Packers personnel moves ahead?

The last few weeks have been...hmmm...not so busy for Packer fans. Not much happening. But of course, things have been happening inside 1265 Lombardi Avenue in Green Bay.

In fact, there is a report that the Packers may wind up putting a franchise or transition tag on NT Ryan Pickett. The Packers and Pickett's agent have been discussing a contract for a while but nothing is firm yet. As this story in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel points out, "Jason La Canfora of the NFL Network reported Tuesday evening that the Packers plan to franchise Pickett if a deal isn't reached before Thursday, the final day NFL teams can put tags on their soon-to-be free agent players." If the Packers put the franchise tag on Pickett it will more than double his salary. Wouldn't seem as if there would be much incentive for the agent to get things done at this time given the automatic boost in salary that comes with either tag designation.

Westbrook and Tomlinson interested in Packers
620WTMJ Radio in Milwaukee was yesterday reporting that both Brian Westbrook and LaDainian Tomlinson, veteran running backs released recently by the Eagles and Chargers respectively, indicated their interest in playing with the Packers this coming season. Both have apparently indicated that they are looking for a Super Bowl ring and believe the Packers are well-positioned to make that run. Both runners have been outstanding in their careers. Westbrook has been injury-plagued, however, and Tomlinson is nearing the end of the road. Would Packers GM Ted Thompson take a flyer, as they say, on one of these backs as back up to Ryan Grant? Are either an upgrade over Ahman Green? And what about trying to pick up a legitimate running threat in the draft?

Ah, yes, it's good to start talking personnel again, isn't it?

Packers Fan Fest March 12-13
The sixth annual Packers Fan Fest will be held March 12-13, 2010 at the Lambeau Field Atrium and Don Hutson Center. Many current and former players will be on hand, along with Packers team officials.

Tickets are on sale now. You can get further information here.