Top 10 Defensive Backs In Detroit Lions History

Sep 13, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; Detroit Lions cornerback Darius Slay (23) runs back to the sideline after intercepting San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers (not pictured) along with free safety Glover Quin (27), defensive back Josh Wilson (30) and strong safety James Ihedigbo (32) during the second quarter at Qualcomm Stadium. San Diego won 33-28. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports /

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1967-1977. Lem Barney. 1. player. 50. . Defensive Back

Lem Barney was drafted by the Lions in the second round in 1967 and immediately made his presence known, returning an interception off of Bart Starr for a touchdown in the first quarter of his first NFL game.

He intercepted ten passes in his rookie season, including three in the season finale against the Minnesota Vikings, and returned three of them for touchdowns, earning Defensive Rookie of the Year honors and his first Pro Bowl appearance.

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Barney would go on to play in seven Pro Bowls in his 11-year career as a Lion. He intercepted 56 passes during his career, which ranks second in franchise history, and returned seven of those interceptions for touchdowns. He recovered 17 fumbles, including a league-leading five in 1968. He was also an accomplished returner, scoring an additional four touchdowns on special teams.

Next: Most Underrated Detroit Lions in Team History

Barney was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1992. In 2004 the Detroit Lions retired the number 20 to honor him, Barry Sanders and Billy Sims. He is also a member of the NFL 1960s All-Decade Team.

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