Walking around Ford Field, fans might notice a lack of statues to any Detroit Lions legends. That is going to change.
At halftime of the Lions’ Week 8 matchup with the Miami Dolphins, the team revealed it will erect a statue of Hall of Fame running back Barry Sanders at the team’s home stadium.
Sanders released a statement through the Lions,
“Detroit has been my home ever since I was drafted by the Lions in 1989. This statue means the city will be my home forever, it’s surreal. There is no way that I can express my gratitude to the entire Ford family, my teammates, my coaches, the Lions Front Office, the media, and most of all to the fans. As I soak it all in and reflect on my career, I recognize what a tremendous honor this is.”
Lions owner Sheila Ford Hamp said this in the same statement,
“It is with immense pride that we share the news that we will be honoring the greatest running back in the history of football with a statue in the city we represent. Generations upon generations of fans will learn about Barry and his contributions not only to the Lions, but to the game of football. He is truly in a class of his own, and while we may never see a player quite as electrifying or elusive again, Barry’s legacy will live forever and be tangible right here in Detroit.”