The Green Bay Packers are one of the most storied franchises in the NFL, with a rich history that spans over a century.
While most fans are familiar with the team’s Super Bowl victories and legendary players like Bart Starr and Brett Favre, there are some little-known facts that only die-hard fans might be aware of. Here are 10 facts about the Green Bay Packers that only true fans know:
1. The Packers Are the Only Community-Owned Team in the NFL
The Green Bay Packers are unique in professional sports as the only community-owned team in the NFL. Instead of being owned by a single person or corporation, the Packers are owned by over 537,000 shareholders who hold nearly 5 million shares. This ownership structure has kept the team in Green Bay, despite being one of the smallest markets in the league.
2. The Packers’ Original Name Was the Green Bay Indians
When the team was first founded in 1919, they were briefly called the Green Bay Indians. However, the name was quickly changed to the Packers after the Indian Packing Company, their first sponsor, agreed to pay for the team’s uniforms.
3. Curly Lambeau’s Drive to Form the Packers
Curly Lambeau, the team’s founder, not only gave the team its name but was also its first star player and coach. He convinced his employer, the Indian Packing Company, to fund the uniforms, which led to the iconic “Packers” name.
4. They Have the Most Championships in NFL History
While many fans know the Packers have won four Super Bowls, only the most dedicated followers are aware that they have won 13 league championships in total. This includes nine pre-Super Bowl NFL championships, more than any other team in the league.
5. Lambeau Field Is the NFL’s Oldest Stadium
Opened in 1957, Lambeau Field is the oldest continually operating stadium in the NFL. While it has undergone several renovations, it still holds onto its old-school charm, including the iconic frozen tundra that has become synonymous with playoff football.
6. The First NFL Title Game Was Played in a Blizzard
The Packers won the first-ever NFL Championship Game in 1933 during a blizzard. They defeated the Boston Redskins 21-6, showcasing the team’s legendary grit and resilience in harsh weather conditions.
7. The Packers Were Almost Sold in the 1950s
In the early 1950s, the Packers struggled both on the field and financially. There was even talk of selling the team and moving it out of Green Bay. However, a passionate fan base helped rally the community, and through stock sales and local support, the team stayed put.
8. They Were the First to Retire a Jersey Number
The Packers were the first team in NFL history to retire a jersey number, which was Don Hutson’s #14 in 1951. Hutson, a Hall of Fame wide receiver, revolutionized the position and is considered one of the greatest players in team history.
9. The Packers Have Their Own Hall of Fame
Not only do the Packers have a rich history, but they also have their own dedicated Hall of Fame, located at Lambeau Field. It was the first team-specific Hall of Fame in the NFL, established in 1970 to honor the franchise’s greatest players, coaches, and moments.
10. The Packers Invented the Lambeau Leap
The famous Lambeau Leap, where a player jumps into the stands to celebrate a touchdown with fans, was started by safety LeRoy Butler in 1993. It has since become a beloved tradition, and only true fans know the backstory behind this iconic celebration.
Whether you’re a lifelong Packers fan or just getting to know the team, these facts highlight the rich and unique history of the Green Bay Packers. From their community ownership to their record-breaking championships, the Packers truly stand apart as one of the most iconic franchises in sports.
