Detroit began losing its defense when Yale Lary retired following the 1964 season, while both Schmidt and Lane would retire a year later. The Lions struggled through the mid to late '60s, but used the time to rebuild their roster eventually drafting Lem Barney to replace Lane, Bob Kowalkowski and Ed Flanagan to build up the offensive line and running back Mel Farr. Despite said players being Pro Bowlers, the Lions still needed a franchise player which they found in the 3rd round of the 1968 NFL/AFL Draft when they drafted Hall of Fame tight end Charlie Sanders, a 7-time Pro Bowler who is considered one of the best players to ever play the position.