Being a fan of the Detroit Lions football team has never been for the faint of heart. For decades, the team has faced disappointments and “maybe next year” consolations, but also grit and flashes of greatness. Heck, they’re the only continuous NFL franchise to miss out on all 59 Super Bowls so far.
Founded in 1930 as the Portsmouth Spartans before relocating to Detroit in 1934, the Lions were an early powerhouse, winning four NFL championships before the Super Bowl era (1935, 1952, 1953, 1957).
But through it all, the Lions have produced legends worth remembering.
From Hall of Famers like Joe Schmidt, Lem Barney and Barry Sanders to more recent stars such as Calvin Johnson and Matthew Stafford, these athletes have helped shape the team’s legacy.
Here’s a look back at 26 players who made Sundays in Detroit special. (Scroll through the gallery above.)
What about today’s players?
While the Lions’ current roster has inspired new optimism under coach Dan Campbell, this list focuses on players whose careers and contributions have already stood the test of time. None of today’s stars appear here, not for lack of talent, but because their stories are still being written. Future lists, of course, could see Penei Sewell, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jared Goff and other standouts.
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Contact Elissa Robinson: erobinson@freepress.com.
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