Friday, April 27, 2012

The Detroit Lions Best Draft Selections

By Jack Jones


The Detroit Lions were set up in 1929 and had one of the better teams in the NFL for years after they were founded before encountering a long dry spell. Detroit has won four NFL Championships, but haven't won since 1957.. The franchise is one of four teams that have yet to make their way to the Super Bowl. The top players drafted by the Detroit Lions are Barry Sanders, Joe Schmidt and Lem Barney.

No. 3: Lem Barney, CB, (1967 - 1977)

Lem Barney was taken in the second round of the 1967 NFL Draft and was elected Defensive Rookie of the Year. The seven-time Pro Bowler was an exceptional defensive back who intercepted 56 passes for 7 touchdowns and 1,077 interception yards. The amazing cover corner was the 5th cornerback to be selected in the Hall of Fame.

No. 2: Joe Schmidt, LB, (1953 - 1965)

Joe Schmidt was drafted in the 1953 NFL Draft. In his rookie season, he led the the Lions to their 2nd consecutive title. Schmidt exhibited intense physical hardness, earning himself 10 Pro Bowl selections and 8 All-Pro selections. Schmidt on to help the team to another NFL title in 1957. Schmidt was selected the Lions MVPon four occasions. He ended his career with 24 interceptions.

No. 1: Barry Sanders, RB, (1989 - 1998)

Barry Sanders was drafted 3rd overall in the 1989 NFL Draft. He was an exciting player who was respected throughout the NFL and is one of the best running backs in history. Barry Sanders was not only very fast, but just as strong and was incredibly tough to bring down due to his low centre of gravity. The standard player won the Rookie of the Year award, and due to him the franchise made it to the postseason five times during his time at the Lions. He was a 10-time All-Pro and Pro Bowl selection, a four-time rushing champion and the Associated Press NFL MVP in 1997. He ended his career with 15,296 rushing yards, averaging five yards per carry and scoring 109 rushing touchdowns. After each trip to the endzone, he didn't get involved in any excessive celebrations, but merely handed the ball to the referee.

Barry Sanders brought to Detroit organization and its fans something to get pumped up for in a period that was short of success. He lifted spirits with his slippery play and gained respect with his humility. Barry Sanders is the greatest player drafted by the Detroit Lions. Find out who we think Detroit will be selecting in the first round this year by checking out our 2012 NFL mock draft.




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