Packers release Harrell and Poppinga

In the current NFL funhouse, where what was thought to be one thing may turn out to be something else altogether, reports of DE Cullen Jenkins going to the Redskins seem to have fizzled, while others indicating that the Green Bay Packers have released LB Brady Poppinga and DE Justin Harrell seem to be solid. And, yes, LG Daryn Colledge has indeed been signed by Arizona, and the ViQueens are hot on the trail of WR James Jones.

With me so far?

Poppinga had a big motor which helped overcome average talent as a linebacker. He ultimately became a casualty, not unlike fellow linebacker Nick Barnett, of his season-ending injury last year; the Packers were able to find -- and win -- with other linebackers filling in without missing a beat.

Harrell was and is GM Ted Thompson's biggest draft bust during his tenure. An overall #16 pick in the first round, Harrell had been hurt in college and was a stretch at that slot given the injury history. He was never able to stay healthy and on the field. The Packers gave him every opportunity to get healthy, where other teams likely would have cut him several years ago. Having said that, virtually everyone covering the Packers from the inside, as opposed to those of us looking in from the hinterland, says Harrell is hands down one of the nicest young men you'd ever want to meet. He was the kind of character person and player that the Packers want on their roster. Unfortunately, character can't make tackles and the plug was finally pulled.

Thanks to both Brady Poppinga and Justin Harrell for their service to the Packers, and good luck to you in the future.

Undrafted free agents finalized
Initial reports two days ago indicated that the Packers had reached agreements with 16 undrafted rookie free agents. Today, final signings have been announced. They are:

• WR/KR Antoine “Shaky” Smithson, Utah
• WR Tori Gurley, South Carolina
• LB Jamari Lattimore, Middle Tennessee State
• C Sampson Genus, South Florida
• S M.D. Jennings, Arkansas State
• DE Vic So’oto, BYU
• QB Diondre Borel, Utah State (possible WR in the NFL)
• OL Theo Sherman, James Madison
• OL Ray Dominguez, Arkansas
• WR Kerry Taylor, Arizona State
• LB Eli Joseph, Temple (incorrectly listed earlier as NT)
• S Anthony Bratton, Delaware
• FB Jon Hoese, Minnesota
• DB Brandian Ross, Youngstown State
• RB Brandon Saine, Ohio State

You can read brief bios on each of these players here.

Vegas sees Pack and Pats with most wins
A report out earlier today stated that the oddsmakers at Las Vegas' MGM Grand had figured the Packers and the Patriots with the most wins in the league, with 11-1/2 each...not sure how you get that half-game win but that's Vegas, right?

Hello, I must be going...

As the whirlwind feeding frenzy (is that a mixed metaphor?) of the first week of the NFL's new collective bargaining agreement continues, the Green Bay Packers will be bidding adieu to a few longtime veterans.

Barnett, Colledge, Jenkins and Jones...going, going...
As reported the Tuesday, LB Nick Barnett was informed by the Packers they would attempt to trade him or, failing that, part ways with him when today's release timeline kicks in. Late yesterday, free agent LG Daryn Colledge apparently agreed to terms with the Arizona Cardinals, according to NFL.com. A Tweet from Colledge this morning confirmed that his days in Green Bay were done following conversations with Arizona. The St. Louis Rams had also been rumored to be a possible suitor. Nothing can be made official until tomorrow, however. According to both Colledge and his agent, the Packers "never showed interest" in resigning him. Apparently, GM Ted Thompson and the coaching staff feels confident that either veterans T. J. Lang, Nick McDonald or Marshall Newhouse can fill the slot at least as well -- and cheaper -- than Colledge, or rookie first round-pick Derek Sherrod will be be able to do what Bryan Bulaga did last season and step right into the fray.

Thank you, Mr. Colledge, for never missing a game during your tenure as a member of the Packers. You never got the appreciation you deserved, in this writer's opinion, for your solid service. You weren't a Pro Bowler, but you weren't chopped liver either, as the saying goes. Good luck in the desert.

Another apparent, although not unexpected, loss for the Packers in free agency is DE Cullen Jenkins. Reports this morning indicate that Jenkins has come to terms with the Washington Redskins although, again, nothing can finalized until Friday. Well, at least he's not going to Da Bearz.

One possible inter-division free agent loss that is getting some buzz this morning is that WR James Jones may be going to the ViQueens. With Sidney Rice bolting the 'Queens for the Seahawks, Minnesota is now desperate for a starting receiver to play opposite Percy Harvin. Jones has made it clear he wants the opportunity to be a starter. While Packers QB Aaron Rodgers stated on a radio program yesterday that he felt re-signing Jones was a priority for the team as he saw things, Jones will likely be offered more money than the Packers are willing to pay. My guess is Jones will be dressing in purple this Fall -- just as other former Packers have (what's up with that, by the way?). Stay tuned.

Crosby scores a deal
The Packers did come to terms yesterday, however, with one free agent: kicker Mason Crosby. He apparently will be signing a five-year $14.75 million deal with $3 million in guaranted money. There seems to be some mixed feelings about this deal among Packer fans. While Crosby's leg strength has never been in question, his accuracy has been at times, and stats demonstrate he is below the NFL average in that regard. He also is merely 1 for 4 in game-winning kicks. Speaking for myself, I have had very little confidence when he comes in for those clutch kicks. I hope to have that opinion reversed over the next five years.

Shareholders meeting today
Today is the annual meeting for Packers shareholders, which is being held at Lambeau Field. Will do a re-cap of anything newsworthy that might arise.

Ding dong the deal is done!

At long last, the NFL lockout is over, although the players still have to ratify the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) and recertify their union. Bottom line: those are formalities and it's a done deal.

So, let's say it loud and say it proud: Go Pack Go!!!

Yes, we fans of the Super Bowl Champion Green Bay Packers can now start chomping at the bit again. Because while free agent, drafted and undrafted rookie signings will now be compressed into the negotiating equivalent of a thimble, the Pack's existing roster is already loaded. Remember all the players coming back off IR from last season?

Questions, at least among fans, concern what the Pack will do with some of their own free agents, such as Cullen Jenkins, Daryn Colledge and James Jones among others. The consensus of the chit chat over the past few months seems to be about evenly split: some fans hope the Packers keep each of these players, some say let 'em walk. I have to admit to having a split mind on these guys myself. But there won't be a lot of guessing; we'll likely know by the end of the week who the Packers will re-sign and who they won't.

Keep in mind also that under the new CBA, the training camp rosters have been expanded by 10 players, from 80 to 90. That means Ted Thompson will have even more of a field day signing undrafted rookies for camp. The downside is that he and the coaching staff will have only about a month to evaluate them and set their final rosters. Given the depth of the Packers' roster it will be tough for a rookie, especially an undrafted one, to crack the regular season roster particularly given the accelerated learning curve. But Thompson is known for finding hidden gems, with last season being a prime example. So anything is possible.

It's going to be a busy time for all the players, coaches and management. Players can begin using team facilities tomorrow and, in the case of the Packers, report for camp Friday, with the likely first practice being on Saturday as previously scheduled. The first preseason game is still set for Aug. 13. There's a lot to be done before then. But if any team is in position to handle it all, it is the Packers.

No doubt, Packers shareholders will be hearing all about that -- and more -- at the upcoming shareholders meeting this Thursday at Lambeau Field.

For the first time for the upcoming 2011 season, say it with me: It's great to be a Packer fan!

Packers draft wrap-up: Rounds 4-7 (part 1)

If it seems like we're stretching out this post-draft review for the Green Bay Packers...well, frankly, yes, we are. But so is just about every other sportswriter (not that I'm a sportswriter, of course...those guys get paid for timely commentary). After all, there are no free agent signings going on courtesy of the lockout, nor are there any mini-camps, OTAs, etc. And -- NEWSFLASH -- news just broke as I'm writing this that the NFL got a stay of the injunction, meaning the lockout will remain in place until June at the least. Not good, folks, not good.

So, what else is there to talk about right now except this last weekend's draft? Might as well drag this puppy out as long as we can. (By the way, that reference is a metaphor and not intended to get the folks at PETA upset. Just wanna make that clear.)

We left off our review at round 4.

Davon House, CB, New Mexico State: House is a big (listed at 6'1", 200 lbs.) and fast (4.50 40-yd. time at Combine) D-back who should immediately compete with the likes of veterans Pat Lee and Jarret Bush for nickel and other packages, including special teams. (Although, as a long-time critic of Bush's play, I have to acknowledge that he stepped up his game big time last year.) House was a four-year starter for the Aggies (the New Mexico State version, not Texas A&M). He is a physical cornerback, can play at the line and is good in coverage. He also is durable, having missed no games due to injury. He was not on a very good team this past season, which might be one of the reasons he may have not been selected in earlier rounds. Also, because of his cover ability, opposing teams generally tried to avoid throwing his way, which again may have made some teams overlook him. While D-back was not a great need for the Packers, as we saw last year, you can never have enough good players at any position. This looks like a very good pick, especially for the 4th round.

D.J. Williams, TE, Arkansas: This may just wind up being the steal of the draft for the Packers. Williams plays bigger than his size (6'2" 245 lbs.), but is primarily a receiving tight end more so than a blocking variety. He's got good speed (4.67 40-yd. time at Combine) and great hands. He won the Mackey Award as the nation's best college tight end this past season. He immediately upgrades the Packers' tight end corps. While not as good a blocker at this point as Andrew Quarless, he has much better hands. He can also be used coming out of the backfield as an H-back type player. Pairing Williams with Jermichael Finley in two-tight-end sets, along with the host of other offensive weapons coach Mike McCarthy can line up, should keep defensive coordinators up at night for a long time to come. Williams won the 2010 Disney Spirit Award, presented to college football's most inspirational individual, because of his personal story. He was selected All-SEC first team for the 2010 season. Expect great things for a long time to come from this player.

Caleb Schlauderauff, OG Utah: A name that scores 20 points in Scrabble: pronounced, by the way, as "chla-der-off." This was one of those picks, as many if not most are in the later rounds, that make you say, "Who?". But as we well know as Packer fans, these are often exactly the guys that GM Ted Thompson and his scouts find as real gems in the rough. Whether Schlauderauff turns out that way or not, who knows? There was no record of his performance at the Combine as he didn't participate due to pectoral and hamstring strains. He is a big body, 6'4" and 305 lbs, and started all 13 games at left guard for the Utes (as opposed to "da yutes" which is a not-so-obscure Joe Pesci film reference). In 2010 he was second-team Walter Camp and SI.com All-America offensive guard, third-team Associated Press All-American and first-team all-Mountain West Conference. He's said in scouting reports to be a physical blocker well suited to zone blocking schemes, which is just up the Packers' alley. Should Daryn Colledge depart, Schlauderauff -- can we just call him Caleb, for typo's sake, please?! -- could well compete with T.J. Lang for playing time.

We've only just begun to hit rounds 6 and 7, folks. Check back later for more. Yep, we're gonna milk this for all it's worth.

What a week!

As I write this, ESPN is announcing that the NFL Players Association has just decertified. And so, the negotiations between the NFL owners and players now goes to the courts. The NFLPA is dissolved and the union no longer exists; it is now a trade association. Players can individually file antitrust lawsuits. If the NFL locks out players, players can file lawsuits to block the lockouts. Drew Brees, Tom Brady and Peyton Manning are expected to be among the lead plaintiffs in a class action lawsuit against the league. Basically, nothing can happen business-wise with players who are currently in the league once this hits the courts. The NFL Draft supposedly can take place as usual because those players are obviously not yet in the NFL, although I heard one report indicate that, depending upon how the judge rules, the Draft could be out the window, too.

So, after a week's extension of time to negotiate...nada. Now it's gonna get nasty. There's a lockout coming, Packer fans. Just a matter of how long it will last.

Hard to image that these folks can't figure out how to negotiate a win-win situation when there's $9 billion-plus to be had. Can you say "greed"? Even kids learn that it's good to share. These folks must have missed that day in kindergarten.

Other happenings

Head coach Mike McCarthy's contract extension was finalized. He and GM Ted Thompson will be leading the Green Bay Packers' field deployment through 2015 (if memory serves). Both are being rewarded well for bringing the Lombardi Trophy home to Titletown.

The Packers put some tenders on a few players: James Jones, Daryn Colledge, Atari Bigby and John Kuhn (am I missing anyone?). Basically, they are more defensive maneauvers than anything, especially since the entire collective bargaining deal with the NFL Players Association is out the window...no one knows at this point now whether these players will be restricted or unrestricted free agents as there is now no collective bargaining agreement that defines that.

LB Nick Barnett may be the odd man out of the inside linebackers (interesting grammatical construction there but I think you get the drift). Coach McCarthy told reporters that A. J. Hawk (recently re-signed to a new big dollar deal) and Desmond Bishop (big deal signed before end of the season) are his starting inside linebackers. Barnett, coming off his second season-ending injury in the last three seasons, may or may not be back with the Pack if and when football is next played. Consensus among fans, if you can gauge such things from the comments about the various stories and scenarios related to this topic, seems to be that Barnett will be gone and the Packers will be looking to pick up new and younger and healthier linebacker help in the upcoming draft.

Natural and man-made disasters

We awoke this morning to the sad and terrible news of the earthquake (now quakes) in Japan and the ensuing tsunami which has killed hundreds of people and destroyed much property in Japan. A damaged nuclear reactor is also in the mix and is a major concern not only within Japan but from a global perspective. We need to keep the people of Japan and other affected areas in our thoughts and prayers. If you wish to support relief efforts, text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation, or go here to donate online.

Finally, while it's a matter that I generally try to keep out of this blog, the happenings of the last weeks and days in the state of Wisconsin regarding the collective bargaining rights of public employees and the state budget came to a head when the governor, newly-elected Republican Scott Walker, signed into law this morning the bill passed by the Republican-controlled legislature. Anyone who has tuned into any of the news shows -- or even Comedy Central's Daily Show and Colbert Report for that matter -- are aware of this matter. Regardless of one's political persuasion, this event has nationwide implications either positive or negative depending upon your view. The state senate majority leader told Fox News the real reason for banning these collective bargaining rights; you can view the video and decide for yourself whether it was about the state budget or something else. Events are scheduled at the Wisconsin state capitol building in Madison for Saturday, March 12. But unscheduled events are just as likely to occur for a long time to come.

For a current list of events in Madison and around the state in support of workers' rights, see here. You can also take a stand for workers in Wisconsin and elsewhere where rights are similarly threatened by going here. And if you use Twitter -- to follow this blog at @packfasnunited no doubt! -- you can see all the various posts related to this situation by using the #wiunion hashtag.

Packers - Cowboys Preview: Sunday Night Showdown

Two teams headed in different directions. That pretty well sums up the contest Sunday evening between the Green Bay Packers and the Dallas Cowboys. After giving away a couple games they should have won, and sitting at a mediocre 3-3, the Pack put together great wins over the ViQueens and the Jets.

Both of those wins can be attributed more to the Packers' defense -- which, lest we forget, is the unit that has been hurt the most with injuries -- than the offense. At the mid-point of the season, the Packers' offense still has yet to play a complete game. Sunday night against the 'boys would be as good a time as any to put a complete game together.

The offense will be without veteran WR Donald Driver for the first time in...oh...forever, it seems. He was on crutches late in the practice week just to give some added relief to his quad injury. That means, likely, that Greg Jennings will take Driver's spot in the slot and has the potential for some big plays. As radio voice of the Packers, Wayne Larrivee points out about Dallas in his blog, "There is a gap of coverage between the linebacking corps, the safeties and cornerbacks that is wide open" because "Dallas will blitz a lot and they like to play quarters coverage behind those blitzes." Jennings and fellow receivers James Jones and Jordy Nelson should be chompin' at the bit to against the Dallas secondary. Let's just hope that they and their QB, Aaron Rodgers, are a bit more in sync than they seem to have been over the last few games. And that they hold on to the passes that come their way. If so, the Pack could rack up some points.

Rookie TE Andrew Quarless was battling a shoulder problem throughout the week and he is listed as questionable for the game. It was clear in some of head coach Mike McCarthy's comments during the week that he was less than satisfied with Quarless' ability to work through the discomfort and be on the practice field. McCarthy noted that the players that practice are the ones who will get the nod on game day...hint, hint, Mr. Quarless.

On the Packers' offensive line, rookie Bryan Bulaga will once again get the start at right tackle in place of the still gimpy Mark Tauscher. LG Daryn Colledge missed a bit of practice during the week with a bad back and it wasn't certain he'd be available for the game. Jason Spitz and T. J. Lang would be the backups if Colledge couldn't go. But he did practice Friday and says he'll be ready.

On defense, it was announced late Saturday afternoon that S Atari Bigby was activated off the PUP (physically unable to perform) list and now fills the last open roster spot which was made available earlier in the week when the Packers cut DE Michael Montgomery. Rookie Morgan Burnett had filled Bigby's starting spot at the beginning of the season until he was lost to season-ending injury. Charlie Peprah has been filling the role well the last few weeks. It will be interesting to see just how much play Bigby gets in the game against Dallas.

It will also be interesting to see if CB Al Harris is activated before game time. Ditto for the other member of the PUP list, rookie RB James Starks. The Packers have until Monday to decide what to do with them. There is some speculation that CB Pat Lee might be placed on IR after sustaining a high ankle sprain in the game against the Jets. Lee is listed as out for the Dallas game. If that's the case, and the prognosis on the sprain is not good, it would make sense that the Packers put him on IR opening up a roster spot for Harris. The consensus on Starks seems to be that the Packers will put him on IR for the rest of the season and then see what they have with him next year.

As for the Cowboys, at 1-6 they are, to say the least, underperforming given the talent on the roster. But a lot of talent doesn't necessarily add up to a team. The 'boys seemingly are in disarray, much like that team in the funky purple. But as a character in a Monty Python sketch reminds us (please say with an Australian accent), "There's nothing as dangerous as a wounded mosquito."

What has cost the Cowboys this season has been turnovers and penalties. If the Packers can create turnovers and convert them into points, that will help seal the deal for a win. If the Packers allow veteran QB Jon Kitna -- replacing the injured Tony Romo -- time to find any among the band of talented receivers, things could get interesting. The running backs seem good enough, but they have been underutilized it would seem. The special teams have a dangerous returner in Dez Bryant, who is also the receiver Kitna seems to have developed a quick rapport with. The Pack will have to shut him down.

Bottom line is if the Packers defense plays the way it has been playing, the special teams continues its fine turn-around, and the offense finally gets it in gear and can get up early on the 'boys, the Pack should come out of this game with a win and be at 6-3 going into the bye week. That would also leave them well in charge of the NFC North. And given what a mess there is in Minnesota right now, what some (or many) figured might be a loss in the Humpty Dump in two weeks could very well be the Pack's seventh victory. But we'll worry about that game then. Gotta take care of business at Lambeau against the Cowboys first.

The Packers are favored by 7-1/2 points (depending upon who you tend to be looking at for that type of info). I'm calling this game 30-20 in favor of the Pack.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers - Bills preview

With just a couple hours left to kickoff, I'm finally getting around to writing this preview of the Green Bay Packers vs. Buffalo Bills. But as regular readers of PackerFansUnited.com know, I typically wait until the day and morning of the game to lay out my thoughts on what we might expect. So that's my excuse, er, story, and I'm stickin' to it.

But let's start with the facts: the Pack is favored by 13 points despite the Bills leading the series 7-3 (how the heck did that happen, by the way?); the weather is supposed to be great Fall football weather, about 63 degrees and mostly cloudy with little or no wind issues anticipated. And, of course, it is the regular season home opener for the Packers. That should get the Packers' players a bit more jacked up for the game.

Not that they should need it. The Bills are not, at this point, a very good team. On the other hand, as both players and fans learned again last year, even bad teams can take advantage of a flat team on any given day (recall the debacle against the Buccaneers?). But that won't be the case today. Back to the Bills...receiver (and former University of Wisconsin Badger ... go Badgers!) Lee Evans called out QB Trent Edwards this last week for not going downfield more. Now, whether that would be on Edwards or the offensive coordinator, who knows. But don't be surprised if Buffalo does try to stretch the field at the outset to test our young (in spots) secondary, particularly if the pass rush is lacking. But, I don't expect that to happen. I think defensive coordinator Dom Capers can certainly set the players and schemes in motion today to put a lot of pressure on Edwards.

As to the Bills' running game, rookie C.J. Spiller will test the Packers' defense. He will also test the Packers' special teams on kick returns. The running game and the special teams are arguably the two best aspects of the Bills. The secondary isn't bad either, but can they really match up with all the Packers' weapons? Not for the entire day they can't.

So, what about the Pack? Well, we already know that RB Ryan Grant is done for the year and Brandon Jackson is going to get his chance, once again, to be the featured back. Should we expect that the Packers will operate the running portion of their game plan differently than with Grant? Unlikely. The Pack is still a pass-first team. I'd still look for a 60-40 pass to rush ratio. If the Pack gets up big early, it's possible we may see more of Jackson as the day goes on. FB/RB John Kuhn may also get a few carries as he did last week. It's also possible we may even get glimpse or two of recently signed RB Dimitri Nance who was supposedly able to learn a package or two this week, although radio reports this morning indicate that he might not even be active today. As for the air game, look for QB Aaron Rodgers to bounce back from a very subpar performance last week in Philadelphia. He will spread the ball around. TE Jermichael Finley should have a big day. But if the Bills' defense tries to take Finley out of the offense, it's not as if Rodgers doesn't have other options. He's got options up the ying-yang, baby!

The Packers will also be able to run more of a typical defense today. After all, nothing is typical when you're trying to chase Michael Vick all over the field as the Pack had to do last weekend. But we can figure that we will see LB A.J. Hawk actually play from scrimmage today rather than just on special teams. And, given reports of his comments this past week, Hawk was not happy having to stand on the sidelines the entire game last week. Well he shouldn't have been. But while a steady competitor, Hawk has not performed up to expectations of a #5 overall draft pick. Perhaps his pride is hurt a bit. That can often be a good motivator to up one's game. Let's hope so. I like Hawk. But the Packers' linebacking corps is a good one, and some of the other players competing with Hawk for playing time are bringing more to the field right now than is Hawk. It will be interesting to see what he might do today. Keep an eye on Hawk.

The young Packers' secondary held up well last week. Rookies Morgan Burnett and Sam Shields actually performed well for their first NFL game. A few rookie mistakes showed up here and there, but nothing that wound up costing them the game.

As to player status for today's game, early reports were that RG Daryn Colledge was doubtful for today's game; he has been battling an undisclosed illness for the past few days. If Colledge is out, one would expect to see rookie Bryan Bulaga get the start; second-year player T.J. Lang might have also been expected to be in the mix but was just listed as being inactive, which may be a sign that Colledge is good to go after all. Rookie DE Mike Neal is also expected to miss today's game, as he did last week's game, with an abodiminal injury. CB Brandon Underwood is also inactive for today's game after missing last week's contest with a shoulder injury suffered in the last preseason game. FB Korey Hall is also inactive, which means Quinn Johnson will get his first start. LB Desmond Bishop is inactive. DE Cullen Jenkins also probable for today's game; look for him to play with a club on the hand in which he sustained multiple fractures in last Sunday's game.

OK, bottom line prediction: Packers 34 - Bills 13.

Go Pack Go!!!

By the way, for those interested, I will be Tweeting scintillating 140-character commentary during the game. If you are that hardcore -- and if you are reading this, we both know you are -- just click on the "Follow Me on Twitter" button near the top of the righthand column. Or, click here.

Packers - Seahawks preseason game preview

It's less than two hours to kickoff for the second game of the preseason, Packers vs. Seahawks. And, to be honest, this isn't really a preview as much as an overview. Hope that works for you.

What to look for tonight? Well, Coach McCarthy says that most all players are available for tonight's game, although in fact neither RB Kregg Lumpkin or RB James Starks made the trip. And even though Ryan Grant came back from his concussion of last weekend to practice this week, and will play tonight, expect most carries to go to backups Brandon Jackson and free-agent rookie Quinn Porter. That will be good to see. Porter is raw, but shows flashes. Need to see what he can really do in extended play. This may be the best opportunity he gets, as next Thursday's game at Lambeau versus the Colts is technically the dress rehearsal game for the starters. Game #4 is a grab bag. If Porter is going to legitimately challenge for a roster spot he needs to make an impression tonight.

As for the rest of the offense, no worries at this point. OK, there are the offensive line questions but it already is in better shape than last season. And there is a distinct possibility that rookie Bryan Bulaga will beat out Daryn Colledge to start at left guard.

So let's move on to defense, where there are indeed questions.

Now, let's not expect to see much in the way of scheming and blitzing tonight. The Packers are definitely holding their cards close in the preseason. So if it doesn't seem very exciting, it's not. Might see some flashes of things in the next game when the starters get more extended play, but don't look for anything too exciting this evening...still pretty vanilla.

The pass rush is something that was non-existent last weekend. Need to see who is able to get pressure tonight. Without Clay Matthews last week (and without him again tonight), the Pack had nothing in that department. And will Justin Harrell (who is listed as questionable for tonight because of his ongoing back problems) actually make an appearance? And how will second-year player B.J. Raji hold the point at nose tackle this evening?

In the defensive backfield, Al Harris will not play nor is it likely that Charles Woodson will see action. So Will Blackmon, Pat Lee, rookie Morgan Burnett and others in the backfield will gets lots of exposure...good or bad.

As for special teams that haven't been special in a long, long time...well, the coverage and return units are still works in progress. Need to see if one of the punters begins to separate himself from the other this evening; so far, they seem about even. Also still need to see who will emerge as reliable and productive punt and kick returners.

Well, Packer fans, that's the overview. Will do a recap tomorrow.

Go Pack Go!!!

Colledge signs & other Packers news

Playing a bit of catch up here, folks. Basically, other than the rookie orientation weekend and tryouts, not much happening since the conclusion of the NFL Draft as far as the Pack goes.

Yes, guard Daryn Colledge signed his tender offer with the team yesterday, which means he will finally re-join his teammates in offseason workouts. As a restricted free agent, the deal keeps Colledge around for one more year. After that, it's possible some of the new kids picked up in this year's draft may make Colledge expendable unless he ramps up his performance.

Colledge was arguably considered the weakest link on the starting O-line, at least after Clifton and Tauscher resumed their play at left and right tackles respectively. It is possible that Colledge will also be in a battle to keep his current starting role this season as reports are that the Pack want to try Jason Spitz at left guard. You'll recall that last season Spitz beat out then-starter Scott Wells for the center spot before sustaining an injury that took him out of the line up. If Wells is back at center, Spitz could definitely challenge Colledge for the starting slot at left guard. And with the depth of current and new players across the line, Colledge's days may be numbered unless his play lives up to his talk. It's also possible that a team in need of a serviceable guard might be willing to make a trade for Colledge at some point, probably for a lower round draft pick. If GM Ted Thompson feels there is sufficient depth on the line if and when such a possibility arises don't be surprised to see Ted add to his future draft pick war chest...we all know how much he likes those.

After Colledge's signing, the only remaining restricted free agents left unsigned are safety Atari Bigby, defensive end Johnny Jolly and cornerback Tramon Williams. Because the April 15 deadline for them to sign offer sheets with other teams came and went, they are bound to the Packers unless the team releases them. That won't happen, obviously.

Post-Draft Tidbits
Following the rookie weekend and free agent tryouts, a couple stories for you to check out.

One has to do with the import from north of the border...Canadian border, that is: Shawn Gore. The rookie receiver came in for a tryout with the Packers, despite the fact that he was at the same time being drafted in the second round of the Canadian Football League draft. He would have been a sure fire first-rounder except for the fact that all the CFL teams knew he was trying out with the Pack and didn't want to waste a first round pick on someone that might be playing in the NFL instead.

Gore's bet paid off: he was one of only three players offered a contract by the Packers following the tryout weekend. And based upon his size, speed and ability, Gore has a good chance of sticking with the team, even in a highly competitive receiving corps. Read more about him here.

Shields a returner?
Seemingly since...who can remember?...the Packers have been searching for a reliable and effective punt and/or kickoff returner. They may have found one in undrafted rookie free agent CB Sam Shields out of Miami. Very fast. Check out the story here.

OTAs begin May 17
The Packers' first organized team activities (OTAs) of the 2010 season begin next week. While optional, expect most all players to attend. We'll update you on anything of importance that happens during that week.

Packers Tailgate Tour underway
The four-stop 2010 Green Bay Packers Tailgate Tour hits the road tonight (May 11) in Rhinelander and ends Friday May 14 in Milwaukee (at the Harley-Davidson Museum, no less) with stops in Chippewa Falls and Reedsburg in between. The tour gets players and execs out to the fans "with evening tailgate parties held in each city to support a local non-profit organization," as the press release goes.

You can learn more -- and still get tickets at least in one or two instances -- here.

Conference championships set

There was only one playoff upset this weekend: the Jets beat favored San Diego after the Chargers' kicker did his best Mason Crosby imitation and missed three field goals. Ouch. What a way to lose. But, Charger fans, if it's any consolation -- and it really isn't, is it? -- we can relate.

The Colts - Ravens game was more or less a snoozefest. The Saints dismantled the Cardinals in a way we had hoped the Packers would have done the week before, getting to Kurt Warner and forcing the Cards into turnovers, etc. And last, and least, the ViQueens put the hurt on the Cowboys. Ol' #4 tossed 4 TD passes, a record for him in playoff games, and looked very good. Not making bonehead plays or trying to force things...gee, where was this guy two years ago in that NFC Championship game against the Giants???

Anyway, the Jets go to Indianapolis and will likely get beat. That will end coach Rex Ryan's time on center stage for this season, thank goodness.

The 'Queens go to N'awlins to meet the Saints. The 'Queens' defense looked very good yesterday. They have the edge in that regard over the Saints. And you have two potent offenses going at it. But the dome edge now shifts to the Saints. And the fans there can be just as nuts as the ones in the Humpty Dump.

Yes, it's nice to see Ol' #4 play well. But as long as he's in that funky purple uniform, we just don't want him to win because as every good Packer fan knows, we don't want the 'Queens to win. So...go Saints!

Yep, fined for helmt-to-helmet hit...just no penalty flag
For those who haven't heard, or who have tried to block out the Packers' OT loss to the Cardinals via electro-shock or other therapies, the NFL on Friday fined Arizona defensive end Bertrand Berry for the helmet-to-helmet hit on QB Aaron Rodgers on the second play of overtime. He's $5,000 lighter in the wallet for the hit. Big whoop.

But, as everyone remembers, there was no penalty flag thrown on that play. Instead, LG Daryn Colledge was called for holding. They see that and yet nobody sees the defender launching himself with his helmet right to the head of Rodgers. Even booth announcer Troy Aikman said the refs missed that one.

For those who don't recall the helmet-to-helmet hit, have a look:



This would have been a huge call in that game. The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel's Greg Beddard explains how this penalty would have changed the overtime situation here.

While this could have made a big change in the game, in the Packers' season, it shouldn't have come down to a ref's call. That's the sad part of it all.

Packers Coach McCarthy still feels the pain

In his weekly (and now, last for the season) on-air interview this morning with 620wtmj radio in Milwaukee (the Packers flagship radio station), Packers head coach Mike McCarthy admits to still being haunted by the last series of last weekend's overtime loss to the Cardinals. The final play literally brought him to his knees on the sideline...just as it did many of us.

Missing that first pass to WR Greg Jennings was really the critical play in that series. McCarthy said that they had the play they wanted and everybody on the sideline knew they had it. But QB Aaron Rodgers had to step up a bit into the pocket before the throw and just didn't put enough air under it. Missed shot.

To McCarthy's credit, he is not on the bash-the-refs bandwagon that most fans -- and many sports pundits across the country -- are. He said earlier this week that he was really more upset by the helmet-to-helmet action one play earlier that also didn't get called as a penalty; instead, as you'll remember, LG Daryn Colledge was called for holdiing on that play...amazing still. McCarthy said that's happened to Rodgers several times this season and it hasn't been called. Compare that clear shot with the one where the Packers' defender was pushed into Arizona QB Kurt Warner by an offensive lineman and was called for roughing. Just like in basketball, some players get the calls and others don't.

You can still hear the disappointment in McCarthy's voice as he talks about the game and what might have been, what should have been. And you can hear it all for yourself here in 620wtmj's podcast.

Playoffs? Playoffs?!

McCarthy said he most likely won't even watch this weekend's divisional playoff games. Can't blame him.

Although as a fan, who are you going to root for in the Cowboys-ViQueens game? Granted, these are two teams Packer fans love to hate. We'd really like both of them to lose, wouldn't we? Can that happen? No? Dang! OK...well, considering that a former Packers QB made it a deliberate point to wear that funky 'Queens' purple as a last shot at the Super Bowl, that means we need to root for...the Cowboys! I know, I know. Don't like them either. But Dallas QB Tony Romo is a Wisconsin lad...Burlington, Wisconsin, to be exact. So, there's the homer connection. Thus, gotta pull for the 'boys this weekend. Don't want to. But have to.

As for the Cards vs. the Saints...do we really care? Not really. Flip a coin. Ditto the AFC games. Who's playing anyway? Oh, except we'd really like to see the Jets lose because of their classless coach Rex Ryan's comments about the NFL Defensive Player of the Year Award going to Charles Woodson instead of his guy, Derrelle Revis. There's being supportive of one's own team members and then there's being a bonehead. Son Rex didn't fall too far from father Buddy's tree apparently. 620wtmj radio's Bill Michaels had a great article about Ryan's comments. Check it out here.

A word about Haiti
There's not really much that we can say about the situation that has developed in Haiti. Please consider supporting relief efforts through whatever organization you feel comfortable with. Please note that at the top of the righthand column we have included instructions on how to contribute $10 directly to the American Red Cross efforts by texting "Haiti" to 90999 on your mobile phone (it will be added directly to your phone bill...so far, millions of dollars have been raised this way). You will also find clickable banners to both the UN World Food Programme and the Mercy Corps which are also providing direct relief to Haiti. By texting "Friends" to 90999 you can donate $5 to the World Food Programme's Haiti relief efforts. Please consider making a gift of at least $10 or more to these or other organizations. Or think how much coin you might drop on a football game weekend -- whether at home or even more so, at the game itself! -- and donate that instead to the relief efforts. If you wouldn't miss it for that, you aren't going to miss it now. It's a good thing to do.

End of 3rd quarter: Packers 27 - Lions 7

Finally. Finally the Packers took charge in the 3rd quarter, scoring two touchdowns, one a 7-yard TD pass from Aaron Rodgers to Donald Driver to make the score 20-7, and the second near the end of the quarter on a 21-yard pass from Rodgers to James Jones to put the Packers ahead 27-7.

The half started off seemingly well, with Charles Woodson picking off a Matthew Stafford pass at the Lions' 39 to set the Packers up in good field position. But a false start penalty on Daryn Colledge made it 1st and 15. The Pack eventually found themselves going for it on 4th-and-2. Rodgers was blindsided and fumbled the ball but the Lions were unable to advance it on the recovery.

Chad Clifton left the game about midway through the quarter with a hamstring injury and was replaced by T. J. Lang.

Rodgers went over 300 yards passing for the game in the quarter. In all 4 of his professional starts to date versus the Lions he has thrown for at least 300 yards.

Barring a total collapse in the 4th quarter by the Packers, that seventh "W" of the season is starting to look pretty darn good.

Go Pack Go!!!

Do the Packers players get it now?

With the youngest squad in the NFL for the fourth consecutive year, some analysts have wondered whether or not the youngsters understand the need to win now...that you can be playing today and out of the game tomorrow...that there is only today in the NFL. Old timers such as Charles Woodson, Donald Driver, Mark Tauscher, Ahman Green and Chad Clifton get it. The kids? Maybe not so much.

But perhaps that's about to change. Apparently after watching film of the Tampa Bay debacle on Monday, the offensive players had, as guard Daryn Colledge put it, "a come-to-Jesus meeting." According to at least one report, "With the coaches still in the room, the veteran leaders on offense, one by one, took turns addressing the rest of the unit...According to players who were in the room, Rodgers, tackle Mark Tauscher and receiver Donald Driver were the most powerful speakers."

While generally positive in tone, emphasizing what the squad is doing well -- they are ranked as the #7 offense, after all -- some blunt words were also spoken, so much so that word travelled quickly to the defensive unit and was received as a positive sign.

You can read more of the details via the link above.

Now, whether words alone can correct the plethora of mistakes that have plagued the Pack so far this season remains to be seen. But the Packers are apparently focused on this game versus the Cowboys in a way perhaps they haven't been yet this season for any other game...maybe not even the ViQueens games. In his news briefing with the media yesterday, Head Coach Mike McCarthy said, "Our message is very clear. The head coach has to coach better, the coaches have to coach better, the players have to play better, and we have to win games. That's our focus. We're going to apply all of our energy into this Dallas game plan. ... That's about as far down the road as we're looking. We're going to pour everything that we have into winning at home against the Cowboys. That's our focus." If you were to see footage of this statement you'd know this is about as serious as you'd ever see Mike McCarthy. Clearly, he is feeling the heat and knows that if things don't turn around and fast he could be on his way out.

Unfortunately, the injury bug seems to be biting the Packers at an inopportune time. RT Mark Tauscher is still questionable for Sunday and Allen Barbre also now has an injury which required rookie T. J. Lang to shift over from the left side to the right for the first time in practice. On the defensive side of things, not only is Aaron Kampman still questionable with his concussion, but Brady Popinga, who had replaced Kampman, is also injured. That means either rookie Brad Jones or second-year player Jeremy Thompson might get the start at outside linebacker.

So, another offensive line shuffle against a very good defense, and perhaps some new starters in key positions on the defense. Going against a team on a 4-game win streak. Yikes.

The team hasn't done anything to this point in the season to give fans confidence they can beat a good team. And after the game Sunday, we don't even have confidence about beating a horrible team. Depending upon what spread source you are looking at the game is either a toss up (really???) or the Cowboys are favored by 3 as of the time of this posting.

We'll just have to wait to see if the players got religion this week and saved their season or if the descent into the Inferno of football mediocrity continues.

Stay tuned...

Final: Packers 23 - ViQueens 30

Despite throwing for a career high in passing yardage tonight (384 yards), Aaron Rodgers was unable to overcome yet again a sieve-like offensive line; he was sacked 8 times, including once in the second half for a safety. And the Packers were unable to prevent Favre's revenge game on Ted Thompson. Favre is now the only QB in NFL history to beat every team in the league. Oh, and this soon-to-be 40-year-old quarterback was not sacked once tonight. The Packers defense did, however, hold Adrian Peterson to just 55 yards rushing and one TD.

The Pack went down 30-14 in the half, but made a game of it right down to the end scoring a TD (missed 2-point conversion) and field goal. An onside kick recovered by the 'Queens put an end to the comeback and made the final score 'Queens 30 - Packers 23.

Daryn Colledge, starting at left tackle for the injured Chad Clifton, was himself injured in the second half, resulting in rookie T. J. Lang having to line up across from Jared Allen for a good chunk of the 4th quarter. Yikes. No word on Colledge's injury. Clifton should be back in the starting role after the upcoming bye week.

The Pack has many things to be proud of in this game, including that they never gave up. But also many things to continue to work on. Many things. The Pack helped the 'Queens tonight with penalties and turnovers and missed opportunities. The game will be different come Nov. 1 in Green Bay. That's when we even things up.

Pack vs. Cards preview

The Pack goes to the Arizona desert tonight where the temperature today is supposed to be 114 degrees. But it's a dry heat.

Luckily, the game will be played indoors, where the temp will be modified juuuuusssst a bit.

What Packer fans are interested in seeing, though, is the temperature of the team. The third preseason game is typically viewed as the real final warm up before the regular season starts. Sure, there is one final preseason game. But some starters won't see any action at all in that game, or perhaps only a few tune up snaps. Don't want to risk injury, of course. Generally, that last game is a chance for the team to make their final determinations on bubble players. You know, those rookies, free agents and even veterans that just might not fit the Packers' plans, or find a spot on a highly competitive roster.

But back to tonight. Fans want to know whether or not the starting defense is for real. They haven't allowed a point in two preseason games while they have been on the field as a unit. OK, they've played the Browns and Bills, but still...

But against the NFC representative to last year's Super Bowl, it will be a bit different. The Pack's defense won't be a surprise to the Cardinals, as both the head coach and their running game coordinator come from the Steelers, where the 3-4 scheme arguably originated. And let's not forget the Cards starting QB is a grizzled veteran by the name of Kurt Warner, who has seen a few things in his day. Including regularly facing the 3-4 in practice.

So, this will be a good test of whether the defense is really as together as it has seemed to be, or whether they are pretenders at this point. Should be interesting.

As to the offensive side of things, head coach Mike McCarthy named his starting five linemen earlier this week. From left to right: Chad Clifton, Daryn Colledge, Jason Spitz, Josh Sitton, and Allen Barbre. McCarthy wants some continuity there, rather than the shuffling that has gone on the last few seasons. He also wants some size. While still focused on the zone running scheme, the staff has apparently recognized they also need some power blocking...particularly when the majority of the running backs are primarily "north-south" type runners; rookie free agent Tyrell Sutton being the real lone exception to the rule (and a good reason to keep him on the roster!).

Back up QB Brian Brohm will once again see plenty of action tonight as #2 back up Matt Flynn will be sitting this one out with the shoulder sprain suffered in last week's game. Brohm needs to have a productive game to perhaps retain his roster spot. Rumors have been circulating that the Packers have an interest in Tampa Bay's back up, Luke McCown. Whether the Packers would go with just 2 QBs on the final roster or whether they'd release Brohm and try to pick up McCown we'll have to wait to see.

Should be an interesting game tonight. Especially with first cuts coming up soon.

Go Pack Go!!!

Last game of the season? How 'bout a new O-line lineup?

When a team is 5-10, getting ready for the final game of the season before players pack up and head home, there is often a tendency on the part of coaches to start thinking about next season. It's only natural, after all. We fans do it too. OK, we really do want to beat the Lions...really, really, really must beat the Lions. But, we also are starting to think about the draft, possible coaching changes (at least special teams and defensive coordinator), free agent moves, etc.

Coaches may be doing some of that as well. But they also have a more immediate tool at their disposal: trying new lineups or giving certain players a bit more of a look. And that's what head coach Mike McCarthy is going to do Sunday. At least on the offensive line. As we sadly know, long-time veteran right tackle, Mark Tauscher, was lost for the season with an ACL injury. He also will be a free agent. Whether or not he returns to the Packers is an unknown. But even if he does, he may not be the same player given age and injury. In his place the last few games, the Pack has given Tony Moll the starts. After a fairly good showing taking over for Tauscher in the Houston game, he didn't do so well against the Jags and Da Bearz.

So, against the Lions, McCarthy is going to move Daryn Colledge from left guard to right tackle. Jason Spitz, who has been solid at right guard will move over to left guard. Rookie Josh Sitton is going to get the start at right guard. So, if you can follow the bouncing ball, left to right the starting offensive line on Sunday will be Chad Clifton, Jason Spitz, Scott Wells, Josh Sitton and Daryn Colledge.

Tony Moll, according to reports, isn't thrilled with the move, obviously. In his third season, Moll has had plenty of opportunities given the turmoil on the O-line during this same period of time to grab his spot. The fact that, after essentially getting the three last starts (really two plus early relief for Tauscher in the Texans game) coaches are yanking him in favor of a revamped line in the final game...well, it doesn't bode well for Moll long-term.

Harrell out...again
Speaking of not boding well long-term, second-year DT Justin Harrell is -- get ready -- out for Sunday's game. Not surprising. He hasn't been available much this season.

Since being Ted Thompson's surprise -- shocking, really -- 16th pick in the first round of the 2007 draft, Harrell has only played (a word used loosely here) in 13 of 31 games. He was walking wounded when Thompson picked him out of Tennessee and he's been walking wounded his entire time at Green Bay. In fact, after having two back surgeries this year he may have another in this off season.

We have to remind ourselves that it's not the young man's fault. By all accounts, he would be a fine character addition to the Packers community and the Green Bay community at large. The problem lies with Thompson, who took a reach on a player with a history of injuries in college and pegged him for a key role on a very needy defensive line. Harrell's lack of ability to be healthy, to be even available to play, has been just one of many problems with the Packers approach to defensive line personnel over the past two years.

It would not be surprising if, pending results from Harrell's next surgery, the Packers try to work out an injury settlement in the off season and put this sad and disasterous personnel matter behind them.

Thompson will need to open up the coffers and get at least one quality free agent defensive lineman in the off season. The Packers can't rely on draft picks for immediate impact, especially on the D-line. Thompson might be a slow learner in that regard. But if he's a realist -- and that might be debatable -- it should be one of the key lessons to be learned from this season.

Center Scott Wells doubtful for opener

Just when you thought it was safe to have a solid starting offensive line geared up for Monday night's opener against the ViQueens...bam! (to quote Emeril). Not so fast. Seems as if center Scott Wells' lower back muscle injury reared its ugly head again. After being held out of practice for 16 days and seeing a specialist recently, it turns out the back is still causing problems. Wells says he can deal with the pain but, as he says in this article, "it’s just sometimes when you have back pain you get weak in your legs and so on and so forth. So that’s the whole thing we’re trying to avoid.” Yeah, weak legs on the center would not be a good thing.

So, if Wells is unable to go Monday night, the lineup that started against the Titans in the last preseason game would be called upon again: LT Chad Clifton, LG Daryn Colledge, C Jason Spitz, RG Tony Moll and RT Mark Tauscher. Pretty darn good, usually, thanks in no small measure to the Packers' penchant for shuffling players at multiple positions. If Spitz gets injured, Colledge would be next at center. Still, given that the 'Queens D-line is one of the best in the league, it would be best if Wells could play, but only if he is at 100 percent.

So, start saying those novenas for healing, Packer fans. We could use a fully healthy O-line going into the opener. A number of other players are also sore in various places, so maybe make it a blanket type thing. And, of course, be sure to ask for special intercessionary help from St. Vince.

Pack vs ViQueens Preview

Today's the day the ViQueens visit Lambeau Field. The Pack won at the Humpty Dump earlier this season, and will win at home again today. They're favored by 6 points. While you like to see the Pack finally getting that kind of respect from the oddsmakers, that's a big point spread, particularly in this rivalry and no matter how good or bad the respective teams are at the time of play.

Basically, the 'Queens have nothing on offense except one of the best young running backs to enter the league since...Reggie Bush? OK, that was just a year ago. But Adrian Peterson is the real deal. And the Packers will have to focus their defensive efforts on stopping him. Doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure that out. Peterson will get some yards. Probably more than 100. But as long as he doesn't set another single-game rushing record for the second week in a row, and doesn't make a habit of visiting the end zone, there should be no excuses for the Packers not coming out of this game 8-1. The 'Queens are down to former UW Badgers QB Brooks Bollinger as starter. While Bollinger was a great college QB, particularly within the UW scheme, he is nothing more than a serviceable backup (sorry, Brooks). Don't look for him to win games.

As for the 'Queens defense, they have an excellent d-line; one of the best in the league in terms of rushing defense. So, let's think about this: the Packers rushing offense still stinks and they go against a great rushing defense. OK, nothing different than the rest of the season from a Packers standpoint. Keep the ball in the hands of ol' #4 and his band of merry receivers and all will be well. Oh sure, former Packer Darren "used to be" Sharper (my apologies to Chris Berman) will be ball-hawking in the secondary. Might even get a pick off his old teammate when he guesses correctly. But he will not be able to keep up with receivers going deep. Just ask Champ Bailey and Dre' Bly.

The Packers defense will have a change at safety, with rookie Aaron Rouse replacing Nick Collins who was injured in last week's game. Rouse is a different type of safety at 6'4". He has speed and size. Perhaps against a more experienced quarterback Rouse could be exposed as the rookie he is. But today, he has an opportunity to make plays particularly if the Packers defensive line continues its fine play, putting pressure on the opposing quarterback. With his size, he can also be an effective player against the run. Aaron Kampman could again have a big day with pressures and sacks, although Bollinger is a mobile QB and may negate some of the sack possibilities as a result. But that's only a factor if the 'Queens forget to hand off early and often to Mr. Peterson.

On the offensive line, the Packers will probably be going without Junius Coston at right guard. He continues to have a sore ankle which has been limiting his play. If he can't go, Jason Spitz will likely start at right guard with Daryn Colledge at left. Coach McCarthy had a meeting with his guards earlier in the week during which he expressed his displeasure with their performance not only in the running game, but also in terms of their protection of Brett Favre. We'll see how well they got that message, particularly against a stout 'Queens d-line.

This could be a classic letdown game for the Pack, coming off two remarkable road wins. But a letdown game doesn't come very often against division rivals. And it definitely shouldn't come against a team the Pack is far superior to. Of course, if they were to get sloppy and commit turnovers, or let Adrian Peterson scamper about, things could take a nasty turn. But the odds are against it. Just like they are against the ViQueens.

Count on the Packers to get it done back in the friendly confines of Lambeau.