DETROIT — Greg Landry, the former quarterback and assistant coach of the Detroit Lions, has passed away at the age of 77.
The Lions shared the news of Landry’s death on social media on Friday, though they did not disclose the cause.
“We stand with the NFL community in mourning the loss of our former quarterback and coach, Greg Landry,” the team stated in their announcement.
Landry’s NFL career spanned from 1968 to 1981, during which time he played for the Lions and, briefly, the Baltimore Colts. Following two seasons in the USFL, he made a return to the NFL, participating in one game with the Chicago Bears.
Throughout his professional career, he passed for 16,052 yards, recording 98 touchdowns and 103 interceptions. Renowned for his running ability, Landry ranks among the top rushing quarterbacks in NFL history, accumulating over 2,600 yards and scoring 21 touchdowns on the ground.
Greg Landry, seen here during Lions training camp in 2017, played 11 seasons with Detroit, enjoying his best year in 1971 with 2,237 yards and 16 touchdowns, which earned him first-team All-Pro honors and his only Pro Bowl selection. AP Photo/Paul Sancya
Selected with the 11th pick in the 1968 NFL draft from UMass, Landry had a career record of 40-41-3 over his 11 seasons with the Lions. His most outstanding year came in 1971 when he threw for 2,237 yards and 16 touchdowns, becoming a first-team All-Pro and making his only Pro Bowl appearance that season.
In 1976, he was honored as the NFL’s Comeback Player of the Year after passing for 2,191 yards and 17 touchdowns.
After his time with the Lions, Landry was traded to Baltimore, where he played three seasons with the Colts, finishing with a record of 3-10-1. He then joined the USFL, playing one season each with the Chicago Blitz (1983) and the Arizona Wranglers (1984). In 1984, he served as an emergency starter for the Bears in a game against Detroit.
Landry returned to the Lions in 1995 as the quarterbacks coach under head coach Wayne Fontes. He also held assistant coaching roles with the Cleveland Browns and Chicago Bears, and at the college level with Illinois.
A native of Nashua, New Hampshire, Landry was a standout at UMass, leading the team in passing for three seasons and was the top rusher and scorer in 1965 and 1967. His achievements were recognized with an induction into the UMass Hall of Fame in 1980.
Remembering Greg Landry: The Legacy of a Detroit Lions Football Star
Early Life and College Career
Greg Landry was born on September 20, 1946, in the small town of Fort Wayne, Indiana. His athletic prowess was evident from a young age, as he excelled in multiple sports. Landry attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he played college football for the Minutemen. He made a significant impact on the field, showcasing his talent as a quarterback and leading the team to victory in several notable games.
Professional Career with the Detroit Lions
Landry was selected by the Detroit Lions in the first round of the 1968 NFL Draft. He spent the majority of his professional career with the Lions, playing from 1968 to 1978. During this time, he developed a reputation as a skilled and reliable quarterback.
- Pro Bowl and All-Pro Recognition: In 1971, Landry was named a first-team All-Pro and earned a spot on the Pro Bowl roster. His performance that season was remarkable, solidifying his status as one of the top quarterbacks in the league.
- Career Statistics: Over his career, Landry accumulated impressive statistics, including over 19,000 passing yards and 134 touchdown passes. His ability to lead the Lions both through the air and on the ground made him a dual-threat quarterback.
Key Playing Style and Skills
Landry was known for his unique playing style, which combined traditional quarterbacking skills with the ability to scramble and create plays on the move. His intelligence on the field allowed him to read defenses effectively, making him a formidable opponent.
| Year | Games Played | Passing Yards | Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1968 | 12 | 1,199 | 6 |
| 1971 | 14 | 2,154 | 24 |
| 1975 | 14 | 2,400 | 18 |
| 1978 | 14 | 2,406 | 19 |
Leadership and Impact on the Team
Landry’s leadership extended beyond his individual performance. He was a pivotal figure in the locker room, earning the respect of his teammates. His work ethic and dedication to the game inspired those around him, contributing to a cohesive team environment.
Coaching Career After Playing
After retiring from professional football, Greg Landry transitioned into coaching, where he continued to influence the game. He served as an assistant coach with various teams, including the Lions, where he applied his vast knowledge of the game to develop future generations of players.
Legacy and Recognition
Greg Landry’s legacy in the NFL is marked not only by his statistics and accolades but also by the indelible impact he left on the Detroit Lions franchise.
- Honors: Landry is remembered as one of the greatest quarterbacks in Lions history. His contributions have been recognized through his induction into the Detroit Lions Hall of Fame.
- Community Involvement: Beyond football, Landry was also known for his involvement in community service, participating in numerous charitable events and initiatives.
Personal Life
Outside of football, Landry was a dedicated family man. He balanced his professional commitments with a deep involvement in his family’s life. He often spoke about the importance of family values and education, passing these principles on to his children.
Remembering Greg Landry: Tributes and Reflections
The news of Greg Landry’s passing at the age of 77 on October 5, 2024, has left a profound void in the hearts of many football fans and former teammates. His contributions to the game and to the Detroit Lions will always be cherished. Fans have taken to social media to express their condolences and share memories of Landry’s remarkable career and character.
Player Tributes
Many former players and coaches have shared their thoughts on Landry’s impact on their careers and the game. Here are some highlights:
- Former Teammate: ”Greg was not just a great player; he was a mentor to so many of us. His spirit will always be part of the Lions’ legacy.”
- Coach’s Reflection: “He had an incredible understanding of the game. Coaching him was a joy, and he elevated everyone around him.”
Conclusion: A Lasting Impact on Football
Greg Landry’s journey from a small-town boy to a celebrated NFL quarterback and coach is an inspiring story. His dedication, skill, and leadership continue to influence the game of football today. As we remember Greg Landry, we celebrate not just his achievements on the field but also the values he instilled in those who had the privilege to know him and watch him play.
