Packers begin OTAs

Let the OTAs begin! Today begins the first round of organized team activities for the Packers, with physical exams the primary task for the day. While voluntary, most players are expected to attend. OTAs will continue through June 18. The collective bargaining agreement between the players union and the league allows for 14 days of these OTAs. Other restrictions on length of practice, etc. also pertain. Thursday's practice, May 28, will be open to the public, as will the following three Wednesdays, June 3, 10 and 17. After this OTA period there will be a mandatory three-day, full-squad mini-camp from June 22-24. The players then have nearly a five-week break before the start of training camp on Saturday, Aug. 1.

The main focus of these OTA activities for the Packers will be on -- what else? -- installing the new 3-4 defense. But while that will take priority, offense and special teams will of course get their share of attention as well. The Packers official website is doing a series of overviews on each of these phases of the team beginning with the offense. Check it out here.

There was an excellent article in Saturday's edition of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel about the challenges and changes facing the defense in the shift to the new scheme. Rather than rehash it here, check it out for yourself; it's well worth your time.

Keep checking back here at PackerFansUnited.com for updates as the OTAs progress.