Allen Park, Mich.-The Detroit Lions announced today that they have signed rookie TE Brandon Pettigrew to a five-year deal. Additional terms of Pettigrew's contract were not disclosed.
Pettigrew was drafted by Detroit with their second selection of the first round (20th overall) in the 2009 NFL Draft.
In other roster moves, the team released rookie free agent LB Spenser Smith (Eastern Michigan).
COLLEGE: Regarded by many as the most complete tight end to enter the 2009 NFL Draft draft, the Lions selected Pettigrew in the first round (20th overall) to become just the second tight end in school history to hear his name called in the first round of the draft, joining Reuben Gant (1974, Buffalo). Pettigrew ended his collegiate career ranked ninth overall on the school’s receiving yardage record list with 1,450 and averaged more than 54 knockdown blocks per season for the Cowboys. Pettigrew has not only proven to be a clutch short-area receiver, but an outstanding blocker. A physical open-field runner, he has gained more than 40 percent of his yardage after the catch. He also proved to be an excellent pass catcher, becoming the first tight end in school history to amass more than 100 receptions (112) in a career. Pettigrew enrolled at Oklahoma State in 2004, spending the season as a red-shirt after turning down offers from Texas A&M, Texas Christian, Southern Methodist and Arkansas. In 2005, he started nine games, including the last seven, for the Cowboys. He gained 128 yards with a touchdown on 11 catches (11.6 avg). He delivered 30 knockdowns and also recorded a solo tackle.
2008:Had just eleven receptions through the team’s first seven games, but finished with a career-high 42 catches for 472 yards (11.2 avg), despite not finding the end zone. 23 of his receptions produced first downs (54.76%), as he converted 4-of-9 third-down (44.44%) and 1-of-2 fourth-down plays.
All-American Dream Team and All-Big Twelve Conference selection by The NFL Draft Report.
Rated the best tight end prospect in the country by that scouting information service.
Finalist for John Mackey Award, given to nation’s top tight end.
Three of his catches were for 20 yards or longer, as he also had key receptions to set up five scoring drives.
11 catches came in red zone, including eight on goal-line plays.
43 knockdowns, including eight touchdown-resulting blocks.
2007: Started all thirteen games, ranking third on the team with 35 receptions for 540 yards (15.4 avg) and four touchdowns. Added one solo tackle in the Oklahoma clash and led the conference’s tight ends. Also paced the Cowboys with ten touchdown-resulting blocks, as his 72 knockdowns were a league-high for tight ends.
All-Big Twelve Conference first-team selection.
2006: Started all thirteen games, ranking third on the team with 24 receptions for 310 yards (12.9 avg), including four touchdowns. Also recorded six tackles (3 solos) and recovered a fumble. Registered 71 knockdowns that included eight touchdown-resulting blocks.
All-Big Twelve Conference honorable mention.
2005: Played in every game, starting nine contests, including the final seven. Finished fifth on the team with eleven receptions for 128 yards (11.6 avg).
Scored his only touchdown on a 3-yard reception vs. Baylor.
Posted 30 knockdowns and four touchdown-resulting blocks.
2004: Redshirted as a freshman.
NOTES OF INTEREST
- Attended Robert E. Lee (Tyler, Tex.) High School, earning All-State honors in 2003.
- Despite playing primarily as a blocker, he was rated as the best tight end in Texas by numerous recruiting services.
- The All-District and All-East Texas choice also competed on the defensive line.
- Son of Elaine and Henry Pettigrew. Born February 23, 1985.
- Resides in Tyler, Texas.
- Was an education major at Oklahoma State.
www.InPlayMagazine.com
Friday, July 31, 2009
LIONS SIGN ROOKIE DT SAMMIE HILL TO THREE-YEAR DEAL
Allen Park, Mich.-The Detroit Lions announced today that they have signed rookie DT Sammie Hill to a three-year deal. Additional terms of Hill's contract were not disclosed.
Hill was drafted by Detroit in the fourth round (115th overall) in the 2009 NFL Draft.
COLLEGE: A good athlete with outstanding size and bulk and long arms that will look to be a large presence on the Lions defensive front. One of the best small college prospects from his year’s draft class. Quick and agile. Stout at the point of attack. Jolts blockers with good hand punch, breaks down well, and easily redirects to the action. Moves well on his feet, quickly changes direction, and strings plays out to the flanks. Fights throughout the play, flashes power, and works to get involved in the action. Was a four-year starter for the Tigers, and he set the school record with 44.5 tackles for loss. During his freshman and sophomore seasons, he played defensive tackle and then was moved to defensive end for his final two seasons at Stillman. Named first-team All-SIAC in 2007 and 2008. Hails from the same program that produced Brian Witherspoon (signed by Jacksonville) in 2008.
2008:In his second year at defensive end, he earned first-team all SIAC honors. During his senior season, he played in 11 games and registered career highs with 59 tackles for loss, 15.5 sacks and 7.5 sacks.
Scored on a two-point pass play.
Knocked down seven passes and recorded three fumble recoveries.
2007:Was moved to defensive end as a junior by new head coach Greg Thompson. In his first season at defensive end, he was a first-twm all-SIAC selection after collecting 52 tackles, 4.5 sacks and 14 tackles for loss.
Also caused four fumbles.
Took an interception back 38 yards for a touchdown after dropping back into coverage as a giant middle linebacker.
2006:As a sophomore, he played in 10 games and garnered 41 tackles, two sacks and nine tackles for loss.
2005:Following a red-shirt season, Hill was a defensive tackle and made a splash with 39 tackles, 3.5 sacks and 6 tackles for loss in the nine games he played.
He also caught a pass as a tight end for a 16-yard touchdown.
NOTES OF INTEREST
-Graduated from West Blocton (Ala.) High School where he was selected all-Conference and All-area.
-He was a versatile player as a prepster, playing both offensive defensive line along with tight end, linebacker and even place kicker.
-Was recruited by some schools to play basketball, and he was a catcher on the school’s baseball team.
-Born November 8, 1986.
-He and two college teammates were heroic in their efforts to save a man from a burning house. The three Stillman players were driving by a house when they noticed a distressed woman who needed help. She told Hill and his teammates that here father was inside and they proceeded to rescue him from the burning building.
In Play! Magazine
Hill was drafted by Detroit in the fourth round (115th overall) in the 2009 NFL Draft.
COLLEGE: A good athlete with outstanding size and bulk and long arms that will look to be a large presence on the Lions defensive front. One of the best small college prospects from his year’s draft class. Quick and agile. Stout at the point of attack. Jolts blockers with good hand punch, breaks down well, and easily redirects to the action. Moves well on his feet, quickly changes direction, and strings plays out to the flanks. Fights throughout the play, flashes power, and works to get involved in the action. Was a four-year starter for the Tigers, and he set the school record with 44.5 tackles for loss. During his freshman and sophomore seasons, he played defensive tackle and then was moved to defensive end for his final two seasons at Stillman. Named first-team All-SIAC in 2007 and 2008. Hails from the same program that produced Brian Witherspoon (signed by Jacksonville) in 2008.
2008:In his second year at defensive end, he earned first-team all SIAC honors. During his senior season, he played in 11 games and registered career highs with 59 tackles for loss, 15.5 sacks and 7.5 sacks.
Scored on a two-point pass play.
Knocked down seven passes and recorded three fumble recoveries.
2007:Was moved to defensive end as a junior by new head coach Greg Thompson. In his first season at defensive end, he was a first-twm all-SIAC selection after collecting 52 tackles, 4.5 sacks and 14 tackles for loss.
Also caused four fumbles.
Took an interception back 38 yards for a touchdown after dropping back into coverage as a giant middle linebacker.
2006:As a sophomore, he played in 10 games and garnered 41 tackles, two sacks and nine tackles for loss.
2005:Following a red-shirt season, Hill was a defensive tackle and made a splash with 39 tackles, 3.5 sacks and 6 tackles for loss in the nine games he played.
He also caught a pass as a tight end for a 16-yard touchdown.
NOTES OF INTEREST
-Graduated from West Blocton (Ala.) High School where he was selected all-Conference and All-area.
-He was a versatile player as a prepster, playing both offensive defensive line along with tight end, linebacker and even place kicker.
-Was recruited by some schools to play basketball, and he was a catcher on the school’s baseball team.
-Born November 8, 1986.
-He and two college teammates were heroic in their efforts to save a man from a burning house. The three Stillman players were driving by a house when they noticed a distressed woman who needed help. She told Hill and his teammates that here father was inside and they proceeded to rescue him from the burning building.
In Play! Magazine
Lions Sign Rookie WR Derrick Williams to Three-Year Deal
Allen Park, Mich.-The Detroit Lions announced today that they have signed rookie WR Derrick Williams to a three-year deal. Additional terms of Williams' contract were not disclosed.
Williams was drafted by Detroit with their second selection in the third round (82nd overall) of the 2009 NFL Draft.
COLLEGE: Williams started 43-of-46 games during his career at Penn State, catching 161 passes for 1,743 yards (10.83 avg) and nine touchdowns. His 1,743 yards rank tenth in school history and his 161 grabs rank third, topped by teammate Deon Butler's 179 catches (2005-08) and Bobby Engram's 167 (1991-95).
The highly-skilled Williams further solidified his status as one of the nation's most versatile and dynamic playmakers. He was one of just three players in the Joe Paterno era to gain over 1,000 yards via kickoff returns in a career (1,095). He finished third in PSU annals with 161 receptions and fourth with 4,156 all-purpose yards. After hitting the "trifecta" as a sophomore and junior, scoring via receiving rushing and punt returns, Willams added a new scoring opportunity to that accomplishment by also returning two kickoffs for scores, to go along with his four touchdown grabs, three rushing scores and one punt return for a touchdown in 2008.
NOTES OF INTEREST
-Attended Eleanor Roosevelt (suburban Washington, D.C.) High School, playing football for head coach Rick Houchens.
-Consensus All-American and was named the Rivals.com and G&W Recruiting Report National -Player-of-the-Year. AII-USA Today selection.
-AII-Metro choice by the Washington Post.
-Parade Magazine honored him as an AIIAmerican all-purpose player. During his senior season of 2004, Williams was 56-of-91 for 972 yards and 13 touchdown passes, ran for 1,123 yards and 12 touchdowns and caught 11 passes for 203 yards and two more scores.
-Also accumulated 479 punt return yards and added another score.
-As a defensive back, he had four interceptions and 34 tackles. In his junior year, Williams rushed for 1,350 yards and 28 touchdowns and threw for 700 yards and five scores.
-Also recorded 46 tackles, 13 pass break-ups, three interceptions and three fumble recoveries in 2003, adding 760 return yards.
-Was a sprinter on the track and field squad.
-In 2004, he was the subject of a series of stories in the Washington Post on his senior season and recruitment.
-Recreation, Park and Tourism Management major.
-Older brother, Domonique, played running back and quarterback at North Carolina and finished his career at North Carolina A&T.
-Son of Brinda and Dwight Williams.
-Born Derrick Dwanye Williams on 7/06/86 in Washington, D.C.
Williams was drafted by Detroit with their second selection in the third round (82nd overall) of the 2009 NFL Draft.
COLLEGE: Williams started 43-of-46 games during his career at Penn State, catching 161 passes for 1,743 yards (10.83 avg) and nine touchdowns. His 1,743 yards rank tenth in school history and his 161 grabs rank third, topped by teammate Deon Butler's 179 catches (2005-08) and Bobby Engram's 167 (1991-95).
The highly-skilled Williams further solidified his status as one of the nation's most versatile and dynamic playmakers. He was one of just three players in the Joe Paterno era to gain over 1,000 yards via kickoff returns in a career (1,095). He finished third in PSU annals with 161 receptions and fourth with 4,156 all-purpose yards. After hitting the "trifecta" as a sophomore and junior, scoring via receiving rushing and punt returns, Willams added a new scoring opportunity to that accomplishment by also returning two kickoffs for scores, to go along with his four touchdown grabs, three rushing scores and one punt return for a touchdown in 2008.
NOTES OF INTEREST
-Attended Eleanor Roosevelt (suburban Washington, D.C.) High School, playing football for head coach Rick Houchens.
-Consensus All-American and was named the Rivals.com and G&W Recruiting Report National -Player-of-the-Year. AII-USA Today selection.
-AII-Metro choice by the Washington Post.
-Parade Magazine honored him as an AIIAmerican all-purpose player. During his senior season of 2004, Williams was 56-of-91 for 972 yards and 13 touchdown passes, ran for 1,123 yards and 12 touchdowns and caught 11 passes for 203 yards and two more scores.
-Also accumulated 479 punt return yards and added another score.
-As a defensive back, he had four interceptions and 34 tackles. In his junior year, Williams rushed for 1,350 yards and 28 touchdowns and threw for 700 yards and five scores.
-Also recorded 46 tackles, 13 pass break-ups, three interceptions and three fumble recoveries in 2003, adding 760 return yards.
-Was a sprinter on the track and field squad.
-In 2004, he was the subject of a series of stories in the Washington Post on his senior season and recruitment.
-Recreation, Park and Tourism Management major.
-Older brother, Domonique, played running back and quarterback at North Carolina and finished his career at North Carolina A&T.
-Son of Brinda and Dwight Williams.
-Born Derrick Dwanye Williams on 7/06/86 in Washington, D.C.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Lions Sign Rookie S Louis Delmas to Four-Year Deal
Team releases DE Eric Hicks
Allen Park, Mich.—The Detroit Lions announced today that they have signed rookie S Louis Delmas to a four-year deal. The team also announced that they have released DE Eric Hicks. Terms of Delmas’ contract were not disclosed.
College-Western Michigan
NFL Experience-R
Height-5-11
Weight-202
Birthdate-April 12, 1987
Hometown-N. Miami Beach, Fla.
How Acquired-Draft-2 ('09)
COLLEGE: Selected in the second round (33rd overall) of the 2009 NFL Draft out of Western Michigan, Delmas brings athleticism and toughness to the Lions’ defensive backfield. In 2008, Delmas led the Broncos with a career-high 111 tackles (61 solo) as he earned All-American status for the first time. He also had four interceptions, including one that he returned for a touchdown. His 111 hits ranked sixth among the nation's defensive backs during his final season. Delmas started in 44 of 45 games, 33 at free safety and 11 at cornerback as he began his career as a left cornerback before moving inside to free safety as a sophomore. He became just the 14th player in school history to register 300 or more tackles in a career, finishing tied for eighth on that record list with 310 hits. In addition to his stellar performances on defense, he also appeared on special teams and saw brief action as a receiver in the 2008 Texas Bowl.
Notes of Interest
-Attended North Miami Beach (Fla.) High School, where he was teammates with fellow Western Michigan players Daniel.Marks and E.J. Biggers.Utilized as a cornerback, strong safety, wide receiver, kick returner and long snapper.
-The three-year starter was voted his team's best defensive back three straight seasons.
-Broke school records for single game and career kickoff return yardage, as he collected 178 tackles with three interceptions on defense and had 61 receptions for 841 yards and seven touchdowns on offense.
-Family Studies major.
-Coaches 8-10 year-olds in Optimist football.
-Brother Greg Joseph, plays safety at Florida Atlantic.
-Born April 12, 1987 in Fort Pierce, Florida.
-Resides in North Miami Beach, Florida.
In Play! magazine
Allen Park, Mich.—The Detroit Lions announced today that they have signed rookie S Louis Delmas to a four-year deal. The team also announced that they have released DE Eric Hicks. Terms of Delmas’ contract were not disclosed.
College-Western Michigan
NFL Experience-R
Height-5-11
Weight-202
Birthdate-April 12, 1987
Hometown-N. Miami Beach, Fla.
How Acquired-Draft-2 ('09)
COLLEGE: Selected in the second round (33rd overall) of the 2009 NFL Draft out of Western Michigan, Delmas brings athleticism and toughness to the Lions’ defensive backfield. In 2008, Delmas led the Broncos with a career-high 111 tackles (61 solo) as he earned All-American status for the first time. He also had four interceptions, including one that he returned for a touchdown. His 111 hits ranked sixth among the nation's defensive backs during his final season. Delmas started in 44 of 45 games, 33 at free safety and 11 at cornerback as he began his career as a left cornerback before moving inside to free safety as a sophomore. He became just the 14th player in school history to register 300 or more tackles in a career, finishing tied for eighth on that record list with 310 hits. In addition to his stellar performances on defense, he also appeared on special teams and saw brief action as a receiver in the 2008 Texas Bowl.
Notes of Interest
-Attended North Miami Beach (Fla.) High School, where he was teammates with fellow Western Michigan players Daniel.Marks and E.J. Biggers.Utilized as a cornerback, strong safety, wide receiver, kick returner and long snapper.
-The three-year starter was voted his team's best defensive back three straight seasons.
-Broke school records for single game and career kickoff return yardage, as he collected 178 tackles with three interceptions on defense and had 61 receptions for 841 yards and seven touchdowns on offense.
-Family Studies major.
-Coaches 8-10 year-olds in Optimist football.
-Brother Greg Joseph, plays safety at Florida Atlantic.
-Born April 12, 1987 in Fort Pierce, Florida.
-Resides in North Miami Beach, Florida.
In Play! magazine
Friday, July 24, 2009
LIONS ACQUIRE DT ORIEN HARRIS
Detroit trades WR Ronald Curry to St. Louis Rams in exchange for Harris
Allen Park, Mich.—The Detroit Lions announced today that they have acquired DT Orien Harris in a trade with the St. Louis Rams in exchange for WR Ronald Curry.
ORIEN HARRIS
Defensive Tackle 2nd Year
Ht: 6-3 Wt: 300
Miami (Fla.) Newark, Del.
Draft: ’06, R4 (133)-Pit Acquired: ’09, T-StL
Pro: Harris was acquired by the Lions on July 24, 2009 via trade with the St. Louis Rams. He spent the previous three months with the Rams after they acquired him in a trade May 6, 2009 with the Cincinnati Bengals. Harris was claimed off waivers by the Bengals just prior to the 2008 season and appeared in 14 games. He originally entered the NFL as a fourth-round selection (133rd overall) by the Pittsburgh Steelers. He spent most of his rookie year on the Steelers practice squad before being signed to the Cleveland Browns active roster later in the season where he appeared in two games.
2008: Acquired by Cincinnati Bengals off waivers August 31 and played in 14 games. On the season he collected 22 tackles and three quarterback hurries.
Was in training camp with New Orleans and played in all four Saints preseason games before being released.
Had three tackles at New York Giants (September 21).
Four tackles, plus a QB hurry, vs. Cleveland (September 28).
Made first NFL start at New York Jets (October 12), subbing at RDT for injured John Thornton, and had two tackles.
Against Baltimore (November. 30), recorded a personal season-high five tackles, while also tying for team lead in QB hurries (two).
2007: Spent preseason with Cleveland Browns and was waived on August 27. Signed to Buffalo practice squad September 27. Signed to New Orleans 53-player roster December 18.
Inactive for Saints for Games 15-16.
2006: Drafted by Pittsburgh Steelers in fourth round (133rd overall). Waived by Steelers September 2 and signed September 4 to Steelers practice squad. Signed to Cleveland’s 53-player roster December 12.
Made NFL debut in Game 15, vs. Tampa Bay (December 24), and also played at Houston (December 31).
COLLEGE: Played four seasons at Miami (Fla.), from 2002-05, logging 48 games with 34 starts. Recorded 11 career sacks from DT position.
Earned second-team All-America honors from Associated Press as a senior.
Served as one of four team captains.
PERSONAL: Attended Newark (Del.) High School, where he earned state Defensive Player of the Year as a senior, as well as gaining All-America honors from Football News and Super Prep.
Brother, Kwame, has played in NFL for San Francisco (2003-07) and Oakland (2008).
In Play! magazine
Allen Park, Mich.—The Detroit Lions announced today that they have acquired DT Orien Harris in a trade with the St. Louis Rams in exchange for WR Ronald Curry.
ORIEN HARRIS
Defensive Tackle 2nd Year
Ht: 6-3 Wt: 300
Miami (Fla.) Newark, Del.
Draft: ’06, R4 (133)-Pit Acquired: ’09, T-StL
Pro: Harris was acquired by the Lions on July 24, 2009 via trade with the St. Louis Rams. He spent the previous three months with the Rams after they acquired him in a trade May 6, 2009 with the Cincinnati Bengals. Harris was claimed off waivers by the Bengals just prior to the 2008 season and appeared in 14 games. He originally entered the NFL as a fourth-round selection (133rd overall) by the Pittsburgh Steelers. He spent most of his rookie year on the Steelers practice squad before being signed to the Cleveland Browns active roster later in the season where he appeared in two games.
2008: Acquired by Cincinnati Bengals off waivers August 31 and played in 14 games. On the season he collected 22 tackles and three quarterback hurries.
Was in training camp with New Orleans and played in all four Saints preseason games before being released.
Had three tackles at New York Giants (September 21).
Four tackles, plus a QB hurry, vs. Cleveland (September 28).
Made first NFL start at New York Jets (October 12), subbing at RDT for injured John Thornton, and had two tackles.
Against Baltimore (November. 30), recorded a personal season-high five tackles, while also tying for team lead in QB hurries (two).
2007: Spent preseason with Cleveland Browns and was waived on August 27. Signed to Buffalo practice squad September 27. Signed to New Orleans 53-player roster December 18.
Inactive for Saints for Games 15-16.
2006: Drafted by Pittsburgh Steelers in fourth round (133rd overall). Waived by Steelers September 2 and signed September 4 to Steelers practice squad. Signed to Cleveland’s 53-player roster December 12.
Made NFL debut in Game 15, vs. Tampa Bay (December 24), and also played at Houston (December 31).
COLLEGE: Played four seasons at Miami (Fla.), from 2002-05, logging 48 games with 34 starts. Recorded 11 career sacks from DT position.
Earned second-team All-America honors from Associated Press as a senior.
Served as one of four team captains.
PERSONAL: Attended Newark (Del.) High School, where he earned state Defensive Player of the Year as a senior, as well as gaining All-America honors from Football News and Super Prep.
Brother, Kwame, has played in NFL for San Francisco (2003-07) and Oakland (2008).
In Play! magazine
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
DEWAYNE WHITE TO SUPPORT URBAN YOUTH WITH QUARTERBACK SACKS
Photo by Jack RosenbergWhite will donate $1,000 to After-School All-Stars' Touchdown Club for every sack he records during the 2009 season
Allen Park, Mich. - As a member of the After-School All-Stars' Touchdown Shutdown program, Lions' defensive end Dewayne White (99 center left in photo) will donate $1,000 for every sack he makes during the 2009 season to benefit urban youth.
After-School All-Stars (ASAS) is the leading national provider of high quality, comprehensive, school-based after-school programs that include academic support, enrichment and health and fitness activities. ASAS currently serves 72,000 youth in 14 cities. Here in Detroit, a portion of the funding benefits the Michigan After School Partnership. The organization's mission is to help keep children safe and help them succeed in school and in life.
White is entering his third season with the Lions and has led the team in sacks over his first two seasons with 13. This is White's seventh season in the NFL where he has played in 86 games since being drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second round (64th overall) of the 2003 NFL Draft.
Off the field, White is an active leader in the community. His outreach efforts include purchasing tickets for underprivileged youth to attend Lions' games through the teams' CATS for Kids ticket program and supporting Lions' fund-raising events including the annual charity bocce and golf tournaments. White also spends time visiting the NFL YET Center Boys & Girls Club in Detroit and the Detroit Lions Academy; and supports many organizations including the American Heart Association, the Dearborn Animal Shelter, Feed the Children, and the Gift of Sight.
In Play! magazine
Allen Park, Mich. - As a member of the After-School All-Stars' Touchdown Shutdown program, Lions' defensive end Dewayne White (99 center left in photo) will donate $1,000 for every sack he makes during the 2009 season to benefit urban youth.
After-School All-Stars (ASAS) is the leading national provider of high quality, comprehensive, school-based after-school programs that include academic support, enrichment and health and fitness activities. ASAS currently serves 72,000 youth in 14 cities. Here in Detroit, a portion of the funding benefits the Michigan After School Partnership. The organization's mission is to help keep children safe and help them succeed in school and in life.
White is entering his third season with the Lions and has led the team in sacks over his first two seasons with 13. This is White's seventh season in the NFL where he has played in 86 games since being drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second round (64th overall) of the 2003 NFL Draft.
Off the field, White is an active leader in the community. His outreach efforts include purchasing tickets for underprivileged youth to attend Lions' games through the teams' CATS for Kids ticket program and supporting Lions' fund-raising events including the annual charity bocce and golf tournaments. White also spends time visiting the NFL YET Center Boys & Girls Club in Detroit and the Detroit Lions Academy; and supports many organizations including the American Heart Association, the Dearborn Animal Shelter, Feed the Children, and the Gift of Sight.
In Play! magazine
Monday, July 6, 2009
LIONS' GREAT AND PRO HALL OF FAMER LOU CREEKMUR DEAD AT 82
Allen Park, Mich.- One of the true greats of the Lions' championship teams of the 1950s has died. Pro Football Hall of Famer Lou Creekmur passed away Sunday (July 5) evening at University Hospital in Tamarac, Florida. He was 82 and had been in failing health in recent years.
Creekmur helped solidify the left-side of the Lions' offensive line - playing mostly at tackle but also saw time at guard - during his 10-year (1950-59) Lions' career. He starred on the Lions' three NFL Championship teams of the 1950s, was selected All-NFL six times and chosen to eight consecutive Pro Bowl teams. He was also named to the Lions' All-75th Anniversary Team in 2008.
Creekmur was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1996.
"Lou always will be remembered as one of the true standout players in Lions' history," praised Lions president Tom Lewand. "Offensive linemen often don't get the credit they deserve and, until his induction into the Hall of Fame, that certainly was the case with Lou. If you look at the number of All-NFL and Pro Bowls teams he was selected to and at the success of the Lions' teams when he played, you know that Lou was one of the all-time great linemen in NFL history."
Creekmur came to the Lions as a second-round draft pick in 1950 after a standout college career at William & Mary. He was a little older than most NFL rookies when he came into the NFL at age 23 in 1950 having served two years with the U.S. Army (1945-46) in Berlin. Creekmur completed his final three years of college upon his return.
In addition to his enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Creekmur was also inducted into the state sports hall of fames for Michigan, New Jersey and Virginia, the William & Mary Athletic Hall of Fame and the Polish-American Sports Hall of Fame. But, his induction into the Pro Hall of Fame in 1996 solidified his position as one of the all-time NFL greats as he joined a long-list of his 1950s Lions' teammates who were also enshrined in Canton, Ohio: Bobby Layne, Jack Christiansen, Joe Schmidt, Frank Gatski, Doak Walker, John Henry Johnson and Yale Lary.
"Bobby (Layne) had a nickname for everyone and Lou's was 'The Spirit,' said Lary referring to both Creekmur's uniform number and his tenacious style of play. "That group in the '50s was special and I don't think will ever be equaled. Lou was a real team player and an important part of those teams."
Creekmur also became a success off the field with a trucking business during and after his Lions' career, and was active in the American Cancer Society, March of Dimes and NFL Charities.
He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Caroline; step daughters Caroline Lee Conroy and Commander USN Cornelia Eichorn; daughter Amy Glenn; sons Rex, Corey and Randal; nine grandchildren - Jennifer, Ryan, Valerie, Maxwell, Brendan, Kevin, Caroline, Tate and Derek; and sister Ethel Ochs.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made in Lou Creekmur's name to the Boys and Girls Club of Broward County/Reitman Unit (3025 W. Broward Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33312).
In Play! magazine
Creekmur helped solidify the left-side of the Lions' offensive line - playing mostly at tackle but also saw time at guard - during his 10-year (1950-59) Lions' career. He starred on the Lions' three NFL Championship teams of the 1950s, was selected All-NFL six times and chosen to eight consecutive Pro Bowl teams. He was also named to the Lions' All-75th Anniversary Team in 2008.
Creekmur was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1996.
"Lou always will be remembered as one of the true standout players in Lions' history," praised Lions president Tom Lewand. "Offensive linemen often don't get the credit they deserve and, until his induction into the Hall of Fame, that certainly was the case with Lou. If you look at the number of All-NFL and Pro Bowls teams he was selected to and at the success of the Lions' teams when he played, you know that Lou was one of the all-time great linemen in NFL history."
Creekmur came to the Lions as a second-round draft pick in 1950 after a standout college career at William & Mary. He was a little older than most NFL rookies when he came into the NFL at age 23 in 1950 having served two years with the U.S. Army (1945-46) in Berlin. Creekmur completed his final three years of college upon his return.
In addition to his enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Creekmur was also inducted into the state sports hall of fames for Michigan, New Jersey and Virginia, the William & Mary Athletic Hall of Fame and the Polish-American Sports Hall of Fame. But, his induction into the Pro Hall of Fame in 1996 solidified his position as one of the all-time NFL greats as he joined a long-list of his 1950s Lions' teammates who were also enshrined in Canton, Ohio: Bobby Layne, Jack Christiansen, Joe Schmidt, Frank Gatski, Doak Walker, John Henry Johnson and Yale Lary.
"Bobby (Layne) had a nickname for everyone and Lou's was 'The Spirit,' said Lary referring to both Creekmur's uniform number and his tenacious style of play. "That group in the '50s was special and I don't think will ever be equaled. Lou was a real team player and an important part of those teams."
Creekmur also became a success off the field with a trucking business during and after his Lions' career, and was active in the American Cancer Society, March of Dimes and NFL Charities.
He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Caroline; step daughters Caroline Lee Conroy and Commander USN Cornelia Eichorn; daughter Amy Glenn; sons Rex, Corey and Randal; nine grandchildren - Jennifer, Ryan, Valerie, Maxwell, Brendan, Kevin, Caroline, Tate and Derek; and sister Ethel Ochs.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made in Lou Creekmur's name to the Boys and Girls Club of Broward County/Reitman Unit (3025 W. Broward Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33312).
In Play! magazine
Thursday, July 2, 2009
DETROIT LIONS DIRECTOR OF SECURITY RICKY SANDOVAL DIES AT AGE 49
Team’s indoor practice field named “Sandoval Field” earlier this week
Allen Park, Mich.—Ricky Sandoval, the team’s beloved director of security, died Thursday morning at Harper University Hospital in Detroit after a courageous and extended battle with pancreatic cancer that lasted more than three years. He turned 49 on June 30 and is survived by his loving wife, Gael.
Shortly after Sandoval was diagnosed in May of 2006, he and Gael formed “Team Sandoval,” a support group consisting of family, the Lions organization and his many friends and associates throughout the National Football League who also knew Sandoval from his days working with the San Francisco 49ers and with Contemporary Services Corporation (CSC), a company that once provided security services at Super Bowls for the NFL.
Gael chronicled Ricky’s fight and provided regular updates on their journey through www.rickysvictory.com, the official blog of Ricky & Gael Sandoval and Team Sandoval.
As a dedicated member of the organization, Sandoval touched virtually every person and every aspect of the team’s operations. He was hired as director of security in June of 2001, and for the past eight seasons he managed the team’s security operations. Sandoval handled all team security at the Lions Headquarters and Training Facility in Allen Park, along with team security detail during road trips. During his time with the team, he served as the team’s liaison with local, state and federal law enforcement and public authorities.
“This is a very sad day for our organization and for everyone who knew Ricky,” Lions President Tom Lewand said. “Ricky set a new standard for courage as he not only fought this disease, but did so with incredible spirit, dignity and determination.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to Gael who, like Ricky, was a tremendous inspiration to all of us as she helped Ricky fight such a courageous battle. We also extend our deepest sympathies to the families of both Gael and Ricky.”
During the past three years, Sandoval epitomized courage and determination as he battled pancreatic cancer and showed a tremendous will to fight such a deadly disease every step of the way.
The impact Sandoval had on everyone who knew him was lasting and profound. To recognize and honor his dedication and devotion to the Lions organization, the team’s indoor practice field, earlier this week, was named “Sandoval Field,” a fitting tribute given his oversight of security at each and every team practice since 2001.
In 2006, Sandoval was named the Detroit Lions 2006 recipient of the Ed Block Courage Award, which recognizes men of courage in the NFL. The East Side Athletic Club of Baltimore presents the award annually to a player from each of the 32 league organizations. But Lions’ players, coaches and staff universally agreed no one would be a better representative than Ricky in 2006.
Lions Athletic Trainer Al Bellamy announced that the selection would go to a man who had always been a friend—and who became an inspiration—to everyone in the Lions’ organization.
“There was no question who would be our choice this year,” said Bellamy when he announced the 2006 Ed Block Courage Award recipient. “Yes, the award normally goes to a player, but all any of us have to do is look at Ricky—what he is going through and his total commitment to the Lions—and the choice was obvious. He is an inspiration to everyone who knows him.”
On May 30, 2006, the strapping 6-4, 300-plus pound Sandoval was diagnosed with pancreatobiliary cancer, a rare form of the disease. In June 2006, he had a two-week stay in the hospital after complications following his first chemotherapy treatment.
Soon thereafter, the popular Lions’ security director started regular chemo treatments at Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute in Detroit. Day-long treatments on Mondays were often followed by half-day treatments on Tuesdays. Through it all, Sandoval did not miss a beat as he continued to serve the team.
Throughout his battle, Sandoval was always one of the first persons into the office each day. It did not stop him from patrolling the Lions’ sidelines at all games, home and away, and he was ever-present during team practices.
Sandoval’s work did not stop when his day-to-day tasks were completed. He also led the Lions charge in teaming up with The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) to increase awareness of pancreatic cancer.
Before he joined the Lions, Sandoval worked for Contemporary Services Corporation in Houston, Texas. CSC is a crowd management and events planning organization for concerts, sports and other major events. While with CSC, Sandoval worked a number of Super Bowls.
Prior to his time with CSC, he spent one and a half years with the Stanford football program handling security and team travel. From 1987-98, Sandoval worked in the security department for the San Francisco 49ers. Before he was hired by San Francisco, Sandoval spent 1982-88 as a CSC employee in California.
A graduate of Arizona State University and a southern California native, he and Gael lived in Royal Oak, Mich.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
In Play! magazine
Allen Park, Mich.—Ricky Sandoval, the team’s beloved director of security, died Thursday morning at Harper University Hospital in Detroit after a courageous and extended battle with pancreatic cancer that lasted more than three years. He turned 49 on June 30 and is survived by his loving wife, Gael.
Shortly after Sandoval was diagnosed in May of 2006, he and Gael formed “Team Sandoval,” a support group consisting of family, the Lions organization and his many friends and associates throughout the National Football League who also knew Sandoval from his days working with the San Francisco 49ers and with Contemporary Services Corporation (CSC), a company that once provided security services at Super Bowls for the NFL.
Gael chronicled Ricky’s fight and provided regular updates on their journey through www.rickysvictory.com, the official blog of Ricky & Gael Sandoval and Team Sandoval.
As a dedicated member of the organization, Sandoval touched virtually every person and every aspect of the team’s operations. He was hired as director of security in June of 2001, and for the past eight seasons he managed the team’s security operations. Sandoval handled all team security at the Lions Headquarters and Training Facility in Allen Park, along with team security detail during road trips. During his time with the team, he served as the team’s liaison with local, state and federal law enforcement and public authorities.
“This is a very sad day for our organization and for everyone who knew Ricky,” Lions President Tom Lewand said. “Ricky set a new standard for courage as he not only fought this disease, but did so with incredible spirit, dignity and determination.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to Gael who, like Ricky, was a tremendous inspiration to all of us as she helped Ricky fight such a courageous battle. We also extend our deepest sympathies to the families of both Gael and Ricky.”
During the past three years, Sandoval epitomized courage and determination as he battled pancreatic cancer and showed a tremendous will to fight such a deadly disease every step of the way.
The impact Sandoval had on everyone who knew him was lasting and profound. To recognize and honor his dedication and devotion to the Lions organization, the team’s indoor practice field, earlier this week, was named “Sandoval Field,” a fitting tribute given his oversight of security at each and every team practice since 2001.
In 2006, Sandoval was named the Detroit Lions 2006 recipient of the Ed Block Courage Award, which recognizes men of courage in the NFL. The East Side Athletic Club of Baltimore presents the award annually to a player from each of the 32 league organizations. But Lions’ players, coaches and staff universally agreed no one would be a better representative than Ricky in 2006.
Lions Athletic Trainer Al Bellamy announced that the selection would go to a man who had always been a friend—and who became an inspiration—to everyone in the Lions’ organization.
“There was no question who would be our choice this year,” said Bellamy when he announced the 2006 Ed Block Courage Award recipient. “Yes, the award normally goes to a player, but all any of us have to do is look at Ricky—what he is going through and his total commitment to the Lions—and the choice was obvious. He is an inspiration to everyone who knows him.”
On May 30, 2006, the strapping 6-4, 300-plus pound Sandoval was diagnosed with pancreatobiliary cancer, a rare form of the disease. In June 2006, he had a two-week stay in the hospital after complications following his first chemotherapy treatment.
Soon thereafter, the popular Lions’ security director started regular chemo treatments at Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute in Detroit. Day-long treatments on Mondays were often followed by half-day treatments on Tuesdays. Through it all, Sandoval did not miss a beat as he continued to serve the team.
Throughout his battle, Sandoval was always one of the first persons into the office each day. It did not stop him from patrolling the Lions’ sidelines at all games, home and away, and he was ever-present during team practices.
Sandoval’s work did not stop when his day-to-day tasks were completed. He also led the Lions charge in teaming up with The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) to increase awareness of pancreatic cancer.
Before he joined the Lions, Sandoval worked for Contemporary Services Corporation in Houston, Texas. CSC is a crowd management and events planning organization for concerts, sports and other major events. While with CSC, Sandoval worked a number of Super Bowls.
Prior to his time with CSC, he spent one and a half years with the Stanford football program handling security and team travel. From 1987-98, Sandoval worked in the security department for the San Francisco 49ers. Before he was hired by San Francisco, Sandoval spent 1982-88 as a CSC employee in California.
A graduate of Arizona State University and a southern California native, he and Gael lived in Royal Oak, Mich.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
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