Jordy Nelson: Forever A Packer
Early Sunday morning, former Packer wide receiver Jordy Nelson ended up having a ceremonial retirement with them. It ended up avoiding certain roadblocks that a one-day contract signing would bring up like drug tests, roster moves, etc. It was announced via the Packers team account. He will also be speaking with the media on Tuesday morning at 9:30 AM CST. Nelson, who was drafted by Green Bay back in 2008 out of Kansas State in the second round, didn’t take long to make an impact on his new team. In his first year, he recorded 33 receptions for 366 yards and 2 touchdowns, averaging 11.2 Y/R. Nelson ended up going over 1000 yards four times during his ten year career; 2011: 68 REC, 1,263 YDs, 15 TDs, 18.6 Y/R, 2013: 85 REC, 1,314 YDs, 8 TDs, 15.5 Y/R, 2014: 98 REC, 1,514 YDs, 13 TDs, 15.5 YP/R, & 2016: 97 REC, 1,257 YDs, 14 TDs, 13 Y/R.
In nine years with Green Bay, Nelson totaled 7,348 receiving yards (5th all-time in franchise history), on 550 receptions (3rd all-time in franchise history), and scored 69 touchdowns (2nd all-time in franchise history). He is also the single-season receiving yardage leader (1,519 yards in 2016). He also made the Pro Bowl and garnered first-team all-pro honors as well.
Altogether in his ten-year career, he played in 151 games (102 starts), recorded 613 receptions for 8,587 yards, 72 touchdowns, and averaged 14 Y/R. Among his many accolades, Nelson was named the comeback player of the year at the 4th annual NFL Honors award ceremony back in February of 2017. He also became a Super Bowl champion; winning it back in February of 2011; a 6-point victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. In that game, Nelson tallied 9 receptions (on 15 targets), for 140 yards, and 1 touchdown, and averaged 15.5 Y/R — his greatest statistical postseason performance of his illustrious career.
Furthermore, Jordy Nelson captivated fans in Green Bay with his amazing play on the field, as well as his great contributions off of it. He was and still is an immense community ambassador for Green Bay. He has been partnered with several local organizations, has been an advocate for adoption, he’s even been a substitute teacher within Green Bay. Perhaps the most telling aspect of his impact has been the annual charity softball game. Proceeds from the event go to an organization called: “Young Life: Green Bay”, an organization that pairs students with adult mentors — one of which the Nelsons have had going on 4 years now. His community impact & legacy will carry on well into his retirement.
Jordy Nelson’s overall impact as an NFL player certainly didn’t go unnoticed either — and it shouldn’t. He ended up becoming one of the most prolific receivers in Packers history along with eventual franchise Hall of Fame induction as well. That’s how great Nelson’s play was over his 9-year career with them. Nelson’s on-field performance, persona, and impact within Green Bay, as well as the NFL, will not soon be forgotten. He has made a lasting impression on many fans and players alike. Nelson will forever be remembered as a Packer, in fact, he will forever BE a Packer. Thank you for all you’ve done, Jordy.
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