Detroit Lions legend and Pro Football Hall of Famer Lem Barney has died at the age of 80, the team announced Saturday. Barney, a standout cornerback and return specialist, spent his entire 11-year NFL career wiht the Lions, retiring in 1977.
Known as the first star to wear No. 20 for Detroit – preceding Billy Sims and Barry Sanders – barney made an immediate impact, earning NFL Rookie of the Year honors in 1967. That season,he lead the league with 10 interceptions,three of which he returned for touchdowns.
Throughout his career, Barney recorded 56 interceptions, 25 forced fumbles, and scored 10 touchdowns – seven via interception returns and three on kick returns. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1992.
Beyond football, Barney possessed a diverse range of talents. He earned a Grammy Award as a backing singer for Marvin Gaye and later dedicated himself to raising awareness about concussions and their impact on athletes.
