Dave Hanner

The Backbone of the Packers’ Defense

For over a decade, Dave "Hawg" Hanner was the heart and soul of the Green Bay Packers' defense. A two-time NFL champion, two-time Pro Bowler, and longtime coach, Hanner was one of the most consistent and reliable defensive linemen of his era. Playing 13 seasons for the Packers, he was a key part of the defensive foundation that helped Green Bay rise to prominence under Vince Lombardi.

Known for his relentless toughness, durability, and leadership, Hanner was a blue-collar warrior in the trenches, taking on blockers and disrupting offenses with raw power and intelligent play. He played a pivotal role in Green Bay’s championship teams, helping solidify the Packers' defensive identity during their golden era.

Beyond his playing days, Hanner remained a lifelong Packer, serving as a coach and scout for another four decades, making him one of the most influential figures in franchise history.

The Numbers Behind Hanner’s Greatness

Two-time NFL Champion (1961, 1962)
Two-time Pro Bowler (1953, 1954)
Packers Hall of Fame Inductee (1974)
Played 160 games for the Packers from 1952-1964
Key defensive lineman during Green Bay’s rise under Vince Lombardi
Served as Packers coach, scout, and executive from 1965-1996

Though defensive stats like sacks and tackles weren’t officially recorded in his era, Hanner was regarded as one of the most formidable defensive linemen in the NFL, playing both tackle and end with equal effectiveness.

From Arkansas to Green Bay – A Perfect Fit for the Frozen Tundra

Born in Parkin, Arkansas, Hanner played college football at the University of Arkansas, where he developed a reputation as a hard-nosed and physically dominant lineman.

His raw strength and relentless work ethic made him one of the Razorbacks’ most feared defenders.
He was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the 5th round of the 1952 NFL Draft, joining a team that was in the midst of rebuilding.

Hanner immediately became a starter on Green Bay’s defensive line, quickly establishing himself as one of the most reliable linemen in the league.

The Anchor of Green Bay’s Defense – A Decade of Dominance

Throughout the 1950s and early 1960s, Hanner was the undisputed leader of Green Bay’s defense.

In 1953 and 1954, he earned back-to-back Pro Bowl selections, proving himself as one of the best defensive linemen in the NFL.
He was a physical presence in the middle, disrupting running games and consistently applying pressure to opposing quarterbacks.
His leadership and toughness helped set the tone for the Packers’ defensive identity as they transitioned into the Vince Lombardi era.

Though Green Bay struggled in the 1950s, Hanner’s stability and reliability on the defensive line kept the team competitive and prepared for future success.

The Lombardi Era – Championships and Legacy

When Vince Lombardi arrived in 1959, the Packers quickly transformed into one of the most dominant teams in NFL history. Though Hanner was entering the final years of his playing career, his veteran leadership and toughness made him a key part of Lombardi’s early success.

In 1961 and 1962, he helped lead Green Bay to back-to-back NFL Championships, providing experience and strength on the defensive front.
His locker-room presence and leadership were invaluable, helping younger players adjust to Lombardi’s high standards and expectations.
Hanner retired after the 1964 season, ending his career as one of the most respected Packers of all time.

His impact extended far beyond his playing days, as he transitioned into coaching and front-office roles, remaining an essential part of the organization.

Defining Moments of Hanner’s Career

1953-1954 Pro Bowls: Established himself as one of the best defensive linemen in the league.
Surviving the Packers’ 1950s struggles: Provided stability and leadership during the team’s rebuilding years.
1961 NFL Championship: Played a key role in Green Bay’s 37-0 shutout victory over the Giants.
1962 NFL Championship: Helped the Packers dominate the league, cementing their dynasty status.
Becoming a Packers coach and scout: Dedicated his life to the franchise after retiring as a player.

The Most Iconic Dave Hanner Football Cards

For collectors, Hanner’s football cards represent some of the best from Green Bay’s early championship teams:

1955 Bowman #48 Dave Hanner Rookie Card – His first official card, a key piece for vintage Packers collectors.
1959 Topps #36 Dave Hanner – A classic from the beginning of the Lombardi era.
1963 Topps #96 Dave Hanner – One of his final cards as an active player.

Each of these cards is a symbol of the Packers' rise to dominance, capturing a true franchise legend.

Beyond the Field – A Lifelong Packer

Hanner’s connection to the Green Bay Packers didn’t end after retirement. Instead, he spent the next 30 years serving in coaching, scouting, and front-office roles, further shaping the franchise’s success.

He was an assistant coach from 1965 to 1971, helping transition the Packers into the post-Lombardi era.
From 1971 to 1980, he served as Green Bay’s defensive coordinator, keeping the team competitive.
He later worked as a scout and executive, playing a role in multiple decades of Packers history.

Few people dedicated more of their lives to one franchise than Dave Hanner, making him one of the most beloved figures in Packers history.

The Legacy of Dave Hanner – A True Green Bay Icon

Hanner wasn’t a flashy player, and he didn’t pile up gaudy statistics, but his impact on the Packers was immeasurable.

He was:

A relentless defensive lineman who set the tone in the trenches.
A vital leader in Green Bay’s first championship run under Vince Lombardi.
A lifelong Packer, serving as a player, coach, and executive for over 40 years.

His name may not be as famous as Bart Starr or Ray Nitschke, but his contributions to the Packers’ dynasty were just as critical.

Dave Hanner represents everything the Green Bay Packers stand for—toughness, loyalty, and dedication to winning.

A Packers Legend Who Defined an Era

Few players in NFL history spent as much time dedicated to one team as Dave Hanner. His ability to lead on the field, transition into coaching, and help the Packers for decades made him one of the franchise’s most important figures.

His toughness on the defensive line helped lay the foundation for the Packers’ championship dynasty, and his loyalty to the team helped guide Green Bay for generations.

Dave Hanner may not always get the recognition of some of his Hall of Fame teammates, but his impact on the Packers will never be forgotten.