Packers surprise everyone and sign DE Julius Peppers

Was it really any surprise to anyone that the Green Bay Packers hadn't picked up any free agents -- except a few of their own -- during these first few days of free agency? If you are a true Packer fan, no. You know how GM Ted Thompson likes to roll: keep your own free agents (at least the ones you think are worth it), let the dust settle on the market, and perhaps -- perhaps! -- pick up an outside free agent at a bargain for a year or two.

Well, Packers fans, that all changed moments ago when reports started emerging that the Packers have signed veteran Pro Bowl DE Julius Peppers to a three-year deal.

ESPN reports that Peppers signed a three-year deal totaling a maximum of $30 million, including $7.5 million guaranteed. The first-year salary is $8.5 million. The way the deal is apparently structured basically makes succeeding years dependent upon performance, so it can likely be viewed as a one-year trial of the 34-year-old defensive end. The salary cap hit is reportedly around $3.5 million, which is very reasonable indeed.

How big could this be for the Packers and its woeful defense? Huge. HUGE! Even if Peppers is only a situational player at this stage, the impact on the field and in the locker room cannot be overstated.

Stay tuned for more on this story as it develops.

Now, back to our regularly-scheduled post...

What has Ted done so far (in addition to reportedly signing Peppers)?

• Kept LB Mike Neal around for two more years.
• CB Sam Shields is also in the fold for a while with a fairly sizable deal (although it is back-loaded on the contract dollars, according to reports).
• Re-signed TE Andrew Quarless for a reasonable amount.
• Got NT B.J. Raji for another year...at half the price of the offer on the table last fall.

Center Evan Dietrich-Smith was signed by Tampa Bay, so for the fourth consecutive year QB Aaron Rodgers will have to line up behind a new center. Speculation is that young and untested J.C. Tretter will be given every opportunity to win that job. But don't be surprised if the Packers try to pick up a veteran center...just in case.

The Packers also let safety M.D. Jennings -- he of the infamous Seattle "Fail Mary" game -- walk away. Just down the road, though. Chicago signed him, which should bring much delight to Rodgers and his receiving corps for those divisional games. (And really, how sweet is it that in exchange we pick up Peppers, whom Da Bearz released? That's one of the best non-trade "trades" we can think of.)

Speculation today is that TE Jermichael Finley is close to signing a deal with Seattle, despite not officially being cleared to play. Will see how that works out. The Packers always seem skittish -- perhaps rightly so -- with players coming back from what can be career-ending injuries. They are more willing to let some other team take the risks and the rewards. In their estimation, the downside to re-signing Finley is greater than the upside. He's had a hard time staying on the field the last couple seasons. Great potential and performance. But apparently no longer worth the money and the risk.

Here's the other remaining Packers' unrestricted free agents still available:

• WR James Jones
• FB John Kuhn
• RT Marshall Newhouse
• RB Kahlil Bell
• QB Matt Flynn
• ILB Rob Francois
• DE Johnny Jolly
• ILB Jamari Lattimore
• DT Ryan Pickett
• RB James Starks
• QB Seneca Wallace
• DE C.J. Wilson

Obviously, it would be great if the Pack could re-sign a few of these players. In this writer's view, none are indispensible, obviously, or they would have already been re-signed...or signed elsewhere by now. Keeping Matt Flynn as a back-up to Rogers would be a nice safety blanket, but Scott Tolzein obviously showed enough last season to warrant keeping around and developing. That might be the way the Packers go. Keeping veterans James Jones and John Kuhn would also be a plus overall. Having Johnny Jolly around, who reportedly has made great progress in his injury recovery, is something that would be a feel-good story. But with the signing of Peppers, that might no longer be a realistic hope.

There is still a lot to play out. And don't forget the draft...or the young players who had to sit out portions of the last year or two with injuries. Get some of those players back, especially on the defensive side of the ball, and the Packers could once again have as good a defense as anyone in the league.

Wow. It's been an interesting few days, Packer fans. And it just got a whole lot more interesting with the addition of Peppers to the Green 'n' Gold.

Go Pack Go!!!

Super Bowl Sunday and Catching Up with the Packers

It's both Super Bowl Sunday AND Groundhog Day. What could this alignment of fantastic football and furry forecasters possibly mean? Apparently, to the horror of many (especially in the Midwest), Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow and thus, this incredibly long winter will be even longer by six more weeks (OK, it's still a calendar thing, I realize, but you get the point...I hope). The good news is that Phil has, according to some sources, only been correct approximately 39% of the time. So, we have that going for us...the rodent could be wrong.

But what does Phil have to say about the Super Bowl later today? Not much. Seeing or not seeing his shadow doesn't correlate with the Broncos or Seahawks winning or losing so we're still on our own in terms of picking that one. Duh.

Depending upon who you're looking at, the oddsmakers have Denver slotted as 2.5-point favorites over Seattle. It's the NFL's number one offense against the number one defense. In most cases, so they say, defense wins championships. Oddsmakers seem to think otherwise in this case, given the presence of record five-time league MVP, Peyton Manning, at QB. (He received that fifth MVP award last evening, by the way.)

What's our take? Do you really need any more analysis than has already been out there for the last two weeks? No. So, using the Punxsutawney Phil method of prognostication, I emerged from my burrow, went outside into the 11-degree temperature, and saw my shadow. I was scared and ran back inside. But I digress. What I think the shadow thing meant was that (wait for it!) the Seattle Seahawks will emerge the winner today. I like the defense, I like Russell Wilson's ability at quarterback. Plus the fact that there are four or five former University of Wisconsin Badgers (Go Badgers!) on the Seattle squad, while RB Monte Ball is the lone Badger on the Broncos. So, keeping within the same general theme of rodent-based predictions, more Badgers equals a win for the Seahawks. Let's say 34-31.

Packers News Bits

Photo by Associated Press

The first news worth sharing is, of course, that rookie RB sensation, Eddie Lacy, won the coveted Associated Press Offensive Rookie of the Year award Saturday evening at the NFL Honors ceremony at Radio City Music Hall. Lacy led all rookie running backs with 1,178 rushing yards. Lacy received 35 of the possible 50 votes.

According to an article by Tom Silverstein in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Lacy becomes only the second player in Packers history to win rookie of the year honors, joining running back John Brockington, who won the award in 1971. Lacy broke Brockington's franchise rookie records for carries (284) and rushing yards and tied him for most 100-yard rushing games (four).

"Lacy, who also broke Samkon Gado's franchise rookie record (six) for rushing touchdowns with 11, said he never really thought about winning the rookie award because it just isn't the way he operates."

Lacy brought a dimension to the Packers' offense that had been sorely lacking in recent years. His pounding running style and ability to break tackles enabled the offense to be multi-dimensional and keep defenses guessing. If Lacy stays healthy, he can be a significant factor in the Packers' offense for years to come. (Let us pray...)

The honors for Packers members didn't stop there. QB Aaron Rodgers and WR Randall Cobb won the GMC Never say Never Moment of the Year. As if you didn't know, that moment was the moment that the two connected on a last-minute scramble TD pass that beat Da Bearz for the NFC North Division Championship. Ah, yes...another moment of triumph over our opponents to the south. Never gets old, does it, Packer fans?

Here's the presentation of that award for you.

For some of us Packer fans, however, one of the biggest slights of the night was the award to San Diego QB Philip Rivers as "Comeback Player of the Year." Really? Really? What did Rivers get over...himself???

Packers defensive lineman Johnny Jolly was certainly the Comeback Player of the Year. After being out of football for about three years, he resurrected himself and his career to not only make the squad but to be an integral part of the Packers' defense once again. You get our award, Johnny. You deserve it far more than Rivers.

That's about all we have time for at the moment, Packer fans. Even though we aren't in today's game, in a way, we are. There's that thing called The Lombardi Trophy after all. And it wouldn't be called that had not one Vince Lombardi been the coach of the greatest dynasty at the time in the smallest town in major sports, Green Bay, Wisconsin.

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers offseason filled with lots of questions

Packer fans, let's be honest: the 2013 Green Bay Packers were a pretty good football, perhaps an over-achieving team given the level of injury they had to get through on their way to the NFC North Division title. OK, a bit of luck and a couple division opponents who couldn't take advantage of the Pack's decimated roster and missing starting QB Aaron Rodgers for a critical chunk of the season didn't hurt any either.

Comeback player and fan fave, Johnny Jolly, may not be back in 2014.

But now what? Pretty good is not good enough, as the last few years have shown. While the offense looks as if it will be set for some time to come, barring injuries once again, the defense needs an overhaul. Looking at the divisional playoff games this past weekend, especially in the NFC, the Pack's defense seems slow and soft especially down the middle.

Questions have arisen once again from fans and pundits alike about the future of defensive coordinator, Dom Capers. In Mike McCarthy's last press conference of the season, he defended Capers. You'd expect no less. And to be fair, Wayne Larrivee, one of the best analysts in the business and the person who also just happens to be the radio voice of the Packers, has said repeatedly since the end of the season that he is convinced the problem does not lie with the coaching staff, but rather the personnel the Packers have.

The Free Agent Free-for-All
Here is the entire list of free agents on which the Packers will have to make decisions. Note that the letter designations following the name indicate the type of free agent each player is: "U" = Unrestricted, "R" = Restricted and "E" = Exclusive Rights.

NAME	POSITION	AGE	SEASONS	ACCRUED 2013 BASE SALARY
Ryan Picket - U	NT	32	12	$5.4 million
B.J. Raji - U	DE	27	4	$4.49 million
Jermichael Finley - U	TE	25	5	$4.45 million
James Jones - U	WR	29	6	$2.95 million
Sam Shields - U	CB	26	3	$2.023 million
John Kuhn - U	FB	31	7	$1.8 milliion
Evan Dietrich-Smith - U	C	27	3	$1.323 million
Marshall Newhouse - U	T	25	3	$1.323 million
Andrew Quarless - U	TE	25	3	$1.323 million
Seneca Wallace - U	QB	33	9	$840,000
TMatt Flynn - U	QB	28	6	$715,000
Johnny Jolly - U	DE	30	4	$715,000
Rob Francois - U	LB	28	3	$630,000
Mike Neal - U	LB	26	3	$630,000
James Starks - U	RB	27	3	$630,000
C.J. Wilson - U	DE	26	3	$630,000
M.D. Jennings - R	S	25	2	$555,000
Jamari Lattimore - R	LB	25	2	$555,000
Chris Banjo - E	S	23	0	$405,000

Decisions, Decisions...
The Packers will have lots of decisions to make regarding its players, particularly along the defensive front and in the secondary. Ryan Pickett is getting up in years, but has expressed an interest in returning to the Packers. B.J. Raji didn't show up much in the stats this year, yet coaches say he is doing exactly what they want him to do: hold the point. He'll test free agency and likely not return unless the Packers decide to really make a play for him. Fan favorite and Packers' comeback player of the year (in this writer's opinion), Johnny Jolly, may be finished with his comeback and NFL career because of the neck injury he sustained late in the season.

It could also be argued that there needs to be some adjustments in the linebacker corps, as well. For even as much as the stats show A.J. Hawk is key in terms of tackles, defensive assignment calls, etc., it became more and more apparent that he is slow especially in coverage. Nick Perry, who was supposed to complement Hawk in the middle has basically been a non-factor in his brief time with the Pack. Clay Matthews is a beast, but in the last two years he has only been able to play in 11 and 12 games. No one can predict injuries, but when your best defensive player can't be on the field for an entire season -- especially at the salary he's being paid -- it takes its toll on the team in many ways.

The Packers are clearly a step behind, literally and figuratively, on the defensive side of the ball and unless changes are made they will find themselves an early out in the playoffs next season, as well (and, yes, I'm assuming the Packers will be in the playoffs again next season). Keeping S Sam Shields in the fold will be a trick, but the Pack can certainly use his athleticism and, now, veteran skills.

TE Jermichael Finley is, as is the case with Jolly, likely done with the Packers because of his injuries. Whether another team will pick him up is anyone's guess. He's been hurt a lot for a young man. So much potential, but...

As for fullback John Kuhn, he's starting to age, but for what he does on this team who would you replace him with? He's a leader, a player, and a clutch performer. Just remember that block he was able to get on the Bears' Julius Peppers to spring Rodgers for the winning throw to Randall Cobb in the final game of the regular season and the NFC North Championship. 'Nuff said about Kuhn. As for RB James Starks, the general line of thinking is that he is likely not going to return to the Packers given the other backs the Packers have had on ice during this past season, especially DuJuan Harris and Johnathan Franklin. Still, the combination of Eddie Lacy and James Starks seemed to me to be a very good one-two punch. The Packers can't keep them all and Starks has had his issues staying on the field. But if healthy, in my mind he's as good or better than the other two relatively unproven backs whom the Packers are perhaps more likely to retain.

Adding Outside Free Agents?
CB Tramon Williams has already said that he thinks the Packers need to have more veterans on the team. GM Ted Thompson's ongoing reliance on young and unproven talent acquired through the draft works...to a point. But look at what both San Francisco and Seattle did in the offseason to upgrade their talent through free agency. Then look at which two teams are playing in the NFC Championship this coming weekend. Perhaps Thompson needs to take another look at his approach. Salary cap will play a big factor in what he can and can't do given the salaries already tied up in Matthews and QB Aaron Rodgers. But one or two veteran free agents in key spots, even with the likelihood of overpaying, has to be a consideration.

Conversations are starting to note that the Packers may be squandering Aaron Rodgers' prime years -- as some argue Ron Wolf did with Brett Favre -- because of a limited personnel viewpoint, particularly as regards to adding free agents. The time window for a great quarterback to lead his teams into the Super Bowl is a small one. Thompson needs to open up that window a bit by adding not only through his draft-and-develop scheme on which he's an expert, but also by adding veteran free agents to fill the gaps in talent.

There is so much more that could be said on this and related subjects. But we now have the entire offseason to kick all that around. Keep checking back in. We'll have lots to say as the days, weeks and months go by.

Packers win wild one against Falcons

After four losses and a tie, all without starting QB Aaron Rodgers, the Green Bay Packers finally squeaked out a win on the literally frozen tundra of Lambeau Field yesterday against the Atlanta Falcons. In a game which went down to the last few seconds before it was finally decided, the Pack held on to win, 22-21. This game was a must-win game for the Pack to have any chance of post-season hopes.

The players of the game in this writer's opinion: Jarrett Bush, Johnny Jolly, Andrew Quarless, Mason Crosby, and Tim Masthay.

Bush had a large role in preserving the game, breaking up one key pass to TE Tony Gonzales and intercepting another in the closing seconds of the game to secure the win for the Packers. Johnny Jolly was huge (no pun intended) in this game, coming up with a fumble recovery early on and applying pressure to Falcons QB Matt Ryan throughout the game. Andrew Quarless had perhaps his best game as a pass receiver for the Pack. Mason Crosby was three for three on a very rough weather day for kickers. And punter Tim Masthay was exceptional on his three punts (averaged more than 47 yards per punt), including his last which could have been downed at the Falcons' 1-yard line with a little more than a minute left, and which gave the Dirty Birds a long way to go without any timeouts in order to have chance to kick a field goal.

There will be more forthcoming here. But just wanted to get this brief synopsis of the win out to our faithful readers.

After all the angst of the last five weeks, the Packers are only one half game behind NFC North Division leaders, the Detroit Lions. If Da Bearz lose tonight at home against the Dallas Cowboys (the latter favored by 1 point), the Pack will actually be a half game ahead of Chicago in the standings and looking forward to their own match up against the 'boys in Dallas next Sunday when, it is hoped, Aaron Rodgers may be cleared to play.

Things are getting interesting, Packer fans. Even my friend, Billy Da Bearz Fan, is getting nervous. As he rightly does every December when the Packers typically make their late season move.

Stay tuned...

Go Pack Go!!!

Week 12: Packers vs. Vikings Preview and Prediction

Coming into Sundays's game against the 2-8 Vikings, the Green Bay Packers sit at 5-5 and on a three-game losing streak that coincidentally started with the injury loss of starting QB Aaron Rodgers. That's the standard view.

But the recent losing tone may well have also been set with the folding of the Packers' defense late in the game against the 'Queens in Minnesota -- the Pack's last win. It was in that game, after the Packers had the game well in hand, that the defense allowed the 'Queens to score 31 points in the final 19 minutes.

The offense has had a difficult time recovering, of course, from the loss of Rodgers. But it's the defense that has generally been accorded the overall blame for these last three losses.

So what can we expect Sunday?
Depending upon what source you're looking at, the Packers are currently favored by anywhere from 3 to 4.5 points over the ViQueens, courtesy of the home field advantage essentially. The over-under is set at 44 points at the time of this posting.

But aside from that take on things, what are we looking for?

One thing would be the first home start for QB Scott Tolzien. Tolzien has displayed a strong arm when he's been allowed to throw downfield. But he's also made young QB mistakes, as demonstrated by the five interceptions he's thrown in his first two games of significant action. To be fair, two of those were tips and another was an incredibly athletic snag at the line by NY Giants DE Jason Pierre-Paul. The other two INTs were cases of Tolzien failing to spot the defender. It happens. Anyone remember the number of interceptioins Brett Favre threw up in his early days as a starter? Or his middle days...or last days, for that matter?

The Packers won't win or lose the game because of Tolzien, despite Minnesota stacking the line to stop the running game, as they are anticipated to do. That means the Packers offensive line -- which created little running room for RB Eddie Lacy last week against the Giants -- must do a much better job of moving the sticks on the ground.

A solid rushing game will take the pressure off Tolzien, as long as head coach Mike McCarthy's play-calling doesn't become as predictable as in last week's game: run-run-pass-punt. It will also help keep the 'Queens best offensive weapon, RB Adrian Peterson, on the sidelines. Granted, his groin injury may help do some of that, as well. But why even allow the possibility of him becoming a factor? Eat clock!

The status of the O-line has been an issue these last few games, as well. Starting right tackle Don Barclay has been out, and is listed as out again for this game. One-time starter and now backup, Marshall Newhouse, still struggles as Barclay's replacement. So, is it time Derek Sherrod, who hasn't played in a game since December 2011, gets his shot? He apparently and finally is ready to play. Whether or not he sees action tomorrow or anytime soon is still a question mark. But, really, could he be much worse at this point than Newhouse? Here's an interesting article about Sherrod if you want to read up on his possible return to action.

Defense, oh defense, where art thou?
Assuming the Packers offense can put up some points against Minnesota -- yours truly is willing to make that assumption -- can the Packers defense stop a rather dysfunctional Minnesota offense from doing likewise? Yes. But the question is: will they?

The Packers defense has a chance at restoring its good name. Somewhat. The quarterback situation for Minnesota is a disaster. Christian Ponder was the starter. But he was pulled last week and in came Matt Cassel. He wasn't much better, tossing an interception on his first possession. And Josh Freeman? Please. As of right now it's still not clear which quarterback will get the start for the 'Queens. But regardless of who it is, unless the Packers can generate some sense of a pass rush, tackle, not leave the middle open, and cover receivers, it could be a challenging day. These are all things the Packers' D has not done well over the last few weeks. Injuries in the defensive backfield may make that part of the game challenging for the Packers. CB Casey Hayward is out, CB Sam Shields is questionable and CB Micah Hyde is listed as probable. On the defensive front, Johnny Jolly is listed as doubtful and Ryan Pickett is listed as probable; that's a lot of beef missing from that front if they are unable to go. (You can view the complete injury list here.)

The defense will need to do to Minnesota what Minnesota hopes to do to the Packers: stop the run and force the pass. If that happens, the Packers should emerge with the victory.

If they do, it might be more likely that we see the return of Aaron Rodgers on Thanksgiving Thursday at Detroit. If the Packers lose at home against Minnesota, even shorthanded, the need to try to rush Rodgers back becomes less urgent. Why? Because the Packers would be sitting at 5-6 heading into Detroit, at least one and likely two games behind in the division to the Lions and possibly Da Bearz with five games remaining. Realistically, a playoff wild card team will not be coming out of the NFC North. That means the Packers must win the division. With a game each remaining against both Detroit and Chicago a win against Minnesota is key to getting this season back on track...and Rodgers behind center again.

But let's not worry about all that right now. First things first.

The Prediction
Let's do this: Packers 24 - ViQueens 20

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers drop game to Eagles, 27-13

For the first time since Aaron Rodgers became the Green Bay Packers starting quarterback in 2008, the Pack lost two games in a row at Lambeau Field. And, as we know, Rodgers had nothing to do with either of the losses. Knocked out with a fractured collarbone on the first series of last Monday night's game against the Chicago Bears, Rodgers was on the sidelines today. In his place, veteran backup Seneca Wallace got the start. The entire week of practice was devoted to implementing an offensive scheme that would play to Wallace's strengths. Practice squad quarterback and former Wisconsin Badger, Scott Tolzien, was elevated to the backup slot.

So much for that idea.

Scott Tolzien photo by Jeff Hanisch/USA TODAY Sports

For the second game in a row, the Packers starting quarterback was lost for the game. In today's game against the Eagles, Wallace was lost on a third down play -- on the first offensive series -- with a groin injury. Enter Tolzien.

To his credit, Tolzien didn't look flustered. He actually looked in good command for having little to no reps with the first unit during the week. He finished the day 24 for 39, with 280 yards passing, with one touchdown (an NFL first for both him and TE Brandon Bostick) and two interceptions, including a costly one in the endzone and another tipped. Whatever Wallace's status physically, it was announced on air after the game that Tolzien has been named the starter for next week's game against the Giants. (Let's hope he doesn't get injured during the week of practice...which the way the Packers' luck is going is a distinct possibility.) Tolzien had a good arm, some good throws, and it will be interesting to see what he can do with a week's practice with the number one unit under his belt.

What will that first-string offensive unit look like?
There is a question at this point as to what the offensive line will look like this next week. That's because the Packers' season-long injury parade kept on coming again today. Center Evan Dietrich-Smith went out with a knee injury, moving right guard T.J. Lang to center, Don Barclay from tackle to guard, with Marshall Newhouse entering then at tackle. By the end of the game, Barclay was also injured. So who knows who will be starting in front of Tolzien next weekend.

More injuries
Think the injuries to Wallace, Dietrich-Smith and Barclay was enough? Naaaaah. Toss in injuries to Nick Perry, Casey Hayward and Johnny Jolly to the mix. It just keeps coming, folks. Even LG Josh Sitton was quoted as saying that he's starting to wonder if there just isn't something in the water with all the injuries in Green Bay. As bad as 2010 was with injuries, this season might actually be worse. At least in 2010 the Packers still had their starting QB throughout the season.

Everything needed to go right; nothing did
In a game where everything had to go right for the Packers to win, nothing did. The bad omen came early, on a missed 53-yard field goal -- one of two misses on the day -- by Mason Crosby, which clanked off the right upright. Missed interceptions, a fumble recovery deep in Eagles territory that turned into zero points, not much went right on this day.

Defense fails again
For the second game in a row, the Packers defense -- after holding tight for most of the first half -- did very little to help the effort in the second half. There wasn't much of a pass rush again. The secondary left receivers wide open. It was uninspired. And for yet another game, the defense didn't really generate any turnovers of significance. Yes, there was that late fumble recovery on a sack of QB Nick Foles, in the Eagles red zone, but the offense was unable to turn that into points.

Where do we go from here, Packers fans? One could say that if you are a person of faith go to church, synagogue, temple, mosque, whatever. It seems as if Divine intervention is needed at this point, or at least until Aaron Rodgers returns.

Other than that...grab the dramamine because it looks as if it's going to be a bumpy ride for at least several weeks if not the remainder of the season.

Packers Preseason Game 3: Seahawks come to Lambeau Field

In their first meeting since the infamous "Fail Mary"game last September, the Green Bay Packers and the Seattle Seahawks will meet Friday night in Lambeau Field. That "loss" in the regular season -- with replacement referees (one in particular) making mind-numbingly dumb calls -- had implications for both teams in the playoffs. Replays clearly showed that Packers defensive back M.D. Jennings had intercepted and had possession of the ball. Somehow, someway, a replacement official failed to see what the rest of the universe did. But, as head coach Mike McCarthy was quick to point out, to his credit, after the game, the final result should never have come down to that one play. There were other opportunities for the Packers to leave Seattle with a win. Never should have gotten to a judgement call by a ref incapable of making a competent decision about a close play.

OK, there...venting is good. Let's move on...

Going into this third game of the preseason, several things are clear:

• The Packers are nowhere near ready for the start of the regular season...but are getting closer.
• Special teams is very much in flux, particularly at the critical positions of kicker and returner. The rest of the unit will be filled out, as usual, with those who will primarily make the roster through their special teams play and as backups to the starters on both offense and defense.
• Speaking of kicker, Mason Crosby continues to have his ups and downs in camp. Despite a fairly good performance in last week's game, his sessions this week in camp reportedly have been spotty. Giorgio Tavecchio, Crosby's camp competition, seems to match Crosby's inconsistency. Several veteran kickers became available through cuts this week but the Packers -- if they had any interest -- didn't move quickly enough and each was signed by another team. Be worried, Packer fans...be very worried.
• The backup quarterback position is still in flux. Coach McCarthy is still waiting for one of the three candidates -- Graham Harrell, B.J. Coleman or Vince Young -- to claim the number two spot. Harrell is going into his fourth year with the Packers and still doesn't inspire confidence. Young, signed after the start of camp, may or may not have anything left in the tank after being out of football for a year. He certainly hasn't had a chance to fully learn the Packers' offensive scheme. Coleman perhaps has the best arm among the three, certainly better than Harrell, but is still raw. If things can start to click for him sooner rather than later, he'd likely be the best long-term backup option in case something happened to Aaron Rodgers. In the meantime...pray for Rodgers' well-being.
• D-lineman Johnny Jolly -- a long shot at the start of camp to make the team -- now has a very good chance to do so and resume playing a key role on the defense. I hope you're rooting for him...I am.
• Rookie CB Micah Hyde, while not a speed burner, just seems to make plays and be around the ball more often than not. Yes, he'll still make rookie mistakes, but it looks as if he's a keeper.
• We haven't had a chance to see much of what rookie DE Datone Jones can do thanks to an ankle injury, which was re-aggravated earlier this week. Whether he sees action Friday night or not is uncertain.
• We also haven't had a chance to see much of rookie RB Johnathan Franklin. There are a number of talented backs in Green Bay this year; this is a situation the Packers haven't had to deal with much in recent years. Coach McCarthy has said he's anxious to see what penciled-in starter DuJuan Harris shows Friday evening. He knows what rookie RB Eddie Lacy can do...be very dangerous. Alex Green looks to regain his explosiveness and be part of the mix. James Starks may wind up being the odd man out, assuming the Packers actually retain four running backs on the roster rather than three. If it's three, which is the likely scenario, Alex Green may also be looking for work elsewhere. In fact, reports a week ago were that the Packers were shopping Green around for a possible trade.
• OT David Bakhtiari appears to have won the battle for starter at left tackle with his solid play. Right tackle, however, still seems to be a bit in question, although reports are that Don Barclay has the edge on Marshall Newhouse.

Oh, Seattle...well, yes, they'll play and give the Packers a very good effort. Coach McCarthy has said repeatedly this week that this is the time for players to step up. Those who do, will likely make the team; those who don't...well, cuts will be coming soon. Very soon.

There are many other observations to be made, but time runs short. So this will have to do as the pre-game post. Check back this weekend for post-game observations.

Go Pack Go!!

Packers get first preseason win

In a game that seemed a bit of a mirror image to last week's shutout loss to the Arizona Cardinals, the Green Bay Packers tonight dominated the St. Louis Rams and scored a 19-7 win.

There were some very good individual performances of note: Eddie Lacy (whom we didn't think was likely to play at all), Johnny Jolly, Jermichael Finley, Davon House, Micah Hyde, B.J. Coleman. And, Aaron Rodgers, of course.

It seems as if the Packers also escaped without any major injuries. That might be perhaps the best news of the night.

The hour is getting late and the words are drawing scarce at this moment. So you'll have to check back in the next day or two for a more complete review of the game. Also, don't forget to check out our Amazing 2nd Page at any time for all the latest news and comment about your favorite team: the Green Bay Packers.

We are...Packer Fans United!

Packers 2013 Preseason Game 2: Green Bay butts heads with the Rams

As you may note if you are a regular reader of PackerFansUnited.com, it's been a week since our last post. That article was very long post-mortem of the Packers shut out loss to the Arizona Cardinals. Frankly, it took yours truly a week to recover. Man, that was a clunker no matter how you looked it. And I know...because I looked at it every which way, as you'll see if you look again at that post.

Anyway, in the interim between that post and this one, I hope you've been checking in on all the goings on related to the Packers via our Amazing 2nd Page. That's your one-stop channel for more than you'd probably ever need -- or want -- to know about the Packers, from both the pro sport writers and sports networks as well as the great fans who help make up Packer blogger-land.

So what's the prognosis about tonight's game, which kicks off in less than one hour? Well, with a nod to Jerry Seinfeld, it is not Prognosis Negative. Rather, I think you'll see a much more inspired team this evening. Last week, other than the first series from the starting offense, the game was a flat and uninspired performance on both sides of the ball. CB Davon House, who got burned a couple times on the night, manned up during the week and even said it was his worst performance ever. That's the kind of shock therapy realization that can serve someone well all season long. Good to get that after the first preseason game and not later on in the regular season.

Who needs to show something extra tonight?
Quite a few players, at least judging by last week's performance.

Backup QB Graham Harrell has to show a lot more than an ability to throw underneath to his check-down receivers every time he passes. He is going to have to open it up and look downfield more. A lot more. Expect to see the majority of snaps go to him and Vince Young tonight. With an extra week of practice under his belt, it will really be interesting to see how Young does. He had a few good moments -- and deep throws -- in practice this week, so it will be most interesting to see his progress in the Packers system. While B.J. Coleman may get a few snaps, it seems more and more evident that he's likely to be the odd man out in the backup race for quarterback. Our fan poll (see the righthand column) clearly showed a preference for Young being Aaron Rodgers primary backup...for what that's worth.

It's likely that rookie RB Eddie Lacy will be held out again this week with his hamstring issue. Penciled-in depth chart starter DuJuan Harris is also likely not to see much if any action, just coming off the PUP list. That leaves a lot of potential carry action for Alex Green and Johnathan Franklin, in particular. Green will be given a lot of opportunities to show that he still has his pre-ACL tear burst. It was rumored at times throughout the week that Green's name was being floated as possible trade bait; to whom and for whom were not clear.

WR Randall Cobb is nursing a bicep injury and likely will not play this evening. That opens up more room for backup receivers Jeremy Ross and rookie surprise Tyrone Walker, who made a positive impression against the Cardinals. The knock on Ross is his inconsistency. Talent is no question. Hanging on to the ball consistently...question. As a kick and punt returner, it's his job to lose; head coach Mike McCarthy does not want to be in a position to have to put Randall Cobb back as the primary returner. Let's see if Ross seizes the opportunity given to him tonight.

Johnny Jolly should again see a fair amount of playing time. The defensive line is a crowded place right now. He played well last week in his first game action in three years. But he's competing against some younger guys. He's got the know-how and, his teammates say, he's got the desire. Can he put that desire and physicality back on the field in a way even close to what he was a few years back? We'll see.

There are lots of places to look for insights tonight. Let's hope the good surprises outweigh the bad, whether or not the Packers come out with a "W". Oh, and also let's hope the Pack escapes without any injuries. That would be good too, wouldn't it?

GO PACK GO!!!

Packers lose preseason opener to Cardinals, 17-0

Well, it wasn't pretty, that's for sure. The preseason home opener for the Green Bay Packers versus the Arizona Cardinals was about as flat as you'll ever see. Final score: Cardinals 17 - Packers 0.

Other than a fast-paced no-huddle opening series led by Aaron Rodgers and the number one offense which eventually stalled out at the Cardinals goal line, the Packers as a team did nothing of note offensively or defensively. To put the game in historical perspective, the recap by Bob McGinn in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel notes that "It marked the first time that the Packers had been shut out in a 60-minute exhibition game since a 33-0 loss in August 1987 to the Washington Redskins in Madison." Yowza.

OK, OK, it's just a preseason game and the first one at that.

In our preview, we offered a few things to watch for during the game. Let's see how that shook out, shall we?

Running Game
We knew a couple things going into this game. First, that the Packers wanted to make a commitment to run the ball this season in a way they haven't done in years. That's why the team drafted two top running backs early in the NFL draft. We also knew that rookie RB Eddie Lacy would be held out of the game because of a hamstring issue. So we anticipated a big dose of rookie Johnathan Franklin, plus James Starks, Alex Green, and rookie Angelo Pease. Starks got the start and rushed 12 times for 38 yards with a long run of 8 yards, and totaled 18 yards in seven first-down carries. Starks looked good. When he's healthy, as we saw late in the 2011 season, Starks can be a formidable runner. Staying on the field has been his problem. Franklin also showed potential, but the Packers really need to scheme to get him to the outside where he can use his speed. He carried just six times for 14 yards. Alex Green got some carries and finished with seven attempts for 16 yards. Angelo Pease had one carry for two yards. So on the whole, how do they say it...oh yes...meh. Eddie Lacy was very much needed on the Packers' first drive when they tried to rush it into the endzone a few times from the goal line without success. Starks just couldn't blast through. From that standpoint, it seemed like same ol', same ol', as the saying goes. Getting Lacy back will be a boost to the offense, for sure.

Conclusion: incomplete.

Quarterbacks
The Packers have four quarterbacks vying for what will likely be three spots on the roster. One spot is a lock. We know who that is. (Hint: his initials start with "Aaron Rodgers.") Beyond that, Graham Harrell, B.J. Coleman and Vince Young will battle it out for the remaining two spots. Last night didn't go very far in determining who had a leg up (or arm, as the case may be) on the rest. Harrell got the most time to show how he's progressed as the main backup to Rodgers from last season. It was an unimpressive performance. He finished 12 of 19 for 76 yards, including one interception and one fumble when he was stripped on a sack. As some might point out, whether those turnovers were all on Harrell or not is questionable. He and his receiver on the interception were clearly not on the same page, and the sack/strip was a result of RT Marshall Newhouse getting smoked by the rusher. Vince Young came in to relieve Harrell. For someone who was signed Tuesday, playing on Friday was a pretty quick turnaround. In a complex system such as the Packers, Young's head had to be swimming. Reports were that head coach Mike McCarthy probably had five or six plays in the hopper for Young. He finished 1 for 3 (7 yards), while running twice for 12 yards. B.J. Coleman had mop up duty on the night. He went 2 for 7 for 15 yards passing.

Conclusion: Rodgers great, everyone else...meh.

Kicking Game
Given Mason Crosby's struggles last year, and his 3 for 7 performance in the Family Night scrimmage a week ago, everyone was very interested to see how he fared this week, as well as how his competitor, Giorgio Tavecchio, stacked up. Well, funny story...neither one of them saw the field last night. After the first offensive series, where the Packers opted to go for it on 4th and 2 at the Cardinals' goal line, not once during the rest of the game were the Packers even in field goal range. Both the kickers got the night off.

Conclusion: Incomplete

Receivers
Randall Cobb was held out last evening, and Jordy Nelson is done for the preseason with minor knee surgery. That left James Jones as the main man, which he certainly was on a huge 50-yard pass reception from Rodgers on that first drive of the game. Beyond that, eight other receivers had receptions on the evening. Tyrone Walker had perhaps the best night after Jones, with five receptions for 41 yards, with a long of 22 yards. Alex Gillett also had some nice catches, including the only completion for Vince Young.

Conclusion: Incomplete

Offensive Line
Given the loss of LT Bryan Bulaga for the season, all eyes were on rookie David Bakhtiari. He has impressed in camp and the expectations for him are high; the Packers will be in real trouble if he isn't able to fill the void. The good news was that Bakhtiari acquitted himself quite well last evening. He got lots of reps, which he needs. Concerns arise, still, from tackle Marshall Newhouse who was moved from left tackle to the right side in the new flip-flop scheme. As noted earlier, he got beat badly on a sack of Graham Harrell which led to a strip fumble. Seems as if his struggles continue, at least for now. As to the rest of the linemen, nothing distinguishing one way or another.

Conclusion: Mixed

Defense
We wanted to keep an eye on rookie DE Datone Jones to see what he could bring to the party. Unfortunately, he left the party early with an ankle sprain. We'll have to keep watching news today to see the severity of that sprain. Obviously, it would be a blow to the defense if he was out for any length of time, particularly if it turns out to be a high ankle sprain. We also wanted to see how DT Johnny Jolly did in his return to the field after three years away. He got a good push on several plays and seemed to hold up fairly well. Some pundits think it's a long shot that he'll make the final roster. Maybe. But I'm still rooting for him, because if he can even come close to what he was several years ago he's worth keeping.

One of the areas we didn't mention in our preview was the defensive backs. I guess we should have. Because what we saw on display last night was an area of concern. Coverage was lax, tackling was poor. Davon House got burned several times on poor coverage. Rookie Micah Hyde displayed some toughness but also had moments where being a rookie showed. This will be a part of the defense that will need to step up.

And speaking of stepping up, the Packers' linebacking corp -- aside from Clay Matthews who didn't play long last night -- needs to do just that. Not much to write home about...or write here about. Robert Francois had what could have been the defensive highlight of the night when he flashed speed on a blitz and had the Cardinals quarterback wrapped up for a sack...except, he didn't; the quarterback broke free and wound up scrambling for a first down.

The entire defense looked very flat and inept. But much the same can be said for the rest of the team as well, first unit offense excepted.

Overall Conclusion: Flat

Not much more to say about last night's game. The best part is that it doesn't count. The worst part is that it seems as if the team has a long way to go before it comes together. Coach McCarthy has his work cut out for him.

Packers 2013 Preseason Game 1: Cardinals visit Green Bay

In what will undoubtedly be a bit of a pleasant change of temperature from Arizona, members of the Cardinals football team will be luxuriating in the comfortable late summer temperatures of Green Bay this evening as they meet the Packers in the first preseason game of the 2103 NFL season.

At this writing, kickoff is about two hours away. Seventy-five hundred additional fans will be viewing the game from within the hallowed confines of Lambeau Field, courtesy of the expansion on the stadium's south side. Conversely, tens of thousands of Packer fans throughout southeastern Wisconsin will have to scramble to view the game on television courtesy of the ongoing dispute between WTMJ-4, the NBC affiliate in Milwaukee carrying the game, and Time Warner Cable, who for the past three weeks has had the channel off the air. Fans have been buying antennas, calling bars, restaurants and even long-lost family and friends to find someone who has the game on DirecTV, Dish, or otherwise is able to pick up the channel. For the rest of us, including yours truly, I'll be watching the telecast on Telemundo, which is picking up the WTMJ television feed for the second year in a row. (It's at this moment I wish I had kept up with my Spanish lessons.)

Anyway...to the game.

What shall we look for?

For one thing, probably not rookie RB Eddie Lacy. The big back who is expected to carry a large portion of the load at running back this season will likely sit out tonight's game with a hamstring issue. Supposedly not serious but no reason to aggravate it and cause long-term problems. DuJuan Harris, who is also listed as the starter as of now on the team's depth chart despite having not played all training camp, will also not play. Expect, then, to see a big dose of rookie Jonathan Franklin, plus James Starks, Alex Green, and rookie Angelo Pease.

Four -- count 'em, four -- quarterbacks are expected to see playing time tonight. Head coach Mike McCarthy has indicated he wants to get all four QBs action this evening: Aaron Rodgers, Graham Harrell, B.J. Coleman and newly-signed Vince Young. The latter has obviously not had much time to assimilate the playbook, so expect things to be quite simple when and if he gets in the game. It's likely that the Pack will keep three quarterbacks on the final roster, although one will no doubt be inactive on game day. That said, the backup job and the number 3 spot are in play for Harrell, Coleman and Young. Someone will have to go. Tonight's game will be the start of that process -- at least on public display -- as to who will get those two spots. By the way, if you still haven't voted in our backup quarterback poll, please take a moment to do so. You'll find it in the righthand column next to this story.

The kicking game. Ah, the kicking game. With veteran Mason Crosby continuing his lackluster performance from last season into these early days of training camp, the Packers are hoping he gets his head -- and his field goal attempts -- straightened out. Fast. He and Giorgio Tavecchio will split the kicking duties tonight. At the Family Night scrimmage last Saturday evening, Crosby went just 3 for 8 on field goal attempts while Tavecchio connected on 6 of 7. Crosby has the stronger leg, but if he doesn't do better at putting the ball through the uprights, leg strength isn't much of a factor. If the Pack decides it has to go with Tavecchio, it's possible they might then also use punter Tim Masthay on kickoffs. Masthay has reportedly been booming his kickoff during training camp. On the other hand, will the Packers want to expose the best punter they've had in years to possible injury on the kickoff team? This area of the game will certainly be under the microscope tonight.

With WR Randall Cobb likely held out of the game tonight because of his bicep injury, the competition at receiver will be a bit more on display tonight than it might have been otherwise, particularly for the #5 spot. The Packers have a lot of talented receivers in camp -- QB Aaron Rodgers even said it was the most talented group since he's been in Green Bay -- although some have been battling injuries. Look for one or two of those youngsters to make a case for themselves tonight.

The offensive line...Now that Bryan Bulaga has elected surgery on his torn ACL, eyes will be on rookie LT David Bakhtiari to protect the quarterback's blind side. Everyone from coaches to fellow linemen are very high on Bakhtiari's abilities. But he's a rookie, protecting the franchise in Aaron Rodgers. Watch closely. Also, check out the backups at the various line positions and how rotations are handled. The Packers have only nine offensive linemen on the roster at this point. Who they use, and how they use them, is a study unto itself.

Defensively, let's see how rookie DE Datone Jones does during game conditions. Everyone has been very complimentary about Jones during camp, and rightly so; looks like he is the real deal. Let's see what a difference he can make on the D-line. Also, let's watch Johnny Jolly as he tries to come back after three years out of football. Seems as if many if not most fans are rooting for him (this writer included), and his teammates are saying how focused he is. But he has to show signs that he can get back to near his old playing performance. If it's any consolation, his position coach has been reminding folks that Jolly may now be 30 years old, but he's only had four years total of NFL wear-and-tear...fresh legs, fresh legs. But what else is in the tank? These preseason games are critical for Jolly's return to the roster. He can't get injured or his chances diminish greatly. Keep an eye on Jolly...and root for his success.

That should be enough for you to keep an eye on, don't you think? Bottom line, hope you are able to see the game one way or another. You can also stream the audio coverage of the game, as the flagship radio station for the Packers, 620WTMJ is now carrying the games online. Click here to listen live (5:00 p.m.-1:00 a.m. CT) to the station's Packers Gameday broadcast, including the game call by Voice of the Packers, Wayne Larrivee, and former Packer center, Larry McCarren (in-game only on desktop computers). It's the next best thing to being there!

Go Pack Go!!!

Packers weekly wrap up

This time of year -- with less than 90 days to go to the start of the NFL season -- is one during which, well, many of us are engaged in activities other than obsessing about football and all-things Packers. I know, I know, that may be considered blasphemy in some circles. But the fact of the matter is, particularly here in Packerland, we've waited so-o-o-o-o long for summer to arrive that we want to savor it when it shows up for that all-too-brief time. So, forvive us, please, for the gaps between posts here at PackerFansUnited.com. It's not that we're not paying attention to what's going on in Green Bay, it's just that there really isn't too much of note going on. Wait until training camp starts. Then there will be some news now and then.

Having said that, let's recap recent happenings just for the heck of it, shall we?

Mini-camp over and done; second chance for Jolly begins
The mandatory mini-camp was held earlier this last week. An item of note included the attendance and participation by defensive lineman, Johnny Jolly. After three years out of football due to a well-documented legal matter and suspension by the league, the now 30-year-old Jolly has a second chance with the Packers. He was an up-and-coming force on the D-line when old friends and bad habits back in Houston scuttled his promising career. Now an older and hopefully wiser Jolly will focus on football. His teammates were said to be very happy to have him back. He's got a way to go to get into playing condition again. But if he's not motivated now he never will be. This writer is rooting for him. Many other Packer fans are, too.

Cornerback Sam Shields, who was a no-show at the optional OTAs, was also on hand, although complaining about not "getting paid." Sam, please. You're getting paid better than 99.9% of the people on this planet. You'll get paid more -- and appreciated more -- if you let your play this season do the talking.

LB Desmond Bishop had said he'd be back from his rehab in time for OTAs, at least the second one. He was at mini-camp but didn't participate in any team drills. Training camp -- which begins in a little more than six weeks from now -- is supposedly his new target.

The biggest move of note, of course, was the switching of the offensive line. Brian Bulaga was reported to be struggling a bit at left tackle, his old college position, after having been moved from the right side. But other players also making the switch indicated to reporters that it would take a while to get everything in sync. No doubt.

Oh, and what about the news that RB DuJuan Harris -- who came on late last season -- had a fist-sized cyst removed from his lung? It was discovered during a routine physical. Yowza.

Dodgeball winner
Packers head coach, Mike McCarthy, typically likes to end his mini-camps with a fun team, non-football, activity. This last week, that activity wound up being dodgeball. It should go without saying that the guy with the golden arm (or should we say, Green 'n' Gold arm?) won. Yes, QB Aaron Rodgers prevailed. Read more about the details of that event here. It's worth a few minutes of your time to learn about Rodgers' dodgeball proclivities.

Favre finally fesses up
In a seemingly long-overdue admission that "I was at fault," former Packers QB and future Hall of Famer, Brett Favre, told Joe Buscaglia of WGR 550-AM during an interview in Buffalo. “It is what it is. It's over and done with. I was at fault,” he said. Although Favre did say that he felt "both sides had a part in it." For what it's worth, Favre said that "I think things will be fine in due time.” He and Packers President, Mark Murphy, have been in communication and that's a good thing for both parties. I wouldn't be surprised if the Packers did something this season in terms of retiring Favre's number to get that out of the way before Favre goes into the NFL Hall of Fame. It's about time to get this out of the way and move on, don't you think?

We have some catching up to do

It's been a while since our last post here, Packer fans. Far too long, in fact. Our apologies. Several reasons for that. Among them, the bad taste (still) of the loss to San Francisco in the playoffs. That's one that has stuck with us -- and many Packer fans -- for a long time. We won't rehash it...just check our last post for the angst-ridden post-mortem of that game. Another reason for the lapse between posts...something akin to the "interregnum" between Popes...not that anyone here retired or anything. Nor was there the gathering of Packer fans in foam cheeseheads electing a new leader here. It was just a time for a break. And, let's be honest. There really wasn't much going on except talking about what had happened and what might happen. (Wait...isn't that what we're still doing? Isn't that really about all we can do even now?)

But now that free agency has been in play for several days and the draft is upcoming at the end of next month...well, things start to get a bit real again, don't they?

So, let's just catch up on a few things that have happened since we last gathered here, shall we? This is by no means a comprehensive list. More of a top-of-mind thing. You can fill in the gaps.

• WR Donald Driver officially retired.
• CB/S and future Hall of Famer Charles Woodson was released.
• DE Johnny Jolly got reinstated by the NFL and the Packers (seemingly) have decided to give him another chance.
• LB A.J. Hawk took a pay cut and agreed to restructure his contract.
• LB Robert Francois was re-signed.
• WR Greg Jennings was not re-signed in free agency and wound up signing a five-year, $47.5 million(!) deal with the ViQueens, joining a long list of former Packers over the years who the 'Queens have scavenged from the Pack...oh, and Minnesota still hasn't won a Super Bowl.
• TE, human tatto canvas, and all-around fun guy Tom Crabtree was also allowed to explore free agency and the gamble by the Packers failed; Crabtree has apparently reached a deal with Tampa Bay. Dang it! (Good luck, Tom. We will miss you.)
• LB Erik Walden signed an unbelievable contract (reportedly four years for around $16 million!) with the Colts. Huge pay day for an average-at-best linebacker.
• LB Brad Jones may be about to reach a deal with Tennessee.
• Free agents whom the Packers had interest in but who signed elsewhere included DE Chris Canty and RB Steven Jackson.
• TE Jermichael Finley may still have his contract restructured...or he could also be playing elsewhere next season.
• Gaining salary cap room appears to be setting the Packers up to extend the contracts of QB Aaron Rodgers, LB Clay Matthews, and NT B.J. Raji.
• Packers GM Ted Thompson attended the Indianapolis Draft Combine as well as the University of Wisconsin pro day (and perhaps others as well). Thompson, according to reports out of the Wisconsin pro day, was very impressed with RB Montee Ball. Ball made himself some future extra money that day, by besting his Combine 40-yard time. Thompson is reportedly impressed with Ball's all-round skills.

Draft Stuff
Our last bullet point in the list above began to hint at the upcoming draft. This will be a big one for the Packers (aren't they all?) given the number of departures from the team, as well as the obvious needs: defense, running back, defense, offensive line and...defense.

Would the Packers use their top draft pick -- number 26 overall -- on a running back? Some mock drafts think so, with several projecting Alabama running back Eddie Lacey as the best of the crop and perhaps available when the Packers are on the board. Some compare him to Frank Gore. He's a powerful back, more adept at rushing than receiving and not a good blocker. In the Packers' scheme, blocking is a premium. That may mean -- if the Packers look to actually find a featured back for the first time in seemingly a generation -- that they look Montee Ball's way. The Packers could do far worse than taking Ball. But whether they see him as a first round pick...? Time will tell.

As for other possible first-round picks, the mock draft boards are all over the place. So until we get a little closer to the draft, where things may begin to sort themselves out a bit, we'll refrain for the moment from joining in the speculation.

Well, Packer fans, we did a bit of catching up today. Hope you found it helpful. We'll be a bit more regular here now that the off-season stuff starts to gear up a bit. So, please, check back once in a while, will you please? Thanks. We appreciate you reading. We really do.

Packers' shareholders meeting and training camp in week ahead

Here it is, Packer fans, the week we've waited for since the end of last season's great run. In the coming week, Packers' shareholders will gather on Thursday morning (and, yes, you need a ticket to get in) at the currently un-frozen tundra of Lambeau Field to hear from Packers' management and coaches about the status of the team on and off the field. They'll also hear a bit from NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell who'll be on hand, as well. No doubt, a major area of interest will concern the current and upcoming contract negotiations with the NFL Players Association.

While the annual shareholders event certainly is an important part of things, what most fans wait for, of course, is the start of training camp. That gets under way Saturday, July 31, at 2 p.m. with players in full pads on Ray Nitschke Field and is open to the public. If weather doesn't allow outdoor practice, things move inside to the Don Hutson Center where, because of space limitations, the practice is closed to the public. You can check out a day by day practice schedule here. You can also download a PDF version of the schedule here.

Now, if your green 'n' gold juices aren't flowing already, check out this article in today's Milwaukee Journal Sentinel which begins the talk about the Packers' Super Bowl hopes and chances this season. The key, which is the same every year, really, is to start fast. No surprise there. With a tough schedule and questions on defense given Johnny Jolly's year-long (indefinite) suspension and Al Harris' return from his major knee injury, that means the offense has to come out with guns blazing. Barring injury, that will be a given.

But with camp a week away from today, it sure is nice to be able to realistically talk about the goal: Super Bowl.

More on Jolly's suspension by NFL

Since yesterday's announcement that Packers defensive end Johnny Jolly has been suspended "indefinitely" by the NFL for violations of the league's substance abuse policy, some folks have wondered how Jolly can be suspended without yet being convicted of anything. There is a very good review of the scenarios under which this may have come about in an article in today's Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

And since Jolly had signed a one-year tender with the Pack for about $2 million-plus this season, he can also kiss that goodbye, as the suspension stipulation also indicated it was to be without pay. Man, that was a mighty expensive cough syrup joy ride. Wonder how much his "friends" had to lose in comparison?

What a waste.

Jolly suspended for season by NFL

As some have speculated since defensive end Johnny Jolly was busted by Houston police in July 2008, and as Packers draft picks along the defensive line this season seemed to indicate, the NFL has told the Packers today that the league has suspended Jolly for the entire 2010 season. Actually, it's an indefinite suspension without pay. Jolly can apply for reinstatement after the next Super Bowl.

Reading GM Ted Thompson's statement about the matter doesn't seem to hold out much hope for Jolly rejoining the team after his reinstatement. You can read between the lines, so to speak, by checking out the report here.

A player with a wealth of talent but apparently not enough smarts to avoid the situation and crowd he traveled with back in his home town. Sad on many counts.

Williams accepts Pack's offer

Cornerback Tramon Williams, according to reports, had verbally agreed to the Packers' restricted free agent tender offer prior to the Monday deadline. But apparently because the required paperwork wasn't yet in place, his "signing" wasn't showing up on the NFL's transaction wire either Tuesday or Wednesday.

Safety Atari Bigby, however, has yet to sign and it is being reported that sources say he is prepared to have a training camp hold out to get a new contract. Perhaps sensing this situation with Bigby, the Packers moved up into the third round of the NFL Draft to select Morgan Burnett. With Bigby absent from the voluntary workouts, Burnett has been getting a lot of work in and has impressed the head coach. "I see Burnett as a very natural, instinctive football player," coach Mike McCarthy is quoted in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel as having stated recently. "Things come very easy for him. He's a good communicator. He's a very fluid player in space. His athletic ability and the instincts, he picks up coaching very well."

McCarthy also told reporters that the team is as deep at safety as it's been since he's been at the helm. The Packers are also waiting for (the seemingly always-injured) Will Blackmon and Derrick Martin to return from their injuries of last season and get back in the mix. Depth is good. Considering how little leverage Bigby has you have to wonder why he feels it's to his advantage to not sign his tender and/or holdout. Ah...right...agent Drew Rosenhaus. That might explain it.

You can read a bit more about all these bits and pieces here.

Jolly signs, Williams and Bigby don't

Tender tussles. No, that's not a description of flag football compared to the NFL kind. It's a description of what the Packers are now involved in with two of their defensive backs, Tramon Williams and Atari Bigby.

Yesterday was the deadline for restricted free agents to sign their tender offers or face the rule that allows their team to pay them 110 percent of the prior year's salary. In short, to take a pay cut.

Facing a potentially nasty legal situation, and with no teams clamoring for his services as a result, defensive lineman Johnny Jolly finally realized that the prospect of losing roughly $1.9 million was probably not a smart decision, and signed his tender offer yesterday before the deadline. Williams and Bigby, however, did not. For Bigby, the difference between his tender offer and the new amount the Packers could impose is only about $54,000. Not pocket change to you and me, perhaps, but apparently not enough to concern Mr. Bigby.

As an article about this situation in today's Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports, however, Williams stands to lose some major coin: about $2.58 million this season. Ouch!

Of course, that's assuming he'd play for the reduced amount. As the article notes, if the Packers chose to exercise that 110 percent option -- which they had to do by 11 p.m. last night -- they risk "angering Williams.' Let's hear it, all together: awwwwww.

He may not play most of the season if this is the way it goes, but he apparently can't sit out the entire season. And really, is it in either party's interest for that to happen at all? Nope.

It gets more complicated. Or not, depending upon how the Pack and Williams decide to resolve this little stalemate. Ditto for Bigby, although as already mentioned that's not really as big a concern for either party, it seems.

Be sure to check out the article link above for more details. And stay tuned here for further developments.

Oh boy...troubles, troubles

Before hitting the news of the day, I should make note of the fact that the reason there has been no post here in a few weeks is because I was off celebrating the 1,200th post of PackerFansUnited.com! That occurred with the May 17 post and it's been nothing but non-stop festivities ever since. 1,200 posts! Woo-hoo!!!

OK. That's not true. Well, the 1,200 posts part is. But the celebrating part is not. The reason there has not been a post is I was just waiting to get around to it. Problem was, just like the car keys, I couldn't find that darn round tuit (I know, bad pun, but it's all I got).

Anyway, as the summer rolls on with OTAs, minicamps and finally summer training camp on the horizon, you can be assured we will be back in full coverage mode (or as close as we can get) here at PackerFansUnited. You've come to expect...well, whatever it is you've come to expect from PackerFansUnited.com...and we plan to do our best to deliver...whatever that is.

So, without further ado, let's get to the stories of the day. Unfortunately so, in this first instance.

Brandon Underwood joins Johnny Jolly on the watch list

Fans are well aware -- going back to last season -- of D-lineman Johnny Jolly's run-in with the law back home in Texas. He's had trials delayed, and the latest development is that the prosecutor is ramping up the charges against Jolly, to include, according to reports, that Jolly "bought, sold, funded, transported and aided in the buying, selling, funding and transportation of illegal narcotics including cocaine and marijuana" in Harris County (TX) from 2006 through May 2008." To make his case, the prosecutor has even decided it's worthwhile to use a convicted felon still sitting in prison to testify against Jolly. Read about that here. The prosecutor seems determined to bring down Jolly any way possible. Of course, Jolly didn't help himself any by failing a polygraph test, appearing "deceptive" about matters related to his bond stipulation (apparently related to alcohol). Regardless of how this turns out, no doubt Jolly is facing a league suspension of some kind. Which makes Ted Thompson's addition of two rookies -- second-rounder Mike Neal and seventh-rounder C.J. Wilson -- along the defensive line seem most wise indeed. The Packers obviously had some misgivings about Jolly's availability both short and, perhaps, even long-term, But one of the things that is most curious is that Jolly has yet to sign his one-year tender offer. If Jolly doesn't sign it by June 15 the Packers are essentially allowed to decrease their tender offer to 110 percent of last year's salary, thereby handing a major decrease in money to a restricted free agent such as Jolly. So...facing perhaps career-threatening legal matters...and still not signing a tender in time to make more money? OK...good luck with all that, Mr. Jolly. So much potential...let's hope you haven't thrown it away.

Now another Packers player may be in hot water.

The news broke yesterday afternoon that seven Packers players had been interviewed by Lake Delton, WI police in conjunction with an alleged sexual assault. Six of the players were found to have had no involvement with the incident. But police said a seventh player, identified today by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel as second-year safety, Brandon Underwood, was still under investigation. He says it was consensual, the two women (yes, two), said it wasn't. You can read about the Underwood situation here. According to the article in today's Journal Sentinel, "(Lake Delton) Police Chief Tom Dorner said he doesn't expect to conduct more interviews. He said he would take the case to the district attorney on Monday or Tuesday to consider charges." You can view the actual police report of the incident from within the linked article; just scroll down and click on the graphic link you'll see. As with the Jolly case, it would be likely that regardless of outcome a league sanction of some kind against Underwood may be forthcoming. The league doesn't like this kind of publicity, let alone activity, as Commissioner Roger Goodell has demonstrated in a few other recent incidents.

The players were in Lake Delton, which adjoins the Wisconsin Dells resort area, to participate in a charity golf tournament hosted by LB Clay Matthews. Some of the players interviewed are among the many Packers scheduled to participate today in a charity softball game hosted by WR Donald Driver in Grand Chute, south of Green Bay.

This flurry (OK, just two that we know of) of behavioral problems is starting to remind us of the bad ol' days of the 1980s when Mossy Cade and James Lofton made news for all the wrong reasons. Let's hope these matters get resolved justly for all parties concerned and we can get back to focusing on football.

Lambeau changes?
The Packers have been holding focus groups in Green Bay and Milwaukee to talk with fans about the possibilities of expanding Lambeau Field. The whole idea, of course, is to somehow generate more in-stadium revenue for the team as that revenue stream does not have to be shared with other teams. In order for the Packers to stay close to big city teams with new stadiums such as the Cowboys and Giants, they will have to look at every way possible to generate needed revenues. You can read about the variety of ideas the team is considering here. Of course, being the fan friendly -- and shareholder owned -- team that they are, if you have any better ideas you think the team should consider, be sure to send them on to the team.

Another topic that has popped up since the awarding of the 2014 Super Bowl to the The New Meadowlands Stadium jointly owned by the Giants and Jets is the possibility of a Super Bowl ever being played in Green Bay. After all, if a Super Bowl can be played in one cold weather venue then why not another? Esteemed sports pundits have waxed wistfully about how there would be no better place than Lambeau Field to host a Super Bowl...it's the best place to watch a football game, Lombardi, history, the Ice Bowl, etc. But then the realities of a Super Bowl kick in. It is noted that a Super Bowl today is more about what goes on off the field than on it. There needs to be plenty of off-field party space, hotel rooms, etc., etc. Green Bay and its surrounding area is just not set up to handle such an event, they say.

As a Packer fan, I have mixed feelings about this. Yes, it would be great to see Lambeau Field host a Super Bowl. I'd probably try to be there myself if I could. However, as a realist, I also have to say...nope. Sitting outdoors at Lambeau Field in late December or early January is a battle of survival against the elements. People are dressed in parkas and snowmobile suits, each doing their best imitation of the Michelin Man. And for those who have never been to Lambeau, let me share with you that the seating -- apart from your luxury box digs -- is on metal benches with numbers marked on them...yep, just like most college or high schools stadiums. With 70,000+ fans crammed onto these benches, attired as they are, you're lucky to get one cheek (if you know what I mean) on that bench...and you better have a blanket or two under that cheek to keep it from going numb by the end of the first quarter. It takes a tough breed to stand up to that kind of weather. Packer fans know how to deal with it. Unfortunately, many if not most of those who would likely be attending a Super Bowl wouldn't have a clue how to stay at least moderately unfrozen in such circumstances. Remember, we're looking at around the beginning of February for the 2014 Super Bowl. The mean temperature for Feb. in East Rutherford, NJ is 30 degrees; in Green Bay it is 20 degrees. Oh, and yeah, there is that thing called snow, too.

To Packer fans, Lambeau Field will always be the premier stadium in football. It doesn't need a Super Bowl to add to that status.

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.