Remembrances poured out for former Detroit Lions cornerback Lem Barney on Saturday, with many responding to news of Barney's death with memories of the Hall of Famer. The problem is, Barney isn't dead.
Multiple reporters have debunked previous reports of Barney's death, hours after it was first reported. Tony Paul of the Detroit News confirmed that Barney is still alive after speaking with his sister, and the Detroit Free Press's Dave Birkett confirmed the news with Barney's son.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement"He's good," Barney's son told Birkett. "He is alive."
The snafu led the Pro Football Hall of Fame, who had previously announced Barney's death, to rescind a statement honoring the former Lion's legacy. Two hours after the initial announcement, the Hall sent out another announcement clarifying its mistake.
"Based on conflicting information regarding the reported passing of Lem Barney, the Pro Football Hall of Fame is rescinding the email sent earlier today. The Hall has not been able to confirm such news independently. Please accept our apology," the organization wrote, via WXYZ Detroit's Brad Galli.
Barney spent his entire 11-year career with the Lions as a cornerback and return specialist. He was named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 1967 after co-leading the league in interceptions, and earned seven Pro Bowl nods throughout his career.
Barney was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 1992. In 2004, Detroit retired Barney's No. 20 jersey, a number also worn by legends Bill Sims and Barry Sanders.
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