The 10 Greatest NFL Draft Classes in Packers History—You Won’t Believe #1!
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
The Green Bay Packers, one of the most successful franchises in NFL history, have been built on the foundation of exceptional draft classes. Over the years, the Packers have consistently found talent that has contributed to their success both in terms of championships and individual accolades. From Hall of Famers to future legends, here’s a look at the 10 greatest NFL draft classes in Packers history—starting with some truly unforgettable selections.
1. The 1958 Draft Class: A Foundation for Greatness
It’s hard to overstate the significance of the 1958 draft for the Green Bay Packers. This class is often regarded as one of the best in NFL history, producing four Hall of Fame players who became cornerstones of the Packers’ dominance in the 1960s. In the first round, the Packers selected linebacker Dan Currie, followed by fullback Jim Taylor in the second round. The fourth-round pick, guard Jerry Kramer, and linebacker Ray Nitschke, chosen in the third round, would also go on to earn spots in the Hall of Fame. These players were integral in securing multiple NFL championships and establishing Green Bay as an NFL powerhouse.
2. The 1956 Draft Class: A Quarterback for the Ages
The 1956 draft is another class that helped lay the groundwork for Green Bay’s future success. The Packers struck gold when they selected quarterback Bart Starr in the 17th round. Starr would go on to lead the Packers to five NFL Championships and cement his legacy as one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in NFL history. His leadership and poise under pressure made him the heart and soul of the franchise for over a decade, and his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1977 is a testament to his lasting impact.
3. The 1963 Draft Class: Strengthening the Defense
The Packers’ defense took a major step forward in 1963 with the additions of linebacker Dave Robinson in the first round and center Ken Bowman in the eighth round. Robinson, known for his defensive prowess, would later be inducted into the Hall of Fame for his efforts. Meanwhile, Bowman became a reliable fixture on the offensive line, playing a crucial role in Green Bay’s multiple championship-winning teams. This class helped fortify the Packers’ roster for years to come.
4. The 1995 Draft Class: A Key to Super Bowl Success
The 1995 draft is widely regarded as one of the most important in Packers history, with three standout selections. In the first round, Green Bay picked cornerback Craig Newsome, who quickly became a key contributor to the defense. In the third round, the Packers selected fullback William Henderson, who would go on to play a vital role in the team’s offense, particularly during their Super Bowl XXXI win. Finally, the seventh-round selection of guard Adam Timmerman proved to be a steal, as he became a mainstay on the offensive line and a key piece of Green Bay’s Super Bowl championship squad.
5. The 2005 Draft Class: A Franchise Quarterback and More
The 2005 draft class is arguably one of the most transformative for the Packers, as it featured the selection of future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers in the first round. Rodgers would go on to lead the Packers to a Super Bowl XLV victory and capture multiple MVP awards, solidifying his place among the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. His impact on the franchise cannot be overstated, and he remains the centerpiece of the team’s future success.
Other Notable Draft Classes:
While the 1958, 1956, 1963, 1995, and 2005 classes stand out, there have been several other drafts that have shaped the Packers’ history. The 1978 draft, which included future Hall of Fame running back Gerry Ellis and safety Mark Lee, helped solidify the Packers’ defense during the 1980s. The 2019 draft class, highlighted by the selections of Darnell Savage and Elgton Jenkins, has also shown promise in building a new era for Green Bay.
Whether they’re selecting a Hall of Fame quarterback or a key piece of the defense, the Packers’ ability to find top-tier talent has been instrumental in their sustained success. As they continue to build for the future, it’s clear that the franchise’s rich history of draft classes will continue to be a driving force for years to come.
