Detroit Lions Top 50: #34-30

31. Cory Schlesinger, FB, 1995-2006

Lions fullback, Cory Schlesinger is one of the most popular players of the past decade in Detroit. The tough, gritty style of play that Schlesinger displayed on the field was relatable to so many hard-working people in the Motor City.

Schlesinger was an elite run blocker. Furthermore, he was the run blocker for the great, Barry Sanders. He was also an effective short-yardage back, blocking fullback and special teams player for the majority of his career after Sanders’ retirement.

Schlesinger was a two-year starter for the Nebraska Cornhuskers. As a junior, he was the 1993 Husker Co-Lifter-of-the-Year with linebacker Donta Jones. During that season he finished as the team’s fifth-leading rusher with 48 carries for 193 yards and one touchdown.

Schlesinger was drafted by the Lions in the sixth round (192nd overall) of the 1995 NFL Draft.

Schlesinger never made a Pro Bowl in his career, but he did however earn the respect of his peers and the fans. In 2003 he was voted offensive MVP by his teammates.