With free agency in full swing and the NFL Draft just over a month away, most discussions about the Detroit Lions focus on what’s ahead.

That’s why I thought you’d appreciate a change of pace—a feature on Joe Recknagel, who served as the Lions’ athletic trainer for an incredible 45 years.

Recknagel began with the team as a summer intern in 1977 and officially retired last month after working over 800 games.

Speaking with The Blade’s Mark Monroe, the 68-year-old shared some of his most memorable experiences with the franchise.

His job was simple in concept but demanding in practice—ensure players were healthy enough to compete each week.

“Every job has ups and downs. But it’s tough seeing guys realize their careers are over. You know when an injury is devastating.

VWith Mike [Utley], we knew immediately something was wrong,” Recknagel told The Blade, referring to the former Lion who suffered a severe spinal injury in 1991, leaving him paralyzed from the chest down.

“It’s heartbreaking to see players get hurt. I still keep in touch with Mike, and he’s doing well, all things considered.”

As he noted, there were highs and lows. A highlight? Barry Sanders. Recknagel vividly remembered watching Sanders’ debut from the sidelines, along with many other career-defining moments.

“I looked over, and even the opposing players were applauding Barry’s moves. No joke, the other team was clapping. I can’t compare Barry to Billy Sims, (Jahmyr) Gibbs, or (David) Montgomery.

They’re all unique talents and special running backs,” he said.

In the rest of the conversation, Recknagel discussed the contrast between playoff games at Ford Field versus the Pontiac Silverdome, how rewarding it’s been to see the team’s resurgence after years of struggles, and his perspective on why the Lions have yet to win a Super Bowl. It’s a story any devoted Lions fan will appreciate.