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←Created page with '==Professional career== {{NFL predraft | height ft = 5 | height in = 7⅝ | weight = 203 | dash = 4.37 | ten split = | twenty split = | shuttle = | cone drill = | vertical = | broad ft = | broad in = | bench = | arm span = | hand span = | wonderlic = | note = All values from Pro Day<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.profootballhof.com/news/hall-recall-barry-sanders/ |title=Hall Recall: Barry S...'
 
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=== Detroit Lions (1989–1998) ===
=== Detroit Lions (1989–1998) ===
Sanders, a junior, was originally ineligible for the draft. However, [[Oklahoma State Cowboys football|Oklahoma State]] had been under investigation by the [[Ncaa|NCAA]] for going against recruiting rules, and later were given significant penalties for its violations. If Sanders had stayed for his senior season, his games would not be televised, and the Cowboys would be ineligible for college bowl games. Due to this, NFL commissioner [[Pete Rozelle]] allowed Sanders to enter the draft.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=26}} One year after being selected, the NFL allowed all juniors to participate in the draft.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Eskenazi |first=Gerald |date=1990-02-16 |title=N.F.L. Set To Allow Juniors In Draft |language=en-US |work=[[The New York Times]] |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1990/02/16/sports/nfl-set-to-allow-juniors-in-draft.html |access-date=March 5, 2022 |issn=0362-4331}}</ref>[[File:Silverdome 2.jpg|thumb|Sanders played home games in the [[Pontiac Silverdome]] (pictured in 2011).|alt=A picture of the Pontiac Silverdome in 2011.]]The Detroit Lions [[Draft (sports)|drafted]] Sanders No. 3 in the [[1989 NFL Draft]], after [[Troy Aikman]] and [[Tony Mandarich]], thanks to the endorsement of coach [[Wayne Fontes]].{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=28}}<ref>{{Cite web |title=1989 NFL Draft Listing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1989/draft.htm |access-date=2022-06-08 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> Fontes was impressed with his athletic ability after Sanders lifted 225 lbs (102 kg) 21 times.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=28}} Lions' management considered drafting another "Sanders", cornerback [[Deion Sanders]], but Fontes convinced them to draft Barry instead.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=27}} Fontes offered Sanders jersey No. 20, which had been worn by former Lions running back [[Billy Sims]]; Sims was one of the league's top running backs in the early 1980s, and Fontes had requested Sanders to wear the number in tribute to Sims.<ref>{{cite web|last=Rank|first=Adam|url=http://www.nfl.com/photoessays/0ap2000000325351/Throwback-Thursday---Wish-you-couldve-stayed|title=Throwback Thursday - Wish you could've stayed|publisher=[[National Football League]]|date=February 12, 2014|access-date=February 27, 2014}}</ref> Sanders had doubts about what his career would have been like if the [[Green Bay Packers]] selected him No. 2 instead of Mandarich, later saying: "I don't know what I would've done if I was drafted by Green Bay, I don't know if I would've wanted to play in Green Bay, I don't think I could've handled this weather every day."<ref>{{Cite news|last=Hayes|first=Jim|date=1990-12-23|title=A Barry bad reminder|pages=C-2|work=[[Green Bay Press-Gazette]]|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/71653823/barry-sanders/|access-date=2022-02-23}}</ref>
Sanders, a junior, was originally ineligible for the draft. However, [[Oklahoma State Cowboys football|Oklahoma State]] had been under investigation by the [[Ncaa|NCAA]] for going against recruiting rules, and later were given significant penalties for its violations. If Sanders had stayed for his senior season, his games would not have been televised, and the Cowboys would be ineligible for college bowl games. Due to this, NFL commissioner [[Pete Rozelle]] allowed Sanders to enter the draft.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=26}} One year after he was selected, the NFL allowed all juniors to participate in the draft.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Eskenazi |first=Gerald |date=1990-02-16 |title=N.F.L. Set To Allow Juniors In Draft |language=en-US |work=[[The New York Times]] |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1990/02/16/sports/nfl-set-to-allow-juniors-in-draft.html |access-date=March 5, 2022 |issn=0362-4331}}</ref>[[File:Silverdome 2.jpg|thumb|Sanders played home games in the [[Pontiac Silverdome]] (pictured in 2011).|alt=A picture of the Pontiac Silverdome in 2011.]]The Detroit Lions [[Draft (sports)|drafted]] Sanders No. 3 overall in the [[1989 NFL Draft]], after [[Troy Aikman]] and [[Tony Mandarich]], thanks to the endorsement of coach [[Wayne Fontes]].{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=28}}<ref>{{Cite web |title=1989 NFL Draft Listing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1989/draft.htm |access-date=2022-06-08 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> Fontes was impressed with his athletic ability after Sanders lifted 225 lbs (102 kg) 21 times.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=28}} Lions' management considered drafting another Sanders, cornerback [[Deion Sanders]], but Fontes convinced them to draft Barry instead.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=27}} Fontes offered Sanders jersey No. 20, which had been worn by former Lions running back [[Billy Sims]]; Sims was one of the league's top running backs in the early 1980s, and Fontes requested Sanders to wear the number in tribute to Sims.<ref>{{cite web|last=Rank|first=Adam|url=http://www.nfl.com/photoessays/0ap2000000325351/Throwback-Thursday---Wish-you-couldve-stayed|title=Throwback Thursday - Wish you could've stayed|publisher=[[National Football League]]|date=February 12, 2014|access-date=February 27, 2014}}</ref> Sanders had doubts about what his career would have been like if the [[Green Bay Packers]] selected him No. 2 instead of Mandarich, later saying: "I don't know what I would've done if I was drafted by Green Bay, I don't know if I would've wanted to play in Green Bay, I don't think I could've handled this weather every day."<ref>{{Cite news|last=Hayes|first=Jim|date=1990-12-23|title=A Barry bad reminder|pages=C-2|work=[[Green Bay Press-Gazette]]|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/71653823/barry-sanders/|access-date=2022-02-23}}</ref>


Sanders missed the training camp of his rookie season due to a contract dispute. He eventually came to terms with the Lions, signing a contract for five years, $9.5 million, including a $2.1 million signing bonus; ten percent of which ($210,000), he donated to his local church: Paradise Baptist Church.<ref>{{Cite web |date=1989-09-08 |title=Barry Sanders Signs $9.5-Million Contract |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1989-09-08-sp-1886-story.html |access-date=February 6, 2022 |website=[[Los Angeles Times]] |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name=":21" /> In his first Lions press conference, Sanders acclaimed that he wanted to help "restore the roar in the dome."<ref name=":23" />
Sanders missed the training camp of his rookie season due to a contract dispute. He eventually came to terms with the Lions, signing a contract for five years, $9.5 million, including a $2.1 million signing bonus; ten percent of which ($210,000), he donated to his local church: Paradise Baptist Church.<ref>{{Cite web |date=1989-09-08 |title=Barry Sanders Signs $9.5-Million Contract |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1989-09-08-sp-1886-story.html |access-date=February 6, 2022 |website=[[Los Angeles Times]] |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name=":21" /> In his first Lions press conference, Sanders stated that he wanted to help "restore the roar in the dome."<ref name=":23" />


==== Early years and postseason win (1989–1991) ====
==== Early years and postseason win (1989–1991) ====
As a rookie in 1989, Sanders started 13 out of a possible 16 games for the Lions.<ref name=":1" /> In his first career professional game against the [[1989 Phoenix Cardinals season|Phoenix Cardinals]] on September 10, Sanders ran for 71 yards on nine attempts and a rushing touchdown in the 16–13 loss.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=30, 32}}<ref name=":6">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1989 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1989/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20210107172709/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1989/ |archive-date=January 7, 2021 |access-date=June 2, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> In a 47–27 loss against the [[1989 Chicago Bears season|Chicago Bears]], Sanders compiled 126 yards on 18 attempts and a touchdown but became injured with bruised ribs and a [[hip pointer]] that plagued him through the rest of the season.<ref name=":6" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Raffo |first=Dave |date=September 25, 1989 |title=NFL Roundup |url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/1989/09/25/NFL-Roundup/7243622699200/ |access-date=2022-02-25 |website=[[UPI]] |language=en}}</ref>{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=33}} On October 1, Sanders only had one yard on five attempts against the [[1989 Pittsburgh Steelers season|Pittsburgh Steelers]].<ref name=":6" /> Against the [[1989 Minnesota Vikings season|Minnesota Vikings]], Sanders had 23 attempts for 99 yards.<ref name=":6" /> After the game, Vikings head coach [[Jerry Burns]] asked game officials to check if Sanders had applied [[silicone]] to himself, due to how difficult it was for players to [[Tackle (football move)|tackle]] him: they found no illegal substance.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=33}} On December 24, the final game of the season, he had 158 yards on 20 attempts and three touchdowns against the [[1989 Atlanta Falcons season|Atlanta Falcons]].<ref name=":6" /> During the game, the Lions installed a special phone line in one of the press boxes to monitor [[Christian Okoye]], who was tied with Sanders for the league rushing title. When the game Okoye was playing ended, Sanders trailed Okoye by only ten yards. Fontes offered Sanders to return to the game to gain enough yards to pass Okoye, after Sanders was pulled from the game in the fourth quarter when the game was 31–10 in the Lions' favor. Yet Sanders declined to return to the game, letting Okoye keep the rushing title.<ref name=":12">{{Cite web |last=Birkett |first=Dave |date=July 15, 2018 |title=Barry Sanders at 50: Here are 20 tales about No. 20 you might not know |url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/07/15/detroit-lions-barry-sanders-stories/777711002/ |access-date=2022-02-20 |website=[[Detroit Free Press]] |language=en-US}}</ref> Sanders finished the season totaling 1,470 rushing yards off of 280 attempts and 14 touchdowns.<ref name=":1" /> His rushing total was both a rookie franchise record, and a franchise record for any running back in Lions history (both records held previously by [[Billy Sims]]).<ref name="statmuse.com">{{Cite web |title=Most Rushing Yards In A Season Lions Player |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/most-rushing-yards-in-a-season-lions-player |access-date=2022-02-05 |website= |publisher=[[StatMuse]] |language=en}}</ref> Sanders was awarded the [[National Football League Rookie of the Year Award|NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Award]], and named to the [[PFWA All-Rookie Team]]. He was also selected to the [[Pro Bowl]] and [[All-Pro|First-team All-Pro]] team.<ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite web |title=1989 NFL All-Rookie Team |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/nfl-all-rookie-1989.htm |access-date=2022-06-12 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> The Lions struggled that season, posting a {{Abbr|7–9|7 wins, 9 losses}} record and failing to make the [[NFL playoffs|postseason]]; despite winning five straight games to end the year.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1989 Detroit Lions Statistics & Players |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/1989.htm |access-date=2022-06-10 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref>
As a rookie in 1989, Sanders started 13 out of a possible 16 games for the Lions.<ref name=":1" /> In his first career professional game against the [[1989 Phoenix Cardinals season|Phoenix Cardinals]] on September 10, Sanders ran for 71 yards on nine attempts and scored a rushing touchdown in a 16–13 loss.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=30, 32}}<ref name=":6">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1989 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1989/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20210107172709/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1989/ |archive-date=January 7, 2021 |access-date=June 2, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> In a 47–27 loss against the [[1989 Chicago Bears season|Chicago Bears]], Sanders compiled 126 yards on 18 attempts and a touchdown but became injured with bruised ribs and a [[hip pointer]] that plagued him through the rest of the season.<ref name=":6" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Raffo |first=Dave |date=September 25, 1989 |title=NFL Roundup |url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/1989/09/25/NFL-Roundup/7243622699200/ |access-date=2022-02-25 |website=[[UPI]] |language=en}}</ref>{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=33}} On October 1, Sanders only had one yard on five attempts against the [[1989 Pittsburgh Steelers season|Pittsburgh Steelers]].<ref name=":6" /> Against the [[1989 Minnesota Vikings season|Minnesota Vikings]], Sanders had 23 attempts for 99 yards.<ref name=":6" /> After the game, Vikings head coach [[Jerry Burns]] asked game officials to check if Sanders had applied [[silicone]] to himself, due to how difficult it was for players to [[Tackle (football move)|tackle]] him: they found no illegal substance.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=33}} On December 24, the final game of the season, he had 158 yards on 20 attempts and three touchdowns against the [[1989 Atlanta Falcons season|Atlanta Falcons]].<ref name=":6" /> During the game, the Lions installed a special phone line in one of the press boxes to monitor [[Christian Okoye]], who was tied with Sanders for the league rushing title. When Okoye's game ended, Sanders trailed Okoye by only ten yards. Fontes offered Sanders the chance to return to the Lions' game to gain enough yards to pass Okoye, Sanders having been pulled from the game in the fourth quarter when the score was 31–10 in the Lions' favor. Yet Sanders declined to return to the game, letting Okoye keep the rushing title.<ref name=":12">{{Cite web |last=Birkett |first=Dave |date=July 15, 2018 |title=Barry Sanders at 50: Here are 20 tales about No. 20 you might not know |url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/07/15/detroit-lions-barry-sanders-stories/777711002/ |access-date=2022-02-20 |website=[[Detroit Free Press]] |language=en-US}}</ref> Sanders finished the season totaling 1,470 rushing yards from 280 attempts, with 14 touchdowns.<ref name=":1" /> His rushing total was both a rookie franchise record, and a franchise record for any running back in Lions history (both records held previously by [[Billy Sims]]).<ref name="statmuse.com">{{Cite web |title=Most Rushing Yards In A Season Lions Player |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/most-rushing-yards-in-a-season-lions-player |access-date=2022-02-05 |website= |publisher=[[StatMuse]] |language=en}}</ref> Sanders was awarded the [[National Football League Rookie of the Year Award|NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Award]], and named to the [[PFWA All-Rookie Team]]. He was also selected to the [[Pro Bowl]] and was named a [[All-Pro|First-team All-Pro]] by the [[Associated Press]] (AP).<ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite web |title=1989 NFL All-Rookie Team |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/nfl-all-rookie-1989.htm |access-date=2022-06-12 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> The Lions struggled that season, posting a {{Abbr|7–9|7 wins, 9 losses}} record and failing to make the [[NFL playoffs|postseason]], despite winning five straight games to end the year.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1989 Detroit Lions Statistics & Players |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/1989.htm |access-date=2022-06-10 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref>


On September 09, 1990, against the [[1990 Tampa Bay Buccaneers season|Tampa Bay Buccaneers]], Sanders had 79 yards off of 14 rushing attempts and a goal-line touchdown.<ref name=":4" /> Against the [[1990 Green Bay Packers season|Green Bay Packers]] on September 30, Sanders had 20 attempts for 94 yards.<ref name=":4" /> Sanders had 16 attempts for 90 yards and a touchdown, coupled with five receptions for 135 yards receiving and a 47-yard receiving touchdown against the [[1990 Kansas City Chiefs season|Kansas City Chiefs]].<ref name=":4" /> On December 10 against the [[1990 Los Angeles Raiders season|Los Angeles Raiders]], Sanders was credited with a season-high 176 yards off of 25 attempts and two touchdowns.<ref name=":4" /> On December 22 against the Packers, Sanders had 19 attempts for 133 yards and a touchdown in the 24–17 victory.<ref name=":4" /> Sanders had a productive year, finishing the year first in the NFL in rushing yards, with 1,304, becoming the first Lions running back to lead the league in rushing yards since [[Byron White]] in [[1940 NFL season|1940]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=1940 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1940/rushing.htm |access-date=2022-02-05 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":4">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1990 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1990/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20210321112157/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1990/ |archive-date=March 21, 2021 |access-date=2022-02-05 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> He ranked third in rushing touchdowns (13), and sixth in both attempts (255), and yards per attempt (5.1).<ref>{{Cite web |title=1990 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1990/rushing.htm |access-date=2022-02-05 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> As a result, Sanders was selected to his second Pro Bowl and First-team All-Pro team.<ref name=":1" /> The Lions finished the year with a {{Abbr|6–10|6 wins, 10 losses}} record and missed the postseason for the seventh consecutive season.<ref name=":13" />
On September 09, 1990, against the [[1990 Tampa Bay Buccaneers season|Tampa Bay Buccaneers]], Sanders had 79 yards from 14 rushing attempts and a goal-line touchdown.<ref name=":4" /> Against the [[1990 Green Bay Packers season|Green Bay Packers]] on September 30, Sanders had 20 attempts for 94 yards.<ref name=":4" /> Sanders had 16 attempts for 90 yards and a touchdown, coupled with five receptions for 135 yards receiving and a 47-yard receiving touchdown against the [[1990 Kansas City Chiefs season|Kansas City Chiefs]].<ref name=":4" /> On December 10 against the [[1990 Los Angeles Raiders season|Los Angeles Raiders]], Sanders was credited with a season-high 176 yards from 25 attempts and two touchdowns.<ref name=":4" /> On December 22 against the Packers, Sanders had 19 attempts for 133 yards and a touchdown in the 24–17 victory.<ref name=":4" /> Sanders had a productive year, finishing the year first in the NFL in rushing yards, with 1,304, becoming the first Lions running back to lead the league in rushing yards since [[Byron White]] in [[1940 NFL season|1940]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=1940 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1940/rushing.htm |access-date=2022-02-05 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":4">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1990 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1990/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20210321112157/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1990/ |archive-date=March 21, 2021 |access-date=2022-02-05 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> He ranked third in rushing touchdowns (13), and sixth in both attempts (255), and yards per attempt (5.1).<ref>{{Cite web |title=1990 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1990/rushing.htm |access-date=2022-02-05 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> As a result, Sanders was selected to his second Pro Bowl and was again named an AP First-team All-Pro.<ref name=":1" /> The Lions finished the year with a {{Abbr|6–10|6 wins, 10 losses}} record and missed the postseason for the seventh consecutive season.<ref name=":13" />


On September 1, 1991, Sanders was inactive for the Lions' 45–0 shutout loss against the [[1991 Washington Redskins season|Washington Redskins]], due to having sore ribs before the opening kickoff. The loss was the franchise's worst in over 20 years.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=45}} On November 24, 1991, against the [[1991 Minnesota Vikings season|Minnesota Vikings]], Sanders dominated for 220 rushing yards on 23 attempts and four touchdowns, a game the Lions won 34–14.<ref name=":3" /> Sanders dedicated the win to teammate [[Mike Utley]], who suffered a career-ending [[spinal cord injury]] the previous game''.''<ref>{{Cite news |last=Freeman |first=Mike |date=1991-11-28 |title=For Lions, 'Thumbs Up' The Thanksgiving Story |language=en-US |work=[[The Washington Post]] |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/sports/1991/11/28/for-lions-thumbs-up-the-thanksgiving-story/8270e731-6bf3-42ea-96cd-ff04628892ee/ |access-date=2022-02-20 |issn=0190-8286}}</ref>{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=48-49}} In the final game of the regular season against the [[1991 Buffalo Bills season|Buffalo Bills]], Sanders had 26 attempts for 108 yards and a touchdown, but had a [[fumble]] in Lions territory that allowed the Bills to tie the game, in the 17–14 overtime victory.<ref>{{Cite web |date=December 23, 1991 |title=Lions Are Restless, Defeat Bills : Interconference: Buffalo keeps Thomas, Kelly and Lofton on sideline during 17-14 overtime loss. |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1991-12-23-sp-664-story.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220220235916/https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1991-12-23-sp-664-story.html |archive-date=2022-02-20 |access-date=2022-02-21 |website=[[Los Angeles Times]] |language=en-US}}</ref> Sanders finished the regular season with 1,548 rushing yards off of 342 attempts. He led the league in rushing touchdowns, with a career-high 16. As a result, he was selected to the Pro Bowl and First-team All-Pro team, and awarded the [[Bert Bell Award]].<ref name=":1" /> With a {{Abbr|12–4|12 wins, 4 losses}} record, the Lions clinched the [[NFC Central]] and made the postseason for the first time since [[1983 Detroit Lions season|1983]]. Those 12 wins are the most in a season by the Lions franchise in its history.<ref name=":13">{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions Team Encyclopedia |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/index.htm |access-date=2022-06-06 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> Having the {{Abbr|No. 2|There are six postseason spots for each conference (AFC and NFC), the first two spots for each conference skip the first round (Wild Card), and into the Divisional Round}} [[Seed (sports)|seed]] in the [[National Football Conference|NFC]], the Lions skipped the [[NFL Wild Card|Wild Card Round]] and advanced to the [[NFL divisional playoffs|Divisional Round]], where the Lions faced the Dallas Cowboys. Sanders helped lead the Lions to their first postseason victory since the team won the [[1957 NFL Championship Game]]. In the game, Sanders was held to only 22 yards rushing before he broke for a 47-yard touchdown run, in which he broke several tackles to close out the 38–6 victory.<ref name=":23" />{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=54-55}}<ref>{{Cite web |title=NFC Championship - Detroit Lions at Washington Redskins - January 12th, 1992 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/199201120was.htm |access-date=2022-02-19 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> In the [[NFC Championship Game]], Sanders was held to eleven attempts for 44 yards in the Lions' blowout 10–41 loss to the eventual Super Bowl-winning Redskins.<ref name=":3" /> Sanders finished the postseason with 23 attempts for 113 yards and a touchdown. He would never win another playoff game in his career after this season.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1991 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1991/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20170610044454/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1991/ |archive-date=June 10, 2017 |access-date=2022-02-19 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":23" />
On September 1, 1991, Sanders was inactive for the Lions' 45–0 shutout loss against the [[1991 Washington Redskins season|Washington Redskins]], due to having sore ribs before the opening kickoff. The loss was the franchise's worst in over 20 years.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=45}} On November 24, 1991, against the [[1991 Minnesota Vikings season|Minnesota Vikings]], Sanders dominated with 220 rushing yards on 23 attempts and four touchdowns, a game the Lions won 34–14.<ref name=":3" /> Sanders dedicated the win to teammate [[Mike Utley]], who suffered a career-ending [[spinal cord injury]] the previous game''.''<ref>{{Cite news |last=Freeman |first=Mike |date=1991-11-28 |title=For Lions, 'Thumbs Up' The Thanksgiving Story |language=en-US |work=[[The Washington Post]] |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/sports/1991/11/28/for-lions-thumbs-up-the-thanksgiving-story/8270e731-6bf3-42ea-96cd-ff04628892ee/ |access-date=2022-02-20 |issn=0190-8286}}</ref>{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=48-49}} In the final game of the regular season against the [[1991 Buffalo Bills season|Buffalo Bills]], Sanders had 26 attempts for 108 yards and a touchdown, but had a [[fumble]] in Lions territory that allowed the Bills to tie the game, in the 17–14 overtime victory.<ref>{{Cite web |date=December 23, 1991 |title=Lions Are Restless, Defeat Bills : Interconference: Buffalo keeps Thomas, Kelly and Lofton on sideline during 17-14 overtime loss. |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1991-12-23-sp-664-story.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220220235916/https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1991-12-23-sp-664-story.html |archive-date=2022-02-20 |access-date=2022-02-21 |website=[[Los Angeles Times]] |language=en-US}}</ref> Sanders finished the regular season with 1,548 rushing yards from 342 attempts. He led the league in rushing touchdowns, with a career-high 16. As a result, he was selected to the Pro Bowl and AP First-team All-Pro teams, and awarded the [[Bert Bell Award]].<ref name=":1" /> With a {{Abbr|12–4|12 wins, 4 losses}} record, the Lions clinched the [[NFC Central]] and made the postseason for the first time since [[1983 Detroit Lions season|1983]]. Those 12 wins are the most in a season by the Lions franchise in its history.<ref name=":13">{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions Team Encyclopedia |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/index.htm |access-date=2022-06-06 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> Having the {{Abbr|No. 2|There are six postseason spots for each conference (AFC and NFC), the first two spots for each conference skip the first round (Wild Card), and into the Divisional Round}} [[Seed (sports)|seed]] in the [[National Football Conference|NFC]], the Lions skipped the [[NFL Wild Card|Wild Card Round]] and advanced to the [[NFL divisional playoffs|Divisional Round]], where they faced the Dallas Cowboys. Sanders helped lead the Lions to their first postseason victory since the team won the [[1957 NFL Championship Game]]. In the game, Sanders was held to only 22 yards rushing before he broke away for a 47-yard touchdown run, in which he broke several tackles to close out the 38–6 victory.<ref name=":23" />{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=54-55}}<ref>{{Cite web |title=NFC Championship - Detroit Lions at Washington Redskins - January 12th, 1992 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/199201120was.htm |access-date=2022-02-19 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> In the [[NFC Championship Game]], Sanders was held to eleven attempts for 44 yards in the Lions' blowout 10–41 loss to the eventual Super Bowl-winning Redskins.<ref name=":3" /> Sanders finished the postseason with 23 attempts for 113 yards and a touchdown. He would never win another playoff game in his career after this season.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1991 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1991/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20170610044454/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1991/ |archive-date=June 10, 2017 |access-date=2022-02-19 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":23" />


==== Mid-career (1992–1994) ====
==== Mid-career (1992–1994) ====
On September 13, 1992, Sanders had 26 attempts for 66 yards against the [[1992 Minnesota Vikings season|Minnesota Vikings]].<ref name=":8">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1992 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1992/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20210929215536/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1992/ |archive-date=September 29, 2021 |access-date=2022-06-02 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> Against the [[1992 Washington Redskins season|Washington Redskins]] the following week, Sanders recorded 14 attempts for only 34 yards.<ref name=":8" /> On November 22, Sanders compiled 29 attempts for 151 yards and a touchdown against the [[1992 Cincinnati Bengals season|Cincinnati Bengals]].<ref name=":8" /> His rushing total against the Bengals brought his career rushing yards to 5,202 rushing yards, a new career franchise record that Billy Sims previously held.<ref name="pro-football-reference.com">{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions Career Rushing Leaders |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/career-rushing.htm |access-date=2022-02-20 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> Sanders finished his final regular season game with 19 attempts for 104 yards against the [[1992 San Francisco 49ers season|San Francisco 49ers]].<ref name=":8" /> Overall, Sanders was credited with 1,352 rushing yards off of 312 attempts and nine touchdowns. His rushing yards total ranked fourth in the league, and his attempts ranked third.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1992 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1992/rushing.htm |access-date=2022-02-19 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> He was selected to the Pro Bowl and his first Second-team All-Pro team.<ref name=":1" /> The Lions regressed from their previous season, posting a {{Abbr|5–11|5 wins, 11 losses}} record for the year, and missed the playoffs after making the conference championship the prior year.<ref name=":13" />
On September 13, 1992, Sanders had 26 attempts for 66 yards against the [[1992 Minnesota Vikings season|Minnesota Vikings]].<ref name=":8">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1992 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1992/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20210929215536/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1992/ |archive-date=September 29, 2021 |access-date=2022-06-02 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> Against the [[1992 Washington Redskins season|Washington Redskins]] the following week, Sanders recorded 14 attempts for only 34 yards.<ref name=":8" /> On November 22, Sanders compiled 29 attempts for 151 yards and a touchdown against the [[1992 Cincinnati Bengals season|Cincinnati Bengals]].<ref name=":8" /> His rushing total against the Bengals brought his career total to 5,202 rushing yards, passing Billy Sims for a new franchise record.<ref name="pro-football-reference.com">{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions Career Rushing Leaders |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/career-rushing.htm |access-date=2022-02-20 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> Sanders finished his final regular season game with 19 attempts for 104 yards against the [[1992 San Francisco 49ers season|San Francisco 49ers]].<ref name=":8" /> Overall, Sanders was credited with 1,352 rushing yards from 312 attempts and nine touchdowns. His rushing yards total ranked fourth in the league, and his attempts ranked third.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1992 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1992/rushing.htm |access-date=2022-02-19 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> He was selected to the Pro Bowl and named an AP Second-team All-Pro for the first time.<ref name=":1" /> The Lions regressed from their previous season, posting a {{Abbr|5–11|5 wins, 11 losses}} record for the year, and missed the playoffs after making the conference championship the prior year.<ref name=":13" />


On November 25, 1993, against the [[1993 Chicago Bears season|Chicago Bears]], Sanders was credited with 16 attempts for 63 yards before leaving the game with an injury.<ref name=":9">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1993 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1993/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20210321112201/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1993/ |archive-date=March 21, 2021 |access-date=2022-06-02 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":22" /> It was later revealed after the game that Sanders had suffered a [[Medial collateral ligament|torn MCL]], and would be out for three to five weeks. As a result, Sanders missed the last five games of the regular season.<ref name=":22">{{Cite web |date=November 25, 1993 |title=Sanders out with knee injury |url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/1993/11/25/Sanders-out-with-knee-injury/3883754203600/ |access-date=2022-02-20 |website=[[UPI]] |language=en}}</ref> In his final contract year, Sanders and the Lions agreed to a four-year, $17.2-million contract, making him the highest-paid running back in the NFL, and the third-highest-paid player overall, behind [[John Elway]] and [[Steve Young]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=1993-12-23 |title=SPORTS PEOPLE: FOOTBALL; Lions' Sanders Receives Richest Pact for Runner |language=en-US |work=[[The New York Times]] |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1993/12/23/sports/sports-people-football-lions-sanders-receives-richest-pact-for-runner.html |url-status=live |access-date=2022-02-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180118200535/https://www.nytimes.com/1993/12/23/sports/sports-people-football-lions-sanders-receives-richest-pact-for-runner.html |archive-date=2018-01-18 |issn=0362-4331}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=1993-12-23 |title=Sanders Signs for $17.2 Million |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1993-12-23-sp-4755-story.html |access-date=2022-02-20 |website=[[Los Angeles Times]] |language=en-US}}</ref> Starting in only eleven games because of the injury, he still finished in the top ten in multiple rushing categories. Sanders was ranked fifth in the league in rushing yards (1,115 rushing yards), ninth in attempts (243), seventh in yards per attempt (4.6), and second in rushing yards per game (101.4 rushing yards per game); though he had a career-low three rushing touchdowns.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1993 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1993/rushing.htm |access-date=2022-02-21 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> He was named to the Pro Bowl and Second-team All-Pro team.<ref name="pro-football-reference.com" /><ref name=":1" /> The Lions finished the regular season with a {{Abbr|10–6|10 wins, 6 losses}} record, clinching the NFC Central and a postseason berth.<ref name=":13" /> The Lions faced their division rival [[1993 Green Bay Packers season|Green Bay Packers]] in the Wild Card Round. Sanders, after being cleared to start the game, recorded 27 attempts for 169 yards, the best statistical postseason game of his career. But the Lions lost the game 24–28.<ref name=":9" />
On November 25, 1993, against the [[1993 Chicago Bears season|Chicago Bears]], Sanders was credited with 16 attempts for 63 yards before leaving the game with an injury.<ref name=":9">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1993 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1993/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20210321112201/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1993/ |archive-date=March 21, 2021 |access-date=2022-06-02 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":22" /> It was revealed after the game that Sanders had suffered a [[Medial collateral ligament|torn MCL]], and would be out for three to five weeks. As a result, Sanders missed the last five games of the regular season.<ref name=":22">{{Cite web |date=November 25, 1993 |title=Sanders out with knee injury |url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/1993/11/25/Sanders-out-with-knee-injury/3883754203600/ |access-date=2022-02-20 |website=[[UPI]] |language=en}}</ref> In his final contract year, Sanders and the Lions agreed to a four-year, $17.2-million contract, making him the highest-paid running back in the NFL, and the third-highest-paid player overall, behind [[John Elway]] and [[Steve Young]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=1993-12-23 |title=SPORTS PEOPLE: FOOTBALL; Lions' Sanders Receives Richest Pact for Runner |language=en-US |work=[[The New York Times]] |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1993/12/23/sports/sports-people-football-lions-sanders-receives-richest-pact-for-runner.html |url-status=live |access-date=2022-02-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180118200535/https://www.nytimes.com/1993/12/23/sports/sports-people-football-lions-sanders-receives-richest-pact-for-runner.html |archive-date=2018-01-18 |issn=0362-4331}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=1993-12-23 |title=Sanders Signs for $17.2 Million |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1993-12-23-sp-4755-story.html |access-date=2022-02-20 |website=[[Los Angeles Times]] |language=en-US}}</ref> Starting in only eleven games because of the injury, he still finished in the top ten in multiple rushing categories. Sanders was ranked fifth in the league in rushing yards (1,115 rushing yards), ninth in attempts (243), seventh in yards per attempt (4.6), and second in rushing yards per game (101.4 rushing yards per game); though he had a career-low three rushing touchdowns.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1993 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1993/rushing.htm |access-date=2022-02-21 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> He was named to the Pro Bowl, and an AP Second-team All-Pro.<ref name="pro-football-reference.com" /><ref name=":1" /> The Lions finished the regular season with a {{Abbr|10–6|10 wins, 6 losses}} record, clinching the NFC Central and a postseason berth.<ref name=":13" /> The Lions faced their division rival [[1993 Green Bay Packers season|Green Bay Packers]] in the Wild Card Round. Sanders, after being cleared to start the game, recorded 27 attempts for 169 yards, the best statistical postseason game of his career, but the Lions lost the game 24–28.<ref name=":9" />


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On September 11, 1994, Sanders struggled, as he had 12 attempts for only 16 yards in a 3–10 loss against the [[1994 Minnesota Vikings season|Minnesota Vikings]].<ref name=":10">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1994 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1994/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20170607081904/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1994/ |archive-date=June 7, 2017 |access-date=2022-06-02 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> Against the [[1994 Dallas Cowboys season|Dallas Cowboys]] the following week, Sanders improved with a career-high 40 attempts for 194 yards.<ref name=":10" /> For his performance, he was named the NFC Offensive Player of The Week.<ref>{{Cite web |title=NFL Players of the Week |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/players-of-the-week.htm |access-date=2022-02-21 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> On September 25, 1994, against the [[1994 New England Patriots season|New England Patriots]], Sanders recorded 18 attempts for 131 yards and two touchdowns. During the game, Sanders had one of the most memorable runs of his career. While rushing 39-yards for a touchdown, Sanders juked and spun his way to the end zone, causing Patriots safety [[Harlon Barnett]] to spin around trying to tackle Sanders. Barnett later spoke of the moment: "I'm not embarrassed about what happened. I thought I did pretty good. I got in front of him twice", Barnett then added, "I just didn't stay there."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=S. I. |date=December 5, 1994 |title=Cut and Run |url=https://vault.si.com/vault/1994/12/05/cut-and-run-the-wizardry-of-detroits-barry-sanders-has-nfl-defenses-wondering-how-in-the-world-to-stop-him |access-date=2022-02-21 |website=[[Sports Illustrated]] |language=en-us}}</ref><ref name=":10" /> Against the [[1994 Tampa Bay Buccaneers season|Tampa Bay Buccaneers]], Sanders had arguably the best statistical game of his career, compiling a career-high 237 rushing yards (franchise record), off of 26 attempts; setting the record for most rushing yards in a single game without scoring a touchdown.<ref name=":10" /><ref>{{Cite web |title=Most Rushing Yards Without A Touchdown In A Game |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/most-rushing-yards-without-a-touchdown-in-a-game |access-date=2022-02-21 |website= |publisher=[[StatMuse]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Most Rushing Yards In A Game Lions Player |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/most-rushing-yards-in-a-game-lions-player |access-date=2022-02-21 |website= |publisher=[[StatMuse]] |language=en}}</ref> Sanders finished first in the league in rushing yards, recording 331 attempts for 1,883 rushing yards and scoring seven touchdowns. His single-season rushing total was fourth in NFL history at the time of that season.<ref>{{Cite web |title=NFL Rushing Yards Single-Season Leaders |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/rush_yds_single_season.htm |access-date=2022-02-21 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> He totaled 2,166 [[yards from scrimmage]], which, at the time, was the seventh-most ever in a season.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1994 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1994/rushing.htm |access-date=2022-02-21 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Most Scrimmage Yards In A Season 1910 To 1994 |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/most-scrimmage-yards-in-a-season-1910-to-1994 |access-date=2022-02-21 |website= |publisher=[[StatMuse]] |language=en}}</ref> As a result of his season, he was selected to the Pro Bowl and First-team All-Pro team after the regular season. Sanders was named the [[Associated Press NFL Offensive Player of the Year Award|NFL Offensive Player of the Year]] for the [[1994 NFL season|1994 season]] and finished second in [[Associated Press NFL Most Valuable Player Award|NFL Most Valuable Player]] voting behind Steve Young.<ref name=":1" /> The Lions finished the year with a {{Abbr|9–7|9 wins, 7 losses}} record and made the postseason with a [[Wild card (sports)|wild card]] spot.<ref name=":13" /> The Lions faced the Green Bay Packers again in the Wild Card Round, after being defeated by them the previous season. On December 31, Sanders struggled against the Packers and recorded what is viewed as the worst game of his career, having 13 attempts for -1 rushing yards. Six of his 13 attempts went for negative yardage, and the Lions as a team were held to only -4 rushing yards in the game, losing 12–16.<ref>{{Cite web |date=1995-01-01 |title=Packers Tame Sanders, Leave Lions Beaten : NFC playoffs: NFL's top running back is held to minus one yard as Detroit is stunned, 16-12, at Green Bay. |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1995-01-01-sp-15317-story.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112011238/https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1995-01-01-sp-15317-story.html |archive-date=2020-11-12 |access-date=2022-02-23 |website=[[Los Angeles Times]] |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name=":10" /><ref>{{Cite news|last=O'Hara|first=Mike|date=1995-01-01|title=Time for changes?|pages=35|work=[[Detroit Free Press]]|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/?clipping_id=74510098&fcfToken=eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJmcmVlLXZpZXctaWQiOjk5MjA1NTMxLCJpYXQiOjE2NDU3MjE1NDYsImV4cCI6MTY0NTgwNzk0Nn0.oTR620T1LHBZrlyIs2uUVW0zEy1eYZu9Svm7F-UxFrA|access-date=2022-02-24}}</ref>
On September 11, 1994, Sanders struggled, as he had 12 attempts for only 16 yards in a 3–10 loss against the [[1994 Minnesota Vikings season|Minnesota Vikings]].<ref name=":10">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1994 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1994/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20170607081904/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1994/ |archive-date=June 7, 2017 |access-date=2022-06-02 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> Against the [[1994 Dallas Cowboys season|Dallas Cowboys]] the following week, Sanders improved with a career-high 40 attempts for 194 yards.<ref name=":10" /> For his performance, he was named the NFC Offensive Player of The Week.<ref>{{Cite web |title=NFL Players of the Week |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/players-of-the-week.htm |access-date=2022-02-21 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> On September 25, 1994, against the [[1994 New England Patriots season|New England Patriots]], Sanders recorded 18 attempts for 131 yards and two touchdowns. During the game, Sanders had one of the most memorable runs of his career. While rushing 39 yards for a touchdown, Sanders juked and spun his way to the end zone, causing Patriots safety [[Harlon Barnett]] to spin around trying to tackle Sanders. Barnett later spoke of the moment: "I'm not embarrassed about what happened. I thought I did pretty good. I got in front of him twice", Barnett then added, "I just didn't stay there."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=S. I. |date=December 5, 1994 |title=Cut and Run |url=https://vault.si.com/vault/1994/12/05/cut-and-run-the-wizardry-of-detroits-barry-sanders-has-nfl-defenses-wondering-how-in-the-world-to-stop-him |access-date=2022-02-21 |website=[[Sports Illustrated]] |language=en-us}}</ref><ref name=":10" /> Against the [[1994 Tampa Bay Buccaneers season|Tampa Bay Buccaneers]], Sanders had arguably the best statistical game of his career, compiling a career-high 237 rushing yards (a franchise record) from 26 attempts, setting the record for most rushing yards in a single game without scoring a touchdown.<ref name=":10" /><ref>{{Cite web |title=Most Rushing Yards Without A Touchdown In A Game |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/most-rushing-yards-without-a-touchdown-in-a-game |access-date=2022-02-21 |website= |publisher=[[StatMuse]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Most Rushing Yards In A Game Lions Player |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/most-rushing-yards-in-a-game-lions-player |access-date=2022-02-21 |website= |publisher=[[StatMuse]] |language=en}}</ref> Sanders finished first in the league in rushing yards, recording 331 attempts for 1,883 rushing yards and scoring seven touchdowns. His single-season rushing total was fourth in NFL history up to that point.<ref>{{Cite web |title=NFL Rushing Yards Single-Season Leaders |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/rush_yds_single_season.htm |access-date=2022-02-21 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> He totaled 2,166 [[yards from scrimmage]], which, at the time, was the seventh-most ever in a season.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1994 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1994/rushing.htm |access-date=2022-02-21 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Most Scrimmage Yards In A Season 1910 To 1994 |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/most-scrimmage-yards-in-a-season-1910-to-1994 |access-date=2022-02-21 |website= |publisher=[[StatMuse]] |language=en}}</ref> As a result of his season, he was selected to the Pro Bowl and named an AP First-team All-Pro after the regular season. Sanders was named the [[Associated Press NFL Offensive Player of the Year Award|NFL Offensive Player of the Year]] for the [[1994 NFL season|1994 season]] and finished second in [[Associated Press NFL Most Valuable Player Award|NFL Most Valuable Player]] voting behind Steve Young.<ref name=":1" /> The Lions finished the year with a {{Abbr|9–7|9 wins, 7 losses}} record and made the postseason with a [[Wild card (sports)|wild card]] spot.<ref name=":13" /> The Lions faced the Green Bay Packers again in the Wild Card Round, after being defeated by them the previous season. On December 31, Sanders struggled against the Packers and recorded what is viewed as the worst game of his career, having 13 attempts for -1 rushing yards. Six of his 13 attempts went for negative yardage, and the Lions as a team were held to only -4 rushing yards in the game, losing 12–16.<ref>{{Cite web |date=1995-01-01 |title=Packers Tame Sanders, Leave Lions Beaten : NFC playoffs: NFL's top running back is held to minus one yard as Detroit is stunned, 16-12, at Green Bay. |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1995-01-01-sp-15317-story.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112011238/https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1995-01-01-sp-15317-story.html |archive-date=2020-11-12 |access-date=2022-02-23 |website=[[Los Angeles Times]] |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name=":10" /><ref>{{Cite news|last=O'Hara|first=Mike|date=1995-01-01|title=Time for changes?|pages=35|work=[[Detroit Free Press]]|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/?clipping_id=74510098&fcfToken=eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJmcmVlLXZpZXctaWQiOjk5MjA1NTMxLCJpYXQiOjE2NDU3MjE1NDYsImV4cCI6MTY0NTgwNzk0Nn0.oTR620T1LHBZrlyIs2uUVW0zEy1eYZu9Svm7F-UxFrA|access-date=2022-02-24}}</ref>


==== Playoff disappointments and MVP season (1995–1998) ====
==== Playoff disappointments and MVP season (1995–1998) ====
On September 3, 1995, against the [[1995 Pittsburgh Steelers season|Pittsburgh Steelers]], Sanders recorded 21 rushing attempts for 108 yards.<ref name=":11">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1995 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1995/ |access-date=2022-06-02 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> In the game, Steelers cornerback [[Rod Woodson]] [[Anterior cruciate ligament injury|tore his ACL]] when he attempted to tackle Sanders.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Unk |first=Jesse |date=July 23, 2020 |title=Top 5 Running Backs in Detroit Lions Team History |url=https://www.si.com/nfl/The-Best-Running-Backs-in-Detroit-Lions-Team-History |access-date=2022-02-26 |website=[[Sports Illustrated]] |language=en-us}}</ref> On September 25 against the [[1995 San Francisco 49ers season|San Francisco 49ers]], Sanders had a down game, recording 17 attempts for only 24 yards.<ref name=":11" /> Against the [[1995 Cleveland Browns season|Cleveland Browns]], Sanders improved for 157 yards off of 18 attempts and three touchdowns, including a 75-yard touchdown run, in the 38–20 victory.<ref name=":11" /> Sanders finished with 314 attempts for 1,500 yards and 11 touchdowns. For his season, Sanders was selected to Pro Bowl and First-team All-Pro team.<ref name=":1" /> The Lions posted a {{Abbr|10–6|10 wins, 6 losses}} record and made the postseason with a wild card spot, where the Lions faced the [[1995 Philadelphia Eagles season|Philadelphia Eagles]] in the Wild Card Round.<ref name=":13" /> Sanders had ten attempts for 40 yards as the Lions' rushing game was stuffed by the Eagles' defense. The Lions' defense was likewise overwhelmed by the Eagles' offense and faced a 44-point deficit in the third quarter 7–51, eventually losing the game 37–58; despite the victory being guaranteed by teammate [[Lomas Brown]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Brookover |first=Bob |date=December 31, 1995 |title=Defense becomes Lions tamers |page=8F |work=[[Courier Post]] |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/183265653/?terms=%22barry%22%20%22sanders%22&match=1 |access-date=June 16, 2022}}</ref><ref name=":24">{{Cite episode |title=Top 10 Snakebitten Franchises |series=NFL Top 10 |series-link=NFL Top 10 |network=NFL Network |date=July 31, 2009}}</ref> At the time, this was the highest-scoring postseason game in NFL history, with 95 points scored. This record was bested by one point in the 51–45 victory by the [[2009 Arizona Cardinals season|Arizona Cardinals]] in [[2009–10 NFL playoffs|2009]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=The highest-scoring game in playoff history {{!}} NFL Throwback |url=https://www.nfl.com/videos/flashback-the-highest-scoring-game-in-playoff-history-286494 |access-date=2022-02-26 |website= |publisher=[[National Football League]] |language=en-US}}</ref>
On September 3, 1995, against the [[1995 Pittsburgh Steelers season|Pittsburgh Steelers]], Sanders recorded 21 rushing attempts for 108 yards.<ref name=":11">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1995 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1995/ |access-date=2022-06-02 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> In the game, Steelers cornerback [[Rod Woodson]] [[Anterior cruciate ligament injury|tore his ACL]] when he attempted to tackle Sanders.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Unk |first=Jesse |date=July 23, 2020 |title=Top 5 Running Backs in Detroit Lions Team History |url=https://www.si.com/nfl/The-Best-Running-Backs-in-Detroit-Lions-Team-History |access-date=2022-02-26 |website=[[Sports Illustrated]] |language=en-us}}</ref> On September 25 against the [[1995 San Francisco 49ers season|San Francisco 49ers]], Sanders had a down game, recording 17 attempts for only 24 yards.<ref name=":11" /> Against the [[1995 Cleveland Browns season|Cleveland Browns]], Sanders improved with 157 yards from 18 attempts and three touchdowns, including a 75-yard touchdown run, in a 38–20 victory.<ref name=":11" /> Sanders finished with 314 attempts for 1,500 yards and 11 touchdowns. For his season, Sanders was selected to the Pro Bowl and named an AP First-team All-Pro.<ref name=":1" /> The Lions posted a {{Abbr|10–6|10 wins, 6 losses}} record and made the postseason with a wild card spot, where the Lions faced the [[1995 Philadelphia Eagles season|Philadelphia Eagles]] in the Wild Card Round.<ref name=":13" /> Sanders had ten attempts for 40 yards as the Lions' rushing game was stuffed by the Eagles' defense. The Lions' defense was likewise overwhelmed by the Eagles' offense and faced a 44-point deficit in the third quarter 7–51, eventually losing the game 37–58; despite the victory being guaranteed by teammate [[Lomas Brown]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Brookover |first=Bob |date=December 31, 1995 |title=Defense becomes Lions tamers |page=8F |work=[[Courier Post]] |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/183265653/?terms=%22barry%22%20%22sanders%22&match=1 |access-date=June 16, 2022}}</ref><ref name=":24">{{Cite episode |title=Top 10 Snakebitten Franchises |series=NFL Top 10 |series-link=NFL Top 10 |network=NFL Network |date=July 31, 2009}}</ref> At the time, this was the highest-scoring postseason game in NFL history, with 95 points scored. This record was bested by one point in a 51–45 victory by the [[2009 Arizona Cardinals season|Arizona Cardinals]] over the [[2009 Green Bay Packers season|Green Bay Packers]] in [[2009–10 NFL playoffs|2009]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=The highest-scoring game in playoff history {{!}} NFL Throwback |url=https://www.nfl.com/videos/flashback-the-highest-scoring-game-in-playoff-history-286494 |access-date=2022-02-26 |website= |publisher=[[National Football League]] |language=en-US}}</ref>


On September 1, 1996, against the [[1996 Minnesota Vikings season|Minnesota Vikings]], Sanders recorded 24 rushing attempts for 163 rushing yards.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1996 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1996/ |access-date=2022-02-26 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> Against the [[1996 Oakland Raiders season|Oakland Raiders]], Sanders had nine attempts for only 36 yards in the 21–37 loss.<ref name=":2" /> On November 3 against the [[1996 Green Bay Packers season|Green Bay Packers]], Sanders had 20 attempts for 152 yards and a touchdown in the 18–28 loss.<ref name=":2" /> Against the [[1996 Seattle Seahawks season|Seattle Seahawks]] on November 17, Sanders had 16 attempts for 134 yards and a touchdown.<ref name=":2" />{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=73}} Against the [[1996 Chicago Bears season|Chicago Bears]] the following week, Sanders had 21 attempts for 107 yards and a touchdown.<ref name=":2" /> Sanders had 20 attempts for 134 yards and a touchdown against the Vikings, but a missed two-point conversion attempt after his touchdown resulted in the Lions losing 22–24.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions - December 8th, 1996 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/199612080det.htm |access-date=2022-02-26 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> In the final game of the season, he recorded 28 attempts for 175 yards in a 14–24 loss against the [[1996 San Francisco 49ers season|San Francisco 49ers]].<ref name=":2" /> Overall, Sanders finished the regular season first in the league in rushing yards with 1,553 rushing yards off of 307 attempts. He scored 11 rushing touchdowns, and had 97.1 rushing yards per game, which was first in the league.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1996 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1996/rushing.htm |access-date=2022-02-26 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> At this point in his career, Sanders had 11,725 career rushing yards, seventh all-time, and ranked eighth all-time in career rushing touchdowns, with 84.<ref>{{Cite web |title=NFL Career Rushing Touchdowns Leaders Through 1996 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/rush_td_career_1996.htm |access-date=2022-02-26 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=NFL Career Rushing Yards Leaders Through 1996 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/rush_yds_career_1996.htm |access-date=2022-02-26 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=NFL Career Rushing Attempts Leaders Through 1996 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/rush_att_career_1996.htm |access-date=2022-02-26 |website=Pro-Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> The Lions regressed, posting a {{Abbr|5–11|5 wins, 11 losses}} record, and failed to make the postseason after three straight playoff seasons from 1993 to 1995; though Sanders still made the Pro Bowl and Second-team All-Pro team.<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":13" />
On September 1, 1996, against the [[1996 Minnesota Vikings season|Minnesota Vikings]], Sanders recorded 24 rushing attempts for 163 rushing yards.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1996 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1996/ |access-date=2022-02-26 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> Against the [[1996 Oakland Raiders season|Oakland Raiders]], Sanders had nine attempts for only 36 yards in a 21–37 loss.<ref name=":2" /> On November 3 against the [[1996 Green Bay Packers season|Green Bay Packers]], Sanders had 20 attempts for 152 yards and a touchdown in an 18–28 loss.<ref name=":2" /> Against the [[1996 Seattle Seahawks season|Seattle Seahawks]] on November 17, Sanders had 16 attempts for 134 yards and a touchdown.<ref name=":2" />{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=73}} Against the [[1996 Chicago Bears season|Chicago Bears]] the following week, Sanders had 21 attempts for 107 yards and a touchdown.<ref name=":2" /> Sanders had 20 attempts for 134 yards and a touchdown against the Vikings, but a missed two-point conversion attempt after his touchdown resulted in the Lions losing 22–24.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions - December 8th, 1996 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/199612080det.htm |access-date=2022-02-26 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> In the final game of the season, he recorded 28 attempts for 175 yards in a 14–24 loss against the [[1996 San Francisco 49ers season|San Francisco 49ers]].<ref name=":2" /> Overall, Sanders finished the regular season first in the league in rushing yards with 1,553 rushing yards from 307 attempts. He scored 11 rushing touchdowns, and had 97.1 rushing yards per game, which was first in the league.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1996 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1996/rushing.htm |access-date=2022-02-26 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> At this point in his career, Sanders had 11,725 career rushing yards, seventh all-time, and ranked eighth all-time in career rushing touchdowns, with 84.<ref>{{Cite web |title=NFL Career Rushing Touchdowns Leaders Through 1996 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/rush_td_career_1996.htm |access-date=2022-02-26 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=NFL Career Rushing Yards Leaders Through 1996 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/rush_yds_career_1996.htm |access-date=2022-02-26 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=NFL Career Rushing Attempts Leaders Through 1996 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/rush_att_career_1996.htm |access-date=2022-02-26 |website=Pro-Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> The Lions regressed, posting a {{Abbr|5–11|5 wins, 11 losses}} record, and failed to make the postseason after three straight playoff seasons from 1993 to 1995, though Sanders still made the Pro Bowl and was named an AP Second-team All-Pro.<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":13" />


Before the start of the 1997 season, Lions head coach Wayne Fontes was fired, and replaced by [[Bobby Ross]]; Sanders was saddened by Fontes' firing, believing he deserved another chance at coaching the team.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=76}} On September 7 against the [[1997 Tampa Bay Buccaneers season|Tampa Bay Buccaneers]], Sanders struggled, having 10 attempts for only 20 yards, while recording 102 receiving yards and a touchdown.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1997 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1997/ |access-date=2022-06-02 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> On October 12, Sanders dominated for 215 yards off of 24 attempts and two touchdowns against the Buccaneers, passing Jim Brown to be the fourth-ranked career rushing leader in NFL history, with 12,513 career rushing yards; while catching a seven-yard touchdown pass.<ref name=":5" />{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=80}} Against the [[1997 Indianapolis Colts season|Indianapolis Colts]], Sanders had another stellar performance, compiling 24 attempts for 216 yards and two touchdowns (including one of 80 yards).<ref name=":5" /> With the win, Sanders became the first running back to have ten consecutive games with 100 yards rushing in a season, and became the first running back to have three touchdowns of 80+ yards in a season.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=81}} On November 27, 1997, against the [[1997 Chicago Bears season|Chicago Bears]], Sanders had 19 attempts for 167 yards and three touchdowns, passing [[Eric Dickerson]] to become the second-ranked rushing leader behind [[Walter Payton]]<ref name=":5" />{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=81-82}} Sanders needed at least 131 rushing yards against the [[1997 New York Jets season|New York Jets]] to reach 2,000 for the season, and played them on December 21, 1997.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Cote |first=Greg |date=December 19, 1997 |title=2,000 reasons why Barry is MVP |pages=8D |work=[[The Miami Herald]] |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/643719793/?terms=%22barry%20sanders%22%20%22whupping%22&match=1 |access-date=June 10, 2022}}</ref><ref name=":5" /> Sanders reached the 2,000 mark on a two-yard run; finishing the game with 23 attempts for 184 yards and a touchdown; helping the Lions edge the Jets 13–10.<ref name=":5" />{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=83}} Sanders had a season that's considered among the greatest ever by a running back.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Swartz |first=Bryn |date=March 20, 2009 |title=The 10 Greatest Running Back Seasons in NFL History |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/142064-the-10-greatest-running-back-seasons-in-nfl-history |access-date=2022-03-04 |website= |publisher=[[Bleacher Report]] |language=en}}</ref> He recorded 2,053 rushing yards, which was first in the league that season; off of 335 attempts, and 11 touchdowns, becoming just the third running back in history to reach [[2,000-yard club|2,000 rushing yards]] in a season. For his accomplishments, he credited his [[offensive linemen]], stating: "Without them, I wouldn't have run far at all."{{Sfn|McCormick|2003|p=106}} Sanders had 100+ yards in the season's final 14 games, an NFL record.<ref name=":5" /> With 2,358 total scrimmage yards, he broke the single-season record for scrimmage yards that was held by [[Marcus Allen]]; the record was broken two seasons later by [[Marshall Faulk]], and again by [[Chris Johnson (running back)|Chris Johnson]] in 2009.<ref>{{Cite web |title=NFL Yards From Scrimmage Single-Season Leaders |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/yds_from_scrimmage_single_season.htm |access-date=2022-03-05 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> Sanders was named to the Pro Bowl and first-team All-Pro team, and awarded the Bert Bell Award. Sanders was also awarded his second career NFL Offensive Player of the Year Award, and the [[Associated Press NFL Most Valuable Player Award|NFL Most Valuable Player]] (co-won with [[Brett Favre]]).<ref name=":1" /> The Lions posted a {{Abbr|9–7|9 wins, 7 losses}} record and clinched a wild card spot as the No. 5 seed in the NFC.<ref name=":13" /> Sanders and the Lions faced the Buccaneers, who were playing their first home postseason game in 18 years.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=85}} Sanders had 18 attempts for 65 yards as the Lions lost 10–20, after quarterback [[Scott Mitchell (quarterback)|Scott Mitchell]] left the game with an injury in the third quarter.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=86}}
Before the start of the 1997 season, Lions head coach Wayne Fontes was fired, and replaced by [[Bobby Ross]]; Sanders was saddened by Fontes' firing, believing he deserved another chance at coaching the team.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=76}} On September 7 against the [[1997 Tampa Bay Buccaneers season|Tampa Bay Buccaneers]], Sanders struggled on the ground, having 10 attempts for only 20 yards, but recorded 102 receiving yards and a touchdown.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1997 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1997/ |access-date=2022-06-02 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> On October 12, Sanders dominated with 215 yards from 24 attempts and two touchdowns against the Buccaneers, passing Jim Brown to be the fourth-ranked career rushing leader in NFL history, with 12,513 career rushing yards; he also caught a seven-yard touchdown pass.<ref name=":5" />{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=80}} Against the [[1997 Indianapolis Colts season|Indianapolis Colts]], Sanders had another stellar performance, compiling 24 attempts for 216 yards and two touchdowns (including one of 80 yards).<ref name=":5" /> With the win, Sanders became the first running back to have ten consecutive games with 100 yards rushing in a season, and became the first running back to have three touchdowns of 80+ yards in a season.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=81}} On November 27, 1997, against the [[1997 Chicago Bears season|Chicago Bears]], Sanders had 19 attempts for 167 yards and three touchdowns, passing [[Eric Dickerson]] to become the second-ranked rusher for career yards behind [[Walter Payton]]<ref name=":5" />{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=81-82}} On December 21, 1997, Sanders entered the season finale against the [[1997 New York Jets season|New York Jets]] needing at least 131 rushing yards to reach 2,000 for the season; both teams needed a win to clinch a playoff berth.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Cote |first=Greg |date=December 19, 1997 |title=2,000 reasons why Barry is MVP |pages=8D |work=[[The Miami Herald]] |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/643719793/?terms=%22barry%20sanders%22%20%22whupping%22&match=1 |access-date=June 10, 2022}}</ref><ref name=":5" /> Sanders reached the 2,000 mark on a two-yard run; finishing the game with 23 attempts for 184 yards and a touchdown; helping the Lions edge the Jets 13–10.<ref name=":5" />{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=83}} Sanders had a season that's considered among the greatest ever by a running back.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Swartz |first=Bryn |date=March 20, 2009 |title=The 10 Greatest Running Back Seasons in NFL History |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/142064-the-10-greatest-running-back-seasons-in-nfl-history |access-date=2022-03-04 |website= |publisher=[[Bleacher Report]] |language=en}}</ref> He recorded 2,053 rushing yards, which was first in the league that season; from 335 attempts, and 11 touchdowns, becoming just the third running back in history to reach [[2,000-yard club|2,000 rushing yards]] in a season. For his accomplishments, he credited his [[offensive linemen]], stating: "Without them, I wouldn't have run far at all."{{Sfn|McCormick|2003|p=106}} Sanders had 100+ yards in the season's final 14 games, an NFL record.<ref name=":5" /> With 2,358 total scrimmage yards, he broke the single-season record for scrimmage yards that was held by [[Marcus Allen]]; the record was broken two seasons later by [[Marshall Faulk]], and again by [[Chris Johnson (running back)|Chris Johnson]] in 2009.<ref>{{Cite web |title=NFL Yards From Scrimmage Single-Season Leaders |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/yds_from_scrimmage_single_season.htm |access-date=2022-03-05 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> Sanders was named to the Pro Bowl and AP First-team All-Pro team, and awarded the Bert Bell Award. Sanders was also awarded his second career NFL Offensive Player of the Year Award, and the [[Associated Press NFL Most Valuable Player Award|NFL Most Valuable Player]] (co-won with [[Brett Favre]]).<ref name=":1" /> The Lions posted a {{Abbr|9–7|9 wins, 7 losses}} record and clinched a wild card spot as the No. 5 seed in the NFC.<ref name=":13" /> Sanders and the Lions faced the Buccaneers, who were playing their first home postseason game in 18 years.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=85}} Sanders had 18 attempts for 65 yards as the Lions lost 10–20, after quarterback [[Scott Mitchell (quarterback)|Scott Mitchell]] left the game with an injury in the third quarter.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=86}}
[[File:New York Jets logo (1978–1997).svg|left|thumb|216x216px|The New York Jets logo (1978-1997). Sanders surpassed 2,000 yards in a season against the Jets in 1997.|alt=A picture of the New York Jets logo valid from 1978 to 1997.]]
[[File:New York Jets logo (1978–1997).svg|left|thumb|216x216px|The New York Jets logo (1978-1997). Sanders surpassed 2,000 yards in a season against the Jets in 1997.|alt=A picture of the New York Jets logo valid from 1978 to 1997.]]
On September 13, 1998, against the [[1998 Cincinnati Bengals season|Cincinnati Bengals]], Sanders recorded 185 rushing yards off of 26 rushing attempts and three touchdowns.<ref name=":7">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1998 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1998/ |access-date=2022-06-02 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> Sanders had 22 attempts for 69 yards in a 6–29 loss against the [[1998 Minnesota Vikings season|Minnesota Vikings]].<ref name=":7" /> On November 26, 1998, against the [[1998 Pittsburgh Steelers season|Pittsburgh Steelers]], Sanders had a down game, with 20 attempts for only 33 rushing yards, the Lions were still victorious 19–16 in overtime.<ref name=":7" /> Against the [[1998 Jacksonville Jaguars season|Jacksonville Jaguars]], Sanders had 18 attempts for 102 yards.<ref name=":7" /> In Sanders' final game of his career, on December 27, 1998, he had 19 attempts for 41 yards in a 10–19 loss against the [[1998 Baltimore Ravens season|Baltimore Ravens]].<ref name=":7" /> Sanders capped off his final season with 1,491 rushing yards (fourth in the league), off of a career-high 343 attempts (fifth in the league), and four touchdowns.<ref name=":7" /> He was nine yards short of completing five straight seasons with at least 1,500 rushing yards. He was selected to his tenth Pro Bowl, and to the Second-team All-Pro.<ref name=":1" /> But the Lions struggled, going {{Abbr|5–11|5 wins, 11 losses}}, and failed to make the postseason.<ref name=":13" />
On September 13, 1998, against the [[1998 Cincinnati Bengals season|Cincinnati Bengals]], Sanders recorded 185 rushing yards from 26 rushing attempts, with three touchdowns.<ref name=":7">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1998 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1998/ |access-date=2022-06-02 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> Sanders had 22 attempts for 69 yards in a 6–29 loss against the [[1998 Minnesota Vikings season|Minnesota Vikings]].<ref name=":7" /> On November 26, 1998, against the [[1998 Pittsburgh Steelers season|Pittsburgh Steelers]], Sanders had a down game, with 20 attempts for only 33 rushing yards; the Lions were still victorious 19–16 in overtime.<ref name=":7" /> Against the [[1998 Jacksonville Jaguars season|Jacksonville Jaguars]], Sanders had 18 attempts for 102 yards.<ref name=":7" /> In Sanders' final game of his career, on December 27, 1998, he had 19 attempts for 41 yards in a 10–19 loss against the [[1998 Baltimore Ravens season|Baltimore Ravens]].<ref name=":7" /> Sanders capped off his final season with 1,491 rushing yards (fourth in the league), from a career-high 343 attempts (fifth in the league), and four touchdowns.<ref name=":7" /> He was nine yards short of completing five straight seasons with at least 1,500 rushing yards. He was selected to his tenth Pro Bowl, and to the named an AP Second-team All-Pro.<ref name=":1" /> The Lions struggled despite Sanders' performances, going {{Abbr|5–11|5 wins, 11 losses}} and failing to make the postseason.<ref name=":13" />


===Retirement===
===Retirement===

Revision as of 22:45, 16 June 2022

Professional career

Pre-draft measurables
Height Weight 40-yard dash
5 ft 7+5⁄8 in
(1.72 m) 		203 lb
(92 kg) 		4.37 s
All values from Pro Day[1]

Detroit Lions (1989–1998)

Sanders, a junior, was originally ineligible for the draft. However, Oklahoma State had been under investigation by the NCAA for going against recruiting rules, and later were given significant penalties for its violations. If Sanders had stayed for his senior season, his games would not have been televised, and the Cowboys would be ineligible for college bowl games. Due to this, NFL commissioner Pete Rozelle allowed Sanders to enter the draft.[2] One year after he was selected, the NFL allowed all juniors to participate in the draft.[3]

A picture of the Pontiac Silverdome in 2011.
Sanders played home games in the Pontiac Silverdome (pictured in 2011).

The Detroit Lions drafted Sanders No. 3 overall in the 1989 NFL Draft, after Troy Aikman and Tony Mandarich, thanks to the endorsement of coach Wayne Fontes.[4][5] Fontes was impressed with his athletic ability after Sanders lifted 225 lbs (102 kg) 21 times.[4] Lions' management considered drafting another Sanders, cornerback Deion Sanders, but Fontes convinced them to draft Barry instead.[6] Fontes offered Sanders jersey No. 20, which had been worn by former Lions running back Billy Sims; Sims was one of the league's top running backs in the early 1980s, and Fontes requested Sanders to wear the number in tribute to Sims.[7] Sanders had doubts about what his career would have been like if the Green Bay Packers selected him No. 2 instead of Mandarich, later saying: "I don't know what I would've done if I was drafted by Green Bay, I don't know if I would've wanted to play in Green Bay, I don't think I could've handled this weather every day."[8]

Sanders missed the training camp of his rookie season due to a contract dispute. He eventually came to terms with the Lions, signing a contract for five years, $9.5 million, including a $2.1 million signing bonus; ten percent of which ($210,000), he donated to his local church: Paradise Baptist Church.[9][10] In his first Lions press conference, Sanders stated that he wanted to help "restore the roar in the dome."[11]

Early years and postseason win (1989–1991)

As a rookie in 1989, Sanders started 13 out of a possible 16 games for the Lions.[12] In his first career professional game against the Phoenix Cardinals on September 10, Sanders ran for 71 yards on nine attempts and scored a rushing touchdown in a 16–13 loss.[13][14] In a 47–27 loss against the Chicago Bears, Sanders compiled 126 yards on 18 attempts and a touchdown but became injured with bruised ribs and a hip pointer that plagued him through the rest of the season.[14][15][16] On October 1, Sanders only had one yard on five attempts against the Pittsburgh Steelers.[14] Against the Minnesota Vikings, Sanders had 23 attempts for 99 yards.[14] After the game, Vikings head coach Jerry Burns asked game officials to check if Sanders had applied silicone to himself, due to how difficult it was for players to tackle him: they found no illegal substance.[16] On December 24, the final game of the season, he had 158 yards on 20 attempts and three touchdowns against the Atlanta Falcons.[14] During the game, the Lions installed a special phone line in one of the press boxes to monitor Christian Okoye, who was tied with Sanders for the league rushing title. When Okoye's game ended, Sanders trailed Okoye by only ten yards. Fontes offered Sanders the chance to return to the Lions' game to gain enough yards to pass Okoye, Sanders having been pulled from the game in the fourth quarter when the score was 31–10 in the Lions' favor. Yet Sanders declined to return to the game, letting Okoye keep the rushing title.[17] Sanders finished the season totaling 1,470 rushing yards from 280 attempts, with 14 touchdowns.[12] His rushing total was both a rookie franchise record, and a franchise record for any running back in Lions history (both records held previously by Billy Sims).[18] Sanders was awarded the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Award, and named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team. He was also selected to the Pro Bowl and was named a First-team All-Pro by the Associated Press (AP).[12][19] The Lions struggled that season, posting a 7–9 record and failing to make the postseason, despite winning five straight games to end the year.[20]

On September 09, 1990, against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sanders had 79 yards from 14 rushing attempts and a goal-line touchdown.[21] Against the Green Bay Packers on September 30, Sanders had 20 attempts for 94 yards.[21] Sanders had 16 attempts for 90 yards and a touchdown, coupled with five receptions for 135 yards receiving and a 47-yard receiving touchdown against the Kansas City Chiefs.[21] On December 10 against the Los Angeles Raiders, Sanders was credited with a season-high 176 yards from 25 attempts and two touchdowns.[21] On December 22 against the Packers, Sanders had 19 attempts for 133 yards and a touchdown in the 24–17 victory.[21] Sanders had a productive year, finishing the year first in the NFL in rushing yards, with 1,304, becoming the first Lions running back to lead the league in rushing yards since Byron White in 1940.[22][21] He ranked third in rushing touchdowns (13), and sixth in both attempts (255), and yards per attempt (5.1).[23] As a result, Sanders was selected to his second Pro Bowl and was again named an AP First-team All-Pro.[12] The Lions finished the year with a 6–10 record and missed the postseason for the seventh consecutive season.[24]

On September 1, 1991, Sanders was inactive for the Lions' 45–0 shutout loss against the Washington Redskins, due to having sore ribs before the opening kickoff. The loss was the franchise's worst in over 20 years.[25] On November 24, 1991, against the Minnesota Vikings, Sanders dominated with 220 rushing yards on 23 attempts and four touchdowns, a game the Lions won 34–14.[26] Sanders dedicated the win to teammate Mike Utley, who suffered a career-ending spinal cord injury the previous game.[27][28] In the final game of the regular season against the Buffalo Bills, Sanders had 26 attempts for 108 yards and a touchdown, but had a fumble in Lions territory that allowed the Bills to tie the game, in the 17–14 overtime victory.[29] Sanders finished the regular season with 1,548 rushing yards from 342 attempts. He led the league in rushing touchdowns, with a career-high 16. As a result, he was selected to the Pro Bowl and AP First-team All-Pro teams, and awarded the Bert Bell Award.[12] With a 12–4 record, the Lions clinched the NFC Central and made the postseason for the first time since 1983. Those 12 wins are the most in a season by the Lions franchise in its history.[24] Having the No. 2 seed in the NFC, the Lions skipped the Wild Card Round and advanced to the Divisional Round, where they faced the Dallas Cowboys. Sanders helped lead the Lions to their first postseason victory since the team won the 1957 NFL Championship Game. In the game, Sanders was held to only 22 yards rushing before he broke away for a 47-yard touchdown run, in which he broke several tackles to close out the 38–6 victory.[11][30][31] In the NFC Championship Game, Sanders was held to eleven attempts for 44 yards in the Lions' blowout 10–41 loss to the eventual Super Bowl-winning Redskins.[26] Sanders finished the postseason with 23 attempts for 113 yards and a touchdown. He would never win another playoff game in his career after this season.[26][11]

Mid-career (1992–1994)

On September 13, 1992, Sanders had 26 attempts for 66 yards against the Minnesota Vikings.[32] Against the Washington Redskins the following week, Sanders recorded 14 attempts for only 34 yards.[32] On November 22, Sanders compiled 29 attempts for 151 yards and a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals.[32] His rushing total against the Bengals brought his career total to 5,202 rushing yards, passing Billy Sims for a new franchise record.[33] Sanders finished his final regular season game with 19 attempts for 104 yards against the San Francisco 49ers.[32] Overall, Sanders was credited with 1,352 rushing yards from 312 attempts and nine touchdowns. His rushing yards total ranked fourth in the league, and his attempts ranked third.[34] He was selected to the Pro Bowl and named an AP Second-team All-Pro for the first time.[12] The Lions regressed from their previous season, posting a 5–11 record for the year, and missed the playoffs after making the conference championship the prior year.[24]

On November 25, 1993, against the Chicago Bears, Sanders was credited with 16 attempts for 63 yards before leaving the game with an injury.[35][36] It was revealed after the game that Sanders had suffered a torn MCL, and would be out for three to five weeks. As a result, Sanders missed the last five games of the regular season.[36] In his final contract year, Sanders and the Lions agreed to a four-year, $17.2-million contract, making him the highest-paid running back in the NFL, and the third-highest-paid player overall, behind John Elway and Steve Young.[37][38] Starting in only eleven games because of the injury, he still finished in the top ten in multiple rushing categories. Sanders was ranked fifth in the league in rushing yards (1,115 rushing yards), ninth in attempts (243), seventh in yards per attempt (4.6), and second in rushing yards per game (101.4 rushing yards per game); though he had a career-low three rushing touchdowns.[39] He was named to the Pro Bowl, and an AP Second-team All-Pro.[33][12] The Lions finished the regular season with a 10–6 record, clinching the NFC Central and a postseason berth.[24] The Lions faced their division rival Green Bay Packers in the Wild Card Round. Sanders, after being cleared to start the game, recorded 27 attempts for 169 yards, the best statistical postseason game of his career, but the Lions lost the game 24–28.[35]

“We’re learning little by little, the hard way, that when Barry Sanders is not having the day you expect him to have, it’s hard for this team to win.”

–Wayne Fontes following the 1994 NFC Wild Card Round[40]

On September 11, 1994, Sanders struggled, as he had 12 attempts for only 16 yards in a 3–10 loss against the Minnesota Vikings.[41] Against the Dallas Cowboys the following week, Sanders improved with a career-high 40 attempts for 194 yards.[41] For his performance, he was named the NFC Offensive Player of The Week.[42] On September 25, 1994, against the New England Patriots, Sanders recorded 18 attempts for 131 yards and two touchdowns. During the game, Sanders had one of the most memorable runs of his career. While rushing 39 yards for a touchdown, Sanders juked and spun his way to the end zone, causing Patriots safety Harlon Barnett to spin around trying to tackle Sanders. Barnett later spoke of the moment: "I'm not embarrassed about what happened. I thought I did pretty good. I got in front of him twice", Barnett then added, "I just didn't stay there."[43][41] Against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sanders had arguably the best statistical game of his career, compiling a career-high 237 rushing yards (a franchise record) from 26 attempts, setting the record for most rushing yards in a single game without scoring a touchdown.[41][44][45] Sanders finished first in the league in rushing yards, recording 331 attempts for 1,883 rushing yards and scoring seven touchdowns. His single-season rushing total was fourth in NFL history up to that point.[46] He totaled 2,166 yards from scrimmage, which, at the time, was the seventh-most ever in a season.[47][48] As a result of his season, he was selected to the Pro Bowl and named an AP First-team All-Pro after the regular season. Sanders was named the NFL Offensive Player of the Year for the 1994 season and finished second in NFL Most Valuable Player voting behind Steve Young.[12] The Lions finished the year with a 9–7 record and made the postseason with a wild card spot.[24] The Lions faced the Green Bay Packers again in the Wild Card Round, after being defeated by them the previous season. On December 31, Sanders struggled against the Packers and recorded what is viewed as the worst game of his career, having 13 attempts for -1 rushing yards. Six of his 13 attempts went for negative yardage, and the Lions as a team were held to only -4 rushing yards in the game, losing 12–16.[49][41][50]

Playoff disappointments and MVP season (1995–1998)

On September 3, 1995, against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Sanders recorded 21 rushing attempts for 108 yards.[51] In the game, Steelers cornerback Rod Woodson tore his ACL when he attempted to tackle Sanders.[52] On September 25 against the San Francisco 49ers, Sanders had a down game, recording 17 attempts for only 24 yards.[51] Against the Cleveland Browns, Sanders improved with 157 yards from 18 attempts and three touchdowns, including a 75-yard touchdown run, in a 38–20 victory.[51] Sanders finished with 314 attempts for 1,500 yards and 11 touchdowns. For his season, Sanders was selected to the Pro Bowl and named an AP First-team All-Pro.[12] The Lions posted a 10–6 record and made the postseason with a wild card spot, where the Lions faced the Philadelphia Eagles in the Wild Card Round.[24] Sanders had ten attempts for 40 yards as the Lions' rushing game was stuffed by the Eagles' defense. The Lions' defense was likewise overwhelmed by the Eagles' offense and faced a 44-point deficit in the third quarter 7–51, eventually losing the game 37–58; despite the victory being guaranteed by teammate Lomas Brown.[53][54] At the time, this was the highest-scoring postseason game in NFL history, with 95 points scored. This record was bested by one point in a 51–45 victory by the Arizona Cardinals over the Green Bay Packers in 2009.[55]

On September 1, 1996, against the Minnesota Vikings, Sanders recorded 24 rushing attempts for 163 rushing yards.[56] Against the Oakland Raiders, Sanders had nine attempts for only 36 yards in a 21–37 loss.[56] On November 3 against the Green Bay Packers, Sanders had 20 attempts for 152 yards and a touchdown in an 18–28 loss.[56] Against the Seattle Seahawks on November 17, Sanders had 16 attempts for 134 yards and a touchdown.[56][57] Against the Chicago Bears the following week, Sanders had 21 attempts for 107 yards and a touchdown.[56] Sanders had 20 attempts for 134 yards and a touchdown against the Vikings, but a missed two-point conversion attempt after his touchdown resulted in the Lions losing 22–24.[58] In the final game of the season, he recorded 28 attempts for 175 yards in a 14–24 loss against the San Francisco 49ers.[56] Overall, Sanders finished the regular season first in the league in rushing yards with 1,553 rushing yards from 307 attempts. He scored 11 rushing touchdowns, and had 97.1 rushing yards per game, which was first in the league.[59] At this point in his career, Sanders had 11,725 career rushing yards, seventh all-time, and ranked eighth all-time in career rushing touchdowns, with 84.[60][61][62] The Lions regressed, posting a 5–11 record, and failed to make the postseason after three straight playoff seasons from 1993 to 1995, though Sanders still made the Pro Bowl and was named an AP Second-team All-Pro.[12][24]

Before the start of the 1997 season, Lions head coach Wayne Fontes was fired, and replaced by Bobby Ross; Sanders was saddened by Fontes' firing, believing he deserved another chance at coaching the team.[63] On September 7 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sanders struggled on the ground, having 10 attempts for only 20 yards, but recorded 102 receiving yards and a touchdown.[64] On October 12, Sanders dominated with 215 yards from 24 attempts and two touchdowns against the Buccaneers, passing Jim Brown to be the fourth-ranked career rushing leader in NFL history, with 12,513 career rushing yards; he also caught a seven-yard touchdown pass.[64][65] Against the Indianapolis Colts, Sanders had another stellar performance, compiling 24 attempts for 216 yards and two touchdowns (including one of 80 yards).[64] With the win, Sanders became the first running back to have ten consecutive games with 100 yards rushing in a season, and became the first running back to have three touchdowns of 80+ yards in a season.[66] On November 27, 1997, against the Chicago Bears, Sanders had 19 attempts for 167 yards and three touchdowns, passing Eric Dickerson to become the second-ranked rusher for career yards behind Walter Payton[64][67] On December 21, 1997, Sanders entered the season finale against the New York Jets needing at least 131 rushing yards to reach 2,000 for the season; both teams needed a win to clinch a playoff berth.[68][64] Sanders reached the 2,000 mark on a two-yard run; finishing the game with 23 attempts for 184 yards and a touchdown; helping the Lions edge the Jets 13–10.[64][69] Sanders had a season that's considered among the greatest ever by a running back.[70] He recorded 2,053 rushing yards, which was first in the league that season; from 335 attempts, and 11 touchdowns, becoming just the third running back in history to reach 2,000 rushing yards in a season. For his accomplishments, he credited his offensive linemen, stating: "Without them, I wouldn't have run far at all."[71] Sanders had 100+ yards in the season's final 14 games, an NFL record.[64] With 2,358 total scrimmage yards, he broke the single-season record for scrimmage yards that was held by Marcus Allen; the record was broken two seasons later by Marshall Faulk, and again by Chris Johnson in 2009.[72] Sanders was named to the Pro Bowl and AP First-team All-Pro team, and awarded the Bert Bell Award. Sanders was also awarded his second career NFL Offensive Player of the Year Award, and the NFL Most Valuable Player (co-won with Brett Favre).[12] The Lions posted a 9–7 record and clinched a wild card spot as the No. 5 seed in the NFC.[24] Sanders and the Lions faced the Buccaneers, who were playing their first home postseason game in 18 years.[73] Sanders had 18 attempts for 65 yards as the Lions lost 10–20, after quarterback Scott Mitchell left the game with an injury in the third quarter.[74]

A picture of the New York Jets logo valid from 1978 to 1997.
The New York Jets logo (1978-1997). Sanders surpassed 2,000 yards in a season against the Jets in 1997.

On September 13, 1998, against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sanders recorded 185 rushing yards from 26 rushing attempts, with three touchdowns.[75] Sanders had 22 attempts for 69 yards in a 6–29 loss against the Minnesota Vikings.[75] On November 26, 1998, against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Sanders had a down game, with 20 attempts for only 33 rushing yards; the Lions were still victorious 19–16 in overtime.[75] Against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Sanders had 18 attempts for 102 yards.[75] In Sanders' final game of his career, on December 27, 1998, he had 19 attempts for 41 yards in a 10–19 loss against the Baltimore Ravens.[75] Sanders capped off his final season with 1,491 rushing yards (fourth in the league), from a career-high 343 attempts (fifth in the league), and four touchdowns.[75] He was nine yards short of completing five straight seasons with at least 1,500 rushing yards. He was selected to his tenth Pro Bowl, and to the named an AP Second-team All-Pro.[12] The Lions struggled despite Sanders' performances, going 5–11 and failing to make the postseason.[24]

Retirement

A picture of Sanders in a black shirt and looking at the camera.
Sanders in 2005.

On July 27, 1999, Sanders announced his retirement from pro football, on the day before Lions training camp was set to start. His retirement was made public by faxing a letter to The Wichita Eagle: his hometown newspaper.[11] In the letter, Sanders wrote:[76]

"Shortly after the end of last season, I felt that I probably would not return for the 1999–2000 season. I also felt that I should take as much time as possible to sort through my feelings and make sure that my feelings were back with conviction. Today, I officially declare my departure from the NFL."

He left football healthy, having gained 15,269 rushing yards (the most ever by any NFL player in a 10-year span).[12] He retired within 1,457 rushing yards of Walter Payton's career rushing mark of 16,726 yards. It has been speculated that Sanders would have surpassed the record if he hadn't retired early, a view held by Emmitt Smith, the eventual holder of the record.[77][11] His father praised him for his decision, saying that it "took guts."[11] Sanders took time in his decision, waiting "till the last minute."[11]

Sanders' retirement came somewhat unexpectedly and was a matter of controversy. Two years earlier, Sanders had renewed his contract with the Lions for $34.56 million over six years with an $11 million signing bonus. The Lions demanded that he return $5.5 million of the bonus. Sanders refused, and the Lions sued. On February 15, 2000, an arbitrator ruled that Sanders had to immediately repay $1,833,333.33 (a sixth of the bonus), with the remaining bonus to be repaid over each of the three years Sanders had left on the contract provided he stayed retired. Before the ruling, Sanders offered to pay back the entire $5.5 million in return for his release from the team. The Lions refused, stating they would welcome Sanders back to the team; otherwise, and honored his announced retirement. Sanders' agent Lamont Smith lobbied the team to trade his client.[78]

It was thought by some that Lions head coach Bobby Ross himself may have actually been the reason for Sanders' early retirement, but in his autobiography Barry Sanders: Now You See Him, Sanders praised Ross as a head coach who had nothing directly to do with his retirement. It was more his frustration with the management and direction of the Lions, and the resulting lack of success that likely contributed to his retirement, as Sanders revealed in his autobiography: "My retirement letter didn't even hint at my frustration, because I didn't want to take shots at people as I left ... Management had let quality players slip away. We'd been losing for years. Now we were right back where we were when I arrived." He wrote: "A goal that I still hadn't realized was playing in the Super Bowl, and all of the statistical achievements didn't put the team any closer to playing in the big game."[78]

Sanders has since patched things up with the Lions and appeared, in an unofficial capacity, at Lions events. In 2017, he rejoined the Lions in a paid role as the team's ambassador.[79]

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