DETROIT (Michigan News Source) – The first player to receive a statue at Ford Field will be NFL Hall of Famer and All-Pro running back Barry Sanders. Detroit announced their decision on Sunday at the Homecoming game vs. Miami.

Lions Principal Owner and Chair Sheila Ford Hamp said, “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.”

The first ballot Hall of Famer was a First-Team All-Pro for six seasons, the NFL Offensive Player of the Year, twice, the NFL MVP in 1997, and the Rookie of the Year in 1989. He played 10 seasons and was on the 1990s All-Decade Team and the NFL 100^th Anniversary All-Time Team. He became the third person in NFL history to rush for over 2,000 yards in a season with 2,053 yards in 1997.

“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,” says Sanders.

Studio artists Omir Amrany and Lou Cella will lead the project for the sculpture by the Fine Art Studio Rotblatt Amrany. The unveiling of the statue will be at a ceremony prior to the start of the 2023 season.