Top 10 NFL Logos

Honorable Mention: Dallas Cowboys: Since 1964, the Dallas Cowboys have left their logo untouched, and the Dallas star is a clear symbol of this billion dollar franchise. "America's Team" has won 5 Super Bowls starting in 1971, and throughout the highs and lows, their logo stayed the same. The Dallas star originates from Texas' nickname,"The Lone Star State", and is regarded as one of the most well-known logos in all of sports. Everything is bigger in Texas, or so the saying goes, but in this case, the Dallas Cowboys believe a simple logo is the way to go.

10. Indianapolis Colts: It may be an extremely simple design, but the horseshoe seen on Indianapolis' helmet is a perfect symbol of the Colts franchise. The blue-and-white combination looks great on the uniforms, and the logo is not too overwhelming. Apart from a slight tweaking to the logo in 2002, the Indianapolis Colts have left the horseshoe virtually untouched since 1984. The simplicity and history associated with Indianapolis' logo makes it well deserving of the tenth spot on our countdown.

9. Philadelphia Eagles: In 1996, the Philadelphia Eagles organization transformed their logo from a realistic eagle clutching a football in its talons, to a cartoon version of a bald eagle's head. Despite its cartoony design, the Eagles' intimidating glare makes this logo a masterpiece. The silver and green go well together, and just like the insanely popular app Angry Birds, this bird is here to stay.

8. San Diego Chargers: After their logo featured the San Diego Chargers helmet from 1974 to 2001, the San Diego organization decided to simplify things by transitioning to a lone lightning bolt. Originally, the bolt was white with a yellow outline, but in 2007, the bolt turned yellow with different shades of blue lining the edges. Whatever a "Charger" may be, the yellow and blue lightning bolt is a perfect symbol of this electric San Diego franchise.

7. Green Bay Packers: In 1961, or so the story goes, legendary Packers coach Vince Lombardi asked his equipment manager for a team logo, and the result was the Packers "G". The "G" stands for Green Bay, and its shape supposedly models after the irregular shape of a football. The green and yellow was not added to Green Bay's logo until 1980. The Packers organization have their design heavily copyrighted, as they believe their design is one of the best in sports. I love the story associated with this logo, and the colors look extraordinary as they outline the Green Bay "G".

6. Oakland Raiders: After changing their logo three times in five years, the Oakland Raiders finally found their logo in 1964 that is the same general design seen on the uniforms today. Al Davis changed the color scheme to black and silver, and after several minor changes, the logo consisted of a silver pirate wearing Oakland's helmet. In contrast with the silver pirate was a black shield, where the word "Raiders" was etched at the top. The general design has been left untouched for close to 50 years, and is regarded as one of the best in the National Football League.

5. Atlanta Falcons: The top 5. This is where we start to analyze some of the best logos in sports. The Atlanta Falcons logo shows a red and black hawk soaring through the air, talons at the ready. This falcon is shaped like the letter "F", a creative addition to an already fantastic logo. The red and black duo looks absolutely fantastic, and this logo is clearly deserving of a top 5 spot.

4. Minnesota Vikings: For the first time since 1966, the Minnesota Vikings organization has decided to modify their logo. Though the changes are rather small, the bold black streaks through theViking's hair adds a certain crispness to this logo. Purple and gold is a unique color tandem in the National Football League, and the designer of this particular logo had some creativity in order to successfully include both colors into the design. Though I like the current Minnesota helmets that just feature two horns on either side, these logos are too good to not be seen on every helmet.

3. Pittsburgh Steelers: In 1969, a Republic Steel based in Cleveland recommended to the Steelers organization that they adopt the industry logo. This logo features three astroids, where the three different colors represent the the ingredients needed to make steel; red for iron ore, blue for scrap steel, and yellow to make coal. The original industry logo had the word steel inscribed inside, but Steelers gained permission to add E-R-S to their brand new logo. Unlike other logos in the league, the Pittsburgh Steelers have a complicated story behind the symbol of their franchise, which is why the Pittsburgh Steelers logo ranks number three on our list.

2. Detroit Lions: The Detroit Lions' logo is very straightforward; an intimidating lion on its hind legs, ready to do battle. Minor details were added in 2009 to this logo, which clearly makes the logo look more realistic. Though I am sure there is no such thing as a blue lion living in the wild, the "honolulu-blue" mixed with white makes this logo a tasteful masterpiece. The minor changes in 2009 helped this logo sky-rocket upwards in terms of popularity, and with only one logo left to be named in our countdown, the Lions organization should be happy with a number two ranking.

1. Denver Broncos: Though I am a huge fan of the Denver Broncos logo from the 70s and 80s, today's logo is the best in all of football. The glistening orange mane incorporates Denver's primary color, while the blue shadows streaking through its white hair includes the secondary color. Since the logo was introduced by the franchise in 1997, this particular logo has been one of my favorites in all of sports. The grimacing look of sheer determination seen on the Broncos face represents the kind of attitude organizations look for in their players. I would not be surprised if some people do not agree with my first choice, so be sure to comment your rankings in the comment section below.

2012 NFL Predictions (NFC North)

1. Green Bay Packers (14-2): The Green Bay Packers were one game away from a perfect regular season in 2011, losing to Kansas City in Week 15. A bye in the first week of the playoffs matched them up with New York, and the Giants ended up marching through Green Bay and all the way into the Super Bowl. The Packers remain number one on many preseason power rankings, and rightfully so. Reigning MVP Aaron Rodgers is the best quarterback in the game, and his receiving corp, consisting of Greg Jennings, Jordy Nelson, Jermichael Finley, and James Jones, is also an elite group of players. The organization signed free agent Cedric Benson, and hopefully he has enough energy to liven-up their running game. The defense ranked dead last in total defense the previous season, after a top-5 squad the year they won Super Bowl XLV. Stars are everywhere in Wisconsin, and an early exit from last year's playoffs will be used as motivation for the Green Bay Packers.

Clay Matthews (Jeff Hanisch/US Presswire)

Week 1: 49ers @ Packers W
Week 2: Bears @ Packers W
Week 3: Packers @ Seahawks W
Week 4: Saints @ Packers W
Week 5: Packers @ Colts W
Week 6: Packers @ Texans W
Week 7: Packers @ Rams W
Week 8: Jaguars @ Packers W
Week 9: Cardinals @ Packers W
Week 10: BYE
Week 11: Packers @ Lions L
Week 12: Packers @ Giants W
Week 13: Vikings @ Packers W
Week 14: Lions @ Packers W
Week 15: Packers @ Bears L
Week 16: Titans @ Packers W
Week 17: Packers @ Vikings W



2. Chicago Bears (12-4): Chicago disappointed everyone in 2011 after missing the playoffs entirely, for they were the number two seed in 2010's quest for the Super Bowl. An upbeat, energetic offseason might be enough though to march this team back into the postseason. The biggest signing made by Chicago was that of Brandon Marshall, a wide receiver who has already established great chemistry with quarterback Jay Cutler. The two played together in Denver, where Marshall had one of the best receiving seasons in recent memory. Cutler has been lacking a lethal weapon in Chicago, and surely Marshall will be his go-to guy. Running back Matt Forte rounds out this offense, even though I can't shake the feeling he is setting up for a bust of a season in 2012. Defensively, the Bears suffered a big injury to their linebacker Brian Urlacher, who may miss the season opener against Indianapolis. Chicago is very well rounded, with possibly the greatest return man in the history of the game. Therefore, Chicago might even be able to conquer Green Bay for the NFC North title once again.

Matt Forte

Week 1: Colts @ Bears W
Week 2: Bears @ Packers L
Week 3: Rams @ Bears W
Week 4: Bears @ Cowboys L
Week 5: Bears @ Jaguars W
Week 6: BYE
Week 7: Lions @ Bears W
Week 8: Panthers @ Bears L
Week 9: Bears @ Titans W
Week 10: Texans @ Bears W
Week 11: Bears @ 49ers L
Week 12: Vikings @ Bears W
Week 13: Seahawks @ Bears W
Week 14: Bears @ Vikings W
Week 15: Packers @ Bears W
Week 16: Bears @ Cardinals W
Week 17: Bears @ Lions W



3. Detroit Lions (11-5): Four years ago, the Detroit Lions became the first team in NFL history to have a winless season. Things picked up, however, once they drafted quarterback Matthew Stafford. For the first few years, Stafford was unable to play a complete season. Then, in 2011, Stafford finished out the year injury-free, passing for 5,038 yards, as well as leading his team into the playoffs. Much of the credit also has to be rewarded to Calvin Johnson, quite possibly the most talented player in the NFL. Just because Stafford stayed healthy throughout 2011 does not mean his luck will continue into 2012. In fact, the Lions quarterback injured his left hand in last weeks preseason game, not a good sign for Detroit fans. The team spent their first two draft picks on offensive players, proving just how much they  depend on a high scoring game. The plan is destined to fail if Stafford were to be injured once again, and if that were to happen, Detroit might miss out on yet another postseason.

Matthew Stafford

Week 1: Rams @ Lions W
Week 2: Lions @ 49ers L
Week 3: Lions @ Titans W
Week 4: Vikings @ Lions W
Week 5: BYE
Week 6: Lions @ Eagles L
Week 7: Lions @ Bears L
Week 8: Seahawks @ Lions W
Week 9: Lions @ Jaguars W
Week 10: Lions @ Vikings W
Week 11: Packers @ Lions W
Week 12: Texans @ Lions W
Week 13: Colts @ Lions W
Week 14: Lions @ Packers L
Week 15: Lions @ Cardinals W
Week 16: Falcons @ Lions W
Week 17: Bears @ Lions L



4. Minnesota Vikings (1-15): Jared Allen's beast-like season did not catch as many headlines as it deserved in 2011, for too many television shows were focusing on the historic passing performances from guys like Brady, Brees, Stafford, and Rodgers. Allen was half of a sack away from breaking the single season sack record, which still stands at 22.5. Minnesota has fallen off of the radar since Brett Favre called it quits for the last time (or so we think), where the only offensive star remaining is Adrian Peterson. Peterson blew out his left knee in a Christmas Eve game against Washington, and is not likely to play 100% in the first few 2012 regular season games. Percy Harvin had extraordinary potential as a rookie several years ago, but his migraine troubles are too inconsistent for him to be a star. Matt Kalil should help this offensive line, but not enough for Christian Ponder and the Vikings to earn a winning record in 2012.

Jared Allen (Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

Week 1: Jaguars @ Vikings L
Week 2: Vikings @ Colts L
Week 3: 49ers @ Vikings L
Week 4: Vikings @ Lions L
Week 5: Titans @ Lions L
Week 6: Vikings @ Redskins L
Week 7: Cardinals @ Vikings L
Week 8: Buccaneers @ Lions L
Week 9: Vikings @ Seahawks L
Week 10: Lions @ Vikings L
Week 11: BYE
Week 12: Vikings @ Bears L
Week 13: Vikings @ Packers L
Week 14: Bears @ Vikings L
Week 15: Vikings @ Rams W
Week 16: Vikings @ Texans L
Week 17: Packers @ Vikings L

Preseason: Players to Watch (NFC North)

Green Bay Packers: RB Cedric Benson: Yesterday, running back Cedric Benson became a Green Bay Packer. Because Benson is past his prime, and also due to several legal issues in the past, Cincinnati did not want to re-sign this free agent. Obviously Green Bay was willing to take the chance with Cedric, otherwise their lack of a running game would hurt their Super Bowl chances once again. At age 29, Benson's best years are behind him, or so we think. The rusher says he feels great, so if Benson dominates in his upcoming preseason game, then the Green Bay Packers can be even more lethal in 2012.

Brandon Marshall (Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Minnesota Vikings: QB Christian Ponder: The Minnesota Vikings did a complete 180 since Brett Favre's playoff run. Last year, the Vikings went 3-13, the third worst record of 2011. This organization has decided to start quarterback Christian Ponder, who will have 4th overall draft pick Matt Kalil protecting him. Ponder is forced to compete in one of the league's most competitive divisions, where three teams are all serious contenders for a playoff spot. Last year, Ponder thew just as many picks as he did touchdowns (13), so he will need to work on his consistency when throwing the ball. This preseason will show the progress made by Christian Ponder, and if he is capable of resurrecting a franchise.

Chicago Bears: WR Brandon Marshall: Brandon Marshall, once a Denver Bronco, struggled while playing for the Miami Dolphins, where he did not reach 100 receptions in either season. In 2009, Marshall had one of the league's best chemistry's with quarterback Jay Cutler. After Cutler moved to Chicago, Marshall soon joined him in the Windy City just two years later. The Bears went from the number two seed in the playoffs in 2010, to missing the playoffs entirely in 2011. If the magic is still there, than this quarterback-wide receiver duo will be unstoppable in 2012.

Detroit Lions: OT Riley Reiff: The Detroit Lions relied heavily on their passing game last season, led by quarterback Matthew Stafford and wide receiver Calvin Johnson. In order to keep Stafford healthy, as well as give him more time in the pocket, the Lions drafted offensive lineman Riley Reiff. Reiff stands at 6'6", 313 pounds and showed he can overpower college stars while playing for Iowa. But can he overpower NFL defenders with more experience and in some cases, more skill? We will see this preseason, for if he is not capable of blocking a defensive lineman, Matthew Stafford may not be able to play all 16 games like he did in 2011. 

Top 10 Helmet Designs: Minnesota Vikings

8. Minnesota Vikings: The old purple and gold is one of the most famous color schemes in football, so it is no surprise Minnesota tops out at number eight on this list. Purple in football? Not quite the manliest of colors, but the Vikings somehow manage to rock those colorful helmets. The horn is well known among everyone, and I hope this helmet survives deep into the future of the NFL.

NFL Report Update: Matt Kalil

Breaking News: Today, July 26th, offensive lineman Matt Kalil was signed by the Minnesota Vikings. Kalil was drafted fourth overall last April in the 2012 NFL Draft. The terms of his contract are undisclosed.

Top 10 NFL Logos: Minnesota Vikings

4. For the first time since 1966, the Minnesota Vikings organization has decided to modify their logo. Though the changes are rather small, the bold black streaks through theViking's hair adds a certain crispness to this logo. Purple and gold is a unique color tandem in the National Football League, and the designer of this particular logo had some creativity in order to successfully include both colors into the design. Though I like the current Minnesota helmets that just feature two horns on either side, these logos are too good to not be seen on every helmet.