Former Green Bay Packers GM Ted Thompson dies at 68

Aaron Rodgers and Charles Woodson among others paid tribute to Ted Thompson

Sad news out of Green Bay on Thursday as former Packers GM Ted Thompson has died at the age of 68.

Per Packers.com:

Thompson served as the Packers GM for 13 years, from 2005-17, a tenure highlighted by the franchise’s 13th championship and fourth Super Bowl title, along with six NFC North crowns, including a team-record four straight from 2011-14. He also helped the Packers make four appearances in the NFC Championship Game, the most in the NFC over that span.

“Ted was a man of great character and integrity who cared deeply for his family and friends,” said current Packers GM Brian Gutekunst, who succeeded Thompson in 2018. “He was honest and hard-working. He valued his scouts and always did what he felt was right for the Packers organization.”

Current and former players paid their respects, including Aaron Rodgers who was drafted by Thompson.

Per Packerswire.com: 

Thompson played 10 years in the NFL as a linebacker and spent over 20 years as a personnel executive with the Packers, including a highly successful run from 2005 to 2017 as the team’s general manager.

Thompson was the team’s director of pro personnel under Ron Wolf when the Packers won Super Bowl XXXI, and he constructed the team that won Super Bowl XLV.

Thompson, who battled health issues at the end of his term, stepped down as general manager following the 2017 season and took on an advisory role under new general manager Brian Gutekunst.

Thompson’s first draft pick changed the future of the franchise forever.

Even with future Hall of Famer Brett Favre on his roster in 2005, Thompson still used the 24th overall pick on a quarterback from Cal named Aaron Rodgers. Three years later, he traded away Favre after he unretired and ushered in a new era under Rodgers.

The team already plans a tribute.