History of Green Bay Packers in Timeline
The Green Bay Packers, based in Green Bay, Wisconsin, are a historic American football team with a rich legacy in the NFL. Established in 1919, they are the third-oldest franchise and hold the distinction of being the only non-profit, community-owned major league professional sports team in the United States. The Packers have called Lambeau Field home since 1957 and boast the most wins of any NFL team, solidifying their place as one of the most successful franchises in league history.
August 11, 1919: Founding of the Packers
On August 11, 1919, Earl "Curly" Lambeau and George Whitney Calhoun, former high school football rivals, established the Green Bay Packers.
1919: Establishment of the Green Bay Packers
The Green Bay Packers were established in 1919 and have been playing for over a century.
1919: Team's Origin and Early Years
The Green Bay Packers were formed in 1919 by Earl "Curly" Lambeau and George Whitney Calhoun. The team was initially a semi-professional team.
1919: Founding of the Green Bay Packers
The Green Bay Packers were founded in 1919. They were initially an independent team.
1920: Competition in the Midwest
Between 1919 and 1920, the Packers played against other semi-professional teams from Wisconsin and the Midwest.
1920: Start of the Packers-Bears Rivalry
The Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears began their historic rivalry in 1920, marking the beginning of one of the NFL's oldest and most intense competitions.
1920: Acme Packing Company Purchases Indian Packing
The Green Bay Packers' sponsor, Indian Packing, was bought by the Acme Packing Company in 1920, and "ACME PACKERS" was printed on their jerseys.
1920: End of Independent Status
The Green Bay Packers' time as an independent team came to an end in 1920.
1920: NFL's Inaugural Season
The NFL kicked off its inaugural season in 1920.
August 27, 1921: Securing a Franchise in the APFA
The Green Bay Packers were granted a franchise in the American Professional Football Association (APFA) on August 27, 1921. The APFA later changed its name to the National Football League (NFL).
1921: Joining the NFL
In 1921, the Green Bay Packers joined the American Professional Football Association (APFA), which later became the National Football League (NFL).
1921: Bears Shutout Packers in First Meeting
In their inaugural matchup in 1921, the Chicago Bears, then known as the Staleys, shut out the Green Bay Packers with a score of 20-0.
1921: Joining the APFA
The Packers joined the American Professional Football Association (APFA), which would later become the NFL, in 1921.
1921: Start of the Bears-Packers Rivalry
The rivalry between the Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers began in 1921, becoming one of the oldest rivalries in U.S. professional sports history.
1923: First Stock Sale
The Packers held their first stock sale in 1923, raising $5,000.
1923: Original Articles of Incorporation
The original "Articles of Incorporation for the Green Bay Football Corporation" were enacted in 1923, stipulating that any proceeds from the sale of the franchise would go towards building a soldier's memorial.
1924: First Ejections in NFL History Mark Packers-Bears Game
In a game marked by its intensity, the 1924 matchup between the Packers and Bears, ending in a 3-0 win for Chicago, witnessed the first-ever ejection of players in NFL history. Frank Hanny of the Bears and Walter Voss of the Packers were ejected for engaging in a physical altercation.
1925: Packers Secure First Victory Against Bears
The Green Bay Packers achieved their first victory against the Chicago Bears in 1925, winning 14-10.
1925: Packers Begin Playing at City Stadium
The Green Bay Packers began playing their home games at City Stadium in 1925.
1927: Near Championship Miss
The Green Bay Packers came close to winning the championship in 1927.
1928: Packers and Giants First Meet
The Packers and Giants played their first game against each other in 1928.
1929: First NFL Championship Title
The Green Bay Packers achieved their first NFL Championship title in 1929, finishing the season undefeated with a record of 12-0-1.
1929: Packers' First NFL Championship
The Green Bay Packers won their first NFL Championship in 1929, marking the beginning of their reign as league champions.
1929: Packers' First Championship
The Green Bay Packers won their first championship in 1929.
1929: WTMJ Becomes Packers' Radio Flagship
WTMJ in Milwaukee became the flagship station of the Packers Radio Network in 1929, marking the beginning of the longest association between a radio station and an NFL team.
1930: Back-to-Back Championships
The Green Bay Packers secured their second consecutive NFL Championship title in 1930.
1930: Packers and Lions First Meet
The Packers and the Lions, then known as the Portsmouth Spartans, first played each other in 1930.
1931: Packers Achieve First Three-Peat
The Green Bay Packers, under Curly Lambeau, won their third consecutive NFL Championship in 1931, a feat unmatched by any other team.
1931: Third Championship in a Row
The Packers' dominance continued as they clinched their third consecutive NFL Championship in 1931, solidifying their place as a powerhouse team.
1932: Packers and Lions Begin Regular Season Matchups
Since 1932, the Packers and Lions have consistently met at least twice a season, establishing a pattern of regular season matchups between the two teams.
1932: End of Standings-Based Championships
The NFL awarded its championship based on standings until 1932, after which a championship game was instituted.
1933: Packers and Lions Become Division Rivals
In 1933, the Packers and Lions became division rivals, marking the beginning of their enduring competition in the same division.
1933: Packers Begin Playing Part of Home Slate in Milwaukee
Starting in 1933, the Green Bay Packers began playing a portion of their home games in Milwaukee, expanding their presence beyond Green Bay and reaching a wider fan base.
1933: NFL Championship Game Established
The NFL held its first championship game in 1933 to determine the league champion.
1933: Start of NFL Playoffs
The NFL playoffs were first established in 1933.
1933: Playing in Milwaukee
The Packers started to play some of their home games in Milwaukee in 1933.
1934: Lions Move to Detroit
The Portsmouth Spartans moved to Detroit and became the Detroit Lions in 1934.
1935: Arrival of Don Hutson
Don Hutson joined the Green Bay Packers from Alabama in 1935, bringing his exceptional skills as an end to the team.
1936: NFL Championship with Hutson
With the addition of Don Hutson, the Green Bay Packers won the NFL Championship in 1936.
1937: Navy Blue Throwbacks Worn
The Green Bay Packers wore navy blue throwback jerseys from 1937 to 1949.
1939: Another Championship Title
The Green Bay Packers, spearheaded by Don Hutson's exceptional performance, secured another NFL Championship title in 1939.
1940: Hutson's Defensive Prowess
In 1940, Don Hutson exhibited his versatility by leading the league in interceptions as a safety.
1941: Bears Defeat Packers in Championship Run
The Chicago Bears defeated the Green Bay Packers 33-14 in 1941, on their way to winning the NFL Championship Game against the New York Giants.
1944: First Championship Since 1944
The Packers won their first NFL championship since 1944.
1944: Fourth NFL Championship Victory
The Packers' success continued with their fourth NFL Championship victory in 1944.
1945: Hutson's Retirement
Don Hutson retired in 1945, leaving behind an impressive legacy with 18 NFL records.
1946: Beginning of Residence at Rockwood Lodge
The Green Bay Packers players and their families resided at the Rockwood Lodge from 1946 onwards.
1947: First Winning Season Since 1947
The 1959 season marked the Packers' first winning season since 1947, with a 7-5 record.
1947: Improved Record at Rockwood Lodge
The Packers' record improved to 12-10-1 during the 1947 and 1948 seasons while residing at Rockwood Lodge.
1948: Continued Residency at Rockwood Lodge
The Green Bay Packers continued to reside at Rockwood Lodge in 1948.
1949: Lambeau's Departure
Curly Lambeau departed from the Green Bay Packers after the 1949 season.
1949: Departure from Rockwood Lodge
The Green Bay Packers left Rockwood Lodge after a disappointing 3-9 season in 1949.
1949: Navy Blue Throwbacks Retired
The Green Bay Packers stopped wearing navy blue throwback jerseys in 1949.
January 24, 1950: Rockwood Lodge Fire
On January 24, 1950, Rockwood Lodge, purchased by Lambeau for the team, burned down.
1950: Green and Gold Become Primary Colors
In 1950, the Green Bay Packers changed their primary colors from navy blue and athletic gold to kelly green and athletic gold.
1950: All-Green Uniforms Debut
The Green Bay Packers debuted all-green uniforms in 1950.
1951: Hutson's Number Retired
In 1951, the Packers made history by retiring Don Hutson's number 14, the first time the franchise bestowed this honor.
1951: Leather Helmets Phased Out
The Green Bay Packers stopped wearing leather helmets in 1951, switching to metallic gold plastic helmets.
1953: Packers Begin Playing at Milwaukee's County Stadium
In 1953, the Packers began playing two to three home games annually at Milwaukee's County Stadium, a move driven by a desire to tap into the larger market and accommodate growing fan support in Milwaukee.
1953: All-Green Uniforms Last Worn
The Green Bay Packers last wore all-green uniforms in 1953.
1956: Packers Play Final Game at City Stadium
The Green Bay Packers bid farewell to City Stadium, their home turf, after their final game there in 1956, marking the end of an era for the team.
1957: New Stadium Unveiled
A new stadium was unveiled for the Green Bay Packers in 1957.
1957: Lambeau Field Inauguration
The Green Bay Packers began playing their home games at Lambeau Field in 1957.
1957: Packers Open New City Stadium
The Green Bay Packers ushered in a new era in 1957 with the grand opening of a brand new City Stadium, a state-of-the-art facility constructed exclusively for the team, marking a significant milestone in franchise history.
1957: Bike Tradition Begins
The tradition of Packers fans having players ride their bikes to practice at Ray Nitschke Field started around 1957, the same time Lambeau Field was being built.
1958: Worst Season in Packers History
The 1958 season, under coach Ray "Scooter" McLean, marked the worst in Packers history with a record of 1-10-1.
1958: Hunter Green Replaces Kelly Green
The Green Bay Packers replaced their kelly green with hunter green in 1958, which has remained a team color ever since.
February 2, 1959: Vince Lombardi Hired as Head Coach
Vince Lombardi joined the Green Bay Packers as head coach and general manager on February 2, 1959.
September 27, 1959: First Regular Season Game Under Lombardi
On September 27, 1959, the Packers, led by Lombardi, won their first regular-season game against the Chicago Bears with a score of 9-6.
1959: Vince Lombardi Era Begins
Vince Lombardi became the coach of the Green Bay Packers in 1959, and soon after, the team adopted their now-signature forest green or white jerseys with metallic gold pants.
1960: Start of Sell-Out Streak
The Green Bay Packers began selling out every game in Green Bay in 1960, regardless of whether it was preseason, regular season, or playoffs.
1960: Packers Begin Sellout Streak
Every Green Bay Packers home game, including preseason, regular season, and playoffs, has been sold out since 1960, highlighting the incredible dedication of their fanbase.
1960: Packers Games Sell Out Since 1960
The Green Bay Packers achieved a remarkable feat as their games have consistently sold out since 1960, showcasing the immense popularity and unwavering support for the team.
1961: Green Bay Earns the Title "Titletown"
Green Bay earned its nickname, "Titletown," in 1961, reflecting the Packers' dominance in football.
1961: Packers-Vikings Rivalry Begins
The rivalry between the Green Bay Packers and the Minnesota Vikings commenced in 1961, evolving into one of the most intense rivalries in the NFL due to the heated nature of their matchups over the years.
1961: "G" Logo Introduced
Vince Lombardi asked for a logo to be designed for the Green Bay Packers in 1961, and the oval "G" logo was then added to the team's helmets.
December 21, 1962: The Sport of the '60s
On December 21, 1962, following their impressive 10-0 start to the season, the Green Bay Packers were featured on the cover of Time magazine. The issue, titled "The Sport of the '60s", highlighted the Packers' success as a representation of the NFL's growing popularity.
1963: Hutson's Hall of Fame Induction
Don Hutson was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame as a charter member in 1963.
1964: Georgia Uses Similar "G" Logo
After clearing it with the Green Bay Packers, the University of Georgia adopted a "G" logo similar to the Packers' logo in 1964.
1965: City Stadium Renamed Lambeau Field
In 1965, City Stadium underwent a name change to honor the legacy of Curly Lambeau, the legendary figure who played a pivotal role in the Packers' history, becoming Lambeau Field, a name synonymous with football excellence.
1965: Controversial Playoff Win
In 1965, The Packers reached the NFL Championship game after a controversial win against the Colts. Don Chandler's tying field goal was disputed, with some believing it went wide right, but the officials ruled it good. The Packers went on to win the game in overtime and ultimately secured their third NFL Championship under Lombardi.
1965: Lombardi Era Begins with NFL Championship
The Green Bay Packers, led by Vince Lombardi, secured the NFL Championship in 1965, marking the start of a dynasty.
1966: Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame Founded
The Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame, the first hall of fame dedicated to a single professional American football team, was founded in 1966.
1966: First Super Bowl Victory
Under coach Vince Lombardi, the Green Bay Packers secured their first Super Bowl victory in 1966.
1966: Ice Bowl Rematch
The 1967 NFL championship game was a rematch of the 1966 contest against the Dallas Cowboys.
1966: The First Super Bowl
The first Super Bowl was held in 1966, marking a new era for professional football.
1966: Road to Super Bowl I
Led by MVP quarterback Bart Starr, the Packers had a 12-2 season in 1966. They secured a win in the NFL Championship against the Dallas Cowboys with a crucial interception by Tom Brown in the end zone. This victory led them to Super Bowl I, where they triumphed over the Kansas City Chiefs.
1967: Packers Schedule Western Conference Playoff Game in Milwaukee
Amidst the growing interest in American Football and the potential threat of an AFL franchise in Milwaukee, the Packers made a strategic decision in 1967 by scheduling a Western Conference Playoff game in the city, aiming to maintain their strong fan base and presence in Milwaukee.
1967: Lombardi's Final Season
The 1967 season marked the end of an era as Vince Lombardi stepped down as head coach. The Packers won their third straight NFL championship in the infamous "Ice Bowl" against the Dallas Cowboys, the coldest NFL game ever played. They then went on to win Super Bowl II against the Oakland Raiders.
1967: Second Consecutive Super Bowl Win
The Green Bay Packers, led by Vince Lombardi, achieved a second consecutive Super Bowl victory in 1967.
1967: Packers Complete Second Three-Peat
Under Vince Lombardi's leadership, the Green Bay Packers achieved their second three-peat, winning the NFL Championship in 1967 and solidifying their place in NFL history.
1968: Struggles After Lombardi
After Lombardi's departure in 1968, the Packers faced a period of struggle. For nearly 25 years, they had limited success, with only five winning seasons.
1968: Bears' Mac Percival Clinches Victory with Rare Fair Catch Kick
In 1968, Bears kicker Mac Percival secured a victory against the Packers with a successful fair catch kick, a rarity in the sport, highlighting a unique moment in the rivalry's history.
1968: Highland Avenue Renamed
In 1968, The city of Green Bay renamed Highland Avenue to Lombardi Avenue in honor of Vince Lombardi.
1969: Lombardi Leaves Green Bay
Lombardi left the Green Bay Packers in 1969 to become head coach and minority owner of the Washington Redskins.
1969: Final NFL Championship Game Before Merger
The 1969 NFL Championship Game marked the end of an era, as it was the last one before the AFL-NFL merger.
September 3, 1970: The Vince Lombardi Trophy
Following Vince Lombardi's death on September 3, 1970, the Super Bowl trophy was renamed in his honor to commemorate his legacy and achievements with the Packers.
1970: AFL-NFL Merger Creates NFC Championship
The AFL-NFL merger in 1970 led to the creation of the NFC Championship Game.
1970: Packers and Giants Begin Playing in the NFC
Since 1970, both the Packers and the Giants have been playing in the NFC, marking a significant period in their long-standing rivalry.
1972: End of Local Packers Game Blackouts
The last local blackout of a Green Bay Packers home game occurred in 1972, a testament to the team's enduring popularity and strong home attendance.
1972: Previous NFC Central Division Title
The Packers last won the NFC Central Division title in 1972 before their victory in 1995.
1974: Questionable Trade
In 1974, acting general manager Dan Devine made a trade that sent multiple high draft picks to the Los Angeles Rams in exchange for quarterback John Hadl, who only played for Green Bay for a short time. This move is considered a prime example of the poor personnel decisions that plagued the team.
1975: Draft Picks Traded Away
The Packers traded away multiple draft picks in 1975, including first and second rounders, as part of the controversial trade for John Hadl.
1976: Draft Picks Traded Away
The Packers traded away multiple draft picks in 1976, including first and second rounders, as part of the controversial trade for John Hadl.
1977: Buccaneers and Packers Become Division Rivals
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Green Bay Packers became division rivals in 1977, marking the start of their regular season clashes within the same division.
1982: The Strike Season
The 1982 NFL season, which was shortened due to a players' strike, marked one of the few winning seasons the Packers experienced during their period of difficulty.
1985: Packers and Buccaneers Play in the Snow Bowl
In 1985, the Packers and the Buccaneers played a memorable game in snowy conditions, adding to the history of their rivalry.
December 1986: Green Bay Packers Foundation Established
The Green Bay Packers Foundation was created in December 1986 to support various community programs.
1987: "Cheeseheads" First Used
The term "cheeseheads" was first used as an insult towards Wisconsin residents during a 1987 baseball game between the Chicago White Sox and Milwaukee Brewers.
1989: Draft Day Disappointment
The 1989 NFL Draft saw the Packers make another questionable decision by selecting Tony Mandarich over future Hall of Famers, a move widely regarded as one of the biggest draft blunders in NFL history.
1989: Packers Pro Shop Opens
The Packers Pro Shop, the official retail store of the Green Bay Packers, opened in 1989.
1989: Packers Wear White at Home
While many teams in the NFL choose to wear white jerseys at home early in the season, the Green Bay Packers only did so twice, during the first two games of the 1989 season.
1991: Ron Wolf Takes Charge
Recognizing the need for a change, the Packers brought in Ron Wolf as general manager in 1991, entrusting him with complete control over football operations.
1991: End of an Era
By 1991, the Packers era of minimal success following Lombardi's departure came to an end.
1991: Packers Establish Preferred Management Structure
In 1991, the Packers established their preferred management structure with a general manager overseeing football operations and a head coach reporting to them.
1992: Favre's Arrival
In 1992, the Packers acquired Brett Favre from the Atlanta Falcons in exchange for a first-round draft pick. Favre took over as quarterback after an injury to Don Majkowski and led the Packers to victory, marking the beginning of his record-breaking run as the team's starting quarterback.
1992: Packers Show Promise
In 1992, the Packers started to show improvement and garner attention as a competitive force in the league.
1992: Mike Holmgren Joins the Packers
Ron Wolf made a significant move in 1992 by appointing Mike Holmgren, the San Francisco 49ers offensive coordinator, as the head coach of the Green Bay Packers.
1993: Reggie White Signs with Green Bay
Seeking to strengthen their defense, the Packers made a major acquisition in 1993 by signing Reggie White, a highly sought-after free agent, which significantly impacted the team's performance.
1993: Renewed Success and Playoff Appearances
The Packers experienced a resurgence of success starting in 1993, making the playoffs numerous times.
1994: Packers Return to Green Bay for Full Season
In 1994, the Green Bay Packers played their full slate of games in Green Bay for the first time in 62 years. This was prompted by improvements and seating expansions at Lambeau Field, along with the Brewers preparing to campaign for their new stadium.
1994: Packers Wear Throwback Jerseys
The Green Bay Packers donned throwback navy blue and gold jerseys in 1994 to celebrate the NFL's 75th anniversary.
1994: Packers End Games at Milwaukee's County Stadium
The Packers played their final game at Milwaukee's County Stadium in 1994, ending their long-standing tradition of playing part of their home schedule in the city.
1994: Playoff Appearance
The Packers secured their place in the playoffs for the second consecutive year in 1994, showcasing their growing strength as a team.
1994: "Cheeseheads" Embraced by Packers Fans
What was initially an insult, "cheeseheads" became a source of pride for Wisconsinites, and in 1994 it was embraced by Green Bay Packers fans.
1995: End of Milwaukee Home Games
The Packers stopped playing some of their home games in Milwaukee in 1995.
1995: Start of Packers-49ers Playoff Rivalry
The Green Bay Packers and San Francisco 49ers began their playoff rivalry in 1995.
1995: Rhodes' Success with the Eagles
Ray Rhodes experienced success as the head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles from 1995 to 1998.
1995: NFC Central Division Champions
For the first time since 1972, the Packers clinched the NFC Central Division title in 1995, marking a significant milestone in their resurgence.
1995: Lambeau Field Renovations and Staying in Green Bay
After renovations at Lambeau Field in 1995, the Packers found it more profitable to play all of their home games in Green Bay.
1996: Super Bowl XXXI Champions
In 1996, the Green Bay Packers, under coach Mike Holmgren, triumphed in Super Bowl XXXI.
1996: Super Bowl XXXI Champions
The 1996 season marked a triumphant return to glory for the Packers as they achieved a league-best 13-3 record. Their dominant performance continued throughout the playoffs, culminating in a Super Bowl XXXI victory against the New England Patriots, securing their 12th championship.
November 1997: Beneficiary Change
In November 1997, the Packers shareholders voted to change the beneficiary of any residual assets from the sale or dissolution of the team to the Green Bay Packers Foundation.
1997: Foundation Designated as Beneficiary
At the Packers' 1997 annual stockholders meeting, the Green Bay Packers Foundation was officially designated as the recipient of any residual assets from the sale or dissolution of the team.
1997: Sherman Joins the Packers Coaching Staff
Mike Sherman began his coaching career with the Green Bay Packers as the tight ends coach in 1997.
1998: Brett Favre in "There's Something About Mary"
Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre was the subject of a running gag in the 1998 film "There's Something About Mary," where Cameron Diaz's character repeatedly mentions her boyfriend "Brett."
1998: Sherman Continues as Tight Ends Coach
Mike Sherman continued his role as the Packers' tight ends coach in 1998.
1998: End of Rhodes' Tenure with the Eagles
Ray Rhodes' time as head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles ended in 1998.
1998: Packers' Season Ends in Controversial Playoff Loss
The Green Bay Packers' 1998 season ended in a controversial playoff loss to the San Francisco 49ers. Despite a late touchdown pass from Brett Favre to Antonio Freeman, the 49ers emerged victorious with a last-second touchdown catch by Terrell Owens. The game was marred by a disputed fumble by Jerry Rice that was not reviewed, leading to the NFL's reinstatement of an instant replay system the following season. This game marked the end of an era in Green Bay, with coach Mike Holmgren and Reggie White departing the team.
1998: Packers and Buccaneers Face Off in Playoffs
The Packers and Buccaneers met in a playoff game in 1998, highlighting a significant moment in their rivalry as both teams competed for postseason advancement.
1999: McCarthy's First Stint with the Packers
Mike McCarthy's first coaching role with the Green Bay Packers was as the quarterbacks coach in 1999.
1999: Sherman Follows Holmgren to Seattle
Mike Sherman joined Mike Holmgren's staff in Seattle as the offensive coordinator in 1999, although he did not call plays during games.
1999: Ray Rhodes Era Begins and Ends
The Green Bay Packers hired Ray Rhodes as head coach in 1999. Despite high expectations, the team finished 8-8, and Rhodes was fired after just one season. General manager Ron Wolf felt the team had become complacent under Rhodes' leadership.
2000: Mike Sherman Takes the Helm
In 2000, the Packers hired Mike Sherman as their new head coach. Despite his lack of prior head coaching experience, Sherman led the team to a 9-7 record, instilling a positive atmosphere in the locker room.
April 2001: Sherman Becomes General Manager
Following Ron Wolf's resignation, Mike Sherman assumed the role of general manager in addition to his head coaching duties in April 2001.
2001: Packers Wear Blue and Gold Throwbacks on Thanksgiving
For a Thanksgiving Day game against the Detroit Lions, the Green Bay Packers wore blue and gold 1930s-era throwback uniforms.
2001: Start of Sherman's Successful Regular Seasons
From 2001 to 2004, Mike Sherman led the Packers to consistent regular-season success, fueled by the performances of Brett Favre, Ahman Green, and a strong offensive line.
2002: Seahawks Move to the NFC
The Seattle Seahawks relocated to the National Football Conference (NFC) in 2002, leading to more frequent matchups with the Green Bay Packers and the development of their rivalry.
2002: Buccaneers and Packers End Division Rivalry
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Green Bay Packers ceased to be division rivals after 2002, concluding an era of frequent matchups within the same division.
January 4, 2003: Packers' Historic Home Playoff Loss
The Green Bay Packers suffered their first-ever home playoff loss on January 4, 2003, against the Atlanta Falcons. This ended their undefeated streak in home playoff games since the NFL playoffs began in 1933.
2003: Packers Wear Green and Gold Throwbacks on Thanksgiving
For a 2003 Thanksgiving Day game against the Detroit Lions, the Green Bay Packers wore green and gold 1960s-era throwback uniforms.
2003: Seahawks' Hasselbeck Throws Game-Losing Interception in Playoff Debut Against Packers
In their first playoff meeting in 2003, the Seahawks, led by quarterback Matt Hasselbeck, faced the Packers in a game that went into overtime. Despite guaranteeing a game-winning drive, Hasselbeck threw a costly interception that resulted in a loss for the Seahawks.
2003: Lambeau Field Undergoes Extensive Renovations
Lambeau Field, the iconic home of the Green Bay Packers, underwent major renovations in 2003. These enhancements aimed to modernize the stadium's facilities, enhance the fan experience, and expand seating capacity, further solidifying its status as a premier sporting venue.
2003: Historic Season Opener
The Packers' 2003 season opener marked the first time since 2003 that the league-wide kickoff game did not feature the defending Super Bowl champions.
2004: End of Sherman's Successful Regular Seasons, Concerns About Depth
By the end of 2004, concerns arose regarding the Packers' diminishing team depth and Sherman's ability to manage both coaching and general manager responsibilities.
2004: Concerns About Sherman's Dual Roles
By the end of 2004, concerns grew about Mike Sherman's ability to handle both the general manager and head coach roles effectively.
2004: Family Night Sellout Crowds
The Green Bay Packers' annual scrimmage, Family Night, saw sellout crowds of over 60,000 fans in both 2004 and 2005.
2005: Record-Breaking Family Night Attendance
The Green Bay Packers set an attendance record at Family Night in 2005 when 62,492 fans watched them play the Buffalo Bills.
2005: Sherman Removed as General Manager and Later Fired
In early 2005, Packers president Bob Harlan removed Mike Sherman from his general manager duties but retained him as head coach. However, following a disappointing 4-12 season, Sherman was fired.
2006: Favre Announces Return, Packers Miss Playoffs
Despite Brett Favre's announcement to return for the 2006 season, the Packers missed the playoffs.
2006: Shutout at Lambeau Field
In 2006, the Packers suffered a 35-0 shutout against the New England Patriots, the last time they would be shut out at home until 2017.
2006: Mike McCarthy Becomes Head Coach
Ted Thompson, the Packers' new general manager, hired Mike McCarthy as the head coach in 2006. McCarthy had previously served as the team's quarterbacks coach in 1999.
December 2007: Ted Thompson Signs Contract Extension
In December 2007, Ted Thompson, the General Manager of the Green Bay Packers, signed a 5-year contract extension with the team.
2007: Favre's Consecutive Starts Streak
Brett Favre's consecutive starts streak, which began in 1992 with the Packers, continued until 2007, spanning his time with Green Bay, the New York Jets, and the Minnesota Vikings.
2007: Favre's Resurgence and Playoff Run
In 2007, Brett Favre had one of his best seasons under coach Mike McCarthy. The Packers finished 13-3 and secured a first-round bye in the playoffs. Favre's impressive performance, along with the emergence of running back Ryan Grant, propelled the team to a divisional playoff win against the Seattle Seahawks.
2007: Among the Greatest
In 2007, a panel of football experts at ESPN recognized the exceptional performance of the 1996 Green Bay Packers, ranking them as the sixth-greatest team in Super Bowl history.
January 20, 2008: Packers Fall Short in NFC Championship
On January 20, 2008, the Green Bay Packers lost to the New York Giants in the NFC Championship game. This game marked Brett Favre's last as a Green Bay Packer, ending with an interception in overtime.
February 5, 2008: Mike McCarthy Signs Contract Extension
On February 5, 2008, Green Bay Packers head coach Mike McCarthy secured a 5-year contract extension with the team.
March 4, 2008: Brett Favre Announces Retirement
On March 4, 2008, legendary Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre announced his retirement from professional football.
August 4, 2008: Brett Favre's Reinstatement Granted
Brett Favre's request for reinstatement to the NFL, after previously announcing his retirement, was granted by Commissioner Roger Goodell on August 4, 2008.
August 6, 2008: Brett Favre Traded to New York Jets
On August 6, 2008, in a move that surprised many, the Green Bay Packers traded Brett Favre to the New York Jets. The Packers received a conditional draft pick in 2009 as part of the trade.
August 2008: Packers Fans Ranked Second Best
ESPN.com ranked Green Bay Packers fans the second-best in the NFL in August 2008.
2008: Aaron Rodgers Era Begins; Shift in Packers-Cowboys Rivalry
With the start of the Aaron Rodgers era in 2008, the dynamics of the Packers-Cowboys rivalry shifted, as Rodgers led the Packers to a dominant position against the Cowboys.
2008: Playoff Drought Begins
The Green Bay Packers missed the playoffs in 2008, marking the beginning of a drought that would last until 2010.
2008: Aaron Rodgers' Debut Season
The 2008 NFL season marked the start of a new era for the Green Bay Packers, with Aaron Rodgers, the team's 2005 first-round draft pick, taking over as the starting quarterback. This ended Brett Favre's 16-year reign as the Packers' starting quarterback. Despite Rodgers' promising performance, throwing for over 4,000 yards and 28 touchdowns, the Packers struggled, finishing with a 6-10 record. Injuries significantly hampered their defense, contributing to a string of close losses. The team parted ways with eight assistant coaches after the season, including defensive coordinator Bob Sanders, who was succeeded by Dom Capers.
2008: Packers Players and Coach in the Pro Bowl
Mike McCarthy coached the NFC team in the 2008 Pro Bowl. Packers players Al Harris, Aaron Kampman, and Donald Driver were also selected for the NFC team. Brett Favre was initially selected as the starting quarterback but declined to play.
March 2009: Packers to Retire Favre's Jersey
In March 2009, the Green Bay Packers organization announced their decision to retire Brett Favre's jersey number, although they clarified that the ceremony would not occur during the 2009 season.
April 2009: Packers Select B.J. Raji and Clay Matthews III in Draft
The Green Bay Packers focused on bolstering their defense in the 2009 NFL Draft. They used their first-round pick to select defensive lineman B.J. Raji from Boston College. In a strategic move, the team traded three draft picks, including the one they had acquired from the New York Jets in exchange for Brett Favre, to secure another first-round pick. They used this pick to draft linebacker Clay Matthews III from the University of Southern California.
2009: Packers Face Favre, Finish Strong, and Lose in Playoffs
The 2009 NFL season was full of storylines for the Green Bay Packers. The two games against their former quarterback, Brett Favre, who had joined the division rival Minnesota Vikings, were highly anticipated and drew record TV audiences. The Vikings won both games. The Packers had a challenging season but finished strong, winning seven of their last eight games. This included their 16th regular-season finale win in 17 seasons. Their 11-5 record earned them an NFC wild-card playoff berth. Despite a strong season, they lost in overtime to the Arizona Cardinals in the Wild Card round. Charles Woodson won Defensive Player of the Year.
2009: Offensive Powerhouse
The 2014 season marked the first time since 2009 that the Packers had a 4,000-yard passer, two 1,000-yard receivers, and a 1,000-yard rusher.
2010: End of an Era
Brett Favre's streak of 297 consecutive starts as an NFL quarterback finally came to an end in 2010.
2010: Super Bowl XLV Victory
Coached by Mike McCarthy, the Packers won Super Bowl XLV in 2010.
2010: 1929 Throwback Jerseys Debut
During the 2010 season, the Green Bay Packers wore throwback jerseys that were navy blue with a gold circle and navy numbers, modeled after those worn in 1929.
February 6, 2011: Packers Win Super Bowl XLV
On February 6, 2011, the Green Bay Packers, led by quarterback Aaron Rodgers, triumphed over the Pittsburgh Steelers 31-25 in Super Bowl XLV. This victory marked their first Super Bowl win since 1996 and solidified their status as the first No. 6 seed from the NFC to achieve this feat. Rodgers was named Super Bowl MVP.
2011: Undefeated at Home
The Green Bay Packers went undefeated at home for the first time since the 2011 season.
2011: Packers Triumph over Bears en route to Super Bowl XLV
The Green Bay Packers defeated the Chicago Bears 21-14 in 2011 during the NFC Championship game, securing their spot in Super Bowl XLV, where they emerged victorious against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
2011: Packers Achieve Franchise Record 15 Wins
In 2011, fresh off their Super Bowl XLV victory, the Green Bay Packers continued their dominance, achieving a franchise-best 15-1 regular season record. Their 15 victories tied for the second-most regular-season wins in NFL history, trailing only the 16-0 record set by the 2007 New England Patriots. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers' stellar performance earned him his first NFL MVP award.
2012: E. W. Scripps Company Secures Packers Preseason TV Rights
E. W. Scripps Company-owned television stations acquired the rights to broadcast Green Bay Packers preseason games not shown nationally.
2012: 49ers Begin Playoff Dominance over Packers
Since 2012, the San Francisco 49ers, led by quarterback Colin Kaepernick and later Jimmy Garoppolo, established dominance over the Packers in playoff matchups.
2012: Packers Win Division, Lose in Divisional Round
The Green Bay Packers clinched their second consecutive division title in 2012, finishing the regular season with an 11-5 record. Their playoff journey began with a 24-10 win against the Minnesota Vikings in the NFC Wild Card Round. However, their run ended in the Divisional Round with a 45-31 loss to the eventual NFC Champion San Francisco 49ers.
2012: Nike Becomes Uniform Supplier
The Green Bay Packers refused to make any changes to their uniforms when Nike took over as the NFL's uniform supplier in 2012.
April 1, 2013: Larry McCarren Joins WGBA as Sports Director
Larry McCarren became the sports director at WGBA in Green Bay on April 1, 2013, after leaving his role at WFRV.
2013: Rodgers Injured, Packers Struggle
The Green Bay Packers' 2013 season took a turn when star quarterback Aaron Rodgers suffered a broken collarbone during a Week 9 matchup against the Chicago Bears. The Packers, who had a 5-2 record prior to Rodgers' injury, struggled in his absence, ending up with a 2-3-1 record over the next six games. Three different quarterbacks—Seneca Wallace, Scott Tolzien, and Matt Flynn—filled in for Rodgers during his recovery.
2013: Gold Helmets with Throwbacks
When the NFL implemented a one-shell rule in 2013, the Green Bay Packers started wearing their gold helmets with no decals with their throwback jerseys.
2014: Record-Breaking Season
The Packers had a record-breaking season in 2014, recording their 700th victory, going undefeated at home, leading the league in scoring, and having a 4,000-yard passer, two 1,000-yard receivers, and a 1,000-yard rusher for the first time since 2009.
April 2015: Journal Broadcast Group Merges with E. W. Scripps Company
The Journal Broadcast Group, which included WTMJ, merged with the E. W. Scripps Company in April 2015.
2015: McCarren Transitions to Packers Employee
Larry McCarren departed from WGBA in 2015 to become a Green Bay Packers employee.
2015: Packers Pro Shop Reports Record Sales
In 2015, the Packers Pro Shop reported sales exceeding $7 million.
2015: 1937-1949 Throwback Jerseys Debut
In 2015, the Green Bay Packers' throwback jerseys changed to the navy blue throwbacks worn from 1937 to 1949, which featured gold shoulders and numbers.
2015: Packers Players Appear in "Pitch Perfect 2"
Five Green Bay Packers players (David Bakhtiari, Don Barclay, T. J. Lang, Clay Matthews, and Josh Sitton) made a memorable appearance as an a cappella group in the musical comedy "Pitch Perfect 2" in 2015.
2015: Jordy Nelson's Injury
During the 2015 preseason, wide receiver Jordy Nelson suffered a torn ACL and was inactive for the rest of the season.
2016: Color Rush Uniforms Debut
The Green Bay Packers debuted their Color Rush uniforms in 2016, sporting white pants and socks with a white jersey.
2016: Return to Playoffs
The Green Bay Packers returned to the playoffs in the 2016 season after a three-year absence.
2016: WLUK Produces Final Packers Family Night Broadcast
WLUK-TV in Green Bay concluded its long-standing production of the Packers Family Night broadcast after the 2016 season.
2017: Aaron Rodgers' Collarbone Injury
Aaron Rodgers suffered a broken collarbone during a game against the Minnesota Vikings in 2017, leading to him being placed on injured reserve.
2017: Scripps and Packers Television Network Take Over Family Night Broadcast
Scripps and the Packers Television Network took over the production and broadcast of the Packers Family Night event in 2017.
November 2018: Scripps Sells Milwaukee Radio Assets to Good Karma Brands
Scripps sold its Milwaukee radio assets, including WTMJ, to Good Karma Brands in November 2018, leading to the Packers bringing their broadcast operations in-house.
2018: Ron Wolf Inducted into Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame
Ron Wolf, a key figure in the Packers' resurgence in the 1990s, was inducted into the Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame in 2018.
2018: Coaching Change
The Packers failed to make the playoffs in 2018, leading to the release of head coach Mike McCarthy and the hiring of Matt LaFleur.
2019: Packers Hall of Fame Reaches 162 Inductees
By 2019, the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame had inducted 162 individuals, showcasing the rich history and tradition of the franchise.
2019: High Valuation of the Franchise
In 2019, Forbes ranked the Packers as the 27th most valuable sports franchise in the world, with a value of $2.63 billion.
2020: Small Market, Big Fan Base
Despite being in the smallest market in North American professional sports, the Packers have a large fan base throughout Wisconsin and the Midwest, even though they stopped playing some home games in Milwaukee in 1995.
2020: NFC North Champions and MVP Season
The Packers won the NFC North and Aaron Rodgers won his third MVP award in 2020.
October 27, 2021: Packers Announce End of Partnership with WTMJ
The Packers announced on October 27, 2021, that they would end their long-standing association with WTMJ after the season.
November 2021: Latest Stock Sale
The latest stock sale for the Packers occurred in November 2021, with almost 200,000 shares sold.
2021: Packers and Buccaneers Clash in NFC Championship Game
In 2021, the Packers and the Buccaneers met in the NFC Championship Game, showcasing a pivotal game with high stakes as both teams aimed for a Super Bowl berth.
2021: All-Green Throwbacks Debut
The Green Bay Packers' throwback jerseys changed once again in 2021 to an all-green design, like the uniforms worn from 1950 to 1953.
2022: Community Ownership
As of 2022, The Green Bay Packers are the only community-owned franchise in North America's four traditional major leagues.
2022: Packers Achieve 100 Wins Over Lions
By the end of the 2022 season, the Green Bay Packers made NFL history by becoming the first team to record 100 wins against a single opponent, the Detroit Lions.
2022: One-Shell Rule Abolished
The NFL's one-shell rule was abolished in 2022.
2022: Playoff Elimination and End of an Era
The Packers missed the playoffs in 2022, marking the end of Aaron Rodgers' tenure with the team.
2022: End of Aaron Rodgers' Tenure with Packers
The year 2022 marked the end of Aaron Rodgers' time as quarterback for the Green Bay Packers, concluding an era defined by his impactful performance, particularly in the team's rivalry against the Dallas Cowboys.
2022: WRNW Becomes Packers' Milwaukee Radio Affiliate
iHeartMedia's sports radio station WRNW (97.3) took over as the Green Bay Packers' Milwaukee radio affiliate in 2022.
January 2024: Packers Defeat Cowboys in Wild Card Round
In January 2024, the Packers faced the Cowboys in a Wild Card playoff game at AT&T Stadium, resulting in a decisive 48-32 victory for the Packers.