Netflix Releases “The Underdog”, A Highly Anticipated Documentary About the Detroit Lions Football legend Barry Sanders Slated for Release on the..
Netflix has confirmed the release of The Underdog, a highly anticipated documentary that will explore the life and legacy of Detroit Lions football legend, Barry Sanders. The documentary, set to premiere on Netflix on November 21, 2025, will delve into Sanders’ groundbreaking career in the NFL and the mysterious circumstances surrounding his sudden retirement.
Barry Sanders is widely regarded as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history. Over the course of his 10-season career with the Detroit Lions, he earned numerous accolades, including 10 Pro Bowl selections and a place in the NFL Hall of Fame. Sanders accumulated a staggering 15,269 rushing yards and 109 touchdowns, establishing himself as one of the most dynamic and elusive players the league has ever seen. Despite his success, Sanders shocked the sports world in 1999 when he abruptly retired at the age of 31, just 1,457 yards shy of breaking Walter Payton’s all-time rushing record.
The Underdog promises to offer an intimate and personal look at Sanders’ life, both on and off the field. The documentary features rare archival footage, exclusive interviews with Sanders himself, as well as commentary from his family, teammates, and sports analysts who have followed his remarkable career. Fans will get an inside look into Sanders’ work ethic, his profound impact on the NFL, and the personal and professional reasons that led to his sudden exit from the game.
Sanders’ decision to retire early remains one of the most talked-about moments in sports history. Despite having the talent and ability to continue playing at the highest level, Sanders’ departure left fans and analysts alike wondering what could have been. The Underdog is expected to answer some of these questions, shedding light on his motivations and providing a deeper understanding of one of the most enigmatic figures in the history of American football.
The timing of the documentary’s release is particularly significant, as interest in Barry Sanders’ legacy has recently surged. Earlier this year, the Detroit Lions honored Sanders with a statue outside Ford Field, recognizing his contributions to the team and the city of Detroit. This gesture is a testament to the lasting impact Sanders had on the franchise, as well as the city itself. Additionally, the 2023 documentary Bye Bye Barry, which also explored Sanders’ career and retirement, became an instant hit, further fueling the public’s curiosity about Sanders’ life and career.
The Underdog promises to offer a fresh perspective and exclusive content, differentiating itself from previous works on the subject by focusing on Sanders’ personal story. The documentary aims to celebrate his legacy while also delving into the complexities of his life, on and off the field. Sports enthusiasts, especially those who grew up watching Sanders dominate the gridiron, are eager to see a deeper, more personal exploration of one of football’s most iconic players.
With The Underdog set to stream on Netflix in November 2025, fans can look forward to a documentary that will both entertain and enlighten, as it uncovers the legacy of a true underdog who became an NFL legend.