Who Changes Their Team Name? Legendary Football Teams

As Illini Nation divides itself over a new mascot, it is worthwhile to consider iconic NFL teams. The Chicago Bears began in 1919 as the Decatur Staleys, so-named for the A. E. Staley food starch company of Decatur, Illinois. Also formed in 1919, the Green Bay Packers had their uniforms purchased by the Indian Packing Company with the understanding that the team be named for its sponsor. Interesting to note, they dropped their Indian identity long ago without losing their fan base. The Pittsburgh football franchise, originally named the Pirates, was later renamed the Steelers out of respect for the city’s leading industry. The Bears. The Packers. The Steelers. All began with different names and identities. If they survived and flourished, chances are that the University of Illinois will make a successful transition, too.