Barry Sanders Honored by Lions With Franchise’s First Player Statue

The Detroit Lions unveiled a statue at Ford Field honoring Barry Sanders, the greatest player in franchise history, on Saturday.

One of the greatest players in NFL history was honored in a special way on Saturday.

Lions Hall of Fame running back Barry Sanders had a statue in his likeness unveiled outside of Ford Field.

During the ceremony, Sanders shared a heartfelt message to the Lions fans showing appreciation for all their support over the years.

“If I could, I would go out to each and every Lions fan and give you a hug. Tell you how much I appreciate you,” said Sanders. “It’s been such a wonderful journey for me just being lifted up and cheered on by all the Lions fans out there and Barry Sanders fans. I really appreciate it. It’s hard to express how much you really mean to me.

“So thank you, thank you, thank you so much all of you Lions fans for coming and packing the Silverdome, packing Ford Field. We had some great times together.”

It’s official! Here’s your first look at the 8-foot bronze statue of #Lions great Barry Sanders — one of the greatest players in NFL history. He is the 1st Lions player to receive a statue. pic.twitter.com/utDAksffbk

— Eric Woodyard (@E_Woodyard) September 16, 2023

Sanders, who ranks fourth all-time in NFL history with 15,269 yards, is one of the best players in NFL history. His 99 rushing touchdowns rank tenth all-time.

“You’ve heard the saying that you give a person flowers while they’re around … Well if this statue can be used with that analogy then I would have to say this is one heck of a bouquet,” Sanders said to close his speech.

The ten-time Pro Bowl selection earned a prestigious honor on Saturday that will rightfully remain outside of Ford Field honoring the greatest player in Lions franchise history.