Former Packers GM Ted Thompson dies at 68

Ted Thompson, a two-time Super Bowl champion executive with the Green Bay Packers, died Thursday, Packers head coach Matt LaFleur announced, according to ESPN's Rob Demovsky.

Thompson, who celebrated his 68th birthday four days ago, revealed in May 2019 that he had been diagnosed with an autonomic disorder.

"His impact is still felt to this day when you look at our roster ... I just know how important he was to many people in this building," said LaFleur.

Thompson served as GM of the Packers from 2005-17 and was the primary architect of their Super Bowl XLV team. Rarely reliant on free agency to build his rosters, Thompson developed a reputation as one of the most shrewd drafters in the game.

After surrendering his GM duties following the 2017 season, Thompson moved into an advisory role and was eventually inducted into the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame.

Thompson was responsible for drafting cornerstones such as Aaron Rodgers, Greg Jennings, Jordy Nelson, Clay Matthews, Randall Cobb, Davante Adams, and Kenny Clark during his reign as GM. His two largest free-agent splashes - Charles Woodson and Julius Peppers - both paid huge dividends.

The former linebacker played for the Houston Oilers from 1975-84. Thompson then began his front-office career as an assistant director of pro personnel for the Packers in 1992 and picked up his first championship ring when Green Bay defeated the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XXXI.

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