Detroit Lions Top 50: #24-20 with VIDEO
21. Charlie Sanders, TE, 1968-1977
Charlie Sanders is without a doubt, the greatest tight end to ever wear a Detroit Lions uniform. Decades ahead of his time with the way he played his position, Sanders was a legitimate receiving target who posted 4,817 receiving yards and 31 touchdowns (still seventh in Lions history).
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The Lions chose Sanders in the third round of the 1968 NFL Draft, and he became their starting tight end for the next ten seasons. He had 336 career receptions and was known for his blocking skills as well as his receiving capabilities. He was chosen for the Pro Bowl seven times (1968–1971 and 1974–1976), and was named to the NFL 1970s All-Decade Team as selected by voters of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
In 2008 he was chosen as a member of the Detroit Lions 75th Anniversary All Time Team.