Drafted in the third round out of Tennessee in 1967, consensus All-American Paul Naumoff came to Detroit as a hard-hitting linebacker with an incredible football IQ. After carving out a role on special teams as a rookie, Naumoff quickly took over as the starting left linebacker, anchoring the second level of Detroit's defense for the next decade with remarkable consistency.

Naumoff’s intelligence and range made him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks trying to diagnose coverage. He hit his peak on the national stage in 1970, helping lead Detroit to a 10-4 record and a playoff berth while earning his first career Pro Bowl selection. Known as the quintessential glue guy in the locker room, coaches and teammates alike revered his steady leadership and instincts. That respect culminated in 1975 when his peers voted him the team’s Most Valuable Player after a stellar season featuring two interceptions.

Durability was the hallmark of Naumoff’s career. He once played in 142 consecutive games for the Lions, missing just two contests across his entire 12-year tenure in Honolulu blue. When he finally hung up his cleats following the 1978 season, only Wayne Walker and Dick LeBeau had appeared in more games in franchise history.

In his career, Naumoff played in 168 regular-season games with 151 starts, plus one postseason contest. He compiled 6.0 interceptions, seven fumble recoveries, and 20.5 sacks.