Robert John Skoronski (March 5, 1934 – October 30, 2019) was an American professional football player who played as a center for the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League (NFL) from 1956 to 1970. He was a six‑time Pro Bowl selection, a four‑time first‑team All‑Pro, and a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Early life and education
Born in Ansonia, Connecticut, Skoronski attended Ansonia High School, where he played football and participated in track and field. He earned a football scholarship to the University of Wisconsin–Madison, playing for the Wisconsin Badgers from 1953 to 1955. In his senior year, he served as team captain and was recognized for his leadership and blocking abilities.
Professional career
Skoronski was selected by the Green Bay Packers in the 15th round (176th overall) of the 1956 NFL Draft. After serving two years in the United States Army, he joined the Packers in 1958 and became the starting center in 1960. He anchored the Packers’ offensive line during the "Lombardi era," contributing to five NFL championship titles (1961, 1962, 1965, 1966, 1967) and victories in Super Bowls I and II.
Known for his durability, Skoronski missed only three games during his 13‑season tenure. He was named to the NFL All‑Pro team four times (1961, 1962, 1965, 1966) and selected to the Pro Bowl six consecutive times (1960–1965). In 1970, his final season, he retired as the NFL’s all‑time leader in games played at the center position.
Honors and legacy
Skoronski was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998, joining former teammates Vince Lombardi (coach) and Bart Starr (quarterback) as members from the Packers' dominant 1960s era. He was also inducted into the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame (1970) and the Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame (1977). The Packers have commemorated his contributions through various team honors and media retrospectives.
Later life and death
After retirement, Skoronski worked in the insurance and automotive industries and remained involved with the Packers organization as a spokesperson and occasional commentator. He lived in Wisconsin until his death on October 30, 2019, at age 85, after a brief illness. His contributions to professional football are remembered for exemplary consistency, leadership, and his role in establishing the Packers' legacy of success.