What Are the Cornerstone Franchises of the NFL? The NFL isn’t just a collection of football teams; it’s a tapestry of history, tradition, and legendary franchises that have shaped the sport we know today. Certain teams stand out not just for their success on the field, but for their deep cultural impact and their ability to transcend the game itself. These cornerstone franchises have forged legacies that continue to define professional football. From the storied Green Bay Packers to the dynasty-building New England Patriots, these teams have left an indelible mark on the NFL, and in turn, on American culture. Let’s explore these iconic franchises and their significance.
A Brief History of the NFL
The Formation of the NFL
The NFL was born in 1920 as the American Professional Football Association (APFA) before rebranding to the National Football League two years later. This league was built around small-town teams like the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears, which formed the backbone of what would grow into a multi-billion-dollar sports empire. Football had humble beginnings—stadiums were small, players often played both offense and defense, and many had second jobs to make ends meet. But from the beginning, certain teams stood out, and their strong foundations would help shape the NFL’s future.
The Impact of the AFL-NFL Merger
In 1966, the AFL-NFL merger was a pivotal moment in NFL history. This move brought together two competing leagues into one, creating a much larger, more competitive league that set the stage for football to become America’s most popular sport. The merger expanded the league, introduced new rivalries, and created a platform for cornerstone franchises to grow their legacies. Teams like the Dallas Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers would soon rise to prominence as the new powerhouse teams of this merged NFL.
Original NFL Teams
Several teams from the league’s early days remain iconic today. The Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers, and Arizona Cardinals (originally the Chicago Cardinals) were among the founding teams. These franchises laid the groundwork for the professional football experience, helping the NFL grow into a national phenomenon. They introduced fierce rivalries, such as the enduring Packers vs. Bears series, that still fire up fans today.
Green Bay Packers
The NFL’s Oldest Franchise
The Green Bay Packers, founded in 1919, are the league’s oldest continuously operating team. Situated in the small town of Green Bay, Wisconsin, the Packers embody the idea of community ownership and fan dedication. Their rich history is a testament to perseverance and success, as they’ve remained a cornerstone franchise despite being from one of the NFL’s smallest markets.
Vince Lombardi and His Unmatched Legacy
One cannot mention the Packers without mentioning Vince Lombardi, the legendary coach whose name is synonymous with success in football. Lombardi led the Packers to five NFL championships in the 1960s, including the first two Super Bowls. His leadership, determination, and philosophy—famously encapsulated in the quote, “Winning isn’t everything; it’s the only thing”—cemented his place in NFL history. Lombardi’s Packers set the standard for excellence and became the model for future championship teams.
Titles and Championships Over the Years
The Packers’ 13 championships, including four Super Bowl titles, make them the most successful franchise in NFL history in terms of total championships. Their ability to compete across different eras has solidified their status as one of the league’s greatest teams.
Chicago Bears
The Founding of the Bears
Founded as the Decatur Staleys in 1920 before moving to Chicago a year later, the Bears are one of the NFL’s original franchises. With deep roots in the sport, the team has been integral to the league’s growth and popularity.
George Halas: A Football Pioneer
George “Papa Bear” Halas is not only the founder of the Bears but also one of the most important figures in NFL history. He coached the team for 40 seasons and was instrumental in shaping the early NFL, helping to establish many of the game’s modern rules. His contributions extended beyond the Bears, as Halas played a key role in guiding the league’s development.
The Iconic Monsters of the Midway
In the 1940s and again in the 1980s, the Bears earned the nickname “Monsters of the Midway” for their dominant, hard-hitting defenses. The 1985 Chicago Bears are perhaps the most famous iteration, with a ferocious defense led by Mike Singletary and coach Mike Ditka, culminating in a Super Bowl win.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers’ Humble Beginnings
Founded in 1933, the Pittsburgh Steelers didn’t start off as a powerhouse. For decades, they struggled to find success, but that all changed in the 1970s, when they became one of the NFL’s most dominant teams.
The Steel Curtain: Defense Dominance
The Steelers’ rise to prominence came with the creation of the “Steel Curtain,” one of the most fearsome defenses in NFL history. Led by players like Joe Greene, Jack Lambert, and Mel Blount, the Steel Curtain helped the Steelers secure four Super Bowl victories in six years during the 1970s, marking the start of their dynasty.
A Dynasty Built on Toughness
The Steelers’ identity has always been rooted in toughness, from their physical defense to their blue-collar fanbase. Even after the Steel Curtain era, the franchise has continued to succeed, adding two more Super Bowl victories in the 2000s, led by head coach Bill Cowher and quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.
Forbes’ Most Valuable NFL Franchises of 2024
| Rank | Team | Current Value | Image Credit |
| 1 | Dallas Cowboys | $4.0 billion | Aaron M. Sprecher/NFL |
| 2 | New England Patriots | $3.2 billion | David Goldman/Associated Press |
| 3 | Washington Redskins | $2.85 billion | Evan Vucci/Associated Press |
| 4 | New York Giants | $2.8 billion | Ric Tapia/NFL |
| 5 | San Francisco 49ers | $2.7 billion | Ben Margot/Associated Press |
| 6 | New York Jets | $2.6 billion | Jason DeCrow/Associated Press |
| 7 | Houston Texans | $2.5 billion | Bill Baptist/Associated Press |
| 8 | Chicago Bears | $2.45 billion | Nam Y. Huh/Associated Press |
| 9 | Philadelphia Eagles | $2.4 billion | Scott Boehm/Associated Press |
| 10 | Green Bay Packers | $1.95 billion | Todd Rosenberg/NFL |
| 11 | Denver Broncos | $1.94 billion | Jack Dempsey/Associated Press |
| 12 | Baltimore Ravens | $1.93 billion | Nick Wass/Associated Press |
| 13 | Pittsburgh Steelers | $1.9 billion | Ric Tapia/NFL |
| 14 | Indianapolis Colts | $1.88 billion | Gary Wiepert/Associated Press |
| 15 | Seattle Seahawks | $1.87 billion | Tom Gannam/Associated Press |
| 16 | Miami Dolphins | $1.85 billion | Patrick Semansky/Associated Press |
| 17 | Atlanta Falcons | $1.67 billion | John Bazemore/Associated Press |
| 18 | Minnesota Vikings | $1.59 billion | Ann Heisenfelt/Associated Press |
| 19 | Carolina Panthers | $1.56 billion | Stephen B. Morton/Associated Press |
| 20 | Arizona Cardinals | $1.54 billion | Ross D. Franklin/Associated Press |
| 21 | Kansas City Chiefs | $1.53 billion | Ric Tapia/NFL |
| 22 | San Diego Chargers | $1.525 billion | Alex Gallardo/Associated Press |
| 23 | New Orleans Saints | $1.52 billion | Jeffrey Phelps/Associated Press |
| 24 | Tampa Bay Buccaneers | $1.51 billion | Scott Audette/Associated Press |
| 25 | Cleveland Browns | $1.5 billion | Kathy Willens/Associated Press |
| 26 | Tennessee Titans | $1.49 billion | Mark Zaleski/Associated Press |
| 27 | Jacksonville Jaguars | $1.48 billion | Stephen B. Morton/Associated Press |
| 28 | St. Louis Rams | $1.45 billion | L.G. Patterson/Associated Press |
| 29 | Cincinnati Bengals | $1.445 billion | Ben Margot/Associated Press |
| 30 | Detroit Lions | $1.44 billion | Rick Osentoski/Associated Press |
| 31 | Oakland Raiders | $1.43 billion | Tony Avelar/Associated Press |
| 32 | Buffalo Bills | $1.4 billion | Bill Wippert/Associated Press |
Dallas Cowboys
How “America’s Team” Was Born
The Cowboys, founded in 1960, quickly became one of the NFL’s most successful and popular franchises. They earned the moniker “America’s Team” in the 1970s due to their widespread fanbase and regular appearances on national television. The Cowboys weren’t just a team; they were a brand.
The Success of the 1970s
Under coach Tom Landry, the Cowboys became a dominant force in the 1970s, winning two Super Bowls and making five appearances in the big game. The team’s iconic star logo and their innovative strategies, such as the “flex defense,” made them a fan favorite.
The Cowboys’ 1990s Comeback
After a brief downturn in the 1980s, the Cowboys returned to dominance in the 1990s. With Troy Aikman at quarterback, Emmitt Smith in the backfield, and Michael Irvin at wide receiver, the Cowboys won three Super Bowls in four years under head coach Jimmy Johnson.
San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers’ Early Struggles
The San Francisco 49ers joined the NFL in 1950 after a few seasons in the All-America Football Conference (AAFC). For years, they struggled to find their footing, but that all changed in the 1980s.
Bill Walsh and the West Coast Offense Revolution
Head coach Bill Walsh revolutionized the NFL with the creation of the “West Coast offense,” a short-passing system that focused on precision and timing. This new style of play would change the landscape of the NFL and set the stage for the 49ers’ dominance throughout the 1980s.
Joe Montana and the Super Bowl Glory
With Joe Montana at quarterback, the 49ers became a powerhouse, winning four Super Bowls between 1981 and 1989. Montana’s calm under pressure and his pinpoint accuracy made him one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
New England Patriots
The Beginning of the Patriots’ Dominance
The Patriots were a relatively unremarkable franchise before the turn of the millennium. However, with the hiring of head coach Bill Belichick and the emergence of Tom Brady, the team would begin a run of dominance unparalleled in NFL history.
Tom Brady’s Incredible Career
Tom Brady, drafted in the sixth round in 2000, would go on to become the most successful quarterback in NFL history, leading the Patriots to six Super Bowl titles. Brady’s combination of intelligence, competitiveness, and clutch performances helped cement his legacy as the greatest of all time.
Bill Belichick’s Role in Building a Dynasty
Behind every great quarterback is a great coach, and Bill Belichick is one of the best. His focus on preparation, discipline, and adaptability helped build the Patriots into a dynasty that dominated the NFL for two decades.
Honorable Mentions
Other Teams That Shaped the NFL
While the Packers, Bears, Steelers, Cowboys, 49ers, and Patriots are often considered the cornerstone franchises, several other teams have also left a lasting impact on the NFL.
The New York Giants’ Defensive Legacy
The Giants are known for their strong defenses, especially in the 1980s when they won two Super Bowls under coach Bill Parcells. Their 2007 Super Bowl upset of the previously undefeated New England Patriots remains one of the greatest moments in NFL history.
The Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders’ Renegade Identity
The Raiders, whether in Oakland, Los Angeles, or Las Vegas, have always had a rebellious, renegade identity. Their fans, known as the “Raider Nation,” are among the most passionate in the league, and their commitment to excellence, especially under coach John Madden, made them a powerhouse in the 1970s.
Franchise Rivalries that Defined Eras
Packers vs. Bears: The NFL’s Longest Rivalry
The Packers and Bears have the oldest rivalry in the NFL, dating back to 1921. This intense matchup has seen countless memorable moments and continues to be one of the most anticipated games each season. Both teams have experienced periods of dominance, and the rivalry’s longevity and competitive spirit are a testament to the passion of their fanbases. Whether it’s in the freezing cold of Lambeau Field or the historic Soldier Field, the Packers vs. Bears matchup continues to be a defining feature of the NFL.
Cowboys vs. 49ers: A Clash of Titans
The rivalry between the Dallas Cowboys and San Francisco 49ers is one of the most iconic in NFL history, especially during the 1980s and 1990s when these teams clashed in epic postseason battles. The two powerhouses often met in the NFC Championship, with the winner usually advancing to the Super Bowl. Legendary games, like “The Catch” in 1982, became instant classics, cementing the rivalry as one of the most dramatic in football history.
Steelers vs. Ravens: Modern Day Grit
While it may not have the long-standing history of the Packers vs. Bears rivalry, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens rivalry is one of the fiercest in the modern NFL era. Known for their gritty, hard-hitting contests, these AFC North matchups often come down to defense and physicality. Both teams have claimed multiple Super Bowl titles in the 21st century, and their intense battles have made this rivalry one of the most captivating in recent history.
The Importance of Legacy in the NFL
Why Cornerstone Franchises Matter
The cornerstone franchises of the NFL represent more than just success on the field—they embody the tradition, history, and cultural significance of the sport. These teams are woven into the fabric of American culture, and their legacies influence every new generation of players, coaches, and fans. Teams like the Packers, Steelers, Cowboys, and Patriots aren’t just remembered for their championships; they are remembered for the way they changed the game and contributed to the identity of the NFL.
How Franchises Impact the Future
The enduring legacy of these cornerstone franchises provides a template for future NFL teams to follow. Whether it’s building a dynasty, fostering a fierce rivalry, or simply winning with class and integrity, these franchises have set the bar for excellence. As the NFL continues to evolve, new teams may rise to prominence, but the impact of these cornerstone franchises will always be felt in the league’s DNA.
A Glimpse Into Tomorrow’s Legends
The NFL is constantly growing, and while the cornerstone franchises hold much of the history, new teams are building their own legacies. Franchises like the Kansas City Chiefs, under the leadership of Patrick Mahomes and coach Andy Reid, have emerged as potential cornerstone teams of the future. Their recent Super Bowl victories and Mahomes’ rise to stardom suggest that the Chiefs could join the ranks of the NFL’s most legendary teams in the years to come.
Conclusion What Are the Cornerstone Franchises of the NFL?
The cornerstone franchises of the NFL—teams like the Packers, Steelers, Cowboys, 49ers, and Patriots—have transcended football to become symbols of excellence and perseverance. Their legacies are a testament to decades of dedication, innovation, and success, shaping not just the sport but American culture as a whole. While new teams will rise and fall, these iconic franchises will always hold a special place in the history of the NFL, continuing to inspire fans and athletes alike for generations to come.
FAQs
1. Which NFL team has the most Super Bowl victories?
The Pittsburgh Steelers and New England Patriots are tied for the most Super Bowl victories, each with six championships.
2. Who is considered the greatest coach in NFL history?
There are many contenders, but Vince Lombardi of the Green Bay Packers and Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots are often considered the top two coaches in NFL history due to their remarkable success and influence on the game.
3. Why are the Dallas Cowboys called “America’s Team”?
The Dallas Cowboys earned the nickname “America’s Team” in the 1970s due to their widespread fanbase, consistent national TV appearances, and overall success during that era. The name has stuck ever since.
4. What is the oldest rivalry in the NFL?
The oldest rivalry in the NFL is between the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears, which dates back to 1921.
5. How did the Pittsburgh Steelers become a dynasty?
The Pittsburgh Steelers became a dynasty in the 1970s thanks to their legendary defense, known as the “Steel Curtain,” and a strong offense led by quarterback Terry Bradshaw. They won four Super Bowls in six years during this period.
