Jim Ringo

Inducted 1974

A quick, reliable center, Jim Ringo was a number seven draft choice who played for the Packers from 1953-’63. At just 6’1”, 230-pounds, Ringo often went against bigger opponents but his quickness and intelligence overcame his limitations.

Ringo never missed a start from his second season, 1954, through ‘67 when he finished his career as a Philadelphia Eagle. He was credited with starting 182 consecutive games with the Packers and Eagles. Ringo once started a game weighing less than 200 after suffering an infection.

A six-time All Pro with the Packers, Ringo was the team’s co-captain from 1959 through ‘63.

Reporting for contract negotiations with Coach and General Manager Vince Lombardi prior to the 1964 season, Ringo brought along an agent. Lombardi excused himself and when he returned, he told Ringo he was talking with the wrong team. He needed to speak to the Philadelphia Eagles because he’d just been traded.

The Packers had sent Ringo and young running back Earl Gros to the Eagles for linebacker Lee Roy Caffey and a draft choice.

Ringo continued his All Pro level at center as an Eagle from 1964-’67. After retiring as a player, Ringo was an assistant coach with several NFL teams. 

Ringo was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1981. 

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