Blades played a big part in the University of Miami's winning the 1987 NCAA National Championship.

He also won the Jim Thorpe Award in that year and, in 2006, was named to the College Football Hall of Fame for his play with the Miami Hurricanes.

Following his graduation from the University of Miami, Blades entered the 1988 NFL draft and was selected in the first round with the third overall pick.

During his time with the Lions, Blades was considered one of the most physical defensive backs in the NFL, even playing as a linebacker in certain passing situations toward the end of his career.

He was a defensive captain for five years in Detroit and his 815 career tackles place him second on the Lions’ all-time list.