The Detroit Lions, a storied franchise with a rich history, have a relatively small but distinguished list of retired jersey numbers. These numbers represent the pinnacle of achievement for players who have made indelible marks on the team.
Among the most iconic is the number 20, a unique distinction in NFL history, as it was retired to honor three legendary players: Lem Barney, Billy Sims, and Barry Sanders.
Each of these running backs epitomized excellence and redefined the position during their respective eras.
Other retired numbers include 7 for Dutch Clark, a pioneering figure in the early days of the Lions, and 56 for Joe Schmidt, a Hall of Fame linebacker known for his fierce competitiveness. These numbers serve as a permanent tribute to these football greats, inspiring future generations of Lions players and fans alike. While the list of retired jerseys may be shorter compared to some other franchises, the significance of each number is undeniable.
Here are the honored players and their numbers that are not issued in Detroit anymore:
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Jersey Number 7
Dutch Clark
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Jersey Number 20
Lem Barney
Barry Sanders
Billy Simms
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Jersey Number 22
Bobby Layne
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Jersey Number 37
Doak Walker
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Jersey Number 56
Joe Schmidt
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Jersey Number 85
Chris Hughes
If you love football jersey designs and evolution, wait until you check out the
History of American Football Jersey.
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Football Jersey Frequently Asked Questions
-What are American football jerseys made of? Modern jerseys are made of synthetic fibers such as polyester or a blend of different materials such as spandex. For more, check out our in-depth study of
The Makeup and Materials of Football Jerseys.
-When did football jerseys start having numbers on them? Though there was documented talk of it since 1894, players only wore digits in a 1905 Iowa State at Drake game. Check out more on this story
The Origins Of Football Player Numbers.
-Whose college football jersey was the first to be retired? Red Grange's Number 77 Ilinois Illini jersey was the first college uni shelved in 1925. There were a couple more about the same time, and we chatted with a college football expert historian to help divulge
College Football and its First Retired Jerseys.
