NFL Power Rankings: Greatest defensive players of all-time

30 greatest NFL defensive players of all-time

By Daniel Tran | Jan 20, 2015

Nov 3, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants former players Lawrence Taylor and Harry Carson listen to Michael Strahan (left) speak to fans after receiving his NFL Hall of Fame ring during half time ceremony at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports /

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25. Joe Schmidt, Linebacker

If NFL experts thought Jack Lambert was too small to play in the NFL, Joe Schmidt must have been miniscule to the Detroit Lions when they drafted him in the seventh round of the NFL draft in 1953. As it turns out, 6’0, 195 pounds is good enough to be one of the best linebackers ever.

After recovering a then-NFL record eight fumbles in 1955, Schmidt became the defensive captain for the Detroit Lions in 1956 and earned Defensive Player of the Year in 1957. Despite his size, he ended his career with 24 interceptions, two of which he returned for touchdowns.

After 13 seasons in the NFL with the Detroit Lions, Schmidt finished his career with 10 Pro Bowl selections, eight First-team All-Pro selections, and two NFL Championships. In 1973, Schmidt was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame as a Detroit Lion after coaching the team from 1967-1972.

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