History

Detroit Lions Gridiron Heroes

Photo courtesy of the Detroit Lions

A former two-way halfback, Don Doll joined the Lions in 1949 after a stellar career at the University of Southern California where he was the Pacific Coast’s most valuable player during his senior year. In the 1949 season, Doll recorded a then-record 11 interceptions by a rookie and added 301 interception return yards, an NFL rookie record and the Lions’ all-time best.

During a game against the Chicago Cardinals that year, Doll intercepted an NFL-record four passes. The three-time Pro Bowl selection grabbed 12 interceptions in 1950, a Lions’ single-season record later matched by Jack Christiansen.

Doll helped the Lions capture the 1952 NFL title and was named the Pro Bowl MVP that season. He played for Washington in 1953 before ending his career in Los Angeles in 1954. Doll coached the Lions’ defensive backfield from 1963-64 and returned to coach the Lions’ tight ends from 1978-88.