Lary played right safety, a position which gradually became free safety, for the Lions from 1952 to 1964. He had 50 career interceptions, an outstanding figure for that era. He was a Pro Bowl selection for nine years. He also returned kickoffs in 1952, 1953, and 1956. He missed the 1954-1955 seasons for military service.

He was also an outstanding punter, winning punting titles in 1959, 1961, and 1963. He was noted for hang time, and in 1960 opponents averaged returns of less than one yard per punt. His career average was 43 yards per punt, in 503 attempts.

Lary was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1979

Football, Hall of Fame