The National Football League (NFL) is undoubtedly one of the most popular and influential professional sports leagues in the world, captivating audiences with its thrilling matches and larger-than-life athletes. While the NFL is predominantly an American institution, its reach extends beyond borders, with a significant fan base in Canada. Interestingly, Canada also holds a special place in NFL history, as it is home to three of the league’s oldest teams.
1. Arizona Cardinals (1898)
The Arizona Cardinals, currently residing in Glendale, Arizona, are the oldest continuously run professional football team in the United States. Their roots can be traced back to 1898 when they were established as the Morgan Athletic Club in Morgan, Illinois. The team adopted the name “Cardinals” in 1899, inspired by their cardinal red jerseys. Over the years, the Cardinals have experienced numerous relocations, including a stint in Chicago and St. Louis, before finally settling in Arizona in 1988. Despite their nomadic history, the Cardinals remain a proud and storied franchise, boasting four NFL championships and numerous Hall of Fame players.
2. Chicago Bears (1898)
The Chicago Bears, hailing from the Windy City, share the title of oldest NFL team with the Arizona Cardinals. Their origins can be found in Decatur, Illinois, where they were founded as the Decatur Staleys in 1898. The team’s name reflected its sponsorship by the Staley Starch Company. In 1920, the Staleys relocated to Chicago and officially joined the NFL. The Bears have enjoyed considerable success throughout their history, securing nine NFL championships and producing iconic players like George Halas, Dick Butkus, and Walter Payton.
3. Green Bay Packers (1919)
The Green Bay Packers, situated in Green Bay, Wisconsin, are the oldest continuously run professional football team in the NFL that has never relocated. Founded in 1919, the Packers have remained a symbol of community pride and resilience, deeply rooted in the city’s fabric. Despite their small-market status, the Packers have achieved remarkable success, capturing 13 NFL championships, including four Super Bowl titles. The team’s unique ownership structure, with fans owning a majority of the shares, further endears them to their passionate supporters.
The presence of these three historic NFL teams in Canada underscores the sport’s profound impact across North America. Their enduring legacies have captivated generations of fans, solidifying their positions as pillars of professional football. As the NFL continues to evolve, these venerable franchises stand as testaments to the enduring power of sport to unite and inspire.