Packers.com

Packers To Honor White With Helmet Decal

Fri, 31 Dec 2004 14:23:55 CST

In a fitting tribute to the late Reggie White, the Green Bay Packers beginning Sunday will wear a helmet decal featuring the 92 number he wore during his influential six seasons in Green Bay.

The Packers will wear the decal, which features dark block numbers and a clear background, for every remaining game they play this season.

The gesture comes one day after the Packers sent a contingent of nearly 50 current and former members of the organization to White's funeral in Charlotte, N.C. White, one of the most respected NFL players ever, passed away Sunday. He was 43.

White is believed to be only the second player honored with a Packers helmet decal. The team wore a No. 3 decal after Hall of Famer Tony Canadeo passed away in 2003.

In addition, the team is finalizing plans to further honor White at its Wild Card playoff game Jan. 8 or 9 at Lambeau Field. The Packers also plan to retire White's 92, an honor previously given to only four players in the..

Green Bay Packers Statement On Flag-Lowering Practice

Wed, 29 Dec 2004 18:42:54 CST

"First and foremost, the Green Bay Packers have tremendous respect for the American Flag and all that it represents, especially our veterans.

"The Packers follow Executive Orders of the State of Wisconsin with regard to all flag lowering, and have done so for many years. At a preseason game this summer we honored the families of Wisconsin military men and women that died in the line of duty in Afghanistan and Iraq. Also, earlier this week we were honored to host families of local military personnel serving in Iraq as part of a private reception and stadium tour hosted by the Packers Women's Association.

"Additionally, as an organization, we lowered the flags atop Lambeau Field Sunday in memory of Reggie White and the contributions he made to this franchise and our community. It is a practice we've followed for years as a way of honoring members of our organization and their contributions to the Packers. We did the same for Ray Nitschke, Don Hutson, Tony Canadeo, ..

Brett Favre Named FedEx Air Player Of The Week

Wed, 29 Dec 2004 17:25:40 CST

Quarterback BRETT FAVRE of the Green Bay Packers and running back SHAUN ALEXANDER of the Seattle Seahawks are the FedEx Air & Ground NFL Players of the Week for games played on December 24-27, the NFL announced today.

Favre completed 30 of 43 passes for 365 yards and three touchdowns for a passer rating of 109.2 in the Packers' 34-31 victory over the NFC North-rival Minnesota Vikings. He threw touchdown passes of three, nine and 22 yards and led the Packers 76 yards in the final 1:35 to set up the game-winning field goal.

Alexander carried 30 times for 154 yards and three touchdowns in the Seahawks' 24-21 victory over the NFC West-rival Arizona Cardinals. He scored from one, 17 and 23 yards out, giving him 15 touchdowns in 2004.

Favre and Alexander were selected from among finalists in the air and ground categories through 34,510 fan votes. The other FedEx Express NFL Player of the Week finalists were quarterbacks JAKE DELHOMME of the Carolina Panthers..

Marker, Smith Join Practice Squad

Wed, 29 Dec 2004 13:17:46 CST

The Green Bay Packers have signed wide receiver Mike Marker and cornerback Art Smith to their practice squad, GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman announced Wednesday.

The moves fill out the eight-man practice squad, which had stood at six after the Packers promoted both Sean McHugh and Andrae Thurman to the active roster last week. Eight players in 2004 have gone from the practice squad to the active roster.

Marker, a 6-0, 195-pound rookie out of Millikin, began his NFL career Tuesday, signing his first contract. A two-sport athlete at the Division III school, he lettered four seasons in football and competed in track and field during the spring. On the gridiron, Marker caught 51 career passes for 1,051 yards and 11 TDs. Only two players from Millikin have played a league game for the Packers, wide receiver Jeff Query (1989-91) and linebacker Aric Anderson (1987).

Smith, a 6-1, 205-pound cornerback out of Northeastern (Mass.), joins his third organization. Technical..

Download The Week 17 Dope Sheet

Tue, 28 Dec 2004 14:22:32 CST

Two years after he co-founded the Packers with Curly Lambeau, George Calhoun began writing a piece called The Dope Sheet, which served as the official press release and game program from 1921-24.

Honoring Calhoun, the first publicity director, the Packers are running this weekly feature as their release, which is being made available to fans exclusively on Packers.com.

A complete edition of the Dope Sheet will be available each week during the season in PDF format, located in the Packers.com Game Centers.

Here are some highlights from the Week 17 Dope Sheet:

THIS WEEK'S NOTABLE STORYLINES:
-The Packers, who on Friday clinched both the NFC North and the conference's No. 3 seed in the 2004 playoffs, look for momemtum in their 2004 regular-season finale.

-The game has no implications on the playoffs, but the Packers will play to win.

-Green Bay hasn't lost consecutive games to the Bears since 1991-92. The last time Chicago..

Brett Favre Nominated For FedEx Player Of The Week

Tue, 28 Dec 2004 13:25:55 CST

Quarterbacks BRETT FAVRE of the Green Bay Packers, JAKE DELHOMME of the Carolina Panthers, and PEYTON MANNING of the Indianapolis Colts are the finalists for FedEx Express NFL Player of the Week honors for games played on December 24-27, while running backs SHAUN ALEXANDER of the Seattle Seahawks, DOMANICK DAVIS of the Houston Texans and WILLIS MC GAHEE of the Buffalo Bills are the finalists for FedEx Ground NFL Player of the Week honors, the NFL announced Tuesday.

Fans can vote for one player in each category on NFL.com from Tuesday morning through Thursday afternoon to determine the FedEx Air & Ground NFL Players of the Week. The FedEx Air & Ground NFL Players of the Week will be announced Thursday on NFL.com and Friday in USA Today.

Fans will be voting for more than their favorite player. The weekly FedEx Air & Ground NFL Players of the Week Awards are a win for the local community. Along with the a..

Packers Seeking Help to Shovel Out Lambeau Field Wednesday For Next Week's Playoff Game

Tue, 28 Dec 2004 11:09:30 CST

The Green Bay Packers today are putting out a "help wanted" call.

Ted Eisenreich, the Packers' director of facility operations, is seeking recruits - as many as 300 - to shovel out Lambeau Field tomorrow, Dec. 29, in preparation for the team's home playoff game the weekend of Jan. 8.

He asks all who might be interested in lending a hand to report to the Mills Fleet Farm Gate on Lambeau Field's west side, beginning at 8 o'clock Wednesday morning and continuing throughout the day.

The Packers will provide shovels to all who come to help.

Shovelers, who need to be at least 15 years old, will receive $8 per hour, with payment to be made immediately upon completion of their work, Eisenreich said.

NFL Films To Re-Air One Hour Special, 'Favre 4-Ever'

Mon, 27 Dec 2004 12:58:27 CST

NFL FILMS TELLS THE COMPLETE STORY OF A FOOTBALL LEGEND IN "FAVRE 4-EVER"

ONE-HOUR SPECIAL NARRATED BY ACTOR BILLY BOB THORNTON

-Re-airs Friday, December 31 @ 8:00 p.m. CT On NFL Network

From the car accident that nearly killed him in college, to the emotional 24-hours that followed his father's death and all things in between, NFL Films examines the rollercoaster life of a modern NFL legend, Brett Favre in Favre 4-Ever premiering Friday, December 24 at 1:00 PM ET/ 10:00 AM PT on FOX. The special, narrated by Billy Bob Thornton, precedes the Green Bay Packers-Minnesota Vikings game (FOX, 2:00 PM ET).

Through the use of never-before seen footage, along with revealing personal insights from Deanna Favre (wife), Bonita Favre (mother), Favre's former coaches Mike Holmgren, Steve Mariucci and Jerry Glanville, teammates Doug Pederson, Ryan Longwell and many more, this one-hour special profiles the life and career of the NFL's iron-man quar..

Packers-Vikings Press Box Notes

Fri, 24 Dec 2004 11:53:14 CST

TODAY: Adding to one of the league's fiercest rivalries, Green Bay and Minnesota square off in a battle that will decide the NFC North. For the ninth time in the last 11 years, one of these clubs will win the division today...The Packers haven't won consecutive road games at Minnesota since 1987-88. They won their last appearance, 30-27, Nov. 2, 2003...Green Bay hasn't defeated the Vikings three straight times since 1996-97, when the Packers went to consecutive Super Bowls...The Packers get their first taste of the Metrodome's new FieldTurf; Green Bay is 3-1 all-time on the surface, which also covers its practice fields...The Packers play a sixth Christmas Eve game; they're 4-1 all-time, including playoffs...This marks the Packers' first Friday game in 55 years.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR TODAY & NEXT WEEK -

BRETT FAVRE:
-Will play in a 206th consecutive game (225 including playoffs) and make his 204th consecutive start (223 including playoffs), 88 m..

Packers Promote Thurman To Active Roster, Lee Placed On I.R.

Thu, 23 Dec 2004 12:19:16 CST

The Green Bay Packers Thursday promoted wide receiver Andrae Thurman from the practice squad to the active roster, and placed defensive lineman James Lee on injured reserve, GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman announced.

Thurman, a 5-11, 192-pound rookie out of Southern Oregon, initially joined the Packers' practice squad Sept. 8. Undrafted this spring, Thurman originally signed with the New York Giants May 7 and later was waived June 22. He then was claimed by Houston July 1 and spent training camp with the Texans until being waived Aug. 31.

He will wear jersey No. 81.

Lee, the Packers' first of two fifth-round picks in 2003, spent much of this season as the No. 2 nose tackle after missing the '03 campaign with back/leg injuries. He made one start, Sept. 19 vs. Chicago, in place of the injured Grady Jackson. The former Oregon State player suffered a lateral cartilage tear in his left knee in the Bears contest; he subsequently underwent arthroscopic surgery Sept...

Sharper's Fumble Return For A TD Named Play Of The Week

Wed, 22 Dec 2004 15:22:28 CST

Green Bay Packers safety Darren Sharper's 15-yard fumble return for a touchdown against the Jacksonville Jaguars has been voted "LEVITRA (vardenafil HCI) PLAY OF THE WEEK" for NFL games played December 18-20.

Sharper's touchdown is now eligible to be selected as "LEVITRA? PLAY OF THE YEAR," awarded this February at Super Bowl XXXIX in Jacksonville, Florida. "LEVITRA PLAY OF THE WEEK," which is voted on by fans each week throughout the NFL season on NFL.com, recognizes the single most exciting play that week. Sharper joins teammate Ahman Green (Week 7) as weekly winners.

Fans who vote at NFL.com each week can also enter for their chance to win a three-day/two-night trip for two to Jacksonville, Florida to attend Super Bowl XXXIX on February 6, 2005, including round-trip airfare and hotel accommodations.

With the Packers trailing the Jaguars 7-3 in the second quarter, Packers defensive end Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila jarred the ball loose from Jaguars quarterbac..

Four Packers Selected To 2005 Pro Bowl

Wed, 22 Dec 2004 12:33:19 CST

Henderson And Walker Named To First Pro Bowl; Green And Rivera To Make Return Trip; Eight Other Packers Named As Alternates

In marking the first such honor for each player, fullback William Henderson and wide receiver Javon Walker were named to the NFC squad for the 2005 Pro Bowl, the National Football League announced Wednesday.

Also elected to professional football's all-star contest were running back Ahman Green and guard Marco Rivera, for the fourth and third consecutive years, respectively, giving the Packers a total four players voted for the honor.

The selection is especially rewarding for Henderson, now in his 10th season in the league. Last Sunday he broke Howard Griffith's NFL record among fullbacks by blocking for a 1,000-yard rusher in a seventh overall season. The University of North Carolina product has paved the way for such seasons for Green (2000-04) and Dorsey Levens (1997, '99).

Walker's honor comes during a superb thir..

Packers Promote McHugh To Active Roster, Waive Rogers

Tue, 21 Dec 2004 15:53:01 CST

The Green Bay Packers Tuesday promoted tight end Sean McHugh from the practice squad to the active roster, and waived linebacker Nick Rogers, GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman announced.

McHugh is a 6-5, 262-pound tight end who originally joined Green Bay on waivers from Tennessee, Sept. 6. He made his NFL debut at Carolina Sept. 13, and then was waived to the practice squad to make room for cornerback Mike McKenzie on the 53-man roster, Sept. 22.

Rogers, a 6-2, 251-pound linebacker out of Georgia Tech, was signed for a second time (Nov. 27) after being waived Nov. 23 to make room for RB James Jackson when the running back unit was injured. The Packers first re-signed Rogers Oct. 19, three days after they waived him in order to promote Kelvin Kight to an injury-depleted wide receiver corps. Green Bay originally claimed Rogers on waivers from Minnesota, Sept. 6.

A third-year player, Rogers played in nine games with two tackles (1 solo) and tallied five special team..

Jaguars' Darius Fined $75,000 For Unnecessary Roughness Against Robert Ferguson

Tue, 21 Dec 2004 15:44:51 CST

Jacksonville Jaguars safety DONOVIN DARIUS has been fined $75,000 for unnecessary roughness last Sunday against Green Bay Packers wide receiver ROBERT FERGUSON, the NFL announced today.

NFL Director of Football Operations GENE WASHINGTON issued the fine, noting in a letter to Darius that on a pass play, "you violently and unnecessarily struck your opponent in the neck and head area with your forearm."

Darius was ejected from the game by referee Ed Hochuli.

Washington stated that Darius' actions violated Rule 12, Section 2, Article 1(c) of the NFL Official Playing Rules, which prohibit:

"...striking, swinging, or clubbing to the head, neck, or face with the heel, back, or side of the hand, wrist, forearm, elbow, or clasped hands."

Darius has no prior history of on-field violations of this magnitude, but Washington's letter emphasized that future infractions of this type by Darius will lead to increased disciplinary action, including possi..

Sharper's Fumble Return For A TD Nominated For Play Of The Week

Tue, 21 Dec 2004 11:13:52 CST

Green Bay Packers safety Darren Sharper's 15-yard fumble return for a touchdown against the Jacksonville Jaguars is among the five Week 15 nominees for "LEVITRA (vardenafil HCI) PLAY OF THE WEEK."

The award is presented each week during the NFL regular season to recognize the single most exciting play that week as determined by the fans. Voting is open to the fans this week from Tuesday at Noon ET until Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET, exclusively on NFL.com. Each weekly winner will be a finalist for "LEVITRA PLAY OF THE YEAR," to be awarded at Super Bowl XXXIX in Jacksonville, Florida.

Fans who vote at NFL.com each week can also enter for their chance to win a three-day/two-night trip for two to Jacksonville, Florida to attend Super Bowl XXXIX on February 6, 2005, including round-trip airfare and hotel accommodations.

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jerome Bettis' 10-yard touchdown pass to tight end Jerame Tuman against the New York Jets was voted last week's..

Mukwonago's Hensler Named WFCA/Green Bay Packers High School Coach Of The Year

Mon, 20 Dec 2004 18:11:28 CST

Keith Hensler, head coach of the Mukwonago Indians, has been selected as the Wisconsin Football Coaches Association/Green Bay Packers High School Coach of the Year, the Packers announced Saturday.

Mukwonago finished 14-0 overall and appeared in their first state title game vs. Marshfield, winning 17-6. The varsity team has 82 players with 14 assistant coaches, Dave Adams, Mark Allen, Jeremiah Chitwood, Darrell Cottrell, Bob Dettlaff, Bill Hoagland, Justin Last, Bill Plant, Lee Purdy, Ron Schlicht, Bill Schulte, Jon Stillman, John Strobusch and Lee Liebecki.

"First, I'd like to thank Coach Sherman and the entire Packers organization, along with the WFCA and that partnership that is doing so much for grassroots football in the state of Wisconsin," said Hensler. "This is just a great thing for us. We're real proud about the year we had. The players, the assistant coaches, the entire community has been just absolutely phenomenal with their support about our season. It's..

Download The Week 16 Dope Sheet

Mon, 20 Dec 2004 16:38:41 CST

Two years after he co-founded the Packers with Curly Lambeau, George Calhoun began writing a piece called The Dope Sheet, which served as the official press release and game program from 1921-24.

Honoring Calhoun, the first publicity director, the Packers are running this weekly feature as their release, which is being made available to fans exclusively on Packers.com.

A complete edition of the Dope Sheet will be available each week during the season in PDF format, located in the Packers.com Game Centers.

Here are some highlights from the Week 16 Dope Sheet:

THIS WEEK'S NOTABLE STORYLINES:
-Adding to one of the league's fiercest rivalries, Green Bay and Minnesota square off in a battle that will decide the NFC North. For the ninth time in the last 11 years, one of these clubs will win the division Friday.

-The Packers haven't won consecutive road games at Minnesota since 1987-88. They won their last appearance, 30-27, Nov. 2, 20..

Barnett, Ferguson & Henderson Among Leading Vote-Getters For 2005 NFL Pro Bowl

Mon, 20 Dec 2004 15:44:10 CST

RECORD 61 MILLION ALL-STAR VOTES CAST ON NFL.COM

Packers linebacker Nick Barnett, wide receiver/kick returner Robert Ferguson and fullback William Henderson are among the leading vote-getters for the 2005 Pro Bowl, NFL.com announced Monday.

Indianapolis Colts quarterback PEYTON MANNING received a record 1,075,089 votes to lead all NFL All-Stars in balloting. Sponsored by Ameriquest Mortgage, Pro Bowl voting on NFL.com, in stadiums and via wireless text message ended on Friday, December 17.

There were a record 61 million votes cast on NFL.com - an 11 percent increase over the 55 million cast last year.

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback DONOVAN MC NABB (993,530 votes) ranked second overall while Minnesota Vikings quarterback DAUNTE CULPEPPER (902,877), Eagles wide receiver TERRELL OWENS (900,220) and Seattle Seahawks running back SHAUN ALEXANDER (804,172) completed the top five. Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback BEN ROETHLISBERGER (690,306) le..

Update On Robert Ferguson

Sun, 19 Dec 2004 21:47:42 CST

Green Bay Packers wide receiver Robert Ferguson suffered a sprained neck with 4:41 remaining in Sunday's game vs. Jacksonville. He will be kept at Bellin Hospital in Green Bay overnight for observation and further evaluation.

Ferguson has movement and sensation in all four of his extremities and is resting comfortably, according to Packers head trainer Pepper Burruss.

An evaluation will be made throughout this week by the team's medical staff relative to Ferguson's availability for Friday's game at Minnesota.

Packers-Jaguars Press Box Notes

Sun, 19 Dec 2004 11:39:21 CST

TODAY: According to the NFL, Green Bay with a win would clinch a playoff berth...However, if Green Bay loses AND Minnesota wins at Detroit, the Vikings will clinch the critical third tiebreaker in the division race - record in common games...Jacksonville makes its first franchise visit to Lambeau Field, including preseason...On his 50th birthday today, Mike Sherman could surpass No. 4 Bart Starr (53, 1975-83) on the team's all-time victory list. With a victory, Sherman would have 54 overall wins, more than any Packers coach other than Curly Lambeau (212), Vince Lombardi (98) and Mike Holmgren (84).

WHAT TO LOOK FOR TODAY & IN COMING WEEKS -

BRETT FAVRE:
-Will play in a 205th consecutive game (224 including playoffs) and make his 203rd consecutive start (222 including playoffs), 87 more than the next-closest streak on the all-time quarterbacks list, 116 by Ron Jaworski (1977-84).

-Needs 520 yards passing to top No. 3 Warren Moon (49..

Dorothy Hanke Named Seventh Honoree For Packers FAN Hall Of Fame

Fri, 17 Dec 2004 11:21:26 CST

Dorothy Hanke, a lifelong Packers fan from Milwaukee, has been named the seventh annual honoree to the Packers FAN Hall of Fame.

Nominated by her granddaughters, Traci Zagrodnik, Tami Roman, Wendi Gerharz and daughter, Suzi Schoeneich, Dorothy becomes the third woman to be so honored.

The essay supporting her nomination, penned by her granddaughters and daughter, began, "She was born in 1919, the year the Packers were born. Growing up, my sisters and I spent a lot of time with our grandmother. If it was Sunday, we were watching 'the game.' Losing most of her hearing at an early age, she always sat close to the television on an ottoman so she never missed a play. Ironically, most children learn about football from the men in the family, but our family learned from her."

"Grandma NEVER misses a game," the essay continued. "Family gatherings took place after the game. On Sundays after church, she literally rushes through the door to get home for a noon game..

NFL Films To Air One Hour Special, 'Favre 4-Ever'

Thu, 16 Dec 2004 16:23:24 CST

NFL FILMS TELLS THE COMPLETE STORY OF A FOOTBALL LEGEND IN "FAVRE 4-EVER"

ONE-HOUR SPECIAL NARRATED BY ACTOR BILLY BOB THORNTON

-Premiering Friday, December 24 @ 12:00 p.m. (CT) On FOX

-Re-airs Friday, December 31 @ 8:00 p.m. CT On NFL Network

From the car accident that nearly killed him in college, to the emotional 24-hours that followed his father's death and all things in between, NFL Films examines the rollercoaster life of a modern NFL legend, Brett Favre in Favre 4-Ever premiering Friday, December 24 at 1:00 PM ET/ 10:00 AM PT on FOX. The special, narrated by Billy Bob Thornton, precedes the Green Bay Packers-Minnesota Vikings game (FOX, 2:00 PM ET).

Through the use of never-before seen footage, along with revealing personal insights from Deanna Favre (wife), Bonita Favre (mother), Favre's former coaches Mike Holmgren, Steve Mariucci and Jerry Glanville, teammates Doug Pederson, Ryan Longwell and many more, this one-ho..

Rare Bricks from Birthplace Home of Curly Lambeau Will Make the Perfect Holiday Gift

Thu, 16 Dec 2004 11:29:20 CST

Get this special holiday gift by donating to Nicolet Elementary School

Packers fans have a unique opportunity this holiday season to purchase original bricks from the Birthplace home of Packers founder, player and coach, Earl "Curly" Lambeau. After the discovery of his home last spring, a group of local investors started to renovate the exterior of the house at 615 North Irwin Street in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Part of the renovation included replacing 104 bricks that were starting to wear.

"Owning a piece of Packers' and Curly Lambeau's history is rare," stated Rudy Hanamann, investor in the Birthplace of Curly Lambeau. "We are excited to be able to save some of the bricks from this legendary home. These bricks would make the perfect gift for Packers fans young and old. The best part of this gift idea is that proceeds from this sale will go toward helping out the Elementary School across the street from Curly's birthplace home."

With a tax deductib..

Donald Driver Named Ameriquest Mortgage Neighborhood MVP Of The Week

Wed, 15 Dec 2004 16:18:36 CST

Donald Driver of the Green Bay Packers has been named this week's Ameriquest Mortgage Neighborhood MVP, it was announced Wednesday.

Driver is being honored for his dedication in helping single homeless mothers. Helping these women is especially important, because for a time during his early teen years, Driver and his family were homeless. Through the Donald Driver Foundation, Donald and his wife, Betina, devote much of their time helping homeless mothers get back on their feet and buy a home. Though Driver acknowledges that these are big challenges to tackle, he believes he and others in the community can do it one family at a time. With Driver's personal money, private donations and sponsorships, the foundation gave a home to a family in his hometown of Houston and one in Green Bay this year.

Helping provide a better life to children is just as important to Driver. In addition to his work with homeless mothers, he has also paid for hospital bills of sick childre..

Packers Sign LB Ike Emodi To Practice Squad

Wed, 15 Dec 2004 13:25:30 CST

The Green Bay Packers Wednesday signed linebacker Ike Emodi to their practice squad, GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman announced.

Emodi, pronounced uh-MODE-ee, takes the place of Kelvin Kight. Green Bay on Tuesday placed Kight on the practice squad/injured list with a quadriceps strain.

A 6-3, 234-pound rookie out of East Carolina, Emodi entered the 2004 NFL Supplemental Draft but was not selected. The Packers gave him his only NFL tryout, in July, and he signed his first professional contract today.

The versatile, athletic defender played three positions in college: strong-side linebacker, end and safety. In his final collegiate season, 2003, the junior recorded 38 stops, four sacks and one fumble recovery.

The club has assigned Emodi No. 47.

Marco Rivera Selected As Packers' Walter Payton NFL Man Of The Year

Tue, 14 Dec 2004 18:26:08 CST

Packers offensive lineman Marco Rivera, a longtime exemplary performer both on and off the field, was selected as the Packers' 2004 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year.

As the Packers' winner of the award, Rivera will receive a $1,000 donation to the Marco Rivera Outreach Foundation and is nominated for the 2004 title of NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year, to be selected from 32 NFL players.

The Man of the Year honor is the only league award that recognizes player off-the-field community service as well as playing excellence. This year's finalists - one player from each NFL team - have demonstrated an outstanding balance between civic and professional responsibilities in their lives this season.

The prestigious award was renamed in 1999 for the legendary Chicago Bears Pro Football Hall of Fame running back. The Walter Payton Man of the Year Award has been given annually since 1970.

The winner is selected by an elite panel of judges including NFL C..

Download The Week 15 Dope Sheet

Tue, 14 Dec 2004 12:22:30 CST

Two years after he co-founded the Packers with Curly Lambeau, George Calhoun began writing a piece called The Dope Sheet, which served as the official press release and game program from 1921-24.

Honoring Calhoun, the first publicity director, the Packers are running this weekly feature as their release, which is being made available to fans exclusively on Packers.com.

A complete edition of the Dope Sheet will be available each week during the season in PDF format, located in the Packers.com Game Centers.

Here are some highlights from the Week 15 Dope Sheet:

THIS WEEK'S NOTABLE STORYLINES:
-According to the NFL, Green Bay with a win would clinch a playoff berth, regardless of any other NFC outcome.

-Jacksonville makes its first franchise visit to Lambeau Field, including preseason. The early forecast calls for a 30 percent chance of snow.

-On his 50th birthday Sunday, Mike Sherman could surpass No. 4 Bart Starr (53, 197..

Packers-Lions Press Box Notes

Sun, 12 Dec 2004 11:49:11 CST

TODAY: The Packers hope for a 14th consecutive win over Detroit in Wisconsin (three wins at Milwaukee County Stadium - Green Bay has taken the last 10 at Lambeau Field)...The streak includes five Lions head coaches...Green Bay last lost at home to Detroit on Dec. 15, 1991...Green Bay gets its first look at Roy Williams and its first extended look at Kevin Jones, the Lions' two first-round draft picks this past spring...The Packers can win an eighth game and guarantee a non-losing season for a 13th consecutive season (1992-2004), longest active streak in the NFL...The Packers, controllers of their own destiny as leaders of the NFC North, hope to stay inches ahead of the Vikings in Green Bay's quest for a third straight division crown. Minnesota hosts Seattle.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR TODAY & IN COMING WEEKS -

BRETT FAVRE:
-Will play in a 204th consecutive game (223 including playoffs) and make his 202nd consecutive start (221 including playoffs), 8..

Packers Season Ticket Holders Claim All Available Playoff Tickets

Thu, 09 Dec 2004 17:53:58 CST

In the event the Green Bay Packers host a home playoff game (or games) in Lambeau Field, all available tickets have been claimed by season ticket holders, Packers ticket director Mark Wagner said Thursday.

Wagner reported that 'Green' package ticket holders returned invoices accounting for 73 percent of the slightly more than 62,000 seats available. The remaining 27 percent of the seats are in the process of being allocated randomly to 'Gold' package ticket holders. Wagner noted that more than 50 percent of 'Gold' package ticket holders who sent in their invoices will receive tickets.

Playoff tickets will be mailed to ticket holders later this month.

Packers Agree To Terms With Josue

Thu, 09 Dec 2004 15:40:23 CST

The Green Bay Packers Thursday agreed to terms with linebacker Steve Josue, GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman announced.

Josue, pronounced jo-SOO, fills out the team's 53-man roster, taking the place of running back James Jackson, waived Tuesday.

Josue spent the last five weeks on the San Francisco 49ers practice squad. NFL rules allow any practice-squad player to leave in order to join another team's 53-man roster.

A 6-2, 230-pound linebacker out of Carson-Newman, Josue originally joined the Packers as the team's final selection in the 2003 draft (fourth of four seventh-round choices, 30th and final NFL linebacker taken). Waived at the end of his rookie training camp, he spent the entire 2003 season on the Packers practice squad, then played all 10 games this past summer for the Amsterdam Admirals of NFL Europe.

Waived by the Packers Sept. 5, Josue spent two weeks (Sept. 21-Oct. 5) on the Redskins practice squad, before joining the 49ers practice squad..

Bonita Favre Rescheduled For Book Signing Dec. 17 At Packers Pro Shop

Wed, 08 Dec 2004 16:25:07 CST

"FAVRE" NOW AT NO. 8 ON NEW YORK TIMES BEST-SELLER LIST

Bonita Favre, mother of Packers quarterback Brett Favre, will be on hand at the Packers Pro Shop Friday, Dec. 17, from 3 to 6 p.m., to sign copies of the book, "FAVRE," an autobiography of the future Hall of Fame passer co-authored by Brett, Bonita and Green Bay Press-Gazette columnist Chris Havel.

Previously scheduled last month, the signing had to be postponed due to an ailment that briefly hospitalized Favre in Madison, Wis.

Co-published by the National Football League and Rugged Land LLC, "FAVRE" has reached No. 8 on the New York Times Hardcover Nonfiction Best-Seller List.

The book features contributions from Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Terry Bradshaw, best-selling author Mark Bowden and Peter King of Sports Illustrated. "FAVRE" is filled with more than 150 stunning four-color action shots, personal memorabilia, and all the stories of Brett's fall Sundays.

I..

Packers' Sharper, Ferguson Among NFC's Leading Vote-Getters In Bid For 2005 Pro Bowl

Wed, 08 Dec 2004 14:03:55 CST

Packers safety DARREN SHARPER and wide receiver/kick returner ROBERT FERGUSON are among the NFC's leading vote-getters for the 2005 Pro Bowl, NFL.com announced Wednesday.

Indianapolis quarterback PEYTON MANNING, with 722,669 votes, leads all NFL All-Stars in balloting.

Click Here to vote Ferguson, Sharper and their Packers teammates to the 2005 Pro Bowl.

Sponsored by Ameriquest Mortgage, Pro Bowl voting will continue on NFL.com, in stadiums and via wireless text message through Sunday, December 17.

There have been 42 million votes cast on NFL.com - over two million more than through the first six weeks of voting in 2003.

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback DONOVAN MC NABB (661,852 votes) ranks second overall while Minnesota Vikings quarterback DAUNTE CULPEPPER (652,318), Eagles wide receiver TERRELL OWENS (613,120) and New York Giants running back TIKI BARBER (566,673) round ou..

Download The Week 14 Dope Sheet

Tue, 07 Dec 2004 12:48:44 CST

Two years after he co-founded the Packers with Curly Lambeau, George Calhoun began writing a piece called The Dope Sheet, which served as the official press release and game program from 1921-24.

Honoring Calhoun, the first publicity director, the Packers are running this weekly feature as their release, which is being made available to fans exclusively on Packers.com.

A complete edition of the Dope Sheet will be available each week during the season in PDF format, located in the Packers.com Game Centers.

Here are some highlights from the Week 14 Dope Sheet:

THIS WEEK'S NOTABLE STORYLINES:
-The Packers hope for a 14th consecutive win over Detroit in Wisconsin (three wins at Milwaukee County Stadium - Green Bay has taken the last 10 at Lambeau Field)...The streak includes five Lions head coaches: Wayne Fontes (1992-96), Bobby Ross (1997-99), Gary Moeller (2000), Marty Mornhinweg (2001-02) and Steve Mariucci (2003)...Green Bay last lost at..

Rita Clark Receives 2004 Packers Community QB Award

Mon, 06 Dec 2004 17:39:59 CST

Rita Clark, a mentor to children in the Brown County Human Services Department - Pals Program, today received the 2004 Green Bay Packers Community Quarterback Award. The Pals Program was presented a $10,000 grant on behalf of Clark.

The Pals Program matches children from low-income, troubled and special-needs families with an adult mentor to be a positive role model through weekly recreational or learning activities.

A volunteer to the program since 1987, Clark has worked with six different girls over the past 17 years, donating thousands of hours with her 'Pals.' She has provided a positive role model for girls without an adult female role model in their lives. Clark has assisted her 'Pals' in the areas of developing a healthy life style, including diet, exercise, grooming and hygiene, as well as helping the girls through awkward adolescent times through teaching sports, the arts and numerous other recreational and learning activities.

A licensed practi..

Playoff Ticket Invoices Due In Packers Office Tuesday

Mon, 06 Dec 2004 17:26:09 CST

Ticket invoices for a possible playoff game (or games) in Lambeau Field in January are due in the Packers ticket office by 5 p.m. Tuesday (Dec. 7), Ticket Director Mark Wagner reminded today.

Favre Tops NFLshop.com's Player Jersey Sales

Mon, 06 Dec 2004 15:36:34 CST

QUARTERBACKS ACCOUNT FOR 11 OF TOP 25 JERSEYS, ROETHLISBERGER & MANNING TOP ROOKIE SALES

Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre has been moving up the charts this season...

* He became the first quarterback in NFL history to pass for 20 touchdowns in 11 consecutive seasons.

* His autobiography "FAVRE", co-published by the National Football League and Rugged Land LLC, has climbed to No. 8 on the New York Times Hardcover Nonfiction Best-Seller List.

* In the latest NFLShop.com jersey sales rankings, his jersey has reached No. 1.

Favre, whose jersey ranked third as of Sept. 30, leads a quartet of quarterbacks atop the list. He is followed by Atlanta's MICHAEL VICK, New England's TOM BRADY, and Philadelphia's DONOVAN MC NABB.

The rookie class is also represented by quarterbacks with BEN ROETHLISBERGER of the Pittsbur..

Packers-Eagles Press Box Notes

Sun, 05 Dec 2004 14:11:29 CST

TODAY: The Packers and Eagles write the latest chapter in their fledgling conference rivalry...The Packers, controllers of their own destiny as leaders of the NFC North, hope to stay inches ahead of the Vikings in Green Bay's quest for a third straight division crown...The Packers bid for a seventh straight win, which would match their longest streak within a season since 1963 (the Packers also won seven in a row in 2002). Green Bay opened this season 1-4...Andy Reid and Mike Sherman, two of the league's few "full-power" head coaches - and two of its most successful since they earned those responsibilities - meet again. In 2000, Sherman got his first NFL win by beating Reid, but the Eagles' coach has taken the last two contests. Sherman and Reid, both former Green Bay tight ends coaches under Mike Holmgren, remain good friends.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR TODAY & IN COMING WEEKS -

BRETT FAVRE:
-Will play in a 203rd consecutive game (222 including play..

Ahmad Carroll Named NFL Rookie Of The Week

Thu, 02 Dec 2004 17:14:42 CST

Voters on NFL.com have made their choice. Cornerback AHMAD CARROLL of the Green Bay Packers is the PEPSI NFL ROOKIE OF THE WEEK for games played on November 25, 28-29, the NFL announced Thursday.

Carroll recorded two tackles, one interception and returned a fumble 40 yards for a touchdown in the Packers' 45-17 victory over the St. Louis Rams. He scored the first points of the game and the first touchdown of his career in the opening quarter. Carroll's interception, also his first, came in the third quarter.

More than 79,019 fans voted this week on NFL.com. Carroll was selected from among six finalists. The other finalists were wide receiver KEARY COLBERT of the Carolina Panthers, wide receiver LEE EVANS of Buffalo Bills, running back JULIUS JONES of the Dallas Cowboys, linebacker DERRICK POPE of the Miami Dolphins and defensive end KENECHI UDEZE of the Minnesota Vikings.

After the regular season, five players will be nominated for Pepsi NFL Rookie of t..

Packers Sign LB Nick McNeil To Practice Squad

Thu, 02 Dec 2004 13:31:31 CST

The Green Bay Packers Thursday signed linebacker Nick McNeil to their practice squad, GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman announced.

McNeil, a 6-2, 245-pound Western Carolina product, becomes the eighth member of the Green Bay practice squad.

After signing as a non-drafted free agent with the Steelers April 30, McNeil spent four months and 2004 training camp in Pittsburgh before the Steelers waived him Aug. 30.

McNeil, 23, lettered four years for Western Carolina where he was a three-time All-Southern Conference selection and finished among the Cats' career top five in both sacks and tackles for loss. He also ranks sixth on the school's all-time sack list.. A rookie from Leland, N.C., he finished third in team tackles and ranked third in the SoCon in both sacks and tackles for loss in his final season.

The Packers have assigned McNeil jersey No. 54.

Brett Favre Named NFC Player Of The Month

Thu, 02 Dec 2004 10:48:43 CST

Quarterback BRETT FAVRE of the Green Bay Packers, defensive end JULIUS PEPPERS of the Carolina Panthers, and return specialist EDDIE DRUMMOND of the Detroit Lions are the NFC Offensive, Defensive and Special Teams Players of the Month for November, the NFL announced Thursday.

OFFENSE: QB BRETT FAVRE, GREEN BAY PACKERS
Favre has led the Packers to six consecutive wins, including a perfect 3-0 November, as Green Bay has grabbed a share of first place in the NFC North at 7-4. The Kiln, MS native began the month by completing 20 of 29 attempts for 236 yards and four touchdowns, posting a 133.0 passer rating in a key 34-31 win over the Vikings on November 14. The following week at Houston, Favre sparked a 10-point fourth-quarter comeback, leading three scoring drives in the quarter for a 16-13 win. Favre ended the month in fine fashion last Monday night. On the historic occasion of his 200th consecutive start, the most in NFL history by a quarterback, he threw thre..

Brett Favre Named 'Snickers Hungriest Player'

Wed, 01 Dec 2004 16:23:26 CST

"2003 Snickers Hungriest Player Of The Year" Has Record-Setting Night on "Brett Favre Day"

Brett Favre made the governor proud with his record-setting performance in last night's 45-17 rout of the St. Louis Rams. On the day the governor proclaimed "Brett Favre Day" in Wisconsin, Favre started his record 200th consecutive regular season game, threw three TD passes and broke an NFL record he shared with Dan Marino. For his effort, Favre was named the Monday Night Football SNICKERS HUNGRIEST PLAYER for Week 12 as selected by the ABC Monday Night Football broadcast team.

This week SNICKERS will present Favre with a special SNICKERS HUNGRIEST PLAYER Gameball, as well as donate $1,000 to his charity of choice. In addition, all fans who visited the Snickers web site and correctly selected Brett Favre prior to 11:00 PM EST last night will receive a free Snickers bar and be eligible for a trip for two to Super Bowl XXXIV in Jacksonville, FL.

With his sev..

Packers Sign WR Jamal Jones To Practice Squad

Wed, 01 Dec 2004 15:48:19 CST

The Green Bay Packers Wednesday signed wide receiver Jamal Jones to their practice squad, GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman announced.

Jones, a 6-0, 214-pound rookie out of North Carolina A&T, becomes the seventh member of the Green Bay practice squad, which can hold up to eight players.

After signing as a non-drafted free agent with the Rams April 30, Jones spent four months and 2004 training camp in St. Louis, before the Rams waived him Sept. 6. In preseason action he did not catch a pass, but did return one kickoff for 18 yards. Jones, who rejoins former Rams teammate Kelvin Kight on the Packers' practice squad, had been out of football until signing with Green Bay.

Jones, 23, lettered three years at North Carolina A&T - leading the team in receiving every year -- after transferring from the University of North Carolina. He owns a marketing degree from A&T.

The Packers have assigned Jones jersey No. 10.

Bonita Favre To Sign Copies Of 'FAVRE' Dec. 17 At Packers Pro Shop

Wed, 01 Dec 2004 13:58:23 CST

Bonita Favre, mother of Packers quarterback Brett Favre, will be on hand at the Packers Pro Shop Friday, Dec. 17, from 3 to 6 p.m., to sign copies of the newly published book, "FAVRE," an autobiography of the future Hall of Fame passer co-authored by Brett, Bonita and Green Bay Press-Gazette columnist Chris Havel.

Co-published by the National Football League and Rugged Land LLC, "FAVRE" has already reached No. 33 on the New York Times Hardcover Nonfiction Best-Seller List published Nov. 21.

The book features contributions from Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Terry Bradshaw, best-selling author Mark Bowden and Peter King of Sports Illustrated. "FAVRE" is filled with more than 150 stunning four-color action shots, personal memorabilia, and all the stories of Brett's fall Sundays.

In addition, a DVD from Emmy Award-winning NFL Films is included with the book. Entitled "In Their Own Words: Brett Favre," the DVD reveals Favre's intensity, humor, ..