On February 6, 2011, Green Bay Packers Safety Nick Collins etched his name into NFL history. Intercepting Steelers’ Quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger, near the end of the first quarter of Super Bowl XLV, he weaved his way 37 yards to the house for a touchdown, doubling Green Bay’s advantage to 14-0. The pick-six proved to be the difference, as the Packers went on to win the team’s first championship since 1994, 31-25, and a career-defining moment for Collins.
A seven-year career cut short by injury, Collins earned Pro Bowl honors three times throughout his seven years in the league, finishing with 21 interceptions and 419 tackles. In 2016, the Packers inducted Collins into the team’s hall of fame, recognizing him for his contributions to the organization, his outstanding career and his role in bringing the Lombardi trophy home to Green Bay.
Drafted in the second round by the Packers back in 2005, now 20 years later, we had a chance to catch up with Nick Collins. Come along with us as we relive some of his favorite memories in the green and gold, talk Milwaukee Tailgate Week and talk one-on-one coverage against former Packers teammate, Jordy Nelson.
As a career Green Bay Packer, what does it mean for you, for the city of Green Bay and for the state of Wisconsin to host the NFL Draft this year?
This is so awesome for Green Bay. We know it’s a great city with the best fans in the NFL. This will be a great chance to show off the city to the entire football nation. It is going to be so much fun in Titletown, and I can’t wait to see the pictures and videos of the draft, packed with people from all over the country.
Speaking of Green Bay, you had a number of career highlights for the Green and Gold. Obviously, a pick-six in the Super Bowl is hard to beat, but do you have a favorite moment in a Packers jersey?
The interception and touchdown return in the Super Bowl has to top the list. That, and, of course, actually winning the Super Bowl that day. You work so hard to get to that game and to end up winning it; it’s truly the highlight of my career.
Lambeau Field is known for its rich history and legendary atmosphere. It’s almost a rite of passage for football fans to visit. What made playing there so special?
The history.
You can feel it everywhere you go inside Lambeau Field. You see it in the retired numbers hanging in the rafters and all the amazing players that came before us, legendary names of Bart Starr, Paul Hornung and Ray Nitschke. And, of course, the fans. The relationship between the fans and the team in Green Bay is something that’s really special. Wherever I go, I run into Packers fans, and they are always so amazing. Where else would over 60,000 fans show up to watch a practice? It is truly an incredible place.
Looking at the NFL Draft and the college athletes preparing to take that next step, as a three-time Pro Bowler, if you could give them one piece of advice, what would it be?
I’d tell them to enjoy the experience. Very few college football players make it to the NFL, so take a moment to really enjoy the moment with your family and friends. It will be a day they’ll never forget.
Alongside you at the Milwaukee Tailgate is your Super Bowl XLV teammate, Jordy Nelson, who gave plenty of defense around the league problems. Who would win one-on-one today?
There is no doubt that Jordy had the moves when he played in the NFL, and he still works on the farm every day, so he could probably still play *laughs* but I know I would hold my own. It would be a lot of fun to give it a try. We might have to dig up the cleats and give it a try one of these days.
You spent your entire playing career just a short trip away in Green Bay. Have you gotten a chance to spend much time in Milwaukee? If so, what are some of your favorite spots to visit while you’re in town? If not, what are some things you’re looking forward to experiencing?
I’ve always been a big fan of Milwaukee, especially the lakefront and the downtown area. I enjoy coming to try some of the great restaurants, bars and check out the stores. I can’t wait to get back there and hang out with Packers fans during Milwaukee Tailgate Week.
