Following the flurry of cuts and waivers to get to their 53-man roster last Friday, the Green Bay Packers finally nailed down the eight spots on their practice squad. Most of the eight have already been with the Pack, either as rookies this training camp or as practice squad players previously. The eighth and final spot, however, was filled by a two-year veteran cut from the Steelers, Chris Scott, an offensive lineman. Considering that GM Ted Thompson only kept seven offensive linemen on the active roster, adding an experienced lineman to the practice squad gives the team at least a bit of depth. A bit. The Packers also kept seventh-round pick Andrew Datko and undrafted rookie free agent G Greg Van Roten on the squad. Only one defensive player, DE Lawrence Guy, made the squad.
Anyway, here's the practice squad roster:
- QB B.J. Coleman
- WR Diondre Borel
- RB Marc Tyler
- TE Brandon Bostick
- T Andrew Datko
- G/T Chris Scott
- G Greg Van Roten
- DE Lawrence Guy
Noticeable by his absence is WR Tori Gurley who was finally lured away to the ViQueens practice squad. The Packers had paid him more this last year to keep him on their practice squad after the 'Queens had initially tried to sign him to their practice squad. Given the abundance of receivers the Pack had in camp this year, it was apparent that probably only he or Borel and not both would make the practice squad. The Pack opted in the final analysis for Borel.
49ers coming to Lambeau to kick off the season
The Packers had their first practice of the regular season yesterday as they began preparation for the San Francisco 49ers coming to Lambeau Field this Sunday. A few players were held out, including B.J. Raji who sustained an ankle sprain on the first play of the final preseason game. Today is the team's regular day off before they again resume preparations tomorrow.
Currently, the Packers are slotted as 5-point favorites over the Niners, who bring a talented defense into town. San Fran had a very good season last year, but they picked up four easy wins going against the likes of Seattle and Arizona.
We'll be back nearer game day to provide both a game -- and season -- prediction.
Until then...say it with me: It's great to be a Packer fan!
