96 Green Bay Packers Roster: Complete Player List & Stats
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The 1996 Green Bay Packers had a memorable season, culminating in a Super Bowl victory that solidified their place in NFL history. With a roster filled with talent and determination, this team not only showcased individual skills but also demonstrated the power of teamwork. This article takes a closer look at the complete player list, their stats, and contributions during that pivotal season.
Overview of the 1996 Season 🌟
The 1996 season was a year to remember for the Green Bay Packers, as they finished with a record of 13 wins and 3 losses. Coached by Mike Holmgren, the team made its way to Super Bowl XXXI, where they faced the New England Patriots, winning 35-21. The success of the Packers can be attributed to a mix of experienced veterans and promising young talents.
Key Achievements 🏆
- Regular Season Record: 13-3
- NFC Champion: Yes
- Super Bowl XXXI Champion: Yes
- Key Players: Brett Favre, Reggie White, and Desmond Howard
Complete Player Roster
The 1996 roster featured a mix of offensive, defensive, and special teams players. Below is a comprehensive list of the players who contributed to the Packers' success that season.
<table> <tr> <th>Position</th> <th>Player Name</th> <th>Games Played</th> <th>Stats</th> </tr> <tr> <td>QB</td> <td>Brett Favre</td> <td>16</td> <td>3,899 yards, 39 TDs, 13 INTs</td> </tr> <tr> <td>RB</td> <td>Edgar Bennett</td> <td>16</td> <td>1,067 yards, 8 TDs</td> </tr> <tr> <td>RB</td> <td>Dorsey Levens</td> <td>16</td> <td>536 yards, 3 TDs</td> </tr> <tr> <td>WR</td> <td>Antonio Freeman</td> <td>16</td> <td>1,070 yards, 8 TDs</td> </tr> <tr> <td>WR</td> <td>Robert Brooks</td> <td>16</td> <td>1,000 yards, 6 TDs</td> </tr> <tr> <td>TE</td> <td>Mark Chmura</td> <td>16</td> <td>500 yards, 3 TDs</td> </tr> <tr> <td>OT</td> <td>Bruce Wilkerson</td> <td>16</td> <td>-</td> </tr> <tr> <td>DE</td> <td>Reggie White</td> <td>16</td> <td>10 sacks</td> </tr> <tr> <td>LB</td> <td>Ray Lewis</td> <td>16</td> <td>132 tackles</td> </tr> <tr> <td>CB</td> <td>Doug Evans</td> <td>16</td> <td>3 INTs</td> </tr> <tr> <td>K</td> <td>Chris Jacke</td> <td>16</td> <td>98 points</td> </tr> <tr> <td>P</td> <td>Brad Maynard</td> <td>16</td> <td>-</td> </tr> </table>
Offensive Highlights 📈
The Packers' offense was explosive, primarily led by the two-time NFL MVP, Brett Favre. Favre's exceptional ability to read defenses and make accurate throws was on display throughout the season.
Key Offensive Stats
- Total Points Scored: 456
- Total Yards Gained: 6,281
- Average Yards Per Game: 392.6
Edgar Bennett and Dorsey Levens formed a dynamic backfield, contributing both in rushing and receiving. The wide receiving corps, featuring Antonio Freeman and Robert Brooks, provided reliable targets for Favre, helping the team in crucial moments.
Defensive Highlights 🛡️
The Packers' defense was equally impressive. Led by Reggie White, one of the greatest defensive players of all time, the team was known for its ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks and create turnovers.
Key Defensive Stats
- Total Points Allowed: 252
- Sacks: 47
- Interceptions: 22
This defensive unit was crucial during the playoffs, allowing the Packers to limit their opponents' scoring and secure the NFC Championship before heading to the Super Bowl.
Special Teams Impact 💥
Special teams play is often overlooked, but it was a critical component of the Packers' success. Desmond Howard, the Super Bowl MVP, was a key figure on special teams. His exceptional ability as a kick returner provided the team with excellent field position throughout the season.
Special Teams Stats
- Kick Return Average: 29.3 yards (Desmond Howard)
- Punt Return Average: 12.9 yards (Desmond Howard)
Howard's contributions were vital during both the regular season and the playoffs, where he scored a pivotal touchdown in the Super Bowl.
Postseason Journey 🌈
The Packers' playoff journey was filled with excitement and challenges. After earning a first-round bye, they faced the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFC Divisional Round. The Packers won decisively, 21-7.
NFC Championship Game
In the NFC Championship game, the Packers met the Carolina Panthers. This matchup was a close contest, but the Packers emerged victorious, winning 30-13 and securing their trip to the Super Bowl.
Super Bowl XXXI 🏅
On January 26, 1997, the Green Bay Packers faced the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XXXI. The game was held at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Game Recap
The Packers came out strong, with Favre throwing three touchdown passes. Desmond Howard’s 99-yard kickoff return for a touchdown was a key moment that shifted the momentum firmly in favor of the Packers.
Final Score
- Green Bay Packers: 35
- New England Patriots: 21
The victory not only marked the Packers' first Super Bowl title since 1967 but also solidified their status as one of the most dominant teams of the 1990s.
Legacy of the 1996 Packers 🏆
The 1996 Green Bay Packers left an indelible mark on the franchise and the NFL. Many players from that roster went on to have successful careers, and the team's success helped solidify Green Bay as a football powerhouse.
Hall of Famers
Several players from the 1996 roster have been inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, including:
- Brett Favre
- Reggie White
- Desmond Howard
Their contributions to the sport and the Packers franchise continue to be celebrated by fans and analysts alike.
Conclusion
The 1996 Green Bay Packers were a remarkable team that showcased talent, perseverance, and teamwork. From their impressive regular-season record to their unforgettable Super Bowl victory, this team created a legacy that resonates with fans to this day. As we look back at their achievements and player statistics, it's clear that the 1996 Packers were not just champions; they were a testament to the spirit of football and the rich history of the Green Bay Packers. 🏈💚💛