It is with heavy hearts that we bid farewell to one of the Green Bay Packers’ greatest icons, Willie Davis. A towering figure in the history of our beloved club, Davis passed away on April 15, 2020, at the age of 85.

Born in Lisbon, Louisiana, Davis began his NFL career with the Cleveland Browns before being traded to the Packers in 1960. Under the leadership of legendary coach Vince Lombardi, Davis became a cornerstone of the Packers’ defense during their 1960s dynasty. As a defensive end, he played a pivotal role in securing five NFL championships and victories in the first two Super Bowls. Although quarterback sacks were not an official statistic during his era, it is estimated that Davis recorded over 100 sacks throughout his career. citeturn0search0

Davis’s impact extended beyond his on-field performance. In 1965, he was appointed as the Packers’ first African American team captain, exemplifying his leadership and breaking racial barriers within the organization. citeturn0search5 His contributions were recognized with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1981.

Off the field, Davis was a successful businessman and served on various corporate boards, including Dow Chemical and Sara Lee. He also contributed to the Packers’ organization as a member of the team’s board of directors from 1994 to 2005. citeturn0search8

Willie Davis’s legacy is one of excellence, leadership, and breaking barriers. His contributions to the Green Bay Packers and the broader NFL community will continue to inspire future generations. As we mourn his passing, we celebrate the life of a true legend whose impact transcended the game of football.