American football, a beloved sport that has united communities and sparked rivalries, has a rich and storied history. At the heart of this history are the oldest National Football League (NFL) teams. These teams have not only weathered the test of time, but they've also shaped the sport as we know it today.
In this article, we'll journey back in time to discover the roots of the 10 oldest NFL teams. With each team, we'll explore their origins, significant milestones, and enduring legacies.
The Emergence of NFL
Before we delve into the teams, let's first understand the birth of the NFL. American football emerged as a professional sport in 1892, setting the stage for the development of formal leagues. However, it wasn't until 1920 that the NFL (originally known as the American Professional Football Association or APFA) was established with ten teams. In 1922, the league adopted its current name - the National Football League.
1. Arizona Cardinals: The Senior Statesman
Referred to as the oldest continual operation in pro football, the Arizona Cardinals' journey traces back to 1898, long before the NFL's inception. The team, initially known as the Morgan Athletic Club, was based in Chicago. They joined the NFL as a charter member in 1920.
Throughout their existence, the Cardinals have undergone multiple name changes and relocations, moving from Chicago to St. Louis and finally to Phoenix. Despite their longevity, the Cardinals have yet to clinch a Super Bowl title, although they've won two NFL championships during their pre-Super Bowl era.
2. Chicago Bears: The Windy City's Pride
Founded in 1920 as the Decatur Staleys, the Chicago Bears are the only charter member of the NFL that has never moved cities. A year after their establishment, the team relocated from Decatur to Chicago and subsequently changed their name to the Chicago Bears in 1922.
While they've only won a single Super Bowl in 1985, the Bears have seen significant success in their early years, securing eight NFL championships between 1921 and 1963.
3. Green Bay Packers: Fan-Owned and Proud
The Green Bay Packers were birthed in 1919 and joined the NFL two years later in 1921. The Packers hold the distinction of being the oldest team to remain in their original location without any name change.
Sponsored by the Indian Packing Company, the Packers are the only fan-owned NFL team, a testament to their deep grassroots connection with their community. The team has enjoyed significant success, securing 13 NFL Championships and four Super Bowl victories.
4. New York Giants: A Legacy of Success
The New York Giants entered the NFL fray in 1925 and have remained in the New York metropolitan area since their founding. Despite being based in New Jersey since 1976, they've never changed their iconic name.
The Giants have enjoyed a rich history of success, boasting four NFL championships and four Super Bowl titles, with their most recent victory in 2011.
5. Detroit Lions: From Portsmouth to Detroit
Originally known as the Portsmouth Spartans, the Detroit Lions were founded in 1929 and joined the NFL a year later. In 1934, the team relocated to Detroit, adopting the Lions' moniker.
Despite being one of the oldest NFL teams, the Lions have yet to taste Super Bowl success. Their last championship win dates back to 1957.
6. Washington Commanders: A Name Change for Progress
The Washington Commanders, originally known as the Boston Braves, joined the NFL in 1932. After a move to Washington D.C. in 1937 and a name change to Redskins, the team adopted its current name in 2020, signaling progress away from racially insensitive monikers.
Although they've not secured a major title since the early 1990s, the Commanders have won several NFL championships and Super Bowls.
7. Pittsburgh Steelers: A Tale of Transformation
The Pittsburgh Steelers, founded by Arthur J. Rooney in 1933, underwent a significant transformation after their initial 40 years of existence. Despite not winning any championships during this period, the 1970s saw the Steelers secure one of the most significant victories in NFL history.
Today, the team has a rich track record of success, including multiple playoff berths, AFC championships, and Super Bowl victories.
8. Philadelphia Eagles: A Soaring Legacy
The Philadelphia Eagles, established in 1933, have enjoyed a solid run since their inception. Despite suffering early losses, the Eagles have clinched three Super Bowl appearances, winning their first in 2018.
9. Los Angeles Rams: A Journey of Resilience
The Los Angeles Rams' history has been marked by several name changes and relocations since they joined the NFL as the Cleveland Rams in 1936. Despite initial struggles, the Rams have demonstrated resilience, taking home the Super Bowl championship in 1999 and 2022.
10. Cleveland Browns: Dominance and Disappointment
The Cleveland Browns, founded in 1944, dominated the All-America Football Conference (AAFC) until it folded in 1949. Despite their early dominance upon joining the NFL the following year, the Browns have never won a Super Bowl.
Conclusion
The historical journey of these ten oldest NFL teams is a testament to the resilience, passion, and enduring spirit of American football. Each team has contributed to shaping the NFL into the global sporting powerhouse it is today. Their stories remind us that through triumphs and tribulations, the spirit of the game endures.