Lions Hall of Famer Lem Barney dies at 80

Pro Football Hall of Famer Lem Barney, who spent his entire 11-season career with the Detroit Lions, has died at age 80. Barney, a standout at Jackson State as both a cornerback and punter, was drafted by the Lions in the second round of the 1967 NFL Draft. He made an immediate impact by intercepting a pass from Packers quarterback Bart Starr and returning it for a touchdown in his first NFL game. Barney led the league in interceptions with 10 during his rookie season, earning him the titles of Defensive Rookie of the Year and first-team All-Pro. He was also the Lions' primary punter, averaging 37.4 yards per punt. Over his career, Barney was a first-team All-Pro three times and made seven Pro Bowl appearances. In 2004, the Lions retired the No. 20 jersey in honor of Barney, Barry Sanders, and Billy Sims, making it the only number retired for three players by the team.