Larry McCarren became a Green Bay Packers starter through hard work. Drafted number 12 in 1973, McCarren built himself into a 6’3”, 250-pound All Pro center.

The co-captain of the University of Illinois football team as a junior and senior, McCarren spent a season on the Packers taxi squad, then became starter in 1974.

McCarren played 162 consecutive games, the most of any center in Packers history. He earned the nickname ‘Rock’ because he was so tough and durable. In the 1980 season, he started just 24 days after hernia surgery. He played much of that season with a broken hand.

McCarren reached All Pro status in 1983 and ‘84, toward the end of his 12-year career. Perhaps coach Bart Starr gave McCarren the finest tribute when he called him a “player’s player and a leader.” He became a Green Bay area sportscaster after his playing career.

To see Larry McCarren’s personal website, click here.