Back to the future

When the Green Bay Packers were formed in 1919 they were known as the Acme Packers because the team was sponsored by the Acme Meat Packing Company. For their $500 investment, the company placed their name on the front of the team jerseys.

Now word comes that the NFL and other pro sports leagues are looking into adding corporate sponsorships to their jerseys as the current English Premier League does. With the potential for upwards of ten million dollars a year in additional revenue, much like the 18-game regular season, the question is not if this is going to happen, but when.

The key is making sure you have the brand that fits the team, so here are thoughts on title sponsors for the teams in my home division, the NFC North:

1. Green Bay Packers – Slim Fast, if you've ever tried to squeeze into a seat in Lambeau Field, you'll know why.
2. Chicago Bears – AIG, because both seem ready to collapse at any moment.
3. Detroit Lions – Chrysler, no matter how many management changes they make, they still can't seem to get it right.
4. Minnesota Vikings – AARP, a group that Brett Favre should be joining by the end of the season.

Any thoughts for your favorite team?