Packers bits & pieces

Just some quick hits for you...

• If the Packers beat the Steelers on Sunday and either the Cowboys lose, or the Giants lose or tie, or the Packers tie and Giants lose -- got all that? -- the Packers are guaranteed a playoff spot. See here for more.


• LB Brandon Chillar agreed to a 4-year, $21 million contract extension with the Packers. While not currently a starter, the team views Chillar as a key part of its sub-packages. Chillar would have been an unrestricted free agent. The fact that he's been playing effectively on special teams and in his scheme assignments with a broken and surgically-repaired hand is something not lost on observers. See this article for more.


• The contract extension for starting safety Nick Collins is nowhere to be seen. Apparently there have been no discussions between the Packers and his agent, which seems a bit bewildering to many. On the other hand, Collins would be a restricted free agent which gives the Packers more options than with Chillar, for example. That's why the Packers don't appear to be in as much of a hurry with Collins. Given the level of his play and importance on the defense, fans might well hope that Packers management starts negotiations sooner rather than later. There's a great article about this matter here.


• Defensive tackle Johnny Jolly yesterday was indicted for the second time on drug possession charges by a Harris County, Texas grand jury. Charges had been dropped over the summer on the first indictment issued last Fall. The charges are the same as those filed last year and allegedly relate to codeine cough syrup found in his vehicle. Jolly could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted, but as a first time offender he could also get probation. You can read more here.