Billy Sims Is Expected to Announce Retirement
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Billy Sims, the most successful running back in Detroit Lion history, is expected to announce his retirement at a news conference today, team officials said.
Sims, 30, hasn’t played since suffering a knee injury midway through the 1984 season. He underwent surgery for a torn ligament but has been unable to come back despite intensive rehabilitation.
The Lions’ all-time leader in touchdowns and rushing yardage, Sims already is believed to have filed a claim on an insurance policy he took out before the 1984 season. The policy guarantees payment of Sims’ $4.5-million contract in the event of a career-ending injury.
Sims was the Lions’ first pick in the 1980 draft after winning the Heisman Trophy at Oklahoma. He is the Lions’ all-time rushing leader with 5,106 yards and 47 touchdowns.
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