Joe Schmidt (1932–2024), legendary Detroit Lions middle linebacker
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2 min readJoe Schmidt was an NFL linebacker and coach for the Detroit Lions whose storied career led him to 10 consecutive Pro Bowls and the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
- Died: September 11, 2024 (Who else died on September 11?)
- Details of death: Died in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida at the age of 92.
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Joe Schmidt’s legacy
Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Joe Schmidt began making his mark on football in college, where he was a linebacker at the University of Pittsburgh. There, he was team captain in 1952 and a first-team All-American, and he played in the Senior Bowl.
Schmidt was drafted in the NFL’s seventh round by the Detroit Lions in 1953 and quickly made an impact. He played in all 12 games in his rookie season, kicking off a 13-year playing career during which he was one of the most dominant linebackers of his era. Known for his tackling prowess, Schmidt earned 10 Pro Bowl selections and was named first-team All-Pro eight times. He helped lead the Lions to championships in 1953 and 1957, plus was named the league’s most valuable defensive player in 1960 and 1963.
After retiring as a player in 1966, Schmidt transitioned into coaching. He served as head coach of the Detroit Lions from 1967 to 1972, stepping into the role during a period when the team was rebuilding to get back to its former greatness. As coach, Schmidt’s best season was in 1970, when the team went 10-4 and made its first playoff appearance in 13 years.
Schmidt was immortalized in sports history in 1973 when he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He is also in the College Football Hall of Fame and Michigan Sports Hall of Fame, among his many listed accolades. He also helped change the way the game of football is played with his focus on the middle linebacker position.
Tributes to Joe Schmidt
Full obituary: Detroit Free Press
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