Who’s the Oldest Team in the NFL? Determining the NFL’s oldest team is complex. Arizona Cardinals claim the title based on founding date, while Chicago Bears and Cardinals share the longest continuous league presence.
Determining the oldest team in the NFL can be a complex question, as there are different ways to measure age. Let’s delve into the history of the league and its teams to shed some light on this topic.
A Brief History of the NFL
The Early Days of Football
Football as we know it today has its roots in rugby and soccer. In the late 19th century, various college and amateur teams began to form, laying the groundwork for professional football.
History of the NFL
From Ragtag Teams to Organized Leagues
As the sport gained popularity, the need for organized competition became apparent. Several professional football leagues emerged in the early 20th century, but it was the National Football League (NFL), founded in 1920, that would ultimately dominate the landscape.
The Arizona Cardinals: The Grand Old Men of the NFL
A Humble Beginning
Established in 1898 as the Morgan Athletic Club, the Arizona Cardinals boast a rich history that predates the NFL itself. Initially based in Chicago, the team adopted the name “Cardinals” in 1901 due to their distinctive red jerseys.
The Birth of the Cardinals
The Cardinals were among the founding members of the NFL in 1920, solidifying their status as one of the league’s original franchises.
The Cardinals’ Journey Through Time
The Cardinals have experienced significant changes over the years. The team relocated to St. Louis in 1960 before finding its permanent home in Arizona in 1988. Despite these moves, the franchise has maintained a continuous presence in the NFL, making them strong contenders for the title of oldest team.
Other Old-Timers in the NFL
Chicago Bears: The Other Founding Father
The Chicago Bears (originally the Decatur Staleys) are the only other team to have been part of the NFL’s inaugural season. While they share the distinction of being founding members, their history doesn’t stretch as far back as the Cardinals’.
Green Bay Packers: The Undisputed Fan Ownership Model
The Green Bay Packers were formed in 1919, a year before the NFL’s inception. Although they joined the league in 1921, their early history and unique fan ownership model make them another notable contender for the “oldest” title.
The Oldest Team: A Matter of Perspective
Different Ways to Measure Oldest
Determining the oldest NFL team depends on the criteria used. If we consider the founding date of the original organization, the Arizona Cardinals take the crown. However, if continuous existence within the NFL is the primary factor, the Chicago Bears and Arizona Cardinals share the honor.
Three Oldest Teams in the NFL
Oldest NFL Teams
Team | Year Founded |
Arizona Cardinals | 1920 |
Chicago Bears | 1920 |
Green Bay Packers | 1,921 |
New York Giants | 1,925 |
Detroit Lions | 1,930 |
Washington Commanders | 1,932 |
Philadelphia Eagles | 1,933 |
Pittsburgh Steelers | 1,933 |
Los Angeles Rams | 1937 |
Cleveland Browns | 1,946 |
San Francisco 49ers | 1946 |
Indianapolis Colts | 1,953 |
Tennessee Titans | 1,960 |
Dallas Cowboys | 1,960 |
Denver Broncos | 1,960 |
Buffalo Bills | 1,960 |
New York Jets | 1960 |
New England Patriots | 1,960 |
Kansas City Chiefs | 1960 |
Las Vegas Raiders | 1,960 |
Los Angeles Chargers | 1960 |
Minnesota Vikings | 1,961 |
Atlanta Falcons | 1,966 |
Miami Dolphins | 1966 |
New Orleans Saints | 1967 |
Cincinnati Bengals | 1968 |
Seattle Seahawks | 1976 |
Tampa Bay Buccaneers | 1976 |
Jacksonville Jaguars | 1995 |
Carolina Panthers | 1995 |
Baltimore Ravens | 1996 |
Houston Texans | 2002 |
Different Ways to Measure Oldest
Continuous Existence vs. Founding Date
As mentioned, the Arizona Cardinals hold the distinction of being the oldest team based on their founding date. However, the Chicago Bears and Cardinals have maintained a continuous presence in the NFL since its inception, making them strong contenders for the title of oldest continuously operating team.
Another factor to consider is franchise relocation.
While the Cardinals moved from Chicago to St. Louis and then to Arizona, they have retained their original franchise identity. Some argue that relocation should be considered when determining a team’s age, as it essentially creates a new entity.
The Enduring Legacy
Regardless of which team claims the title of oldest, the NFL’s founding franchises have played an invaluable role in shaping the league into the global phenomenon it is today. Their rich histories, filled with triumphs and challenges, continue to inspire fans and players alike. As the NFL enters its next century, these teams serve as a reminder of the league’s humble beginnings and the enduring spirit of competition.
Conclusion
The question of which NFL team is the oldest is a complex one, with multiple factors to consider. While the Arizona Cardinals hold the distinction of being the oldest team based on their founding date, the Chicago Bears and Cardinals have maintained a continuous presence in the league since its inception. Ultimately, the title of “oldest” can be subjective, depending on the criteria used. Regardless, these founding franchises have played a pivotal role in shaping the NFL into the iconic league it is today.
FAQs OF Who’s the Oldest Team in the NFL?
Q: Which team was the first to join the NFL?
A: The NFL was founded in 1920 with multiple teams joining simultaneously. The Arizona Cardinals and Chicago Bears are among the original members.
Q: Have any other teams claimed the title of oldest?
A: While the Cardinals and Bears are the most prominent contenders, other early NFL teams like the Green Bay Packers also have a strong historical foundation.
Q: What makes the Arizona Cardinals unique in terms of their history?
A: The Arizona Cardinals stand out due to their formation in 1898 as the Morgan Athletic Club, making them older than the NFL itself.
Q: How have the Cardinals and Bears evolved over the years?
A: Both teams have undergone significant changes, including name changes, relocations, and ownership transitions. However, they have maintained their core identity as founding members of the NFL.
Q: What does the future hold for these historic franchises?
A: As the NFL continues to grow and evolve, the Cardinals and Bears will undoubtedly face new challenges and opportunities. Their rich histories will serve as a foundation for future success as they strive to remain competitive in the modern era.