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Donald Jerome Driver (born February 2, 1975) is an American former professional football wide receiver who played for the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League (NFL). After playing college football for Alcorn State University, Driver was picked by Green Bay in the seventh round of the 1999 NFL draft. He spent his entire 14-season NFL career with the Packers and holds the franchise's all-time records for most career receptions and receiving yards. Driver was a member of the Packers team that won Super Bowl XLV. Every year in Cleveland, Driver holds the Donald Driver Football Camp for local kids which is held at the Cleveland High School Football field. Upon retirement, he won season 14 of Dancing with the Stars.

Key Information

Early life

[edit]

Driver was born in Houston, Texas, on February 2, 1975. He was the middle child of five siblings. Driver's parents, Marvin Driver Jr. and Faye Gray, divorced when he was just a young boy.[1] Donald had a tough childhood living out of a U-Haul truck for a period of time during his early teens, after a collection agency confiscated his family's possessions. Donald spent multiple nights in motel rooms that his mother had purchased with food stamps. Driver and his older brother, Marvin III, began stealing cars and selling drugs during their teenage years in order to make it from day to day. Driver was quoted by USA Today stating, "You try to do anything you can to provide for your family." At 14, Driver moved in with his grandmother, Betty Lofton, and his life started to turn around.[1]

Driver shined as an athlete early in his years at Milby High School in Houston. He lettered four times each in track, football, basketball and baseball. He was a Texas All-State honorable mention in football, where he played at the wide receiver, defensive back and kickoff return positions.[2]

College career

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Driver attended Alcorn State University in Mississippi, where he lettered in both football and track & field. He finished his college football career at Alcorn State with 88 receptions for 1993 yards (19.69 yards per catch). He was a five-time "Athlete of the Year" in his conference for his track and football prowess.

Driver is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity.[3]

Track and field

[edit]

Driver is a decorated track athlete. He is an Olympic-class high jumper, being able to jump 7 ft 6.5 in (2.30 m).[4] He qualified for the 1996 Olympic Field Trials in the high jump.

He competed for the Alcorn State Braves track team, where he excelled in the high jump and earned all-conference honors his senior year. He leaped 2.30 meters in the high jump, 15.62 meters in the triple jump and 7.75 meters in the long jump.

Professional career

[edit]

Driver was selected by the Green Bay Packers in the seventh round of the 1999 NFL draft with the 213th overall pick.[5] He spent his entire career with the Packers.

Donald Driver in a game against the Minnesota Vikings on November 14, 2011.

Known as one of the most consistent wide receivers in the game,[6] Driver was not particularly productive his first three seasons in Green Bay (1999–2001), as he remained behind wide receivers Antonio Freeman and Corey Bradford on the depth chart. With the departure of Freeman and Bradford, Driver blossomed in a starting role.

Driver was solid throughout his career, often posting 1,000 receiving yards in a season. Driver had the most catches in the NFL in the middle of the field in 2006. He set a career high for single-game yards on November 12, 2006, when he caught six passes for 191 yards, including an 82-yard touchdown against the Minnesota Vikings.[7] Driver finished the 2006 season in the top five of the league in reception yardage with 1,295 yards.[8] He also recorded the most receptions in his career with 92, earning a spot in the 2007 Pro Bowl.[9] On December 16, 2007, during a 33–14 victory over the St. Louis Rams, veteran Green Bay quarterback Brett Favre broke Dan Marino's all-time record of 61,361 career passing yards. The new record came on a seven-yard completion to Driver.[10] Driver was selected for the 2008 Pro Bowl.[11]

In the NFC Championship game on January 20, 2008, against the New York Giants, Driver had the longest play in the Packers' playoff history, with a 90-yard touchdown catch from Favre.[12]

On October 18, 2009, Driver became the Green Bay Packers' all-time leading receiver in receptions, with 596. He went on to catch six more balls for 107 yards in a 26–0 home victory over the Detroit Lions.[13] On September 8, 2011, Driver caught four balls for 41 yards in the opening game against the New Orleans Saints and was only one yard short of becoming the Packers' all-time leader in receiving yards. Driver finally broke the Packers' all-time receiving yardage record on September 18, 2011, against the Carolina Panthers after he caught a 10-yard pass from Aaron Rodgers, surpassing James Lofton.

On February 6, 2011, Driver was injured on his second reception of Super Bowl XLV.[14] Out with an ankle sprain, Driver returned for the game's final plays, as the Packers defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 31–25. Driver finished Super Bowl XLV with two receptions for 28 yards.[15] Despite losing playing time to Greg Jennings and Jordy Nelson, Driver was a veteran presence for a young Packers receiving corps led by NFL MVP QB Aaron Rodgers in the twilight of Driver's career.

Retirement

[edit]

On January 31, 2013, Driver announced his retirement on ESPN2 Mike and Mike in the Morning after spending his entire 14-season career with the Packers.[16] He missed only eight games in his career outside of his rookie season, the last one being November 18, 2012.[17]

On February 6, 2013, the Packers hosted a public retirement ceremony for Driver. This was the first public retirement ceremony held for a Packers player. It was hosted in the Lambeau Field Atrium with comments made by Mark Murphy, Ted Thompson, Mike McCarthy, and Driver. The event sold out in 14 minutes and hundreds of fans were in attendance. The mayor of Green Bay presented Driver with a key to the city, announcing that the receiver statue in downtown Green Bay would be refurbished to wear a No. 80 Driver jersey. The street leading to the statue was also renamed "Donald Driver Way."[18]

On July 22, 2017, Driver was inducted into the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame.[19][20]

NFL career statistics

[edit]
Legend
Won the Super Bowl
Bold Career high

Regular season

[edit]
Year Team GP Receiving
Rec Yds Avg Lng TD
1999 GB 6 3 31 10.3 12 1
2000 GB 16 21 322 15.3 49 1
2001 GB 13 13 167 12.8 37 1
2002 GB 16 70 1,064 15.2 85 9
2003 GB 15 52 621 11.9 41 2
2004 GB 16 84 1,208 14.4 50 9
2005 GB 16 86 1,221 14.2 59 5
2006 GB 16 92 1,295 14.1 82 8
2007 GB 16 82 1,048 12.8 47 2
2008 GB 16 74 1,012 13.7 71 5
2009 GB 16 70 1,061 15.2 71 6
2010 GB 15 51 565 11.1 61 4
2011 GB 16 37 445 12.0 35 6
2012 GB 13 8 77 9.6 26 2
Career 205 743 10,137 13.6 85 61

Postseason

[edit]
Year Team GP Receiving
Rec Yds Avg Lng TD
2001 GB 2 2 26 13.0 14 0
2002 GB 1 3 64 21.3 25 1
2003 GB 2 8 91 11.4 23 0
2004 GB 1 7 78 11.1 16 0
2007 GB 2 8 159 19.9 90 1
2009 GB 1 4 43 10.8 28 0
2010 GB 4 14 169 12.1 24 0
2011 GB 1 3 45 15.0 16 1
Career 14 49 675 13.8 90 3

Personal life

[edit]
Driver and family pose in front of the statue dedicated in his honor.

Driver is married to Betina Driver. They have three children: Cristian, Christina, and Charity.[21] His son Cristian is a wide receiver for Minnesota,[22] which he transferred to after playing cornerback at Penn State.[23] Driver is a Christian.[24][25]

Since 2004, Driver has co-hosted the statewide Packer analysis television series Inside the Huddle with Donald Driver with WLUK-TV's sports director Drew Smith. Every Thursday, Driver discusses football with John Mercure on Wisconsin's Afternoon News with John Mercure on AM 620 WTMJ.[citation needed] He previously served as host to the annual Offense vs. Defense softball game featuring members of the Green Bay Packers.

As a well-known athlete in the state of Wisconsin, Driver has been featured in marketing campaigns for companies such as McDonald's, AirTran Airways, Kwik Trip, Goodwill, Jani-King and Time Warner Cable.

Throughout his career, Driver was very active off the field, making over 300 charitable appearances since his rookie season in 1999. In the spring of 2001, Donald and his wife Betina created the Donald Driver Foundation, which offers assistance to ill children with unmanageable hospital bills, provides housing for the homeless, and donates to a variety of local charities. In December 2003, the foundation put two previously homeless families in new, fully furnished homes.

Donald has also donated much of his time and efforts to such institutions as Children's Hospital of Wisconsin and Goodwill Industries. In 2001, Driver was awarded the "Community Service Award" by the Green Bay Chamber of Commerce in recognition of his outstanding community involvement. In 2005, he was awarded the Ed Block Courage award by his Green Bay teammates. Driver was also named the 2013 AMVETS Humanitarian of the Year.[26]

Driver is the author of three children's books, Quickie Handles a Loss, Quickie Makes the Team and Quickie Goes to the Big Game. The books are based on Driver's bedtime storytelling to his three children, and are sold statewide in Wisconsin. He has stated that "Quickie" is a nickname his mother gave him because, when she would chase him around the house, she could never catch him. In 2013, Driver released his official memoir, Driven, which included many personal stories about both his childhood and career with the Packers.[27] Two weeks after the book's release, it made the New York Times Bestsellers list.[28] In 2017, Driver released a health and fitness book, The 3D Body Revolution: The Ultimate Workout + Nutrition Blueprint to Get Healthy and Lean, which featured 25 recipes and 36 exercises. Following its release, The 3D Body Revolution was featured as a #1 new release in Amazon's exercise injuries and rehabilitation category.

On February 28, 2012, it was announced that Driver would join the cast of Dancing with the Stars for season 14, paired with professional dance partner Peta Murgatroyd. Driver's high energy and athleticism were repeatedly praised by the judges, though Driver was also notorious for not getting a perfect score, until their freestyle, from the judges. Driver and Murgatroyd made it all the way to the finale, and despite competitions from fellow finalists William Levy and Katherine Jenkins, Driver and Murgatroyd were declared winners on the season finale on May 22, 2012.

In March 2014, Donald Driver created the Donald Driver Driven To Achieve Awards. Since then, the Driven to Achieve Awards have honored 18 recipients and have given away over $1 million.[29]

Driver currently splits his time between his home state of Texas and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, purchasing a $3 million Milwaukee loft in 2022 from fellow Wisconsin athlete Jabari Parker.[30] He operates a nonprofit called the Donald Driver Foundation in both Wisconsin and Texas, and serves as the current cultural ambassador for Milwaukee's Marcus Center for the Performing Arts, in addition to business ventures.[30]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Donald Driver

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Donald Driver (born February 2, 1975) is a former who spent his entire 14-season () career with the , emerging from humble beginnings to become one of the franchise's most celebrated players. Born in Houston, Texas, Driver faced significant hardships in his youth, including periods of homelessness where his family lived out of a truck, yet he developed a passion for football influenced by his father, a former who prioritized family support over personal NFL aspirations. After starring at , where he recorded 88 receptions for 1,933 yards and 17 touchdowns over three seasons, Driver was selected by the Packers in the seventh round (213th overall) of the . Over 205 games (155 starts), Driver amassed 743 receptions for 10,137 yards and 61 touchdowns, establishing himself as the Packers' all-time leader in both receptions and receiving yards—a record that underscored his reliability and longevity alongside quarterbacks like and . He achieved seven 1,000-yard receiving seasons, the most in franchise history, and maintained a streak of 133 consecutive games with at least one reception. A four-time selection (2002, 2006, 2007, 2010), Driver played a key role in the Packers' victory in 2011, contributing 49 postseason catches for 675 yards and three touchdowns across 15 playoff games. His induction into the Packers Hall of Fame in 2017 and the Black College Football Hall of Fame in 2022 further highlighted his impact on and off the field. Following his retirement in 2013—marked by a fan-celebrated ceremony at —Driver transitioned into media, business, and philanthropy, winning season 14 of ABC's and co-hosting OWN's The Hero Effect to spotlight community heroes. He authored the book The 3D Body Revolution: The Ultimate Workout + Nutrition Blueprint to Get Healthy and Lean, promoting health and fitness, and founded Driven ELITE Fitness and Health centers in . As an award-winning humanitarian, Driver has remained active in motivational speaking and charitable efforts, embodying the perseverance that defined his journey from adversity to stardom.

Early years

Childhood and family background

Donald Driver was born on February 2, 1975, in , , the middle child of five children born to Faye Gray and a father who was largely absent due to incarceration. His parents divorced when he was two years old, leaving Gray to raise the family single-handedly while holding down multiple jobs to provide for them amid severe financial struggles. The Driver family endured profound and instability during his early years, including periods of where they lived in a U-Haul truck, hotel rooms, and shelters, sometimes sharing a single bed among siblings. Driver's older brother Marvin and other siblings shared these hardships, often wearing hand-me-down clothes and shoes as their mother moved frequently in search of stability. Gray played a pivotal role in shaping Driver's character, emphasizing the importance of , hard work, and resilience while relying on her faith to guide the family through adversity; she frequently warned her children about the dangers of straying into , stressing that the wrong path could lead to jail or . Her determination inspired Driver to seek positive outlets, and at age 14, the family found more stability when they moved in with his grandmother. Amid these challenges, Driver's initial exposure to sports came through informal local games in , which offered an escape from the daily struggles and fostered his competitive spirit and sense of purpose.

High school career

Donald Driver attended in , , where he developed into a standout multi-sport during the early 1990s. He lettered four times each in football, , , and track, demonstrating remarkable versatility and dedication across disciplines. In football, Driver primarily played , , and kickoff returner, earning honorable mention recognition on the Texas All-State team in his senior year. His speed and agility made him a dynamic threat on offense and special teams, contributing significantly to the team's efforts and helping secure playoff berths during his tenure. Driver also excelled in , competing in sprint events and jumping disciplines that highlighted his explosive athleticism, establishing himself as one of the top track talents in the region. Basketball provided another outlet for Driver's skills, where he lettered all four years and contributed as a guard with his quickness and scoring ability, though specific metrics from his high school games are not widely documented. Academically, Driver faced challenges with modest grades, but his athletic excellence drew interest from college programs, paving the way for his recruitment to ; sports became a crucial motivator amid early family hardships like instability and poverty.

College career

Football at Alcorn State

Donald Driver attended , where he competed for the Braves football team in the (SWAC) from 1996 to 1998. His high school versatility as a and multi-position athlete prepared him for the demands of the role he assumed upon joining the program. During his freshman year in 1996, Driver recorded 12 receptions for 249 yards and 1 touchdown, contributing to a team that finished 4–7 overall and 3–4 in SWAC play. In 1997, he emerged as a key target with 21 catches for 556 yards and 6 touchdowns, helping the Braves achieve a 4–7 overall record and a 4–4 conference mark that tied them for fourth in the SWAC. His senior season in 1998 marked a breakout performance, as he led the team with 55 receptions for 1,128 yards and 10 touchdowns, averaging 20.5 yards per catch over 11 games; for these efforts, he earned All-SWAC Second Team offensive honors. The 1998 squad finished 5–6 overall and 3–6 in the SWAC. Over his three-year career, Driver amassed 88 receptions for 1,933 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns, rankings that placed him seventh in Alcorn State history at the time. Alcorn State's football program during the late 1990s operated within the SWAC, a conference of (HBCUs) that emphasized competitive balance amid broader institutional challenges, including chronic underfunding that limited resources for facilities, coaching, and recruitment compared to larger NCAA programs.

Track and field achievements

During his college years at from 1995 to 1998, Donald Driver competed as a dual-sport athlete in alongside football, participating in jumping events that highlighted his explosive power and speed. He specialized in the and , setting school records in both during the 1996 season with a high jump clearance of 7 feet 6.5 inches (2.30 meters) and a long jump of 25 feet 4.25 inches (7.75 meters); he also qualified for the 1996 U.S. Olympic Trials in the high jump. These marks underscored his versatility and athletic prowess within the (SWAC). Driver's track success earned him recognition as a five-time SWAC , an honor that accounted for his contributions across both sports and reflected his dominance in competitions. Balancing the demanding schedules of football practices, games, and track meets required careful coordination, often involving shared insights on speed development and conditioning that directly benefited his performance as a . This integrated training approach honed his quick acceleration and body control, essential traits for evading defenders. The standout track achievements significantly elevated Driver's appeal to NFL scouts, who valued his demonstrated explosiveness and lower-body strength as key indicators of potential on-field speed and route-running ability. His jumping records, in particular, provided tangible evidence of the elite athletic profile that complemented the demands of professional football, contributing to his selection in the despite coming from a smaller program.

Professional career

NFL draft and rookie season

Donald Driver was selected by the in the seventh round of the , with the 213th overall pick out of . As a late-round selection, Driver faced significant challenges typical of low-draft prospects, including doubts about his ability to secure a roster spot in a competitive room led by established players like . Despite these hurdles, he signed with the Packers as a and earned a place on the 53-man roster, though he was viewed as a longshot to contribute meaningfully as the sixth receiver on the depth chart. During his rookie training camp, Driver focused on overcoming weaknesses such as dropped passes that had plagued his college career, while showcasing his speed with a 4.5-second time. He received guidance from veteran teammates, including , who helped him navigate the professional level and adapt to the Packers' system. Initially, Driver's role was limited primarily to special teams, where he appeared on the punt return unit in the season finale against the after requesting to contribute despite being inactive for most games. In the 1999 regular season, Driver played in six games but did not start, recording three receptions for 31 yards and one touchdown. His limited offensive snaps reflected his rookie status and the depth ahead of him, but his perseverance in practice and special teams solidified his position heading into his second year.

Green Bay Packers tenure

Donald Driver began his transition to a prominent role with the Green Bay Packers in 2002, when he earned the starting split end position ahead of second-round draft pick Robert Ferguson, marking his emergence as a key offensive contributor after initial years focused on special teams. That season, he recorded 70 receptions for 1,064 yards and nine touchdowns, achieving his first 1,000-yard receiving milestone and helping solidify the Packers' passing attack under quarterback Brett Favre. Driver's ascent reflected his dedication to route-running precision and blocking, traits that earned him consistent trust from the coaching staff despite early competition from veterans like Antonio Freeman and Javon Walker. Throughout his Packers tenure, Driver exemplified reliability with nine consecutive seasons of at least 50 receptions from 2002 to 2010, a franchise mark underscoring his steady production amid evolving team dynamics. His peak performance came in 2006, when he led the team with 92 receptions for 1,295 yards and eight touchdowns, earning honors and ranking among the NFL's top receivers in yardage while adapting to a run-heavy offensive scheme. These efforts contributed to the Packers' 8-8 record that year, highlighting Driver's ability to stretch defenses on deep routes and provide consistent separation. Driver's durability defined much of his career, as he appeared in 205 regular-season games over 14 seasons, missing only eight due to injury and establishing a franchise record with receptions in 133 consecutive games from 2000 to 2008. This streak, the longest in Packers history, showcased his resilience and preparation, including rigorous offseason conditioning that allowed him to maintain peak physical condition into his mid-30s. His commitment to availability made him a cornerstone of the receiving corps, often playing through physical wear to support the team's high-volume passing game. Driver developed strong on-field chemistry with both Favre and successor , leveraging precise timing to execute critical plays in high-stakes moments. With Favre, their partnership peaked early, exemplified by an 85-yard touchdown pass in a 2002 regular-season win over the , where Driver's speed turned a short throw into a game-sealing score. Favre frequently lauded Driver's and reliability, noting his fearless approach on slant and post routes as essential to the offense's rhythm. Transitioning to Rodgers in 2008, Driver's veteran presence aided the young quarterback's development, with notable connections like a 61-yard catch-and-run touchdown against the in 2010, where he broke multiple tackles to extend a drive. This rapport, built on mutual trust, enabled Driver to remain productive as the primary target in two-receiver sets during Rodgers' early starts. Despite his toughness, Driver encountered minor setbacks that tested his recovery, such as reduced starting opportunities in due to shared duties with amid minor physical niggles, though he played all 16 games that year. In 2010, a strain sidelined him for one game against the —the first injury-related absence since 2003—forcing him to focus on targeted rehabilitation to regain explosiveness. Driver rebounded quickly from these issues through disciplined therapy and conditioning, returning to post 51 receptions for 565 yards in limited action that season while mentoring younger receivers.

Super Bowl XLV and later years

During the , Donald Driver contributed to the ' 10-6 regular season record and their improbable playoff run by recording 51 receptions for 565 yards and 4 touchdowns in 15 games. His steady presence as a receiver helped stabilize the offense amid injuries to other skill players, allowing quarterback to distribute the ball effectively en route to the NFC's top seed. In on February 6, 2011, against the at Cowboys Stadium in , Driver caught 2 passes for 28 yards, including a 24-yard reception, during the Packers' 31–25 victory that secured their fourth NFL championship and 13th league title overall. Though not a primary target in the game, his contributions added to the team's balanced receiving corps, which overwhelmed Pittsburgh's defense over 60 minutes in a hard-fought contest marked by turnovers and interceptions. Driver's production declined in his final two seasons due to age and the emergence of younger receivers like and Randall Cobb. In 2011, he amassed 37 receptions for 445 yards and a career-high 6 touchdowns over 16 games, highlighted by breaking James Lofton's franchise record for career receiving yards (9,656) with a 10-yard catch against the on September 18. The following year, in 2012, he appeared in 13 games with 8 catches for 77 yards and 2 touchdowns, reflecting limited snaps as the Packers shifted toward a youth movement. Despite the reduced role, Driver served as a vital locker room leader, mentoring younger players with his work ethic and professionalism; as teammate James Jones noted, Driver "always practiced hard and helped everyone get better," while Aaron Rodgers praised his consistent enthusiasm and positive influence on the team. By retirement, Driver held the Packers' all-time records for career receptions (743) and receiving yards (10,137), cementing his legacy as the franchise's premier wideout.

Retirement

Donald Driver officially announced his retirement from the on February 6, 2013, during a public ceremony at the Atrium in , precisely four years after the Packers' victory on the same date. The event drew over 1,500 fans and featured speeches from teammates, coaches, and family, with Governor Scott Walker proclaiming the day "Donald Driver Day" statewide in recognition of his contributions to the team and community. Driver, who had informed the Packers of his decision earlier that week, emphasized his commitment to retiring as a Packer, stating he never wanted to wear another team's uniform after 14 seasons with Green Bay. At 37 years old, Driver cited the cumulative physical toll of his career, including injuries sustained over the years, as a significant factor, though he believed he could still contribute on the field. He expressed a strong desire to prioritize time with his wife, , and their three children—Cristian, Christina, and Charity—after missing family moments due to the demands of the sport. Additionally, Driver highlighted his interest in pursuing broadcasting opportunities, noting he was open to roles in sports media that aligned with his communication skills developed through and media appearances. His limited role in the 2012 season, where he recorded just eight receptions for 77 yards, also influenced the timing of his announcement. The honored Driver's legacy by inducting him into the team's Hall of Fame on July 22, 2017, during a ceremony at , celebrating his franchise records in receptions, receiving yards, and 1,000-yard seasons. While his No. 80 jersey has not been retired—consistent with the Packers' policy of rarely retiring numbers—fans and analysts have frequently discussed the possibility, citing his loyalty, work ethic, and role in the era as reasons for such an honor.

Career statistics and records

Regular season stats

Donald Driver's career with the lasted from 1999 to 2012, during which he appeared in 205 games, starting 155, and accumulated 743 receptions for 10,137 yards and 61 receiving touchdowns, with a career average of 13.6 yards per catch. His statistical output reflected steady production as a possession receiver, particularly in the , where he achieved four 1,000-yard receiving seasons and eight straight years (2002–2009) with at least 52 receptions and 15 starts. A post-retirement review highlighted his reliability, describing him as "one of the most consistent and reliable targets of his era," bolstered by playing alongside elite quarterbacks. The following table summarizes Driver's regular season receiving statistics year by year:
YearGames PlayedGames StartedReceptionsReceiving YardsYards per ReceptionTouchdowns
19996033110.31
20001622132215.31
20011321316712.81
20021616701,06415.29
200315155262111.92
20041611841,20814.49
20051616861,22114.25
20061616921,29514.18
20071514821,04812.82
20081616741,01213.75
20091616701,06115.26
201015155156511.14
201116153744512.06
20121318779.62
Career Totals20515574310,13713.661
Driver's yardage totals peaked during the Brett Favre era (1999–2007), when he posted 503 receptions for 6,977 yards and 38 touchdowns across 129 games, including career-highs of 92 receptions and 1,295 yards in 2006. The transition to Aaron Rodgers as the starting quarterback in 2008 initially sustained his output, with two more 1,000-yard seasons in 2008 and 2009, yielding 240 receptions for 3,160 yards and 23 touchdowns in 92 games from 2008 to 2012; however, injuries and age contributed to a decline in 2010–2012, limiting his role in his final season.

Postseason stats

Donald Driver appeared in nine NFL playoff seasons during his career with the Green Bay Packers, participating in 15 postseason games from 2002 to 2012. Over these contests, he recorded 49 receptions for 675 receiving yards and 4 touchdowns, averaging 13.8 yards per catch. These figures reflect his role as a reliable target in high-stakes environments, where he contributed to the team's postseason efforts without the volume of opportunities seen in the regular season. In key playoff games, Driver delivered notable performances that highlighted his clutch ability. During the 2007 against the on January 20, 2008, he caught 5 passes for 141 yards and 1 touchdown, including a 90-yard scoring reception that briefly gave the Packers the lead. In against the on February 6, 2011, Driver had 2 receptions for 28 yards as part of the Packers' 31-25 victory, marking his contribution to the franchise's fourth championship. Other significant games included the 2010 Divisional Round win over the (6 receptions, 76 yards) and the 2008 Divisional Round against the (3 receptions, 18 yards), showcasing his consistency across various playoff rounds. Driver's postseason efficiency closely mirrored his regular-season average of 13.6 yards per reception, demonstrating sustained productivity under playoff pressure despite fewer targets—averaging about 3.3 catches per game compared to 5.4 in the . This reliability in pressure situations underscored how his regular-season consistency paved the way for multiple deep playoff runs, including the championship-winning 2010 campaign.

Notable records and milestones

Donald Driver holds several all-time records for the as their leading receiver, including 743 career receptions and 10,137 receiving yards during the regular season. He also set the franchise mark with 22 games of 100 or more receiving yards, underscoring his ability to deliver big performances throughout his 14-year career. In 2011, Driver reached the milestone of 10,000 career receiving yards, achieving the mark with a 29-yard reception against the on December 18. That same season, he made his 200th consecutive game appearance for the Packers in 2012, highlighting his remarkable longevity after starting every game since 2002. These accomplishments reflect Driver's exceptional durability, as he maintained high-level production despite the physical demands of the position over more than a decade. Driver's consistency is further evidenced by his ironman streak of 133 consecutive regular-season games with at least one reception, a Packers record that began in 2002 and ended only with his reduced role in 2012. He earned four selections during his tenure (2002, 2006, 2007, and 2010), recognizing his sustained excellence as a . Together, these records and milestones illustrate Driver's role as a reliable, workhorse player who prioritized availability and steady contributions to the team's passing attack.

Awards and honors

NFL individual awards

Donald Driver earned four selections during his NFL career, recognizing his status as one of the league's top wide receivers in those seasons. The , selected through votes from fans, players, and coaches, honors the best performers at each position, with Driver's nods highlighting his consistency and productivity amid competition from elite peers like , who earned six selections in the same era but often dominated in raw yardage while Driver excelled in reliability and route-running precision. In 2002, Driver's breakout season as the ' leading receiver with 70 receptions for 1,064 yards and nine touchdowns earned him his first appearance, marking a significant step for the seventh-round draft pick who had previously been a backup. This performance placed him among NFC standouts, underscoring his emergence as Brett Favre's primary target in a year when the Packers reached the playoffs. Driver returned to the in 2006 after a career-best statistical year, catching 92 passes for 1,295 yards and eight touchdowns, which ranked him among the NFC's top receivers and earned him first-team honors from the Pro Football Writers Association. His selection reflected not only volume but also efficiency, as he achieved these numbers despite sharing targets with emerging teammates, contrasting with Moss's explosive but injury-interrupted campaigns. The 2007 season saw Driver secure his third bid with 82 receptions for 1,048 yards and two touchdowns over 15 games, demonstrating resilience after a injury early in the year; his consistent production helped the Packers to a 13-3 record and the . This honor positioned him as a steady force in an offense that emphasized balanced passing, differing from Moss's highlight-reel style. Driver's fourth came in 2010, following a season with 51 receptions for 565 yards and four touchdowns, where he ranked lower in volume but was selected as an NFC for the due to his veteran leadership and contributions to the Packers' championship offense. This accolade affirmed his enduring impact in high-pressure situations. In 2007, he was nominated for the Man of the Year , which combines on-field excellence with , though he did not win; this recognition built on his earlier 2002 finalist status for the same . Driver also earned the in 2005 (for the 2005 season, announced in 2006), selected by his Packers teammates for exemplifying courage and sportsmanship by playing through a injury that limited him to 10 games but still produced 46 receptions for 776 yards. This team-specific but league-recognized honor emphasized his , a trait that sustained his career longevity compared to flashier peers. Driver was inducted into the Black College Football Hall of Fame in 2022, recognizing his outstanding performance at .
YearPro Bowl Selection Highlights
200270 receptions, 1,064 yards, 9 TDs; first as breakout starter
200692 receptions, 1,295 yards, 8 TDs; career-highs and honor
200782 receptions, 1,048 yards, 2 TDs; played through in 15 games
201051 receptions, 565 yards, 4 TDs; selected for veteran leadership in championship season

Team and franchise recognitions

Donald Driver played a significant role in the Green Bay Packers' victory in on February 6, 2011, against the , where the Packers won 31-25 to secure their 13th championship. During the 2010 regular season leading to the Super Bowl, Driver recorded 51 receptions for 565 yards and four touchdowns, finishing second on the team in catches despite sharing targets with younger receivers like and , contributing to the Packers' league-leading offense en route to the title. Throughout his career, Driver earned recognition from the Packers organization for his on-field performance, including being named the team's MVP in 2002 after a breakout season with 70 receptions for 1,064 yards and nine touchdowns, helping lead Green Bay to an 12-4 record and a divisional playoff appearance. His consistent excellence also garnered team MVP votes in subsequent seasons, underscoring his value as a reliable during pivotal years for the franchise. Driver's legacy with the Packers was further honored by his induction into the Hall of Fame on July 22, 2017, at , recognizing his 14-season tenure as the franchise's all-time leader in receptions (743) and receiving yards (10,137). This induction celebrated not only his statistical achievements but also his embodiment of Packers values like perseverance and community involvement. His four selections (2002, 2006, 2007, 2010) bolstered the team's reputation for offensive prowess during the .

Post-retirement activities

Broadcasting and media roles

Following his retirement from the in 2013, Donald Driver transitioned into , drawing on his 14-year career with the to offer insightful analysis for fans and viewers. His media presence began during his playing days but expanded significantly afterward, focusing on Packers-specific content and broader commentary. Driver co-hosted the weekly Packers analysis television series Inside the Huddle with Donald Driver on (Fox 11) in Green Bay, a role he held for 10 years starting in 2004 and continuing into his post-playing career until around 2014. The show, which aired statewide and featured interviews with players, coaches, and , became a staple for Packers fans, with Driver providing pregame previews, game breakdowns, and postgame reactions. He has continued contributing to the program's iteration, appearing as a guest in episodes such as the September 2025 25th-anniversary special and co-hosting Episode 11 on November 17, 2025, where he discussed team dynamics and his legacy with the franchise. Driver has made recurring appearances on national platforms, including NFL Network's , where in April 2025 he provided commentary on the NFL Draft hosted in Green Bay, sharing advice for based on his own seventh-round selection in 1999. He has also featured on and television segments, offering color commentary on Packers games and NFL topics, evolving from local sideline and studio hosting to broader analyst roles that highlight his on-field expertise. In October 2025, Driver guested on the Ed Block CourageCast podcast, reflecting on his career transitions and motivational insights for aspiring athletes. These roles underscore Driver's ongoing influence in sports media as of late 2025.

Philanthropy and motivational speaking

Donald Driver co-founded the Donald Driver Foundation in 2001 with his wife, Betina, to support underprivileged children and families through initiatives emphasizing , workforce development, and family stability. The organization focuses on and education, providing resources such as computer labs in inner-city youth centers equipped with pre-school reading software and partnerships with programs like Blessings in a Backpack to deliver nutritious meals to students. Post-retirement, the foundation expanded its efforts, including annual free fitness camps in , , and to address and promote healthy living among . Key philanthropic activities include fundraisers for SHARP Literacy, where Driver served as the keynote speaker at the organization's A Novel Event on October 28, 2025, at the in , raising funds to support STEAM-based education for approximately 9,000 students across dozens of schools. In September 2025, he participated in a back-to-school event at in , where he delivered a speech on and , engaged students in games, and promoted through interactive reading sessions. These initiatives align with the foundation's mission to combat educational inequalities by fostering environments that encourage learning and personal growth. As a , Driver draws on his experiences overcoming early life hardships of to deliver keynotes on resilience, perseverance, and , inspiring audiences at corporate events, schools, and programs. In April 2025, he joined BSN SPORTS as the first-ever Chief Motivation Officer for its SURGE program, which empowers female athletes and coaches through resources and curricula he helped create. His inspirational work earned him the in 2005 from his teammates, recognizing his role as a positive influence and advocate for at-risk . The foundation's impact includes assisting hundreds of families in escaping , providing educational resources and meals to over 1,000 students, and awarding more than $100,000 in scholarships to ten individuals annually to address education gaps. Through literacy-focused efforts, Driver has donated books during school visits and events, contributing thousands of volumes to promote reading among children. These outcomes underscore his commitment to long-term community upliftment beyond his career.

Personal life

Family and relationships

Donald Driver has been married to Betina Driver since 2000. The couple met while both attending in , where Driver, a standout , offered her training tips during workouts at the campus gym. Betina, who earned a in English from Alcorn State, supported Driver throughout his early athletic career and joined him after he was drafted by the . The Drivers have three children: son Cristian and daughters Christina and Charity. Following Driver's selection in the , the family relocated from to , where they integrated into the Packers community, participating in team events and local initiatives that strengthened ties with fans and residents. Driver's family provided essential emotional support during his tenure, particularly amid physical challenges like recurring injuries that tested his resilience in later seasons. In his 2013 retirement announcement, he publicly thanked Betina and their children for their unwavering love and encouragement through 14 years of professional play and 13 years of marriage at that time. Their backing was instrumental in his decision to retire on his terms after winning . As of 2025, the Driver family maintains a home base in , with Driver actively involved in community activities in the and Green Bay areas alongside his wife and children. He emphasizes values of and for his kids—mirroring the discipline from his own upbringing—encouraging pursuits like Cristian's football involvement at the and Charity's achievements. The family occasionally participates in , such as foundation events aiding underprivileged youth.

Books and entertainment ventures

Donald Driver authored the motivational book Driven: From Homeless to Hero, My Journeys on and Off , published in 2013, which chronicles his rise from poverty and homelessness to stardom and shares life lessons on perseverance and success. The book achieved commercial success, reaching the Bestsellers list shortly after its release. In 2017, he released The 3D Body Revolution: The Ultimate Workout + Blueprint to Get and Lean, a health and fitness guide emphasizing balanced nutrition and exercise routines drawn from his athletic background. Driver launched a children's featuring the character Quickie, a young boy inspired by Driver's own son, to promote , , and overcoming adversity among young readers. The inaugural title, Quickie Makes the Team! (2008), highlights themes of and inclusion in sports, aligning with Driver's "Quick Is the New Smart" initiative to encourage reading as a path to . Follow-up books include Quickie Handles a Loss (2011), which addresses coping with failure and resilience, and Quickie Goes to the Big Game (2011), focusing on honesty and hard work in pursuit of goals. These works tie into his by supporting programs through the Donald Driver Foundation, with proceeds aiding educational efforts for underprivileged youth. In entertainment, Driver gained prominence as the winner of season 14 of in 2012, partnering with professional dancer to perform routines that blended athleticism and charisma, culminating in a freestyle victory on May 22, 2012. He later appeared as a guest coach on season 16 of in 2014, motivating contestants during workouts and challenges alongside fellow NFL alumni and . Driver has made guest appearances on various television programs, including Ellen, , and Jimmy Kimmel Live!, often discussing his career and motivational insights. His children's books inspired the 2023 stage production Dream, Quickie! Dream! at First Stage in , a family-oriented play emphasizing determination and family bonds based on the Quickie series. Following his 2013 NFL retirement, Driver has engaged in book-related events blending entertainment and literacy, such as reading sessions at schools in September 2025, where he shared Quickie Makes the Team! with over 800 students to foster reading enthusiasm. In October 2025, he served as keynote speaker at SHARP Literacy's A Novel Event fundraiser, delivering inspirational talks and participating in Q&A sessions to support youth education initiatives.

References

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