recalled. "We had nothing to lose. When you're up against it, you let both barrels fly."

After retiring as a player, Schmidt embarked on a coaching career, leading the Lions from 1967 to 1972. He compiled a record of 43-34-7 during his tenure as head coach.

Hall of Fame Linebacker Joe Schmidt Passes Away at 92

Schmidt was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1973 and is also an inaugural member of the Lions' ring of honor, the Pride of the Lions. This recognition ensures that his legacy will forever be etched in the annals of Lions history.

"Joe Schmidt had the heart of a Lion, which made it appropriate that he was also the heart of our team," said Martha Firestone Ford, the Lions team owner and chair emeritus. "Joe was a key part of our Championship seasons and continued to be an important part of our organization until his passing."

Schmidt's unwavering spirit and determination, which he honed in his youth when faced with skepticism and adversity, served as an inspiration to both his teammates and the Detroit community.

The Lions and the entire football community mourn the loss of Joe Schmidt, a true legend who left an indelible mark on the game and the city of Detroit. His legacy as a fierce competitor, a respected coach, and a beloved figure will endure for generations to come.