In a monumental gesture to celebrate one of their most iconic figures, the Green Bay Packers have unveiled a statue honoring legendary guard and placekicker Jerry Kramer. The statue, located outside Lambeau Field, immortalizes the contributions of the Hall of Famer who epitomized grit, leadership, and excellence during the Packers’ glory years.
A Fitting Tribute
Jerry Kramer’s legacy is synonymous with the Packers’ dominance under head coach Vince Lombardi in the 1960s. As a key member of the team’s offensive line, Kramer was instrumental in paving the way for one of the most famous plays in NFL history—Bart Starr’s quarterback sneak in the Ice Bowl. His dual role as a guard and occasional placekicker made him a unique and invaluable asset to the team.
“This is more than a statue—it’s a tribute to a man who embodied what it means to be a Packer,” said Packers president and CEO Mark Murphy during the unveiling ceremony. “Jerry’s impact on the game and our organization goes far beyond the field.”
A Storied Career
Kramer, drafted in the fourth round of the 1958 NFL Draft, played all 11 seasons of his professional career with the Packers. His contributions helped the team secure five NFL championships, including the first two Super Bowls. A six-time All-Pro selection, Kramer was finally enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018 after years of advocacy by fans and teammates.
His literary contributions also stand out. Kramer co-authored the groundbreaking book “Instant Replay”, which offered an unprecedented glimpse into the life of an NFL player and solidified his status as a cultural icon.
The Statue: A Symbol of Excellence
The statue captures Kramer in his iconic stance as a pulling guard, a nod to his role in executing Lombardi’s famed power sweep. The base of the monument includes engravings of his career milestones, quotes from teammates, and excerpts from “Instant Replay.” It stands as a beacon for fans visiting Lambeau Field, inviting them to reflect on the rich history of the Packers franchise.
An Emotional Moment
At the ceremony, Kramer, now 89, was visibly moved as he addressed the crowd. “I’m humbled and deeply grateful for this honor,” he said. “Playing for the Packers was the privilege of a lifetime, and to be remembered in this way is beyond anything I could have imagined.”
A Legacy Cemented
The statue of Jerry Kramer joins a distinguished lineup of Packers legends honored outside Lambeau Field, ensuring that his contributions to the franchise will be remembered for generations to come. For Packers fans and football enthusiasts alike, it serves as a reminder of a golden era and the enduring values of hard work, perseverance, and teamwork that Kramer exemplified.
As the crowd dispersed after the unveiling, one sentiment lingered: Jerry Kramer is more than a player. He’s a legend, and now, he’s forever part of Lambeau Field.