Detroit Lions legend Joe Schmidt passed away on Wednesday at the age of 92.
The cause of death has not been revealed.
Schmidt, a collegiate graduate of the University of Pittsburgh and middle linebacker for Detroit, played his entire professional football career with Detroit, 13 years of which (1953-1965), leading the team to two NFL titles and later serving as the team's coach for six years (1967-1972).
“Joe Schmidt had the heart of a Lion, so it was only natural that he was also the heart of our team,” Lions owner and chairman emeritus Martha Firestone Ford said in a statement. “Joe was an integral part of our championship season and remained a valued member of our organization until the time of his passing.”
“Joe made his home in Detroit and brought his on-field success to our community. We are very saddened to learn of his passing but have nothing but fond memories of his character. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Marilyn and his children.”
Schmidt was selected to the Pro Bowl 10 times and to the All-Pro team eight times during his playing career, and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1973.
He has appeared in the Pro Bowl 10 times, tying the most by a Lions player in franchise history.
Schmidt was named NFL Defensive MVP in both 1960 and 1963.
The Lions legend is hailed as one of football's first great middle linebackers, finishing his career with 24 interceptions and 16 fumble recoveries.
“You know, he was one of the first guys to play middle linebacker, which I think helped eliminate the middle guard position, which was a problem at the time, and helped establish the 4-3 defense that we have today. He was probably one of the best players to ever play that position, and no one was tougher than him. He was a true football innovator,” the late Lions owner William Clay Ford said. At Schmidt's inauguration in 1973,.
After finishing his professional career, he began working as an assistant coach and later as head coach.
Schmidt compiled a record of 43 wins, 35 losses and 7 ties as Detroit's manager.
