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NFL community remembers Charlie Sanders

Charlie Sanders was an amazing football player, but he was an even more amazing person.

By Sean Yuille
Al Messerschmidt/Getty Images

As a member of the Detroit Lions from 1968-77, Charlie Sanders made seven Pro Bowls and helped redefine the tight end position. He later became a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and he continued to make contributions to the game of football as a broadcaster, coach and member of the Lions' front office.

As good as Sanders was as a player on the field, he was perhaps even better as a person off the field. That's the theme that has developed since he passed away last Thursday following a battle with cancer. Various media members, current and former players and other people in the NFL/football community have shared their memories of Sanders in the days since his passing, and it's clear that his impact in life went far beyond the sport he played. Take a look:

Statement from Lions president Tom Lewand:

"Today we lost one of the greatest Detroit Lions of all time. Charlie was a special person to the entire Lions family for nearly a half century. While never forgetting his North Carolina roots, 'Satch' became the consummate Detroit Lion on and off the field. He was a perfect ambassador for our organization and, more important, was a true friend, colleague and mentor to so many of us. Our prayers are with Georgianna, his children, grandchildren, and the entire Sanders family. We are grateful for the considerable personal and professional legacy Charlie leaves to us."

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