30 greatest NFL defensive players of all-time
By Daniel Tran
27. Dick “Night Train” Lane, Defensive Back
There was a reason that Richard Lane was given the nickname “Night Train.” Yes, Tom Fears incessant playing of Buddy Morrow’s “Night Train” when Lane would get tutored on the game of football was most likely the origin of the moniker, but it was Lane and his freight train-like power that helped the nickname stick.
Lane was known for his overwhelming strength from the defensive back position where he made a living out of punishing receivers and ball carriers. After spending four years in the United States Army, that toughness and grit was not surprising.
Though he was powerful, Lane was not a one-trick magician on the football field. He also possessed great speed and ball skills, which were evident when he initially tried out for the Los Angeles Rams as a wide receiver. After making the switch to defensive back, Lane was able to translate those skills to be one of the greatest interception machines ever.
In his rookie season with the Rams, Lane picked off a NFL record 14 passes in 12 games. After playing for the Chicago Cardinals and Detroit Lions, he ended his 14-year career with 68 interceptions (4th best ever), seven Pro Bowl selections, six First-team All-Pro selections, and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1974.
Next: Going Ham