Dick “Night Train” Lane

Dick “Night Train” Lane wouldn’t survive in today’s NFL. No, not because he wouldn’t survive playing against today’s athletes.

Dick “Night Train” Lane wouldn’t survive in today’s NFL because he would be way too aggressive for referees. Today’s NFL couldn’t handle Lane’s tenacity, ferociousness and ferocity. He would be flagged on every play.

In 1952, Lane was sick of working at an aircraft factory so he decided to show up to the Los Angeles Rams’ training camp. He was projected as a defensive end, but with future Hall of Famers Tom Fears and Elroy Hirsch already on the roster, coach Joe Stydahar tried Lane at defensive back.

As long as Lane could hit someone, he didn’t care what position he played.

During his rookie season in 1952, Dick Lane set the record for most interceptions in an NFL season with 14. Not bad for a guy that wore #81 (an unusual number for a defensive back) and who was projected to be a defensive end.

After just two seasons with the Los Angeles Rams, Lane was traded to the Chicago Cardinals in 1954 and then eventually to the Detroit Lions in 1960. Lane played in Detroit until he retired in 1965.

“Night Train” finished his career with 68 interceptions, amassed 1,207 interception yards and scored five touchdowns. He was selected to seven Pro Bowls, was a 10-time All-Pro selection and was elected to the NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team. Lane was also a part of the 1950s All-Decade Team.

Lane is often considered as one of the best cornerbacks to ever have played the game and certainly the toughest. Receivers used to cringe when they knew Lane was in the area, fearing a ferocious hit. He also had great ball skills, which made him a double-threat considering his outstanding tackling ability.

In 1974, Dick “Night Train” Lane was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.