The Detroit Lions and the football world are in mourning following the passing of one of the team’s all-time greats, legendary quarterback Greg Landry. The Lions announced on Friday that Landry had passed away at the age of 77, leaving behind a legacy that spans decades and a deep connection with the franchise.
A First-Round Pick and Prolific Career
Greg Landry was selected by the Lions as the 11th overall pick in the first round of the 1968 NFL Draft. From the outset, he made his mark, spending 11 seasons as the Lions’ signal-caller. Landry’s tenure in Detroit saw him compile a 40-41-3 record, demonstrating his resilience and leadership on the field.
Though his time with the Lions came to an end, his football journey continued with short stints at the Baltimore Colts and Chicago Bears, before finishing his playing days in the USFL. But Landry’s bond with the Lions was far from over.
A Return to Detroit as a Coach
After hanging up his cleats, Landry transitioned to the sidelines, entering the NFL coaching ranks. He began his coaching career as a quarterbacks coach for the Chicago Bears, but it wasn’t long before he returned to Detroit. In 1995 and 1996, Landry rejoined the Lions, this time as a mentor to Scott Mitchell, helping the quarterback achieve career-best numbers. Under Landry’s guidance, Mitchell threw for 4,338 yards, 32 touchdowns, and only 12 interceptions. The Lions’ offense soared to become the second-best in the league during that period, culminating in a Wild Card playoff appearance.
A Dual Threat on the Field
As a player, Landry was known not just for his arm but also for his mobility. His prowess as a dual-threat quarterback made him stand out in an era where quarterbacks typically didn’t run the ball much. He still holds the record for the most rushing yards by a Detroit Lions quarterback, amassing 2,502 yards over his 11 seasons. This total puts him over 800 yards ahead of second-place Bobby Layne (1,793). His 19 rushing touchdowns also lead all Lions quarterbacks, putting him comfortably ahead of Matthew Stafford’s 14.
On the passing side, Landry’s numbers remain near the top in Lions history. He currently ranks fifth in passing yards, fourth in touchdowns, and third in wins, cementing his place among Detroit’s all-time greats.
Remembering a Legend
Greg Landry’s contributions to the game of football, both as a player and a coach, have left an indelible mark on the Detroit Lions and the NFL. His versatility on the field, ability to adapt to different roles off the field, and enduring connection with the Lions organization are just a few of the reasons why he will always be remembered as a legend in Detroit.
Landry was 77 years old at the time of his passing. The thoughts and condolences of the entire Lions community and the wider football world go out to his family during this difficult time.
