Detroit Lions Hall of Fame linebacker Joe Schmidt dies at 92

Joe Schmidt, one of the most iconic players in Detroit Lions history, died at the age of 92.

“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,” the Lions said in a statement. “Joe was an enduring link to our Championship era and one of the proudest Lions you will ever meet.”

Schmidt led the Lions defense. The team won two NFL championships, 10 Pro Bowl selections, made eight All-Pro teams.

Schmidt played 13 seasons, starting 151 of 155 games. He was a seventh-round pick out of Pitt.

“Joe Schmidt had the heart of a Lion, which made it appropriate that he was also the heart of our team,” Lions owner/chair emeritus 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.”