Leonard Thompson, former Detroit Lions wide receiver in ‘70s and ‘80s, dies at 69

ALLEN PARK -- Leonard Thompson, whose name is sprinkled throughout the Detroit Lions’ record book, has died at 69, according to the team. No cause of death was given.

Thompson was a consistent presence in Detroit for 12 seasons with the franchise between 1975 and 1986. He’s tied for fourth all-time with 35 touchdown catches. He’s eighth with 4,682 receiving yards, not to mention 10th all-time with his 175 games played for the franchise. He was an eighth-round pick out of Oklahoma State in 1975, originally entering the league as a running back.

“We are saddened to learn this week of the passing of Lions legend Leonard Thompson, who played 12 seasons for the Lions from 1975-1986,” the said in a statement. “In Lions history, Thompson is tied for 10th in career games played and tied for fourth in career touchdown receptions. We extend our sympathies to the Thompson family.”

While Thompson played in only two postseason games in those 12 seasons, he caught 12 balls for 224 yards on the big stage. Thompson also added 64 rushes for 327 yards and three touchdowns. He’s also remembered for his work on special teams, both in the return and coverage phase. Some of his most memorable moments include a 94-yard touchdown catch from Eric Hipple in primetime back in 1981, not to mention a three-touchdown reception game on Thanksgiving against the New York Jets in 1985.

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