Green Bay Packers: Top 10 defensive players of all-time

Jan 5, 2014; Green Bay, WI, USA; Fans wait in line to enter the stadium prior to the 2013 NFC wild card playoff football game between the San Francisco 49ers and the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

7. Bill Forester

Drafted in the third round of the 1953 NFL Draft, Bill Forester is often forgotten when talking about the great linebackers of the Green Bay Packers during the time period.

Having been drafted in 1953, Forester started his tenure as a member of the Green Bay Packers under head coach Gene Ronzani. Under Ronzani, and then Ray McLean who replaced Rozlan in 1953, Forester played as a defensive lineman for three of his first four NFL seasons.

While also flirting with the middle linebacker position, Forester finally found his permanent home at the outside linebacker position, which is where he stayed under the observation of Vince Lombardi who was hired in 1959.

Though overshadowed by some other players on the defensive side of the ball, Forester was as solid as any player on the field, and was instrumental in helping the Packers win two NFL championships in 1961 and 1962.

During his time in Green Bay, Forester played 138 games in his 11 year career. He tallied 21 interceptions during his career with 15 fumble recoveries.

Having played against him as a tight end with the Chicago Bears, Mike Ditka has had high remarks for Bill Forester as well.

“Not everyone will get the recognition, but remember this: it takes 11 to make a defense. Bill Forester was one of them. He was a damn good football player.”

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