On October 4, 2024, Greg Landry, a notable former quarterback and assistant coach for the Detroit Lions, died at the age of 77. His death signifies the conclusion of a distinguished football career that lasted nearly 20 years, both as a player and a coach.
Landry’s football career began at the University of Massachusetts (UMass) where he was recognized for his strong arm and running skills. During his college years, he set a 145.4 quarterback efficiency record in 1965 and steered UMass to two Yankee Conference Championships. According to the UMass Athletics Department’s tribute page, Landry was the team’s highest scorer and rusher in 1965 and 1967.
Landry was chosen as the 11th overall pick in the 1968 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions, where he quickly gained recognition. He played for the Lions from 1968 to 1978, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 1971 after throwing for 2,237 yards and 16 touchdowns. In addition to his passing skills, Landry was highly regarded for his rushing ability, with a career total of over 2,600 yards and 21 rushing touchdowns.
Following a trade in 1979, Landry spent three seasons with the Baltimore Colts. His career also included playing for the Chicago Blitz and Arizona Wranglers in the United States Football League (USFL). In 1984, after playing a single emergency game for the Chicago Bears, Landry retired, concluding his playing career with 16,052 passing yards, 98 touchdowns, and 103 interceptions.
The Lions expressed their condolences on social media, stating, “We join the NFL community in mourning the loss of former Lions quarterback and coach Greg Landry.”
After his playing career, Landry transitioned into coaching, working with several NFL teams, including the Lions, Bears, and Browns. He also served as an offensive coordinator at the University of Illinois. His commitment to the game made him an influential figure in the sport, mentoring some of the league’s best players until his final coaching stint with the Lions in the mid-1990s.
Landry’s impact is not limited to his on-field accomplishments. In 2012, he was inducted into the National Polish-American Sports Hall of Fame, solidifying his status among the sport’s most notable personalities. Known for his athletic prowess and respected mentorship, Landry’s influence on the sport and its players will be remembered.
