Packers Hall of Fame Defensive End Willie Davis Passes Away at 85

The Green Bay Packers suffered a heartbreaking loss Wednesday, as one of the best players in the history of the franchise has unfortunately passed away.

Defensive end Willie Davis, who anchored a fierce Green Bay defensive line in the 1960s, died at the age of 85.

The Vince Lombardi Packers have suffered a few noteworthy deaths over the last year, as defensive back Willie Wood and quarterback Bart Starr both passed away.

Davis started his career in 1958 with the Cleveland Browns after two years in the Army, but he really broke out as a star defensive end on Lombardi's legendary Green Bay Packers teams in the 1960s. His size and strength allowed him to become one of the premier linemen of the '60s.

Davis was named to five Pro Bowls and six All-Pro teams. While he played before tackles and sacks were official statistics, team historians claim that he recorded over 100 sacks, with some estimates putting him near 120. That number would be tops in Packers history.

Davis is most well-known for his contributions in the playoffs, where he helped the Packers win five championships over the course of the decade. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1981, and was named No. 86 on the NFL's list of the 100 Greatest Players in the game's history.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Davis family and the Packers organization, as one of the most relentless pass rushers of all time has left us.