Greg Olsen has played for several NFL teams during his career as a tight end and later worked as a broadcaster. This overview focuses on the teams he represented on the field and key details around his playing timeline.
Below is a quick reference that captures the core teams, position, and years for Greg Olsen as a player.
| Team | Season(s) | Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago Bears | 2007–2011 | Tight End | Drafted in the first round, played his first five NFL seasons here |
| Carolina Panthers | 2012–2015 | Tight End | Four seasons in Carolina, career highs in receptions and yards |
| Seattle Seahawks | 2016–2020 | Tight End | Five seasons, led the team in catches during his final year |
| Retirement | 2021 | — | Retired after the 2020 season, transitioned to broadcasting |
Chicago Bears tenure and impact
Greg Olsen joined the Chicago Bears after being drafted in 2007 and spent his formative NFL years in Chicago. As a young tight end, he worked into the rotation and eventually became a consistent target in the Bears offense.
Role in the offense
Olsen provided the Bears with a red-zone target and blocking support, developing under quarterback Rex Grossman and later under Jay Cutler. His presence helped shape the tight end position for Chicago during this stretch.
Carolina Panthers period and production
In 2012, Greg Olsen signed with the Carolina Panthers, seeking a larger role as a primary tight end. Carolina capitalized on his size and route-running in a system that emphasized multiple receiving options.
Career highs in Carolina
Olsen recorded career bests in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns while playing for the Panthers. He became a dependable option in Carolina's passing game and a leader in the locker room.
Seattle Seahawks years and final playing stretch
Greg Olsen joined the Seattle Seahawks in 2016, adding veteran presence and depth at tight end. He remained a reliable contributor in Seattle and continued to log significant snaps even late in his career.
Leadership and transition
During his final seasons, Olsen mentored younger tight ends while maintaining strong performances. He played a key role in Seattle's 2019 campaign, leading the team in catches in his last year.
Player timeline at a glance
Understanding when Greg Olsen played for each team helps contextualize his career arc and consistency over more than a decade.
| Team | Years | Games Played | Key Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago Bears | 2007–2011 | 65 | Developed into a starting tight end |
| Carolina Panthers | 2012–2015 | 61 | Career highs in TDs and yards |
| Seattle Seahawks | 2016–2020 | 78 | Led team in catches in 2020 |
FAQ
Which team drafted Greg Olsen and when?
Greg Olsen was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the first round of the 2007 NFL Draft.
Did Greg Olsen have his best seasons with one specific team?
Yes, Olsen recorded his career highs in receptions, yards, and touchdowns with the Carolina Panthers from 2012 to 2015.
Which team did Greg Olsen play for immediately before retiring?
Greg Olsen played his final season with the Seattle Seahawks in 2020 before retiring in 2021.
How many teams did Greg Olsen play for in his NFL career?
Greg Olsen played for three NFL teams: the Chicago Bears, Carolina Panthers, and Seattle Seahawks.
Key takeaways on Greg Olsen teams
- Played for the Chicago Bears, Carolina Panthers, and Seattle Seahawks
- Drafted by the Bears in 2007 and developed into a starter
- Found his top production level with the Panthers
- Provided veteran leadership with the Seahawks late in his career
- Transitioned to broadcasting after retiring in 2021
