Lions All-Grit Team: Cornerback

The Detroit Lions have a storied history of cornerbacks.

When it comes to grit, the team has been able to get the most out of physical, tough defensive backs who have helped the organization have some success. Three players from the '60's and '70's who played the cornerback position are now enshrined forever in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Here are the four defensive back who best exemplified grit for the Lions during their respective tenures.

Dick LeBeau (1959-1972)

Before a lengthy career in coaching, LeBeau landed with the Lions in 1959 to begin his time as a player. After a modest first season, he took off beginning in his second season when he recorded four interceptions.

LeBeau became a force in the secondary, consistently providing production with regards to interceptions. Over his 14 years with the team, he had 62 career picks and nine fumble recoveries, returning three of the interceptions and one of the fumbles for touchdowns.

Upon retiring, he began coaching and carved out a nice career as a coordinator. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame as a player in 2010.

Dick 'Night Train' Lane (1960-1965)

After a strong start to his career with the Rams and Chicago Cardinals, Lane came to Detroit having already earned four Pro Bowl honors and earning First Team All-Pro recognition in 1956. He became a big part of the Lions' defense, and paired nicely with LeBeau in the secondary.

In his first season, Lane notched five interceptions. The best was yet to come, however, as he earned First Team All-Pro honors in each of the next two seasons as he combined for 10 interceptions.

Lane finished his career in Detroit at age 37, notching 21 interceptions over his tenure in Detroit. He was inducted into the Pride of the Lions as well as the Hall of Fame.