Packers "breakout players" are...

In a brief break from the Favre-comeback-feeding-frenzy, let's acknowledge this rating from the CBS Sportsline: it expects three Packers to be among the top 30 breakout players in the NFL this year. It includes LB A.J. Hawk, DT Johnny Jolly, and RB Brandon Jackson among its list.

Hawk, in his third year, is due for a step up. He has performed solidly in his first two seasons with the Pack, but given the surrounding talent -- and perhaps an increased blitz package this season -- Hawk could indeed have a big year. Johnny Jolly was starting to make his mark last year before tearing his rotator cuff and being lost for the season. The Packers are counting on him to take over for the departed Corey Williams. Jolly's got a big motor and can definitely be an impact player. Brandon Jackson is an interesting mention, especially given the fact that Ryan Grant is the starting RB for the Pack. But coaches have always been high on Jackson, even though he did little until the final game or so last season. Perhaps it took him that long to start to get it all. If Jackson is able to pick up where he left off, and Grant can reprise the kind of performance that made him a surprise breakout player last season, the Packers could have as dynamic a running game as is expected in the receiving game.

Anyway, if you want to see the entire list and read the bits on the Packers players mentioned, click here.

And now, we return you to our regularly scheduled Favre-comeback-feeding-frenzy...

Today's online poll results (so far) at the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel:
Who will be the Packers' starting quarterback Sept. 8 vs. the Vikings?

Aaron Rodgers (57.0%)
Brett Favre (40.9%)
Someone else (2.1%)

Total votes: 3,197