GREEN BAY -- The Green Bay Packers have lost another of their old-timers to retirement -- long-snapper Rob Davis.

 The 12-year NFL veteran, who joined the team in 1997 and played in 167 straight games -- only recently retired quarterback Brett Favre (255) and Hall of Fame offensive lineman Forrest Gregg (187) had longer streaks in team history -- announced his retirement Wednesday, although he will remain with the club as the director of player development.

 Davis served in that role on a part-time basis while still playing in 2007, sharing duties with pro personnel scout Tim Terry. Davis, who was also the team's NFL Players Association representative, was a vital veteran voice in the young locker room, with young players constantly going to his locker in the back of the room for counsel. Thus, the transition to his full-time role in retirement should be seamless.

 "This transition for me is an example of player development at work, as we try to assist players for life after football," Davis said in a statement released by the team. "I'm very grateful for the opportunity to have played 11 years for the best organization in professional sports and I look forward to making an impact on the players I will work with."

 General manager Ted Thompson is pleased to have Davis working in the team's front office.

 "We're looking forward to having Rob evolve into his new role within our organization," Thompson said. "He's been a tremendous contributor as a player and I have no doubt that he will carry that commitment and enthusiasm to his position. He is someone who has always been respected as a leader and mentor in the locker room and we know that will continue."

 Earlier this month, the Packers re-signed long-snapper Thomas Gafford, although the team didn't announce the signing until earlier this week, Gafford, who was in training camp with the team two years ago, snapped well in 2006 and was seen at the time as a possible replacement for Davis, who was an unrestricted free agent following the '07 season.

 The 39-year-old Davis, had said toward the end of last year that he would like to play another season, but if the Packers decided to go younger at the position, Davis said he would understand and move into the front office if no other team in the league was interested in his services.