The Detroit Lions announced on Friday that legendary quarterback Greg Landry has passed away at the age of 77.
Detroit Lions legend Greg Landry has died, the Detroit Lions announced on social media Friday night.
Landry was a first-round pick for the Lions back in 1968. The All-Pro quarterback would play in Detroit for the next 11 seasons, finishing his Lions career with a 40-41-3 record before moving on to short stints with the Baltimore Colts, Chicago Bears, and a two-year stay in the USFL.
Of course, Landry’s connection with the Lions didn’t stop there. As soon as his playing career was over, Landry joined the coaching ranks in the NFL. He started as a quarterbacks coach for the Bears before he eventually came back to Detroit under the same role for the 1995 and 1996 seasons. He helped guide Scott Mitchell to his best statistical season, throwing for 4,338 yards, 32 touchdowns, and just 12 interceptions. That year, the Lions had the second-best offense in football, and they made the Wild Card round of the playoffs.
As for Landry’s own quarterbacking career, he currently ranks fifth among Lions quarterbacks in yards, fourth in touchdowns, and third in wins. He was also a big threat as a runner. His 2,502 rushing yards over 11 seasons still ranks first among all Detroit Lions quarterbacks in history, and is over 800 yards ahead of second place (Bobby Layne, 1,793). He’s also ahead in rushing touchdowns (19), holding a comfortable lead over Matthew Stafford (14).
Landry was 77 years old. Our condolences to the Landry family.
