Joe Schmidt was an American football player who had a successful career in the National Football League (NFL). He was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 1932 and played college football at the University of Pittsburgh.

Schmidt was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the 1953 NFL draft and played for the team from 1953 to 1965. During his time with the Lions, Schmidt was named to the Pro Bowl eight times and was selected as a first-team All-Pro nine times. He was also a part of three NFL championship teams with the Lions in 1953, 1957, and 1958.

In 1966, Schmidt was traded to the Washington Redskins and played for the team for two seasons. He retired from the NFL after the 1967 season.

Schmidt was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1973 and was named to the NFL 1950s All-Decade Team. He was also named to the NFL 1960s All-Decade Team and was selected to the NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team.

Schmidt was a tenacious linebacker who was known for his hard-hitting style of play. He was also a leader on the field and was known for his intelligence and instincts. He was an integral part of the Detroit Lions' success during the 1950s and 1960s and is considered one of the greatest linebackers in NFL history.

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