Yale Lary
Inducted:
1979
Player Stats
5 ft 11 in (1.80 m)
185 lb (84 kg)
Born:
November 24, 1930
Fort Worth, Texas, U.S.
Died:
May 11, 2017
Fort Worth, Texas, U.S.
Position:
Safety
Punter
Return specialist
College:
Texas A&M
Yale Lary was one of the most versatile and intelligent players of his era, starring for the Detroit Lions throughout the 1950s and early 1960s. A complete athlete, he excelled as a safety, punter, and return specialist, combining athleticism with sharp football instincts. Lary played a key role in the Lions’ defensive dominance, helping them capture three NFL Championships (1952, 1953, 1957).
As a safety, he recorded 50 interceptions, showcasing his anticipation and field awareness, while as a punter, he consistently flipped field position with accuracy and distance. Renowned for his consistency and leadership, he was named to nine Pro Bowls and multiple All-Pro teams during his 11-season career. Beyond his on-field excellence, Lary was respected for his integrity and football IQ.
He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1979, recognized as one of the most complete players in Detroit Lions history.
Lary's Awards and Honors
- 3× NFL champion (1952, 1953, 1957)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (1956, 1958, 1962)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1957, 1959)
- 9× Pro Bowl (1953, 1956–1962, 1964)
- NFL 1950s All-Decade Team
NFL Records
- One of few players to excel as safety, punter, and returner
- Led NFL in punting average three times
- Key defensive leader in Lions’ 1950s championship dynasty
NFL Teams
Detroit Lions (1952–1953, 1956–1964)
NFL Draft:
1952: 3rd round, 34th overall pick
Detroit Lions
Number Worn:
28
NFL Stats
Seasons:
11 (1952–1953, 1956–1964)
Games Played:
133
Game Started:
129
Interceptions:
50
Interception yards:
787
Punts:
503
Punting yards:
22,279
Punt Return Touchdowns:
2