Joe Schmidt, a pivotal figure in the Detroit Lions’ defense and later their head coach, has passed away at the age of 92. Schmidt, a Pro Football Hall of Famer, died on September 11, 2024, in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, leaving a football legacy that spans decades.
A Pittsburgh native, Schmidt’s football career started at the University of Pittsburgh. He initially played fullback and guard positions before discovering his passion for the linebacker role. Schmidt was often doubted, with critics saying he was too small for the game. However, he used this negativity as motivation and strove to prove them wrong.
The Detroit Lions picked Schmidt in the seventh round of the 1953 NFL Draft, a decision that would profoundly influence the team’s future. Schmidt joined the Lions during a golden period, just after the team had clinched the NFL championship. In his debut season, Schmidt helped the Lions successfully defend their title.
Schmidt quickly established himself as a force on the field, thanks to his speed, intelligence, and tackling ability. As football evolved, his skills became increasingly relevant, solidifying his position as one of the first great middle linebackers in the history of professional football.
During his 13-year tenure with the Lions, Schmidt’s dedication and skill were clear. He was invited to the Pro Bowl ten years in a row from 1955 to 1964, showcasing his consistent performance and dominance. Schmidt played a key role in the Lions’ victories, helping the team secure another NFL championship in 1957.
In a 1957 playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers, Schmidt played a pivotal role in one of the defining moments of his career. The Lions were trailing 27-7 in the third quarter, but under Schmidt’s leadership, Detroit made a remarkable recovery and won the game 31-27. It was the largest comeback in NFL postseason history, a record that stood for more than 30 years.
After his playing career ended in 1965, Schmidt transitioned to coaching, starting as the Lions’ linebackers coach before becoming head coach in 1967. During his six seasons as head coach, Schmidt compiled a respectable record of 43-35-7.
Schmidt’s contributions to football have been recognized with several awards. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1973 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000. Schmidt was also named to the NFL’s All-Time Team in 2019 as part of the league’s centennial celebration.
Jim Porter, president of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, highlighted Schmidt’s significant impact on the game. Porter mentioned that Schmidt played in a golden era of NFL middle linebackers, with many considering him their toughest opponent. Porter added that Schmidt was a player who let his performance speak for itself.
Over his 155-game career, Schmidt recorded 24 interceptions, three defensive touchdowns, and 17 fumble recoveries. But these numbers only tell part of the story of his influence on football.
The Detroit Lions organization deeply mourned the loss of their legendary player and coach. Martha Firestone Ford, the Lions’ owner and chair emeritus, said that Schmidt’s determined spirit embodied the essence of a Lion and that he was the backbone of the team. Schmidt was a key part of the championship season and remained a significant figure in the Lions family until his death.
Schmidt’s ties to Detroit extended beyond his football career. He chose to make the city his home and remained actively involved in the community long after his retirement. His legacy with the Lions was further recognized when he was named an inaugural member of the team’s ring of honor, the Pride of the Lions.
