Who are the franchise’s greats to represent the jersey since 2000?
Since 2000, the Detroit Lions have experienced almost the full spectrum of the NFL’s highs and lows, from their 0-16 campaign in 2008 to being on the brink of a Super Bowl appearance in 2023.
During that time the franchise has cultivated some of the game’s greatest players.
So what better way to commemorate some of the best to wear Honolulu blue than by etching four players into the South Dakota Black Hills?
Having started watching NFL in the ‘Noughties’, this list will comprise only of those Lions players who have played since the turn of the century.
Just making that clear before everyone starts asking where Barry Sanders and others are!
Calvin Johnson
Seen as the blueprint for wide receivers, Calvin Johnson truly was one of the NFL’s most feared.
He was a freak of nature. Bigger and stronger than most on the field, ultimately earning himself the nickname Megatron for his 6’5″, 239 lbs frame.
To match his size, Johnson’s speed and catching radius were unheard of.
Multiple times a game Megatron would easily come away with the ball from a double team and put up 20 yards after the catch.
It was this generational ability that led to him producing nine years of exceptional wide receiver play from 2007-2015.
Johnson recorded 11,619 yards and 83 touchdowns. A non-negotiable to this list.
Ndamukong Suh
Ndamukong Suh burst onto the scene for the Lions in 2010 with 10 sacks and 66 total tackles – winning himself rookie of the year.
And from then on Suh’s career took off.
Between 2010 and 2014 Suh threw opposing quarterback to the ground many, many times – 34 to be precise.
And although he only played five season at Ford Field, Suh was highly recongised as one of the league’s best defensive tackles.
Today he still remains the benchmark for future players who wear the Lions jersey.
Matthew Stafford
Matthew Stafford gave 12 years of service to the Lions before his trade to the Los Angeles Rams in 2020.
And for Detroit he threw a remarkable 45,109 yards and 282 touchdowns.
He possesses the talent few have to spot and execute a big play whatever the game-state.
A highlight of his time in Detroit? An all-time partnership with fellow Mount Rushmore maker Calvin Johnson, which is still endeared by fans today.
Frank Ragnow
Frank Ragnow was en route to becoming a Hall of Fame centre for the Detroit Lions before a toe injury ended his career prematurely this offseason.
He showed all the elements of a top five interior offensive linemen since being drafted by the Lions in 2018.
Ragnow’s ability to climb to the second level and create a crucial block was very rare and made his skillset as a lineman super dynamic.
As a leader of men, there are not many that are better. A true Lions great.
