In the realm of football, few figures stand as tall in the hearts of Detroit Lions fans as Greg Landry. A powerhouse of a quarterback known for both his arm and his athletic legs, Landry's recent passing at the age of 77 has left a significant void. As Fox Bangor reported, the Lions community mourns "the loss of former Lions quarterback and coach Greg Landry," who carved a lasting legacy through both his play and his coaching.
Selected 11th overall in the 1968 NFL Draft, Landry roared out of Massachusetts and into a lengthy NFL career, playing primarily with the Lions until 1978. According to the Chicago Sun-Times, Landry was more than adept at throwing the ball, amassing "16,052 yards and 98 touchdowns," but it was his mobility that set him apart, dashing for over "2,600 yards and 21 touchdowns"—a tally that positioned him as one of the game's first notable dual-threat quarterbacks.
Beyond his on-field heroics, Landry's stamp on the Lions extended into the coaching realm. He returned to the team as a coach in 1995, continuing to influence the game he dearly loved. His full circle journey, from being drafted out of UMass where he led the program to remarkable success, to coaching the Lions, solidifies his legendary status within the NFL community.
Parallel to the legacy of Landry, the history of Black quarterbacks in the NFL is reaching new audiences through a groundbreaking Prime Video docuseries. This series shines a spotlight on the stories of the pioneering Black quarterbacks throughout the league, including several who played for the Lions. As detailed by the Detroit Free Press, these narratives challenge historical inequities and celebrate the groundbreaking accomplishments of these players.
These narratives provide critical insights into an often-overlooked part of football history. By highlighting these trailblazers, the docuseries honors their contributions, paralleling the technological versatility that Landry so epitomized on the field.
In closing, as we reflect on the impactful careers of Greg Landry and the groundbreaking stories of Black quarterbacks in the Lions' history, it's clear how these diverse legacies have woven into the fabric of the Detroit Lions lore. Their stories not only prompt reflection but also inspire future generations, ensuring that the Lions' legacy is as inclusive and spirited as the game itself.
What other sites are saying about this topic
Greg Landry, Lions great and former NFL coach, dead at 77 from Fox Bangor
New docuseries about history of Black quarterbacks includes 3 men with ties to the Lions from Detroit Free Press
Greg Landry, former Lions quarterback and Bears assistant coach, dies at 77 from Chicago Sun-Times