Football Legend Joe Schmidt Passes Away at 92
The football world is mourning the loss of Joe Schmidt, the Hall of Fame linebacker who played an instrumental role in the Detroit Lions' NFL championships in 1953 and 1957. Schmidt, who later carved out a successful coaching career with the Lions, passed away at the age of 92. The team confirmed his death on Wednesday, though no cause was provided.
Schmidt's legacy in the NFL is marked by a string of remarkable achievements, underscoring his unique talent and determination. Born in Brentwood, Pennsylvania, Schmidt played college football in his hometown at the University of Pittsburgh. Initially starting as a fullback and guard, it was coach Len Casanova who made the pivotal decision to switch him to linebacker, a move that would shape Schmidt's illustrious career. Despite battling injuries during his college days, Schmidt’s resilience and skill shone through.
In 1953, the Detroit Lions recognized Schmidt's potential and drafted him in the seventh round. An undersized pick at 6 feet tall, Schmidt quickly silenced critics who doubted his capabilities due to his stature. He humorously remarked, “Joe likes to say that at one point in his career, he was 6-3, but he had tackled so many fullbacks that it drove his neck into his shoulders and now he is 6-foot. At any rate, he was listed at 6-feet and as I say was marginal for that position. There are, however, qualities that certainly scouts or anybody who is drafting a ballplayer cannot measure,” shared the presenter at his Hall of Fame induction in 1973.
Schmidt's performance on the field was nothing short of exceptional. He played his entire NFL career with the Lions from 1953 to 1965, establishing himself as a cornerstone of the team. During this period, Schmidt was elected to the Pro Bowl for ten consecutive years, from 1955 to 1964, and was named an All-Pro eight times. His aggressive play style and strategic mind were key factors in the Lions clinching the last two of their three NFL titles in the 1950s.
Reflecting on his collegiate roots, Schmidt once said, “Pitt provided me with the opportunity to do what I’ve wanted to do, and further myself through my athletic abilities. Everything I have stemmed from that opportunity.” His time at Pitt laid the groundwork for a professional career that would eventually see him enshrined in both the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1973 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000.
After hanging up his boots as a player, Schmidt transitioned seamlessly into coaching. He initially took up the role of an assistant coach before being appointed head coach of the Detroit Lions from 1967 to 1972, amassing a record of 43-35-7. His tenure as head coach was marked by his unyielding drive and tactical acumen, attributes that had defined his time on the field. Schmidt's approach to the game was encapsulated in his own words: “We just decided to go after them, blitz them almost every down. We had nothing to lose. When you’re up against it, you let both barrels fly.”
In 2019, as part of the NFL’s centennial celebrations, Schmidt was named to the NFL’s All-Time Team, solidifying his status as one of the league’s greats. This honor came 46 years after his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, a testament to his enduring legacy within the sport.
Throughout his career, Schmidt faced and overcame numerous obstacles. He often spoke of the adversity he encountered due to his size. “It was a dream of mine to play football. I had so many people tell me that I was too small. That I couldn’t play. I had so many negative people say negative things about me… that it makes you feel good inside. I said, ‘OK, I’ll prove it to you.’” And prove it he did, etching his name in the annals of football history.
Joe Schmidt’s life and career exemplify the grit, determination, and passion that define the very best of football. His contributions to the sport, both on and off the field, will be remembered and celebrated by fans and players alike. The Detroit Lions, and indeed the entire football community, have lost a true legend.