Packer Sackers Part 1: KGB

I'm partial to a well-worn, nicely hammered linebacker's or defensive lineman's jersey; with the great wear and often interesting customizations, what's not to like? Especially if it's from a great player. With that in mind, I'd like to take a thematic look at some jerseys worn by some of the Packers' all-time sack leaders (well, since 1982 anyway, when the sack became an "official" NFL statistic), starting with the current all-time leader, Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila (aka KGB, which is a great nickname, since it saves a lot of typing).

KGB developed into one of the league's premier speed-rushing defensive ends, and enjoyed a nine-year career with the Packers, leading the team in sacks five straight years, from 2001-2005. His career sack total of 74.5, along with a 2003 Pro Bowl appearance, likely ensures future enshrinement in the team's Hall of Fame.

The photo above shows KGB in action in during the 2002 season. Pictured below is the very jersey he is wearing in the photo:

This slim, size 44 Reebok jersey was manufactured in 2001, but was pressed into service for KGB's use during 2002.

The jersey also sports the noticeable neck customization utilized by KGB since 2001:

In addition, for nearly all of his career, velcro patches were sewn inside the chest for an extra tight fit (if you look closely at the first photo of KGB in this blog entry [from 2006] you can see exterior stitch marks indicating the presence of the patches).

Multiple repairs and degredation of the sleeve striping are indicative of season-long wear:

No crotchpiece was used. Instead, additional material was sewn to the bottom for added extra length:

So, what does this jersey tell us? If you're looking to add a game-used KGB for your collection (and they are tough to find), look for: 1) Customizations and, 2) Legitimate wear and repairs. 'Nuff said.

KGB was waived by the Packers in November of 2008, after undergoing knee surgery earlier in that year. He handled his release with dignity and class--the same way he handled his productive, and sometimes brilliant, tenure with the team.