The Pro Football Hall of Fame (PFHOF) issued an apology on Saturday after incorrectly announcing the death of Detroit Lions legend Lem Barney. Barney’s family quickly confirmed that the former NFL star is, in fact, alive and well.

The PFHOF sent an email to media outlets on Saturday morning announcing the passing of the 80-year-old Barney. The news, which included a statement from PFHOF CEO Jim Porter, was quickly circulated by major sports outlets, including NFL.com, as an obituary for the celebrated former cornerback.

Both Barney’s sister and his son, Lem Barney III, confirmed that the reports were entirely false and that Barney was alive and well. His son mentioned he had seen his father just two days earlier on Thanksgiving and even had a recent photo and confirmation from his father’s nurse to prove he was fine. 

It was revealed that the PFHOF had based its initial incorrect announcement on unverified “conflicting information” from “media sources associated with the Detroit Lions.”

The Hall of Fame issued a retraction and a public apology shortly after, stating it had received conflicting information and could not independently confirm the news.

In their apology, the PFHOF stated:

“Based on conflicting information regarding the reported passing of Lem Barney, the Pro Football Hall of Fame is rescinding the email sent earlier today. The Hall has not been able to confirm such news independently. Please accept our apology.”

The incident showed how fast unverified information can spread when major outlets repeat it. The Hall of Fame’s error pushed media groups to tighten their verification steps before reporting sensitive news.

Lem Barney stands tall in Lions history as the corner who changed games

Lem Barney spent 11 seasons with the Detroit Lions, building a career that placed him among the top defensive players of his era. The Lions picked him in the second round in 1967 out of Jackson State. He changed the team in his first year.

He led the league with 10 interceptions as a rookie, and he returned several of them for touchdowns. That fast start shaped the rest of his career.

He played cornerback and created problems for every quarterback he faced. His speed and sharp instincts helped him force turnovers at a high rate.

He also contributed to special teams, where he excelled with strong punt and kick returns, adding to his touchdown record. His impact showed up in every phase of the game.

He played from 1967 to 1977. He earned seven Pro Bowl nods and three First Team All-Pro selections. His whole body of work earned him a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1992. The Lions retired his number 20 jersey to honor his long run of production and his place in team history.

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