Joe Schmidt (2019) - Pitt Athletics Hall of Fame

Joe Schmidt

Induction:
2019
Class:
1953

The hardnosed Schmidt earned the highest of accolades at both the collegiate and professional levels. A linebacker for the Panthers from 1950-52, he overcame an array of injuries to become a first team All-American his senior year. In the NFL, Schmidt would become the era's prototype for linebacker play—instinctive, aggressive and smart. He played in 10 Pro Bowls and was a 10-time All-Pro during his 13-year career (1953-65) with the Detroit Lions. He led the Lions to two NFL championships (1953 and 1957). Schmidt would later serve as the Lions' head coach from 1967-72. He was elected into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1973 and College Football Hall of Fame in 2000. His No. 65 jersey is retired by Pitt.