1921 Green Bay Packers season

The 1921 Green Bay Packers season was the franchise’s third season overall and its first as a member of the American Professional Football Association (APFA), the league that would later be renamed the National Football League (NFL). The team was based in Green Bay, Wisconsin and was coached by founder Curly Lambeau.

The Packers were admitted to the APFA in August 1921 after posting a $50 franchise fee. Competing against more established professional teams, Green Bay finished the season with a winning record and demonstrated that the small-market club could compete at the professional level.

 Background 
After two successful independent seasons, Curly Lambeau applied for league membership in the APFA. Financial backing again came from the Indian Packing Company, which continued to sponsor the team. Joining the APFA marked a major step toward long-term stability for the franchise.

The Packers played their home games at Hagemeister Park, which featured temporary seating and drew large local crowds despite Green Bay’s small population.

 Season summary 
The Packers played a limited APFA schedule in 1921, facing teams from larger cities such as Chicago and Minneapolis. League standings during the early APFA era were informal, and champions were determined by vote rather than a fixed playoff system.

Green Bay finished with a record of 3–2–1, placing among the stronger teams in the league. The season helped establish the Packers as a legitimate professional organization and set the stage for their continued participation in the league.

 Schedule 

 Players 
The roster consisted largely of local and regional players, many of whom balanced football with full-time employment. Curly Lambeau played multiple roles, including coach, organizer, and occasional player.

 League standing 
The Packers were one of several teams competing for recognition during the APFA’s formative years. Although no official playoff system existed, Green Bay’s performance compared favorably with other league members.

 Legacy 
The 1921 season marked the Packers’ entry into what would become the NFL. Despite financial challenges and small-market limitations, the team’s survival during the league’s early years contributed directly to its long-term success and historic status.

 Related pages 
 1921 APFA season
 Green Bay Packers
 History of the Green Bay Packers

Category:Green Bay Packers seasons
Green Bay Packers season
Green Bay Packers season
Category:20th century in Wisconsin