There's a great article by the always on-target Packers beat writer, Bob McGinn, in today's Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. McGinn examines the situation with the Packers' quarterbacks focusing, not surprisingly, on starting QB Aaron Rodgers. The point which comes through loud and clear, if it didn't last season, is that Rodgers isn't the heir apparent to Ol' #4 any longer. He is now clearly Da Man. And not just with the Pack and its fans. Rodgers is now establishing himself as one of the elite quarterbacks in the NFL. And if he stays healthy, Rodgers could go a long way toward giving the Packers something that rarely comes along in the NFL: back-to-back premier QBs.
McGinn's article examines the history of Rodgers, his blossoming since taking over from Ol' #4, his strengths and weaknesses as seen by his offensive coordinator Joe Philbin and an unnamed personnel director for another NFC team, and the potential that lies ahead.
Oh, there's also a brief review of backup QB Matt Flynn. Bottom line there is that the Packers are so satisfied with his progress that once again they will likely go into the season with only Rodgers and Flynn on the active roster. No doubt they will try to find a third for the practice squad.
Rodgers is a confident, driven young player who went a long way last season to helping Packer fans forget...whatshisname. But as the article also points out, until Rodgers actually wins a playoff game, let alone a Super Bowl, he can be a very good QB...just not a great one. All the makings are there. And as the article also reminds us, "Two football writers from Sports Illustrated have placed the Packers atop their preseason power rankings. Pro Football Weekly did the same."
As we so often say here at PackerFansUnited.com, it's great to be a Packers fan!
You can read the entire Bob McGinn article here.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Saturday, July 24, 2010
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.
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.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
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.
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.
Friday, July 16, 2010
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.
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.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
What the Favre? Part 21
We haven't done a "What the Favre?" segment in a long time. But now, with an interview with Ol' #4 appearing in the new issue of Men's Journal (on sale Friday for those who wish to line up), we have yet another opportunity to ask that question. Because every time Brett speaks, well..."What the Favre?".
According to excerpts released and/or picked up by other outlets, it becomes quite clear that Brett's decision to un-retire (for the first time) had nothing to do with just wanting to play football, as he had so often claimed. It was, as most realize by now, purely for the chance to get back at the Packers and GM Ted Thompson. He says so himself. According to an excerpt appearing in the Minneapolis Star-Tribune, Favre says, "They (the Packers) made it pretty clear I wasn't going to play there, and I said, 'How about the Vikings or even the Lions?' I wanted to stay in the same division. They said that wasn't going to happen, but maybe Tampa. I said, 'Fine, trade me to Tampa. I'll whip your asses in week four.' Maybe that was a mistake. I'm flying back to Hattiesburg thinking I'm going to the Bucs, and I get off the plane and Bus tell me I've been traded to the Jets. I said, 'Bull,' but they were smart; they released the news so I'd look like an ass if I backed out."
How much of a rocket scientist do you have to be to understand that when he said he wanted to play for the ViQueens or the Lions -- the Lions, for the love of God! -- that it was all about revenge..."whip your asses" as Brett puts it? And isn't it interesting that Brett had always said that he never wanted to play for the ViQueens originally. No, not at all. Yet, here he is saying it was the first thing out of his mouth.
Question: what, if anything, can we believe that he says? Not that he's going to retire. That was said and then changed twice (it was just twice, wasn't it???). Not when he says he just wanted to play and it didn't matter who with. Clearly, from his comments that wasn't the case, even at the start of unretirement #1.
As has been said here many times over the last couple years, it is so sad that someone who was and is such a great quarterback and a Packers legend has basically turned himself into a running sitcom every time he speaks. About the only thing we can count on, no matter what he says one way or another, is that he will be back for another season with the 'Queens trying yet again to sweep the Pack as was accomplished last season. We'll see how that all works out this season.
You can find excerpts from the Men's Journal and Star-Tribune articles here and here respectively.
According to excerpts released and/or picked up by other outlets, it becomes quite clear that Brett's decision to un-retire (for the first time) had nothing to do with just wanting to play football, as he had so often claimed. It was, as most realize by now, purely for the chance to get back at the Packers and GM Ted Thompson. He says so himself. According to an excerpt appearing in the Minneapolis Star-Tribune, Favre says, "They (the Packers) made it pretty clear I wasn't going to play there, and I said, 'How about the Vikings or even the Lions?' I wanted to stay in the same division. They said that wasn't going to happen, but maybe Tampa. I said, 'Fine, trade me to Tampa. I'll whip your asses in week four.' Maybe that was a mistake. I'm flying back to Hattiesburg thinking I'm going to the Bucs, and I get off the plane and Bus tell me I've been traded to the Jets. I said, 'Bull,' but they were smart; they released the news so I'd look like an ass if I backed out."
How much of a rocket scientist do you have to be to understand that when he said he wanted to play for the ViQueens or the Lions -- the Lions, for the love of God! -- that it was all about revenge..."whip your asses" as Brett puts it? And isn't it interesting that Brett had always said that he never wanted to play for the ViQueens originally. No, not at all. Yet, here he is saying it was the first thing out of his mouth.
Question: what, if anything, can we believe that he says? Not that he's going to retire. That was said and then changed twice (it was just twice, wasn't it???). Not when he says he just wanted to play and it didn't matter who with. Clearly, from his comments that wasn't the case, even at the start of unretirement #1.
As has been said here many times over the last couple years, it is so sad that someone who was and is such a great quarterback and a Packers legend has basically turned himself into a running sitcom every time he speaks. About the only thing we can count on, no matter what he says one way or another, is that he will be back for another season with the 'Queens trying yet again to sweep the Pack as was accomplished last season. We'll see how that all works out this season.
You can find excerpts from the Men's Journal and Star-Tribune articles here and here respectively.
Packers profit...sorta
As all true Packers fans know, the team is the only publicly-held team in the NFL. So, in anticipation of its upcoming shareholders' meeting at Lambeau Field (where else?) in Green Bay on July 29, the Packers today released their financial statement highlights for the last fiscal year. The good news, somewhat, is that net profit went up from about $4 million last year to $5.2 million this year. But the bad news is that profit from operations dropped big time: from $20.1 million last year to $9.8 million this year. This continues a trend of several years of declining operations profits for the Pack.
According to an article just hitting the airwaves (question: is the Internet "the airwaves"??? Hmmm....) in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Packers President and CEO Mark Murphy said, “Player costs are growing at twice the rate of revenue.” For the record, player costs were up 11 percent while revenue only increased 5.5 percent.
The Packers might be viewed by some -- especially team owners and management -- as the canary in the coal mine, particularly with negotiations ahead for owners and the NFL Players Association. Management may use Packers' financials -- albeit the only team that makes its books public and the smallest market team at that -- as part of its case for reducing the players' portion of the overall take that comes in to the NFL.
Be sure to check out the article link above for more on this developing story.
According to an article just hitting the airwaves (question: is the Internet "the airwaves"??? Hmmm....) in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Packers President and CEO Mark Murphy said, “Player costs are growing at twice the rate of revenue.” For the record, player costs were up 11 percent while revenue only increased 5.5 percent.
The Packers might be viewed by some -- especially team owners and management -- as the canary in the coal mine, particularly with negotiations ahead for owners and the NFL Players Association. Management may use Packers' financials -- albeit the only team that makes its books public and the smallest market team at that -- as part of its case for reducing the players' portion of the overall take that comes in to the NFL.
Be sure to check out the article link above for more on this developing story.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Raji will be raging in the middle
We all know that there were big expectations for the big man, B.J. Raji, when the Packers drafted him #9 overall in last year's NFL Draft. While he certainly played well for a rookie, it can probably honestly be said that fans were left wanting in the expectations department.
That's going to change this year. Not the expectations, which are still sky high for Raji and the entire Packers organization. What's going to change is Raji's level of play. How do we know? He told us so. When asked yesterday after the team's organized team activity (OTA) what he'd do if he was the regular guy in the middle -- at the nose tackle slot -- what he'd do, Raji responded quite simply, “Just cause havoc.” That would be g-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-d.
Remember that last season Raji missed a couple weeks of training camp while contract details were being worked out. Then he sustained an ankle injury almost immediately that kept him out for a while altogether and then left him a bit gimpy when he was able to play. He was also bounced around with line rotations, moving back and forth from defensive end to nose tackle and thus couldn't really settle into one spot, perhaps limiting his development a bit in the process.
But now, the Packers have told Raji that's he's the man in the middle this season. And he's already got his game mentality on. It's the kind of talk from a young player that, if he's able to back it up -- and there's no reason to think he can't -- should put him on a Pro Bowl track. Here's what he had to say, according to an article in today's Green Bay Press Gazette: “Sky’s the limit for me, I believe. When I come in and wreak havoc, it will change a lot. It makes the lives of Nick (Barnett) and (Brandon Chillar) and A.J. (Hawk) a lot easier. That’s what the 3-4 is designed to do, get our linebackers running free and making plays. And when the opportunity presents itself, I’ll make the plays myself.”
Good for you, Mr. Raji. We're counting on you to plug that middle. We're looking forward to seeing a lot of havoc anywhere near where you happen to be.
That's going to change this year. Not the expectations, which are still sky high for Raji and the entire Packers organization. What's going to change is Raji's level of play. How do we know? He told us so. When asked yesterday after the team's organized team activity (OTA) what he'd do if he was the regular guy in the middle -- at the nose tackle slot -- what he'd do, Raji responded quite simply, “Just cause havoc.” That would be g-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-d.
Remember that last season Raji missed a couple weeks of training camp while contract details were being worked out. Then he sustained an ankle injury almost immediately that kept him out for a while altogether and then left him a bit gimpy when he was able to play. He was also bounced around with line rotations, moving back and forth from defensive end to nose tackle and thus couldn't really settle into one spot, perhaps limiting his development a bit in the process.
But now, the Packers have told Raji that's he's the man in the middle this season. And he's already got his game mentality on. It's the kind of talk from a young player that, if he's able to back it up -- and there's no reason to think he can't -- should put him on a Pro Bowl track. Here's what he had to say, according to an article in today's Green Bay Press Gazette: “Sky’s the limit for me, I believe. When I come in and wreak havoc, it will change a lot. It makes the lives of Nick (Barnett) and (Brandon Chillar) and A.J. (Hawk) a lot easier. That’s what the 3-4 is designed to do, get our linebackers running free and making plays. And when the opportunity presents itself, I’ll make the plays myself.”
Good for you, Mr. Raji. We're counting on you to plug that middle. We're looking forward to seeing a lot of havoc anywhere near where you happen to be.
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.
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.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
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.
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.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Ahman Green signs with...Omaha???
Veteran running back, Ahman Green, decided to sign with a new team after the Packers decided not to renew his contract. The 33-year-old Green has signed with...the Omaha Nighthawks. Nighthawks??? Omaha??? Is that what it took for Nebraska to opt in to the Big 10, for Ahman Green to sign with this new "expansion" team in the second-year United Football League (UFL)?
Well, it's not as strange as it may first appear. Green is actually returning to his hometown. He played at Central High School in Omaha and then at Nebraska for his college ball.
Green is the all-time leading rusher for the Packers. He was always a class act for the team (unlike someone we'll get to in a moment). Let us wish Mr. Green well in his new endeavor and root for those Nighthawks! He still wants to play, and has something left in the tank as he demonstrated after re-joining the Packers last season. He just might not have enough for the NFL anymore. Nothing wrong with going home to be a hometown hero again. You can read all about it here.
Underwood paid
No, not that kind of getting paid. The other kind of...paying.
According to an article in the Green Bay Press-Gazette, "Lake Delton police have confirmed that money was exchanged between Brandon Underwood and two women who have accused the Green Bay Packers cornerback of sexual assault. The Lake Delton Police Department issued a news release Wednesday in response to media reports that Underwood had solicited the two women for sex. According to the release from Chief of Police Tom Dorner, 'money was exchanged between the alleged suspect and the alleged victims before the alleged assault.'"
You can read the full article here. The decision by the Saux County district attorney's office is now expected sometime next week. While Underwood, if the report is correct, could have charges dropped for sexual assault he might wind up being charged with solicitation. It will be interesting to see if the two women involved will now be charged with filing false police reports in addition to whatever other charges they may face. Given the nature of the original allegations, it wouldn't be surprising.
Well, it's not as strange as it may first appear. Green is actually returning to his hometown. He played at Central High School in Omaha and then at Nebraska for his college ball.
Green is the all-time leading rusher for the Packers. He was always a class act for the team (unlike someone we'll get to in a moment). Let us wish Mr. Green well in his new endeavor and root for those Nighthawks! He still wants to play, and has something left in the tank as he demonstrated after re-joining the Packers last season. He just might not have enough for the NFL anymore. Nothing wrong with going home to be a hometown hero again. You can read all about it here.
Underwood paid
No, not that kind of getting paid. The other kind of...paying.
According to an article in the Green Bay Press-Gazette, "Lake Delton police have confirmed that money was exchanged between Brandon Underwood and two women who have accused the Green Bay Packers cornerback of sexual assault. The Lake Delton Police Department issued a news release Wednesday in response to media reports that Underwood had solicited the two women for sex. According to the release from Chief of Police Tom Dorner, 'money was exchanged between the alleged suspect and the alleged victims before the alleged assault.'"
You can read the full article here. The decision by the Saux County district attorney's office is now expected sometime next week. While Underwood, if the report is correct, could have charges dropped for sexual assault he might wind up being charged with solicitation. It will be interesting to see if the two women involved will now be charged with filing false police reports in addition to whatever other charges they may face. Given the nature of the original allegations, it wouldn't be surprising.
Tuesday, June 08, 2010
Underwood case still under review
WTMJ-TV in Milwaukee is reporting tonight that the Lake Delton, WI chief of police is stating that there isn't enough information for him to bring charges against Packers safety Brandon Underwood at this time for the alleged sexual assault that two women say occurred this weekend. The police chief said in a televised interview that at this point it's a "he said - she said" type of thing, with the two accusers having changed their stories and there being a lack of consistency.
The report went on to note, however, that the district attorney could still bring charges regardless of what the police decide to do in the case. The TV report went on to mention that money supposedly changed hands between Underwood and the two women. When asked whether the two women were prostitutes, the police chief said, "I don't know."
Josh Sitton, who was one of the players interviewed in regards to the matter and who was not involved, told his hometown Pensacola News Journal that Underwood didn't do anything illegal and the "allegations are very bogus." According to reports on WTMJ-TV, Sitton added, however, that something did happen in another room that was "stupid."
620WTMJ radio's Bill Michaels has a post on his blog that bring out new information from sources he has talked to. Specifically, Michaels reports, "Underwood will not be charged with sexual assault. The charge being considered is solicitation of prostitution. The two women who levied the allegations of sexual assault could be charged with prostitution."
Underwood's attorney also says his client will be cleared. (No surprise there.)
With Packers' OTAs open to the public Wednesday, and Underwood expected to be on hand, it might be the first chance we have to hear directly from him on this matter...or not.
The report went on to note, however, that the district attorney could still bring charges regardless of what the police decide to do in the case. The TV report went on to mention that money supposedly changed hands between Underwood and the two women. When asked whether the two women were prostitutes, the police chief said, "I don't know."
Josh Sitton, who was one of the players interviewed in regards to the matter and who was not involved, told his hometown Pensacola News Journal that Underwood didn't do anything illegal and the "allegations are very bogus." According to reports on WTMJ-TV, Sitton added, however, that something did happen in another room that was "stupid."
620WTMJ radio's Bill Michaels has a post on his blog that bring out new information from sources he has talked to. Specifically, Michaels reports, "Underwood will not be charged with sexual assault. The charge being considered is solicitation of prostitution. The two women who levied the allegations of sexual assault could be charged with prostitution."
Underwood's attorney also says his client will be cleared. (No surprise there.)
With Packers' OTAs open to the public Wednesday, and Underwood expected to be on hand, it might be the first chance we have to hear directly from him on this matter...or not.
Sunday, June 06, 2010
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.
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.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Packers legendary QB Bart Starr becomes a doctor
Well, an honorary kind of doctor, that is.
During graduation ceremonies yesterday at St. Norbert College in De Pere, WI (neighboring community to Green Bay), legendary Packers quarterback Bart Starr and his wife, Cherry, received Honorary Doctor of Laws degrees "in recognition of living as examples of the Norbertine value of service to their community," according to a news report in the Green Bay Press-Gazette about the ceremony.
No need to recount the on-field exploits and honors of the leader of the Glory Years Packers. The Hall of Famer didn't wait for retirement, however, to begin charting his works of charity. In 1965, Bart and Cherry were instrumental in helping found Rawhide Ranch, which is a faith-based, nonprofit, residential care center for troubled teen boys near New London, WI. The Starrs are still involved in fundraising and other activities for the Ranch. The Starrs have also been involved since the beginning (1970) with the Vince Lombardi Memorial Golf Classic and the Vince Lombardi Charitable Fund in its fight against cancer.
Good folks doing very good work indeed. Nice of St. Norbert College to recognize the Starrs' years of service to the wider community. What's so special about St. Norbert College? For those who don't know, it has hosted the Packers summer training camp since the days of Lombardi himself. And, it is also one of the premier liberal arts colleges in the Midwest if not the nation.
But the college's connection with the Packers runs deeper than just that. They are joining together to present “A Mirror of Our Culture: Sport and Society in America," a three-day event running May 26-28, that, according to the website, "provides opportunities for sports academics and professionals working in sports-related fields to network and to share their expertise about American sports." Among those attending and speaking: Paul Tagliabue, former Commissioner (CEO) of the National Football League, and Carl Vogel, Partner of SCP Worldwide, who will "give major addresses offering their perspective on 'Sports in America' and 'The Future of American Sports.' Dr. Robert Kustra, President of Boise State University, will be presenting 'Modern College Athletics: A View from the Top.' Also, Kevin B. Blackistone of ESPN’s 'Around the Horn' and the Philip Merrill College of Journalism at the University of Maryland, will be speaking on 'Race and Sports in America.'"
Registration runs through May 19.
During graduation ceremonies yesterday at St. Norbert College in De Pere, WI (neighboring community to Green Bay), legendary Packers quarterback Bart Starr and his wife, Cherry, received Honorary Doctor of Laws degrees "in recognition of living as examples of the Norbertine value of service to their community," according to a news report in the Green Bay Press-Gazette about the ceremony.
No need to recount the on-field exploits and honors of the leader of the Glory Years Packers. The Hall of Famer didn't wait for retirement, however, to begin charting his works of charity. In 1965, Bart and Cherry were instrumental in helping found Rawhide Ranch, which is a faith-based, nonprofit, residential care center for troubled teen boys near New London, WI. The Starrs are still involved in fundraising and other activities for the Ranch. The Starrs have also been involved since the beginning (1970) with the Vince Lombardi Memorial Golf Classic and the Vince Lombardi Charitable Fund in its fight against cancer.
Good folks doing very good work indeed. Nice of St. Norbert College to recognize the Starrs' years of service to the wider community. What's so special about St. Norbert College? For those who don't know, it has hosted the Packers summer training camp since the days of Lombardi himself. And, it is also one of the premier liberal arts colleges in the Midwest if not the nation.
But the college's connection with the Packers runs deeper than just that. They are joining together to present “A Mirror of Our Culture: Sport and Society in America," a three-day event running May 26-28, that, according to the website, "provides opportunities for sports academics and professionals working in sports-related fields to network and to share their expertise about American sports." Among those attending and speaking: Paul Tagliabue, former Commissioner (CEO) of the National Football League, and Carl Vogel, Partner of SCP Worldwide, who will "give major addresses offering their perspective on 'Sports in America' and 'The Future of American Sports.' Dr. Robert Kustra, President of Boise State University, will be presenting 'Modern College Athletics: A View from the Top.' Also, Kevin B. Blackistone of ESPN’s 'Around the Horn' and the Philip Merrill College of Journalism at the University of Maryland, will be speaking on 'Race and Sports in America.'"
Registration runs through May 19.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Packers wrap up successful Tailgate Tour
Last evening marked the fourth and final stop on this year's edition of the Packers Tailgate Tour. Packers President Mark Murphy and players Chad Clifton, Nick Collins, James Jones and John Kuhn spent this last week seeing a lot of the state of Wisconsin they might not normally see...or even know existed outside of Green Bay and Milwaukee: Rhinelander, Chippewa Falls and Reedsburg. They visited schools, businesses and even the Leinenkugel Brewery. Their final stop in Milwaukee was the Harley-Davidson Museum for a gathering with fans.
But before that event kicked off, they made a surprise stop at the Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center near Miller Park (home of the Brewers) in Milwaukee.
Whether in the hinterlands of Wisconsin, at the Veterans Center, or in the heart of Harley-land in downtown Milwaukee, the players and team President made a great impression on fans. In fact, they even may have picked up a few new fans along the way. But don't take my word for it. Check out this article and see for yourself.
This is why we're Packer fans. Great guys and a great organization. Not just now. Always.
Go Pack Go!!!
But before that event kicked off, they made a surprise stop at the Zablocki Veterans Affairs Medical Center near Miller Park (home of the Brewers) in Milwaukee.
Whether in the hinterlands of Wisconsin, at the Veterans Center, or in the heart of Harley-land in downtown Milwaukee, the players and team President made a great impression on fans. In fact, they even may have picked up a few new fans along the way. But don't take my word for it. Check out this article and see for yourself.
This is why we're Packer fans. Great guys and a great organization. Not just now. Always.
Go Pack Go!!!
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Aaron Rodgers hosting charity event May 17 in Milwaukee
Aaron Rodgers is hosting a fundraising event for the MACC Fund (Midwest Athletes Against Childhood Cancer) on Monday evening, May 17th, at Mo's-A Place for Steak in Milwaukee. The event will run from 6:30-9:30 p.m.
According to the official press release about the event, "Space is limited and tickets are selling well, so please don’t delay. We don’t want you to be disappointed. Please contact the MACC Fund at 414-456-5830 to purchase tickets. The tickets are $200 each and include food stations, an open bar, tax, gratuity and a generous donation to the MACC Fund. The MACC Fund has reasonably estimated the goods and services received by a contributor to this event to be $100 and therefore $100 per purchased ticket is tax-deductible as a charitable contribution to the full extent allowed by law." It is also noted that "all guests must be at least 21 years of age. Photography, video or audio recording will not be allowed."
The release continues, "Proceeds of the 'Evening With Aaron Rodgers' will help the MACC Fund continue to support pediatric cancer and blood-disorder research in Wisconsin like it has since 1976. The $36 million which the MACC Fund has donated to research over 33 years impacts research here and across the nation as seen by increased cure rates for childhood cancer rising from 20% to 80%. The MACC Fund supports cutting edge research in the 6-story MACC Fund Research Center of the Medical College of Wisconsin, in the 14,000 square foot MACC Fund Childhood Cancer Research Wing of the University of Wisconsin’s Carbone Cancer Center and in the MACC Fund Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin."
So, if you are in the Milwaukee area and can make it, this would be a great event and cause to support. Obviously, by committing his name and time to this event, Rodgers also thinks so.
If you want to hear Rodgers talk a bit about this event, as well as some of his thoughts about last season, the playoffs, and what's coming up this season, you can hear his on-air interview from this evening with 620wtmj radio's Bill Michaels by clicking here. Note that the podcast will open in a separate window.
According to the official press release about the event, "Space is limited and tickets are selling well, so please don’t delay. We don’t want you to be disappointed. Please contact the MACC Fund at 414-456-5830 to purchase tickets. The tickets are $200 each and include food stations, an open bar, tax, gratuity and a generous donation to the MACC Fund. The MACC Fund has reasonably estimated the goods and services received by a contributor to this event to be $100 and therefore $100 per purchased ticket is tax-deductible as a charitable contribution to the full extent allowed by law." It is also noted that "all guests must be at least 21 years of age. Photography, video or audio recording will not be allowed."
The release continues, "Proceeds of the 'Evening With Aaron Rodgers' will help the MACC Fund continue to support pediatric cancer and blood-disorder research in Wisconsin like it has since 1976. The $36 million which the MACC Fund has donated to research over 33 years impacts research here and across the nation as seen by increased cure rates for childhood cancer rising from 20% to 80%. The MACC Fund supports cutting edge research in the 6-story MACC Fund Research Center of the Medical College of Wisconsin, in the 14,000 square foot MACC Fund Childhood Cancer Research Wing of the University of Wisconsin’s Carbone Cancer Center and in the MACC Fund Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin."
So, if you are in the Milwaukee area and can make it, this would be a great event and cause to support. Obviously, by committing his name and time to this event, Rodgers also thinks so.
If you want to hear Rodgers talk a bit about this event, as well as some of his thoughts about last season, the playoffs, and what's coming up this season, you can hear his on-air interview from this evening with 620wtmj radio's Bill Michaels by clicking here. Note that the podcast will open in a separate window.
Lambeau Field to host Vietnam Vets tribute
On the weekend of May 21-23, Lambeau Field will become "LZ Lambeau™," as in" Landing Zone Lambeau."
According to the press release, this event is "part of the larger Wisconsin Vietnam War Stories project, (and) will honor the service and sacrifice of thousands of Vietnam veterans, and finally, formally, thank them and welcome them home." An estimated 100,000 Vietnam and Vietnam-era veterans, their families and members of the public are expected for a weekend of reunions, exhibits and activities.
The press release states: "The events will culminate in a tribute inside Lambeau Field Saturday evening, May 22, 2010. Beginning at 7:30 p.m., the Saturday evening event will feature military flyovers, music, excerpts from the new public television documentary Wisconsin Vietnam War Stories, a tribute to the 1,244 KIA and MIA Wisconsin soldiers and a formal 'Thank you and welcome home' from Gov. Jim Doyle.
"For safety and security, tickets are needed to attend the Saturday evening tribute inside Lambeau Field. Tickets are free to Vietnam veterans and $10 for others. There is a $2 charge for processing each ticket. For tickets, call 1.800.895.0071 or visit LZLambeau.org.
"All other activities for the LZ Lambeau™ weekend are free and open to the public. Those activities include:
According to the press release, this event is "part of the larger Wisconsin Vietnam War Stories project, (and) will honor the service and sacrifice of thousands of Vietnam veterans, and finally, formally, thank them and welcome them home." An estimated 100,000 Vietnam and Vietnam-era veterans, their families and members of the public are expected for a weekend of reunions, exhibits and activities.
The press release states: "The events will culminate in a tribute inside Lambeau Field Saturday evening, May 22, 2010. Beginning at 7:30 p.m., the Saturday evening event will feature military flyovers, music, excerpts from the new public television documentary Wisconsin Vietnam War Stories, a tribute to the 1,244 KIA and MIA Wisconsin soldiers and a formal 'Thank you and welcome home' from Gov. Jim Doyle.
"For safety and security, tickets are needed to attend the Saturday evening tribute inside Lambeau Field. Tickets are free to Vietnam veterans and $10 for others. There is a $2 charge for processing each ticket. For tickets, call 1.800.895.0071 or visit LZLambeau.org.
"All other activities for the LZ Lambeau™ weekend are free and open to the public. Those activities include:
- On Friday, May 21 a motorcycle honor ride of Wisconsin Vietnam veterans will travel across the state from La Crosse to Green Bay arriving at Lambeau mid-afternoon. Vietnam-era aircraft will fly cover over the bikers as they make their way along the final stretch of the ride.
- The Moving Wall™ - the traveling replica of the Vietnam War Memorial
- Education Day on Friday, May 21 - High school classes visit The Moving Wall™ and museum exhibits set up on the grounds and in the Lambeau Field Atrium
- Exhibits of Vietnam-era military ground vehicles and aircraft
- Music, speakers and reunions"
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
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.
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.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Packers undrafted signings
While the official NFL Draft may have ended, the player pick ups continue. In this case, that means those college players who were not drafted during any of the Draft's seven rounds.
While the Packers didn't address their outside linebacker needs in the draft, it appears they are attempting to find at least one prospect among the undrafted pool given the signings. There are some interesting possibilities at that position, as well as a few of the other slots. In fact, the signing of QB Noah Shepard might be one to keep an eye on. Read here for more.
Reports are that the Pack has signed the following to free agent contracts:
While the Packers didn't address their outside linebacker needs in the draft, it appears they are attempting to find at least one prospect among the undrafted pool given the signings. There are some interesting possibilities at that position, as well as a few of the other slots. In fact, the signing of QB Noah Shepard might be one to keep an eye on. Read here for more.
Reports are that the Pack has signed the following to free agent contracts:
- OL Nick McDonald, Grand Valley State
- WR/KR Chastin West, Fresno State
- RB Quinn Porter, Stillman College
- LB Alex Joseph, Temple
- QB Noah Shepard, South Dakota
- OLB Frank Zombo, Central Michigan
- DE John Russell, Wake Forest
- CB/KR Sam Shields, Miami (expected to sign, not confirmed yet)
- OLB Tim Knicky, Stephen F. Austin
- WR Jeff Moturi, UTEP
- OT Chris Campbell, Eastern Illinois
- S Robert Vaughn, UConn
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Pack's final pick: DL C. J. Wilson
With the 230th pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, the Packers selected DE C. J. Wilson from East Carolina.
Wilson has good size and apparently good speed coming off the edge. Not great ability to drop into coverage. But at #230, what the heck.
To read a good overview of all the Pack's picks, go here.
The Pack addressed some needs despite their usual best athlete available stance. Not a lot of flash, but that's not what was needed. Overall draft grade: B+.
Undrafted signings yet to come. So keep checking back here at PackerFansUnited.com for news and views.
Go Pack Go!
Wilson has good size and apparently good speed coming off the edge. Not great ability to drop into coverage. But at #230, what the heck.
To read a good overview of all the Pack's picks, go here.
The Pack addressed some needs despite their usual best athlete available stance. Not a lot of flash, but that's not what was needed. Overall draft grade: B+.
Undrafted signings yet to come. So keep checking back here at PackerFansUnited.com for news and views.
Go Pack Go!
Packers select RB James Starks
With their lone pick in the 6th round of the NFL Draft, #193 overall, the Pack finally selected a running back. They chose James Starks out of Buffalo. Not exactly known as a football powerhouse -- in fact, only recently resuming a football program -- Starks set a school record for rushing in 2008 with more than 3,100 yards rushing. Unfortunately, he missed the entire 2009 season with a shoulder injury.
So what exactly are the Packers betting on? That they might have gotten a sleeper...and that the shoulder injury won't be a chronic problem. It was pretty much a given that the Packers would pick up a running back somewhere along the day today. According to the scouting report, Starks is a runner who might fit very well with the zone blocking scheme. He ran a 4.5 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, so he brings a bit of speed to the equation. Starks reportedly can also catch passes quite handily. At #193, he was worth a flyer.
The Pack's next and final pick is #230 overall.
So what exactly are the Packers betting on? That they might have gotten a sleeper...and that the shoulder injury won't be a chronic problem. It was pretty much a given that the Packers would pick up a running back somewhere along the day today. According to the scouting report, Starks is a runner who might fit very well with the zone blocking scheme. He ran a 4.5 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, so he brings a bit of speed to the equation. Starks reportedly can also catch passes quite handily. At #193, he was worth a flyer.
The Pack's next and final pick is #230 overall.
Packers take tight end and guard in 5th round
The Packers did not move up into the 4th round, and instead used their two 5th round picks in the draft to select TE Andrew Quarless of Penn State (#154) and offensive guard Marshall Newhouse out of TCU (#169).
Quarless appears to be a tight end with good size. The question has had to do with consistency and character. Lots of potential if he can stay focused on football. Green Bay probably gives him the best chance to do just that.
Newhouse appears to be a real find at the tail end of the 5th round. Big body kind of guy who has the versatility to play either tackle or guard, but probably best suited to guard at the pro level. One of the players that should fit in quite well with the Packers and has the potential to be a real competitor on the O-line.
Quarless appears to be a tight end with good size. The question has had to do with consistency and character. Lots of potential if he can stay focused on football. Green Bay probably gives him the best chance to do just that.
Newhouse appears to be a real find at the tail end of the 5th round. Big body kind of guy who has the versatility to play either tackle or guard, but probably best suited to guard at the pro level. One of the players that should fit in quite well with the Packers and has the potential to be a real competitor on the O-line.
Packers Draft Day 2 Review
With less than an hour to go before the start of the final day of the NFL Draft marathon, rounds 4 through 7, you would do well to read Bob McGinn's (Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel Packers beat writer) article reviewing the Packers' draft picks so far, along with who they didn't take that was available, what the likelihood of new player impact might be, and some of the thinking that might be operating going into these last rounds.
The Packers enter today with four picks remaining. The Packers traded their lone 4th round pick along with the second of their two 3rd round picks as part of the deal to move up to get S Morgan Burnett. They have two picks in round 5 (#154 and #169), a 6th rounder (#193) and one 7th round pick (#230). In Thompson's comments, as reported by McGinn, he didn't rule out trading into the 4th round if there was a player he wanted. Shouldn't be surprising. Anything in the draft is possible.
GM Ted Thompson is known for being able to find a few gems in late rounds, so let's hope that's the case today. As McGinn points out in his article, 2nd round pick Mike Neal still does not likely fill the pass rusher need which almost everyone -- including the Packers -- said was a need going into the draft. He might develop into that, but right now he is projected to be one of the back ups on the D-line. A pass rushing diamond in the rough would be a plus today. As would a few other players mentioned in my prior post regarding the end of Draft Day 2.
The Packers believe they are very close to getting back to the big game. With a few pieces in the right spots, it's all right there. And keep in mind that there will be a plethora (look it up!) of post-draft street free agent signings as well. Those players typically are long shots. But for a needed spot, such as punter, you might just find a keeper.
Let's see what shakes out of the tree today.
The Packers enter today with four picks remaining. The Packers traded their lone 4th round pick along with the second of their two 3rd round picks as part of the deal to move up to get S Morgan Burnett. They have two picks in round 5 (#154 and #169), a 6th rounder (#193) and one 7th round pick (#230). In Thompson's comments, as reported by McGinn, he didn't rule out trading into the 4th round if there was a player he wanted. Shouldn't be surprising. Anything in the draft is possible.
GM Ted Thompson is known for being able to find a few gems in late rounds, so let's hope that's the case today. As McGinn points out in his article, 2nd round pick Mike Neal still does not likely fill the pass rusher need which almost everyone -- including the Packers -- said was a need going into the draft. He might develop into that, but right now he is projected to be one of the back ups on the D-line. A pass rushing diamond in the rough would be a plus today. As would a few other players mentioned in my prior post regarding the end of Draft Day 2.
The Packers believe they are very close to getting back to the big game. With a few pieces in the right spots, it's all right there. And keep in mind that there will be a plethora (look it up!) of post-draft street free agent signings as well. Those players typically are long shots. But for a needed spot, such as punter, you might just find a keeper.
Let's see what shakes out of the tree today.
Friday, April 23, 2010
End of NFL Draft day 2 sees Pack nab 2
The second day of the 2010 NFL Draft, comprised of rounds 2 and 3, saw the Packers execute their allotted slot with the 56th pick overall in round 2, and then trade their third round pick (#86) and a fourth rounder (#122) to Philadelphia (from Cleveland through Philly) for their 71st overall pick in the Draft.
From the sound of things, the Pack got players they needed for defensive purposes, beginning with DE Mike Neal, whom the coaches believe can provide some rush at the end spot coming out of the 3-4. And, in the case of S Morgan Burnett, the 71st pick, GM Ted Thompson wasn't willing to wait to see if he'd be available 15 spots later. He gets a big safety who can break on the ball and perhaps challenge Atari Bigby for a starting spot across from Nick Collins at some point.
You can read a great overview of Thompson's take on the second day of fun here. Worth checking out.
Tune back in here Saturday for the final action. Still need to pick up an outside linebacker and a running back. Another offensive lineman would be good as well. After that...? Whatever is left, most likely.
In any case, Go Pack Go!
From the sound of things, the Pack got players they needed for defensive purposes, beginning with DE Mike Neal, whom the coaches believe can provide some rush at the end spot coming out of the 3-4. And, in the case of S Morgan Burnett, the 71st pick, GM Ted Thompson wasn't willing to wait to see if he'd be available 15 spots later. He gets a big safety who can break on the ball and perhaps challenge Atari Bigby for a starting spot across from Nick Collins at some point.
You can read a great overview of Thompson's take on the second day of fun here. Worth checking out.
Tune back in here Saturday for the final action. Still need to pick up an outside linebacker and a running back. Another offensive lineman would be good as well. After that...? Whatever is left, most likely.
In any case, Go Pack Go!
Packers move up to take S Morgan Burnett
The Packers decided to move up in the third round, trading with Philadelphia (from Cleveland through Philadelphia), to take S Morgan Burnett out of Georgia Tech with the 71st overall pick in the draft.
Burnett appears to be a good-sized safety and a ball hawk. Looks like a very good pick here, and was obviously a player that the Packers wanted, moving up 15 slots to take him. The Pack traded their #86 pick (third round) and #122 (fourth) to make the move.
Stay tuned...looks as if GM Ted Thompson is working his plan...offensive line, defensive line, defensive backfield...what's next??? We'll have to wait to see. Because unless Thompson works another trade to move up, the Packers don't pick again until #154 overall in the fourth round tomorrow. As we said...stay tuned...
Burnett appears to be a good-sized safety and a ball hawk. Looks like a very good pick here, and was obviously a player that the Packers wanted, moving up 15 slots to take him. The Pack traded their #86 pick (third round) and #122 (fourth) to make the move.
Stay tuned...looks as if GM Ted Thompson is working his plan...offensive line, defensive line, defensive backfield...what's next??? We'll have to wait to see. Because unless Thompson works another trade to move up, the Packers don't pick again until #154 overall in the fourth round tomorrow. As we said...stay tuned...
Packers go with DE/DT Mike Neal in round 2
As the second round cranked rather quickly along, the Packers stayed in the #56 slot overall and chose Mike Neal, defensive end/tackle from Purdue.
Mel Kiper, Jr. of ESPN, said Neal showed flashes throughout the college football season but needs to work on consistency. If he takes care of that, Kiper said, the Packers got themselves a good pick.
The Pack's next pick is #86 overall in the third round, barring any trades.
Keep checking back here for more updates as the draft rolls on.
Mel Kiper, Jr. of ESPN, said Neal showed flashes throughout the college football season but needs to work on consistency. If he takes care of that, Kiper said, the Packers got themselves a good pick.
The Pack's next pick is #86 overall in the third round, barring any trades.
Keep checking back here for more updates as the draft rolls on.
Yep...still looks good in the morning, too
You know how it goes: sometimes, in the heat of the moment, one's reason and senses can lead you to make, um, questionable decisions. Which in the light of day, make you wonder what the heck you were thinking. Or so I've heard.
On another level, it's buyer's remorse. Dazzled by the flash, we come to realize the goods aren't at all that we thought they were.
Well, in the case of the Packers' first round draft pick, offensive tackle Bryan Bulaga, seems as if everyone still awoke with a smile on their faces today. Even fans, who say they approve of the Packers' choice by a margin of 92 percent to 8 percent (of more than 7,000 fans responding as of the time of this post) in a poll at the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.
And why not? Bulaga was projected to be long gone before the Packers' pick at number 23. Some had him going in the top 10. That's why GM Ted Thompson and the coaching staff in Green Bay were darn near giddy when Bulaga fell into their laps last evening.
In his post-selection interview, Bulaga said his goal was to start...which is exactly what you want to hear from a draft pick, especially a first rounder. He understands that he'll have much to learn. But coming from the Iowa system, he's familiar with zone blocking schemes so he can hit the ground running, so to speak. And if he takes care of business, he could succeed venerable veteran Chad Clifton at left tackle. That's what the Packers are hoping. Whether that's sooner or later, it's what they are hoping for.
Everybody has a take on Bulaga, how this will impact the Packers short and long-term, etc. So if you want to catch a really good overview, check out this story and its various sidebar articles. Good stuff.
Keep checking back here at PackerFansUnited.com as the draft resumes later this afternoon. There are still some very good players available who have now dropped to the second round and fit the Packers' needs -- especially on defense -- very well. Will Thompson trade up, stay pat, or trade down? Stay tuned...it's gonna be a fun ride, kids!
On another level, it's buyer's remorse. Dazzled by the flash, we come to realize the goods aren't at all that we thought they were.
Well, in the case of the Packers' first round draft pick, offensive tackle Bryan Bulaga, seems as if everyone still awoke with a smile on their faces today. Even fans, who say they approve of the Packers' choice by a margin of 92 percent to 8 percent (of more than 7,000 fans responding as of the time of this post) in a poll at the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.
And why not? Bulaga was projected to be long gone before the Packers' pick at number 23. Some had him going in the top 10. That's why GM Ted Thompson and the coaching staff in Green Bay were darn near giddy when Bulaga fell into their laps last evening.
In his post-selection interview, Bulaga said his goal was to start...which is exactly what you want to hear from a draft pick, especially a first rounder. He understands that he'll have much to learn. But coming from the Iowa system, he's familiar with zone blocking schemes so he can hit the ground running, so to speak. And if he takes care of business, he could succeed venerable veteran Chad Clifton at left tackle. That's what the Packers are hoping. Whether that's sooner or later, it's what they are hoping for.
Everybody has a take on Bulaga, how this will impact the Packers short and long-term, etc. So if you want to catch a really good overview, check out this story and its various sidebar articles. Good stuff.
Keep checking back here at PackerFansUnited.com as the draft resumes later this afternoon. There are still some very good players available who have now dropped to the second round and fit the Packers' needs -- especially on defense -- very well. Will Thompson trade up, stay pat, or trade down? Stay tuned...it's gonna be a fun ride, kids!
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Packers select OT Bryan Bulaga
The first round of the 2010 NFL Draft has been a very surprising and interesting round so far. The early run that most pundits thought would happen with offensive tackles didn't occur. Jacksonville and Oakland made curious picks. A few trades were made to go up and down, particularly with Denver jumping around three times, including swapping spots with New England to pop ahead of the Packers by one spot. And by the time the Packers rolled into their time on the clock, a lot of their wish list (we can only assume) -- both offensive and defensive -- was still on the board. It couldn't have played out much better for the Pack.
That's why it didn't take them long to select OT Bryan Bulaga of Iowa. You can view one of his scouting reports here.
On some draft boards, Bulaga was a top 10 pick. To have him fall into the Packers' lap here is a real gift. According to some NFL personnel folks, he is reportedly one of the safest picks in this draft. He will likely be the the Packers left tackle of the future, but he does have the versatility to play guard, as well...and we all know how much Packers GM Ted Thompson likes versatility.
Wayne Larrivee, the radio voice of the Packers and a regular Big 10 football broadcaster, said on 620WTMJ radio coverage this evening, that Bulaga will fit in with the Pack like he's been on the team 100 years. Larrivee was very pleased that the Packers got a player of this caliber with this pick, particularly because most every projection had him going much, much earlier.
Ted Thompson, in a brief radio interview after the selection, said that they were surprised to see Bulaga still available at #23 and felt "very fortunate" to be able to get him. No doubt. Great pick, Ted!
We'll have more analysis to follow. Keep tuning back in here!
Go Pack Go!
That's why it didn't take them long to select OT Bryan Bulaga of Iowa. You can view one of his scouting reports here.
On some draft boards, Bulaga was a top 10 pick. To have him fall into the Packers' lap here is a real gift. According to some NFL personnel folks, he is reportedly one of the safest picks in this draft. He will likely be the the Packers left tackle of the future, but he does have the versatility to play guard, as well...and we all know how much Packers GM Ted Thompson likes versatility.
Wayne Larrivee, the radio voice of the Packers and a regular Big 10 football broadcaster, said on 620WTMJ radio coverage this evening, that Bulaga will fit in with the Pack like he's been on the team 100 years. Larrivee was very pleased that the Packers got a player of this caliber with this pick, particularly because most every projection had him going much, much earlier.
Ted Thompson, in a brief radio interview after the selection, said that they were surprised to see Bulaga still available at #23 and felt "very fortunate" to be able to get him. No doubt. Great pick, Ted!
We'll have more analysis to follow. Keep tuning back in here!
Go Pack Go!
Draft night just ahead...and another nod for Hughes?
Last weekend, Mike Vandermause, the sports editor for the Green Bay Press-Gazette, wrote an article (noted in an earlier post here) that all the signs he was picking up led him to conclude that the Packers would select defensive end Jerry Hughes out of Texas Christian University with the 23rd pick of the NFL Draft. Now, a few other folks have jumped on that bandwagon, including Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel Packers writer extraordinaire, Bob McGinn. Wayne Larrivee, radio voice of the Packers on 620WTMJ radio in Milwaukee, concurred this morning with that pick as well.
The thinking seems to be that if the elite offensive linemen are off the board by the time the Packers pick at number 23, GM Ted Thompson will pull the trigger on a pass rusher to complement Clay Matthews.
McGinn sets forth the following in his article: "One of two scenarios is most likely to unfold for the Packers Thursday night in the first round of the National Football League draft.
"• One of three offensive linemen (center Maurkice Pouncey, tackles Bryan Bulaga and Anthony Davis) whom sources within the league indicate Thompson regards as elite will begin to slide, prompting the general manager to part with perhaps a third-round selection in order to move up and grab one of them.
"• Those three players, along with consensus top tackles Russell Okung and Trent Williams, go off the board so quickly that the Packers' keen desire to land a starting offensive lineman is doomed to failure."
If the second scenario plays out, then McGinn (and others, apparently) believe Thompson will then go the pass rusher route, and look at Hughes as well as Sergio Kindle of Texas and Brandon Graham of Michigan. Graham is expected to be gone, so Hughes and Kindle would then be the options. McGinn makes the argument, as did Vandermause, that Hughes is the one the Pack will select.
McGinn, as usual, does a tremendous job of outlining many of the various options that will await Thompson this evening. Including this: "If Graham, Hughes and Kindle are gone, it's entirely possible that Thompson would bail back five to 10 slots and then select the best tackle, pass rusher, cornerback or safety."
If that is the scenario that plays out, tune in again tomorrow because, as you know, tonight is one round only.
Get the full lowdown from McGinn's article here. Along with Vandermause's column from last weekend, you'll be well set to geek out tonight.
Let the Draft begin!
The thinking seems to be that if the elite offensive linemen are off the board by the time the Packers pick at number 23, GM Ted Thompson will pull the trigger on a pass rusher to complement Clay Matthews.
McGinn sets forth the following in his article: "One of two scenarios is most likely to unfold for the Packers Thursday night in the first round of the National Football League draft.
"• One of three offensive linemen (center Maurkice Pouncey, tackles Bryan Bulaga and Anthony Davis) whom sources within the league indicate Thompson regards as elite will begin to slide, prompting the general manager to part with perhaps a third-round selection in order to move up and grab one of them.
"• Those three players, along with consensus top tackles Russell Okung and Trent Williams, go off the board so quickly that the Packers' keen desire to land a starting offensive lineman is doomed to failure."
If the second scenario plays out, then McGinn (and others, apparently) believe Thompson will then go the pass rusher route, and look at Hughes as well as Sergio Kindle of Texas and Brandon Graham of Michigan. Graham is expected to be gone, so Hughes and Kindle would then be the options. McGinn makes the argument, as did Vandermause, that Hughes is the one the Pack will select.
McGinn, as usual, does a tremendous job of outlining many of the various options that will await Thompson this evening. Including this: "If Graham, Hughes and Kindle are gone, it's entirely possible that Thompson would bail back five to 10 slots and then select the best tackle, pass rusher, cornerback or safety."
If that is the scenario that plays out, tune in again tomorrow because, as you know, tonight is one round only.
Get the full lowdown from McGinn's article here. Along with Vandermause's column from last weekend, you'll be well set to geek out tonight.
Let the Draft begin!
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Packers 2010 schedule released - rumblin' time's just around the corner!
We now know the dates and times of the home and away schedule the Packers will be playing come this Fall. Get ready to set aside a few Sunday evenings, a Monday night, and at least two "second game" time slots -- at least six nationally televised games...but don't worry, your Thanksgiving is clear. You know, so you can spend more time with the family rather than watching football. Yeah...I know...sorry. But at least you get to spend New Year's weekend watching the Pack pummel Da Bearz to close out the regular season as they get set for the playoffs.
Anyway, on with the schedule! Home games are in bold. All times are Central.
Sun., Sept. 12 @ Philadelphia Eagles 3:15 p.m. FOX
Sun., Sept. 19 Buffalo Bills 12:00 p.m. CBS
Mon., Sept. 27 @ Chicago Bears 7:30 p.m. ESPN
Sun., Oct. 3 Detroit Lions (Gold Pkg.) 12:00 p.m. FOX
Sun., Oct. 10 @ Washington Redskins 12:00 p.m. FOX
Sun., Oct. 17 Miami Dolphins 12:00 p.m. CBS
Sun., Oct. 24 Minnesota Vikings 7:20 p.m. NBC
Sun., Oct. 31 @ New York Jets 12:00 p.m. FOX
Sun., Nov. 7 Dallas Cowboys (Gold Pkg.) 7:20 p.m. NBC
Sun., Nov. 14 Open Date
Sun., Nov. 21 @ Minnesota Vikings *12:00 p.m. FOX
Sun., Nov. 28 @ Atlanta Falcons *12:00 p.m. FOX
Sun., Dec. 5 San Francisco 49ers *12:00 p.m. FOX
Sun., Dec. 12 @ Detroit Lions *12:00 p.m. FOX
Sun., Dec. 19 @ New England Patriots *7:20 p.m. NBC
Sun., Dec. 26 New York Giants *3:15 p.m. FOX
Sun., Jan. 2 Chicago Bears *12:00 p.m. FOX
* Start time may shift due to NFL flexible scheduling.
For further insight and trivia into the schedule, check out the Packers' take on things here.
Must See Games
For true Packer fans, of course, every game is a must see game. But for professional sports writers, such as Sport Illustrated's Dan Banks, he must pick and choose. And that's what he's done. In today's Inside the NFL column, Banks lists 17 games on the just-released NFL schedule that are must-sees for him.
He has the Packers listed at #6. Here's what he says:
"6. Minnesota at Green Bay, Week 7. You can never make it seem like the first time all over again, but the specter of Favre going back into Lambeau Field again will still get our attention. The Packers owe their former quarterback a loss or two after last season's Minnesota sweep, and the QB duel between Green Bay's Aaron Rodgers and Favre is reason enough to care about this Sunday night showdown. It should just about be getting chilly in Wisconsin by the time this one rolls around. The rematch is less than a month later in Minnesota in Week 11."
Banks has the ViQueens listed four times in total. Obviously, as per his comments above, he's betting -- as most are -- that Ol' #4 will be suiting up again this Fall. Otherwise, c'mon, would Tavaris Jackson get this kind of coverage? Not a chance.
You can read about all of Banks' must-see games here.
Anyway, on with the schedule! Home games are in bold. All times are Central.
Sun., Sept. 12 @ Philadelphia Eagles 3:15 p.m. FOX
Sun., Sept. 19 Buffalo Bills 12:00 p.m. CBS
Mon., Sept. 27 @ Chicago Bears 7:30 p.m. ESPN
Sun., Oct. 3 Detroit Lions (Gold Pkg.) 12:00 p.m. FOX
Sun., Oct. 10 @ Washington Redskins 12:00 p.m. FOX
Sun., Oct. 17 Miami Dolphins 12:00 p.m. CBS
Sun., Oct. 24 Minnesota Vikings 7:20 p.m. NBC
Sun., Oct. 31 @ New York Jets 12:00 p.m. FOX
Sun., Nov. 7 Dallas Cowboys (Gold Pkg.) 7:20 p.m. NBC
Sun., Nov. 14 Open Date
Sun., Nov. 21 @ Minnesota Vikings *12:00 p.m. FOX
Sun., Nov. 28 @ Atlanta Falcons *12:00 p.m. FOX
Sun., Dec. 5 San Francisco 49ers *12:00 p.m. FOX
Sun., Dec. 12 @ Detroit Lions *12:00 p.m. FOX
Sun., Dec. 19 @ New England Patriots *7:20 p.m. NBC
Sun., Dec. 26 New York Giants *3:15 p.m. FOX
Sun., Jan. 2 Chicago Bears *12:00 p.m. FOX
* Start time may shift due to NFL flexible scheduling.
For further insight and trivia into the schedule, check out the Packers' take on things here.
Must See Games
For true Packer fans, of course, every game is a must see game. But for professional sports writers, such as Sport Illustrated's Dan Banks, he must pick and choose. And that's what he's done. In today's Inside the NFL column, Banks lists 17 games on the just-released NFL schedule that are must-sees for him.
He has the Packers listed at #6. Here's what he says:
"6. Minnesota at Green Bay, Week 7. You can never make it seem like the first time all over again, but the specter of Favre going back into Lambeau Field again will still get our attention. The Packers owe their former quarterback a loss or two after last season's Minnesota sweep, and the QB duel between Green Bay's Aaron Rodgers and Favre is reason enough to care about this Sunday night showdown. It should just about be getting chilly in Wisconsin by the time this one rolls around. The rematch is less than a month later in Minnesota in Week 11."
Banks has the ViQueens listed four times in total. Obviously, as per his comments above, he's betting -- as most are -- that Ol' #4 will be suiting up again this Fall. Otherwise, c'mon, would Tavaris Jackson get this kind of coverage? Not a chance.
You can read about all of Banks' must-see games here.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Packers to nab a pass rusher in 1st round?
Fans of the Packers know very well the areas which the team needs to address with the draft and free agency: offensive tackle, outside pass rusher, defensive backs, punter, running back. But which need will Ted Thompson address with the 23rd overall pick, that's the question. Or whether he'll stay at #23 or drop down to get more picks. Or, as ESPN reporter Adam Schefter tweeted today, "Packers, Eagles have expressed interest in trading up to 10-12 range. But it could depend on how board falls. Good prospects everywhere."
The speculation that Schefter seems to be latching onto is that if the Pack has a specific guy they want for offensive tackle and they see that he's still available in that 10-12 range they might pop up to get him.
But Mike Vandermause, the sports editor for the Green Bay Press-Gazette sees it differently. In his column over the weekend, Vandermause says the signs he's picked up from Thompson's comments lead him to conclude that the Pack will stay at #23 and pick a pass rusher, specifically Jerry Hughes of Texas Christian University.
To see how Vandermause gets to that particular pick, read his column here. It's a pretty well-reasoned argument. But with the draft, as we've seen every year, anything can happen.
For example, in the unlikely event that Notre Dame QB Jimmy Clausen were to still be available at #23 (remember we had another highly touted QB that fell pretty far several years back...and it's a good thing he did!), would the Packers take him? Or would they package him off to another team in exchange for...? Or would they just stick to addressing needs even if they have Clausen rated as the best player available, which is what they say they always pick?
Mel Kiper, Jr. has changed his draft scenario and now has the Packers picking offensive guard Mike Iupati out of Idaho. Iupati is the number one rated guard in most scouting reports. But the Pack needs a tackle. Do they think they might be able to convert him? At 6-5 and 331 lbs., it's not a stretch physically. For example, Bryan Bulaga of Iowa, arguably the third ranked tackle in the draft (and an early mock draft favorite in the Pack's #23 spot before his stock started to rise), is listed at 6-6 and 312 lbs.
'Tis a puzzlement! And lots of fun contemplating the possibilities.
The speculation that Schefter seems to be latching onto is that if the Pack has a specific guy they want for offensive tackle and they see that he's still available in that 10-12 range they might pop up to get him.
But Mike Vandermause, the sports editor for the Green Bay Press-Gazette sees it differently. In his column over the weekend, Vandermause says the signs he's picked up from Thompson's comments lead him to conclude that the Pack will stay at #23 and pick a pass rusher, specifically Jerry Hughes of Texas Christian University.
To see how Vandermause gets to that particular pick, read his column here. It's a pretty well-reasoned argument. But with the draft, as we've seen every year, anything can happen.
For example, in the unlikely event that Notre Dame QB Jimmy Clausen were to still be available at #23 (remember we had another highly touted QB that fell pretty far several years back...and it's a good thing he did!), would the Packers take him? Or would they package him off to another team in exchange for...? Or would they just stick to addressing needs even if they have Clausen rated as the best player available, which is what they say they always pick?
Mel Kiper, Jr. has changed his draft scenario and now has the Packers picking offensive guard Mike Iupati out of Idaho. Iupati is the number one rated guard in most scouting reports. But the Pack needs a tackle. Do they think they might be able to convert him? At 6-5 and 331 lbs., it's not a stretch physically. For example, Bryan Bulaga of Iowa, arguably the third ranked tackle in the draft (and an early mock draft favorite in the Pack's #23 spot before his stock started to rise), is listed at 6-6 and 312 lbs.
'Tis a puzzlement! And lots of fun contemplating the possibilities.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Former Packer set to enter National Jewish Sports Hall of Fame
Here's a story you aren't gonna hear every day: a former starting offensive tackle from the Packers is about to be inducted into the National Jewish Sports Hall of Fame this weekend. To borrow a phrase, who knew?
Does the name Alan Veingrad ring a bell? Veingrad was an undrafted free agent pick up by the Pack back in 1986 out of East Texas State. He started every game for the Packers during the 1986-1990 period except for five games in 1987. Veingrad moved on to the Dallas Cowboys as a Plan B free agent for the 1991 season, where he helped Emmitt Smith win the NFL rushing title that year, and helped the 'Boys win it all in Super Bowl XXVII in 1992.
As Packer fans no doubt are aware, the late 1980s period wasn't exactly one of the best for the team; the Packers recorded only one winning season during Veingrad's stay in Green Bay. That obviously had little to do with his play, however, as demonstrated by what happened when he arrived in Dallas.
But moving along...
On today's Only a Game radio show on NPR, there is a segment on Veingrad. Here's the teaser copy: "Some ex-NFL players stay in the league as coaches and administrators after they retire. Some become 'expert analysts' on TV and radio. But others, like Alan Veingrad, find a different way to spend their time. After playing offensive lineman during the late 80’s and early 90’s, he turned to Orthodox Judaism, became a motivational speaker, and is now set to be inducted into the National Jewish Sports Hall of Fame. Only A Game’s Jon Kalish reports."
You can listen to the entire Only a Game show by following the link above, but you can go directly to the clip about Veingrad here. And if you want to check out Veingrad's own website, you can do so here. He's been doing great things and it's nice to see someone with that Green Bay connection -- even if it was 20+ years ago -- achieve such wide recognition.
Very cool, Mr. Veingrad. Very cool, indeed. Congratulations! Mazel tov!
Does the name Alan Veingrad ring a bell? Veingrad was an undrafted free agent pick up by the Pack back in 1986 out of East Texas State. He started every game for the Packers during the 1986-1990 period except for five games in 1987. Veingrad moved on to the Dallas Cowboys as a Plan B free agent for the 1991 season, where he helped Emmitt Smith win the NFL rushing title that year, and helped the 'Boys win it all in Super Bowl XXVII in 1992.As Packer fans no doubt are aware, the late 1980s period wasn't exactly one of the best for the team; the Packers recorded only one winning season during Veingrad's stay in Green Bay. That obviously had little to do with his play, however, as demonstrated by what happened when he arrived in Dallas.
But moving along...
On today's Only a Game radio show on NPR, there is a segment on Veingrad. Here's the teaser copy: "Some ex-NFL players stay in the league as coaches and administrators after they retire. Some become 'expert analysts' on TV and radio. But others, like Alan Veingrad, find a different way to spend their time. After playing offensive lineman during the late 80’s and early 90’s, he turned to Orthodox Judaism, became a motivational speaker, and is now set to be inducted into the National Jewish Sports Hall of Fame. Only A Game’s Jon Kalish reports."
You can listen to the entire Only a Game show by following the link above, but you can go directly to the clip about Veingrad here. And if you want to check out Veingrad's own website, you can do so here. He's been doing great things and it's nice to see someone with that Green Bay connection -- even if it was 20+ years ago -- achieve such wide recognition.
Very cool, Mr. Veingrad. Very cool, indeed. Congratulations! Mazel tov!
Friday, April 16, 2010
Wonderlic this!
As the NFL Draft rapidly approaches, all the various physical attributes of prospective picks are bandied about: 40-yard dash times, number of bench presses at various weights, height of jump, length of arms, height, weight, etc., etc. But one of the scores which seems to get mixed attention -- some weighing it heavily and others not -- is the Wonderlic Personnel Test (i.e., intelligence test) score of the player.
The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel's Packers beat writer extraordinaire, Bob McGinn, has an interesting article in today's edition about offensive line prospect Bruce Campbell out of Maryland. But actually, the article goes much farther than just reviewing Campbell; it also discusses Idaho guard Mike Iupati and Florida center Maurkice Pouncey and their low scores on the Wonderlic. From there, McGinn gets into the behind-the-scenes thinking of NFL personnel experts and how they view not only these individuals' ability to perform at the NFL given their apparent smarts or lack thereof, but also in the process shows how ignoring the Wonderlic score of a prospect might come back to haunt a team...or not. It's a bit of a crap shoot.
The article also shows how a good Wonderlic score might be more important at some positions than others. The obvious one is quarterback. Anyone calling out signals and understanding defensive schemes has to have some smarts. The less obvious positions are offensive center, as well as linebacker and defensive back who might also wind up having to judge what's in front of them quickly and make snap decisions as to what scheme to call out for their particular unit.
It really is a fascinating article, not only for the analysis of the players mentioned but also for a bit of an insight into how NFL personnel people look to the Wonderlic as an assessment tool.
With kudos to one of the readers of that article who added a comment, I also want to pass along a study that reader mentioned which basically calls into question the structure of the Wonderlic and thus its reliability as a predictor of success in the NFL. You can find that study here if you wish to geek out for a moment in the realm of scholarly endeavors.
Check out McGinn's article about Campbell here.
McGinn has another fine article (as part of his Draft preview series) profiling Dez Bryant of Oklahoma State, who some say is the most intriguing wide receiver prospect this year. The catch is whether he will be a star or a bust because of character and work ethic issues. If you're looking for a comparison pre- and post-draft, think Randy Moss. Nobody knows. And, yes, the Wonderlic comes into play with this comparison as well: Moss had a 12 and Bryant scored a 16. Not rocket scientists, but really, running, jumping and catching is something we all learned in kindergarten, right? The rest is finesse...and, paraphrasing Woody Allen, showing up.
Ted's take
Courtesy of Greg Bedard's blog on the Journal-Sentinel site, some bits and pieces from Packers' GM Ted Thompson regarding the draft...as usual, he doesn't give us a clue what he's likely to do.
The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel's Packers beat writer extraordinaire, Bob McGinn, has an interesting article in today's edition about offensive line prospect Bruce Campbell out of Maryland. But actually, the article goes much farther than just reviewing Campbell; it also discusses Idaho guard Mike Iupati and Florida center Maurkice Pouncey and their low scores on the Wonderlic. From there, McGinn gets into the behind-the-scenes thinking of NFL personnel experts and how they view not only these individuals' ability to perform at the NFL given their apparent smarts or lack thereof, but also in the process shows how ignoring the Wonderlic score of a prospect might come back to haunt a team...or not. It's a bit of a crap shoot.
The article also shows how a good Wonderlic score might be more important at some positions than others. The obvious one is quarterback. Anyone calling out signals and understanding defensive schemes has to have some smarts. The less obvious positions are offensive center, as well as linebacker and defensive back who might also wind up having to judge what's in front of them quickly and make snap decisions as to what scheme to call out for their particular unit.
It really is a fascinating article, not only for the analysis of the players mentioned but also for a bit of an insight into how NFL personnel people look to the Wonderlic as an assessment tool.
With kudos to one of the readers of that article who added a comment, I also want to pass along a study that reader mentioned which basically calls into question the structure of the Wonderlic and thus its reliability as a predictor of success in the NFL. You can find that study here if you wish to geek out for a moment in the realm of scholarly endeavors.
Check out McGinn's article about Campbell here.
McGinn has another fine article (as part of his Draft preview series) profiling Dez Bryant of Oklahoma State, who some say is the most intriguing wide receiver prospect this year. The catch is whether he will be a star or a bust because of character and work ethic issues. If you're looking for a comparison pre- and post-draft, think Randy Moss. Nobody knows. And, yes, the Wonderlic comes into play with this comparison as well: Moss had a 12 and Bryant scored a 16. Not rocket scientists, but really, running, jumping and catching is something we all learned in kindergarten, right? The rest is finesse...and, paraphrasing Woody Allen, showing up.
Ted's take
Courtesy of Greg Bedard's blog on the Journal-Sentinel site, some bits and pieces from Packers' GM Ted Thompson regarding the draft...as usual, he doesn't give us a clue what he's likely to do.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Packers 2010 schedule coming Tuesday
Just ahead of the fan frenzy that is now the three-day NFL Draft extravaganza, the NFL will announce team schedules on Tuesday, April 20. The preseason schedule and times were set the last week, and come Tuesday we will know the Pack's schedule versus the team's designated opponents.
For those needing a refresher, here are the Packers' 2010 Home and Away opponents:
Home
Chicago Bears
Detroit Lions
Minnesota Vikings
Dallas Cowboys
New York Giants
San Francisco 49ers
Buffalo Bills
Miami Dolphins
Away
Chicago Bears
Detroit Lions
Minnesota Vikings
Philadelphia Eagles
Washington Redskins
Atlanta Falcons
New England Patriots
New York Jets
Wayne Larrivee's draft prognostications
The radio voice of the Green Bay Packers, Wayne Larrivee, spoke on flagship station 620WTMJ (Milwaukee) this morning about this year's NFL Draft. His opinion is that it is not as deep overall as many media types suggest. Still, he said in the areas that the Packers have needs, good options should exist. In particular, he said offensive tackle, outside linebacker and cornerback are the areas where the Packers will need to bolster the roster...in short, pretty much what everyone knows.
Where his comments became very interesting, however, was the order in which Larrivee thought the Pack's first picks might fall. Rather than the conventional wisdom of selecting an offensive tackle with their first round pick (assuming the Pack stays at #23 rather than tradiing out of it, which could also be a real possibility given GM Ted Thompson's tendencies), Larrivee said he believed the Packers would select an outside linebacker to provide a pass rushing complement to last year's draft sensation, Clay Matthews. Larrivee then said the Pack would address their offensive tackle needs in the second round.
This does seem to make sense as there is a greater opportunity for an outside linebacker to make an immediate impact, as Matthews did. A rookie offensive tackle will sit behind Chad Clifton or Mark Tauscher to learn the trade, and perhaps won't have the possibility of starting for at least another year. Given that scenario, and the apparent equality of tackle prospects beyond those that will likely go in the first 20 picks, Larrivee's scenario might indeed be the one that plays out.
On the other hand, it could also very well be that the Packers would pop for a cornerback in the second round -- or even first -- if one of their key targets is still on the board. There are several good corner prospects in which the Packers would no doubt have interest. A few could not only provide key backup support initially -- or perhaps move into a starting spot depending upon how 35-year-old Al Harris returns from his injury -- but also have kick/punt return capabilities as well, which is also something the Packers have needed for about the last decade now.
Ah, the draft...great to be able to start talking and thinking football again, isn't it, kids? You bet!
For those needing a refresher, here are the Packers' 2010 Home and Away opponents:
Home
Chicago Bears
Detroit Lions
Minnesota Vikings
Dallas Cowboys
New York Giants
San Francisco 49ers
Buffalo Bills
Miami Dolphins
Away
Chicago Bears
Detroit Lions
Minnesota Vikings
Philadelphia Eagles
Washington Redskins
Atlanta Falcons
New England Patriots
New York Jets
Wayne Larrivee's draft prognostications
The radio voice of the Green Bay Packers, Wayne Larrivee, spoke on flagship station 620WTMJ (Milwaukee) this morning about this year's NFL Draft. His opinion is that it is not as deep overall as many media types suggest. Still, he said in the areas that the Packers have needs, good options should exist. In particular, he said offensive tackle, outside linebacker and cornerback are the areas where the Packers will need to bolster the roster...in short, pretty much what everyone knows.
Where his comments became very interesting, however, was the order in which Larrivee thought the Pack's first picks might fall. Rather than the conventional wisdom of selecting an offensive tackle with their first round pick (assuming the Pack stays at #23 rather than tradiing out of it, which could also be a real possibility given GM Ted Thompson's tendencies), Larrivee said he believed the Packers would select an outside linebacker to provide a pass rushing complement to last year's draft sensation, Clay Matthews. Larrivee then said the Pack would address their offensive tackle needs in the second round.
This does seem to make sense as there is a greater opportunity for an outside linebacker to make an immediate impact, as Matthews did. A rookie offensive tackle will sit behind Chad Clifton or Mark Tauscher to learn the trade, and perhaps won't have the possibility of starting for at least another year. Given that scenario, and the apparent equality of tackle prospects beyond those that will likely go in the first 20 picks, Larrivee's scenario might indeed be the one that plays out.
On the other hand, it could also very well be that the Packers would pop for a cornerback in the second round -- or even first -- if one of their key targets is still on the board. There are several good corner prospects in which the Packers would no doubt have interest. A few could not only provide key backup support initially -- or perhaps move into a starting spot depending upon how 35-year-old Al Harris returns from his injury -- but also have kick/punt return capabilities as well, which is also something the Packers have needed for about the last decade now.
Ah, the draft...great to be able to start talking and thinking football again, isn't it, kids? You bet!
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Packers interested in Westbrook?
There was a time early in his career when, I suspect, many a Packers fan wished that Eagles running back Brian Westbrook would not be so good...especially, it seemed, in every game against the Packers.
The Eagles released Westbrook, now 30 years of age, in February. To date, no team has picked him up. There was some immediate speculation that the ViQueens might add him to their roster with Chester Taylor having signed with Da Bearz. But, not yet.
Now there is word the Pack might be considering Westbrook. He was always a solid back, equally good at receiving as rushing, which might make him an intriguing possibility for the Packers as a reliable third-down back. The catch is that he missed half of last season with two concussions. He's also absorbed a lot of hits over the years, in addition to the concussions. But if he passes a physical, perhaps playing in a limited role might be good for him and a plus for the Packers. The Packers have never been able to find a solid third-down answer under head coach Mike McCarthy's tenure. Westbrook might be a viable option, especially on a one-year contract.
You can read more about the Westbrook scenario here. And if you look at the results of the online poll as to whether the Packers should sign Westbrook or not...well, a lot of people think so.
Draft possibilities at running back
Of course, with the draft a little more than a week away, the Packers are no doubt considering their options at running back there, as well. Several mock drafts have the Pack picking up a running back in the mid to late rounds. Names mentioned include: LeGarrette Blount, Oregon (he of sucker-punch fame, whose early round draft position likely has dropped because of character issues); Joe McKnight, USC; Jahvid Best, California; Anthony Dixon, Mississippi State; Dexter McCluster, Mississippi; Charles Scott, LSU; Andre Dixon, Connecticut; Chris Brown, Oklahoma; Deji Karim, Southern Illinois; Toby Gerhart, Stanford.
We wouldn't expect GM Ted Thompson to use more than one draft pick on a running back, relying instead on his current roster (Ryan Grant, Brandon Jackson, Ahman Green, DeShawn Wynn and Kregg Lumpkin), possibly the pick up of Westbrook, and post-draft street free agent signings to fill out the spring and summer camps. But the Packers could definitely use a solid second back to Grant, someone who could push him, as well as substitute for him especially on third downs. The Packers don't really have any pure speed/juke backs on board. A change of pace back for the opposing defense to have to scheme for would certainly help open up the Packers already potent offense.
The Eagles released Westbrook, now 30 years of age, in February. To date, no team has picked him up. There was some immediate speculation that the ViQueens might add him to their roster with Chester Taylor having signed with Da Bearz. But, not yet.
Now there is word the Pack might be considering Westbrook. He was always a solid back, equally good at receiving as rushing, which might make him an intriguing possibility for the Packers as a reliable third-down back. The catch is that he missed half of last season with two concussions. He's also absorbed a lot of hits over the years, in addition to the concussions. But if he passes a physical, perhaps playing in a limited role might be good for him and a plus for the Packers. The Packers have never been able to find a solid third-down answer under head coach Mike McCarthy's tenure. Westbrook might be a viable option, especially on a one-year contract.
You can read more about the Westbrook scenario here. And if you look at the results of the online poll as to whether the Packers should sign Westbrook or not...well, a lot of people think so.
Draft possibilities at running back
Of course, with the draft a little more than a week away, the Packers are no doubt considering their options at running back there, as well. Several mock drafts have the Pack picking up a running back in the mid to late rounds. Names mentioned include: LeGarrette Blount, Oregon (he of sucker-punch fame, whose early round draft position likely has dropped because of character issues); Joe McKnight, USC; Jahvid Best, California; Anthony Dixon, Mississippi State; Dexter McCluster, Mississippi; Charles Scott, LSU; Andre Dixon, Connecticut; Chris Brown, Oklahoma; Deji Karim, Southern Illinois; Toby Gerhart, Stanford.
We wouldn't expect GM Ted Thompson to use more than one draft pick on a running back, relying instead on his current roster (Ryan Grant, Brandon Jackson, Ahman Green, DeShawn Wynn and Kregg Lumpkin), possibly the pick up of Westbrook, and post-draft street free agent signings to fill out the spring and summer camps. But the Packers could definitely use a solid second back to Grant, someone who could push him, as well as substitute for him especially on third downs. The Packers don't really have any pure speed/juke backs on board. A change of pace back for the opposing defense to have to scheme for would certainly help open up the Packers already potent offense.
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Packers exhibition game times set
While the opponents for the Packers preseason schedule were known within the last few weeks, the exact game dates and times were still not nailed down.
Now they are. And here ya go...
• Cleveland Browns, 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 14, at Lambeau Field (Gold ticket package)
• Seattle Seahawks, 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 21, at Qwest Field
• Indianapolis Colts, 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 26, at Lambeau Field
• Kansas City Chiefs, 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 2, at Arrowhead Stadium
Now they are. And here ya go...
• Cleveland Browns, 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 14, at Lambeau Field (Gold ticket package)
• Seattle Seahawks, 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 21, at Qwest Field
• Indianapolis Colts, 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 26, at Lambeau Field
• Kansas City Chiefs, 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 2, at Arrowhead Stadium
Monday, April 05, 2010
Packers draft possibilities
Less than three weeks from now we will know who the Packers are betting on to help build the roster going into Spring and Summer camps. As well as have a good idea as to what direction GM Ted Thompson is taking in filling obvious needs on the team.
But in the meantime, mock drafts offer much to chew on. Listed below are the names which are cropping up in some of the published mock drafts elsewhere on the Web. We're just passing them along here, along with the number of times they appear in different draft scenarios. These names are mentioned as first round possibilities for the Packers only, who are currently slated to pick at #23. Obviously, things can change dramatically if Thompson trades up (rare) or down (more common) during the draft itself.
It is interesting, in reviewing the various names proferred by the mock draft-istas, to look at how the consensus seems to skew towards offensive line picks...no real surprise there. What is surprising is that some of the picks mentioned as possibilities for the Packers at #23 are slotted in other mock draft line ups as top 10 picks; Bryan Baluga, Charles Brown and Anthony Davis in particular seem to literally be all across the board, both having moved up following the NFL Combine.
...And with the number 23 pick, the Packers select (maybe)...
Mike Iupati, G, Idaho (2x)
Sergio Kindle, DE/OLB, Texas (2x)
Charles Brown, OT, USC (3x)
Rolando McClain, ILB, ALABAMA
Maurkice Pouncey, C/G, FLORIDA
Taylor Mays, S, USC
Bryan Baluga, OT, Iowa (2x)
Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers (3x)
Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma
Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State (3x)
Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan
But in the meantime, mock drafts offer much to chew on. Listed below are the names which are cropping up in some of the published mock drafts elsewhere on the Web. We're just passing them along here, along with the number of times they appear in different draft scenarios. These names are mentioned as first round possibilities for the Packers only, who are currently slated to pick at #23. Obviously, things can change dramatically if Thompson trades up (rare) or down (more common) during the draft itself.
It is interesting, in reviewing the various names proferred by the mock draft-istas, to look at how the consensus seems to skew towards offensive line picks...no real surprise there. What is surprising is that some of the picks mentioned as possibilities for the Packers at #23 are slotted in other mock draft line ups as top 10 picks; Bryan Baluga, Charles Brown and Anthony Davis in particular seem to literally be all across the board, both having moved up following the NFL Combine.
...And with the number 23 pick, the Packers select (maybe)...
Mike Iupati, G, Idaho (2x)
Sergio Kindle, DE/OLB, Texas (2x)
Charles Brown, OT, USC (3x)
Rolando McClain, ILB, ALABAMA
Maurkice Pouncey, C/G, FLORIDA
Taylor Mays, S, USC
Bryan Baluga, OT, Iowa (2x)
Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers (3x)
Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma
Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State (3x)
Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Packers 2010 preseason schedule announced
The NFL announced the Packers preseason schedule today, although exact dates and times are still to be determined except for the nationally televised game #3 versus the Colts:
Aug. 12-16 - Home
CLEVELAND BROWNS (Gold pkg.)
Midwest Shrine Game
TV: WFRV/state
Aug. 19-23 - Away
at Seattle Seahawks
TV: WFRV/state
Aug. 26 - 7 p.m. - Home
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
Bishop's Charities Game
TV: ESPN
Sept. 2-3 - Away
at Kansas City Chiefs
TV: WFRV/state
You can read more about the schedule at the Packers' site, here.
Aug. 12-16 - Home
CLEVELAND BROWNS (Gold pkg.)
Midwest Shrine Game
TV: WFRV/state
Aug. 19-23 - Away
at Seattle Seahawks
TV: WFRV/state
Aug. 26 - 7 p.m. - Home
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
Bishop's Charities Game
TV: ESPN
Sept. 2-3 - Away
at Kansas City Chiefs
TV: WFRV/state
You can read more about the schedule at the Packers' site, here.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Packer updates
Yikes. It's been a bit since the last post here. Sorry about that. But really, there hasn't been all that much going on of major significance recently. Granted, many blogs don't let that prevent them from posting. But that's not the way we do things here at PackerFansUnited.com. Well, at least not most of the time.
So, what has been going on? Get a cuppa java and settle in...this is gonna take a while...
Punter signed
The Packers -- as a sign of their total desperation in the punting game -- last week signed an Australian Rules Football player who has never played a down of American football. Now, some might argue that even veteran NFL punters have never played a down of American football either, but that's a whole other conversation. Since totally botching the punter position by releasing Jon Ryan virtually on the eve of the start of the 2008 season, the Packers have been mired in mediocrity at the position. (It might also be noted that Ryan has gone on to have two good seasons in Seattle and recently signed a multi-year deal with them.)
The fact is, there are just not that many quality free agent punters available at the moment, and the college ranks coming into the draft also don't look compelling...and do we really want a reprise of Mike Sherman's third-round draft debacle of B. J. Sander? So, when all else fails, look down under...no, not there! Australia, mate...put another shrimp on the barbie...Fosters "Australian for beer", etc.
So who is this Aussie? Chris Bryan, a 28-year-old left-footer. He joins Tim Masthay, 23, another left-footer free agent the Packers also picked up recently. Masthay was in camp with Indianapolis in 2009 but didn't even kick in an exhibition game. So, things don't look promising for this aspect of the game at present. If you care to be even more depressed about this than I've already made you, you can read more here. If you wish to read about coach Mike McCarthy's optimistic take on the situation, then check out this article.
Draft order set
The NFL draft will take place over not just two days any longer, but three, starting with a Thursday evening primetime extravaganza. It's all about the dollars, kids, as if there was ever any doubt about that. Here's the Packers' picks during the April 22-24 marathon (btw, I apologize in advance if the table spacing doesn't appear correctly in your browser...keep scrolling...it's there...really):
McCarthy talks O-line
It's not like that is surprising, is it? Head Coach Mike McCarthy has been answering questions about the offensive line ever since he's been at the helm of the Packers. No different this season. At the NFL Owners meeting, McCarthy talked about the offensive line. Check out his comments here.
Pack gets compensatory pick
The NFL awarded the Packers a fifth-round selection, No. 169 overall, as compensation for the loss of nose tackle Colin Cole to the Seattle Seahawks last year. It's the first time in two years the Packers have been awarded a compensatory pick.
Touchdown Havner down?
Linebacker/tight end touchdown maker, Spencer Havner, was recently in a motorcycle accident in California and suffered a broken shoulder bone. Packers medical staff hasn't been able to evaluate him yet because Havner hasn't been able to travel. To complicate the matter further, Havner was arrested on suspicion of drunken driving. Although no charges have yet been filed, they are apparently under consideration by the district attorney's office in that particular jurisdiction. You can read more here.
Owners make OT rule changes
You've no doubt heard about the so-called "Favre rule" coming to post-season overtimes near you. Some sports pundits speculate that the impetus for the change this year was because the ViQueens lost in overtime in the NFC Championship game. Yes, we all know that all Ol' #4 had to do was take a knee near the end of regulation and Ryan Longwell would have booted them into the Super Bowl. But...well...given a choice between doing what makes sense and being a gunslinger...yep. So, the owners finally decided to make some changes. Currently, these changes only apply to post-season games. But they may review the rule further for regular season play, as well. And, interestingly, the 'Queens were one of only four teams to vote against the rule change; go figure.
Here are the changes approved for 2010 post-season overtime games:
• Both teams must have the opportunity to possess the ball once during the extra period, unless the team that receives the opening kickoff scores a touchdown on its initial possession, in which case it is the winner.
• If the team that possesses the ball first scores a field goal on its initial possession, the other team shall have the opportunity to possess the ball. If [that team] scores a touchdown on its possession, it is the winner. If the score is tied after [both teams have a] possession, the team next scoring by any method shall be the winner.
• If the score is tied at the end of a 15-minute overtime period, or if [the overtime period's] initial possession has not ended, another overtime period will begin, and play will continue until a score is made, regardless of how many 15-minute periods are necessary.
So, what has been going on? Get a cuppa java and settle in...this is gonna take a while...
Punter signed
The Packers -- as a sign of their total desperation in the punting game -- last week signed an Australian Rules Football player who has never played a down of American football. Now, some might argue that even veteran NFL punters have never played a down of American football either, but that's a whole other conversation. Since totally botching the punter position by releasing Jon Ryan virtually on the eve of the start of the 2008 season, the Packers have been mired in mediocrity at the position. (It might also be noted that Ryan has gone on to have two good seasons in Seattle and recently signed a multi-year deal with them.)
The fact is, there are just not that many quality free agent punters available at the moment, and the college ranks coming into the draft also don't look compelling...and do we really want a reprise of Mike Sherman's third-round draft debacle of B. J. Sander? So, when all else fails, look down under...no, not there! Australia, mate...put another shrimp on the barbie...Fosters "Australian for beer", etc.
So who is this Aussie? Chris Bryan, a 28-year-old left-footer. He joins Tim Masthay, 23, another left-footer free agent the Packers also picked up recently. Masthay was in camp with Indianapolis in 2009 but didn't even kick in an exhibition game. So, things don't look promising for this aspect of the game at present. If you care to be even more depressed about this than I've already made you, you can read more here. If you wish to read about coach Mike McCarthy's optimistic take on the situation, then check out this article.
Draft order set
The NFL draft will take place over not just two days any longer, but three, starting with a Thursday evening primetime extravaganza. It's all about the dollars, kids, as if there was ever any doubt about that. Here's the Packers' picks during the April 22-24 marathon (btw, I apologize in advance if the table spacing doesn't appear correctly in your browser...keep scrolling...it's there...really):
| ROUND | PICK | OVERALL |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 23 | 23 |
| 2 | 24 | 56 |
| 3 | 23 | 86 |
| 4 | 24 | 122 |
| 5 | 23 | 154 |
| 5 | 38 | 169 (Comp) |
| 6 | 24 | 193 |
| 7 | 23 | 230 |
McCarthy talks O-line
It's not like that is surprising, is it? Head Coach Mike McCarthy has been answering questions about the offensive line ever since he's been at the helm of the Packers. No different this season. At the NFL Owners meeting, McCarthy talked about the offensive line. Check out his comments here.
Pack gets compensatory pick
The NFL awarded the Packers a fifth-round selection, No. 169 overall, as compensation for the loss of nose tackle Colin Cole to the Seattle Seahawks last year. It's the first time in two years the Packers have been awarded a compensatory pick.
Touchdown Havner down?
Linebacker/tight end touchdown maker, Spencer Havner, was recently in a motorcycle accident in California and suffered a broken shoulder bone. Packers medical staff hasn't been able to evaluate him yet because Havner hasn't been able to travel. To complicate the matter further, Havner was arrested on suspicion of drunken driving. Although no charges have yet been filed, they are apparently under consideration by the district attorney's office in that particular jurisdiction. You can read more here.
Owners make OT rule changes
You've no doubt heard about the so-called "Favre rule" coming to post-season overtimes near you. Some sports pundits speculate that the impetus for the change this year was because the ViQueens lost in overtime in the NFC Championship game. Yes, we all know that all Ol' #4 had to do was take a knee near the end of regulation and Ryan Longwell would have booted them into the Super Bowl. But...well...given a choice between doing what makes sense and being a gunslinger...yep. So, the owners finally decided to make some changes. Currently, these changes only apply to post-season games. But they may review the rule further for regular season play, as well. And, interestingly, the 'Queens were one of only four teams to vote against the rule change; go figure.
Here are the changes approved for 2010 post-season overtime games:
• Both teams must have the opportunity to possess the ball once during the extra period, unless the team that receives the opening kickoff scores a touchdown on its initial possession, in which case it is the winner.
• If the team that possesses the ball first scores a field goal on its initial possession, the other team shall have the opportunity to possess the ball. If [that team] scores a touchdown on its possession, it is the winner. If the score is tied after [both teams have a] possession, the team next scoring by any method shall be the winner.
• If the score is tied at the end of a 15-minute overtime period, or if [the overtime period's] initial possession has not ended, another overtime period will begin, and play will continue until a score is made, regardless of how many 15-minute periods are necessary.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Tauscher back with the Pack!
According to an article on ESPNmilwaukee.com by Jason Wilde and citing NFL sources, and as hinted to Friday by head coach Mike McCarthy, the Packers have reached agreement with veteran right tackle Mark Tauscher on a reported two-year deal that will likely allow "Tausch" to finish his career with the team that drafted him, his home state team.
Returning to the Packers late last season after coming off a serious knee injury and rehab, Tauscher helped reestablish solid offensive line play down the stretch. He may not be flashy, and he may be getting a bit long in the tooth at age 33 (as of this June), but he is solid. Combined with the re-signing of LT Chad Clifton last week, the Pack have returned their starting tackles to the roster, giving them the opportunity to bring in and nurture the necessary replacements for either this year or a year or two down the line. QB Aaron Rodgers will have good security blankets on both ends of the line for at least this season and hopefully beyond.
You can read Wilde's report here.
Returning to the Packers late last season after coming off a serious knee injury and rehab, Tauscher helped reestablish solid offensive line play down the stretch. He may not be flashy, and he may be getting a bit long in the tooth at age 33 (as of this June), but he is solid. Combined with the re-signing of LT Chad Clifton last week, the Pack have returned their starting tackles to the roster, giving them the opportunity to bring in and nurture the necessary replacements for either this year or a year or two down the line. QB Aaron Rodgers will have good security blankets on both ends of the line for at least this season and hopefully beyond.
You can read Wilde's report here.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Packers add Pickett to signings
In a week in which the Packers kept their offensive left tackle position stabilized (at least short-term) with the re-signing of Chad Clifton, and locked down one of the best young safeties in the league by re-signing Nick Collins, the Packers on Friday announced that they had also come to terms on re-signing nose tackle Ryan Pickett. While all of these were either known or anticipated, the Pack chose the annual Fan Fest at the Lambeau Field Atrium to make the official announcements. According to reports, the team dropped some major coinage into these players' bank accounts in exchange for the multi-year deals. You can read more about them here.
Alternate Uniform Unveiled
The Packers new "alternate" uniform was unveiled during Fan Fest on Friday and if you were around in 1929 it might look vaguely familiar. You'd remember this being the uniform of the team's first world championship team. Well, sorta. A few adaptations have naturally been made for the modern game. No leather helmet, for example, although the helmet will be a shade of brown as a nod to the old leather days. Helmet aside, the uni's almost remind one of Notre Dame's home look...almost. They're not bad, especially for a throwback look. And just think of the merchandising opportunities. Which, naturally, the Packers have: all related jerseys, sideline apparel and merchandise will be available eventually through the Packers Pro Shop.
Duke Bobber/Packers.com
According to a story on the Packers' website: "The jersey is navy blue with the number on the front inside a gold circle. The circle and number are enlarged a bit from their 1929 size to comply with NFL regulations regarding jersey numbers. An enlarged number is also on the back, with a nameplate above the number, another modification that wasn't present in 1929. The helmet is a solid brown color without a logo to best simulate the leather helmets worn during the era. The uniform pants are a tan color."
Further from the same story: "NFL teams are allowed to have a third jersey that they can wear for up to three games per season (no more than two home games) over a five-year period. Murphy said the Packers would wear it for home games only, and for one or possibly two games this coming season, with potential future use to be evaluated. Which game or games will depend on the team's schedule, which will be released sometime in April."
You can see players in the new uni's here. Photos of the jersey alone can be found here. There's even a shot or two of the original '29 jersey and uniform on which this new version is modelled.
Alternate Uniform Unveiled
The Packers new "alternate" uniform was unveiled during Fan Fest on Friday and if you were around in 1929 it might look vaguely familiar. You'd remember this being the uniform of the team's first world championship team. Well, sorta. A few adaptations have naturally been made for the modern game. No leather helmet, for example, although the helmet will be a shade of brown as a nod to the old leather days. Helmet aside, the uni's almost remind one of Notre Dame's home look...almost. They're not bad, especially for a throwback look. And just think of the merchandising opportunities. Which, naturally, the Packers have: all related jerseys, sideline apparel and merchandise will be available eventually through the Packers Pro Shop.
Duke Bobber/Packers.com
According to a story on the Packers' website: "The jersey is navy blue with the number on the front inside a gold circle. The circle and number are enlarged a bit from their 1929 size to comply with NFL regulations regarding jersey numbers. An enlarged number is also on the back, with a nameplate above the number, another modification that wasn't present in 1929. The helmet is a solid brown color without a logo to best simulate the leather helmets worn during the era. The uniform pants are a tan color."
Further from the same story: "NFL teams are allowed to have a third jersey that they can wear for up to three games per season (no more than two home games) over a five-year period. Murphy said the Packers would wear it for home games only, and for one or possibly two games this coming season, with potential future use to be evaluated. Which game or games will depend on the team's schedule, which will be released sometime in April."
You can see players in the new uni's here. Photos of the jersey alone can be found here. There's even a shot or two of the original '29 jersey and uniform on which this new version is modelled.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
NFC North: Da Bearz and Lions try to improve
I know, I know, that really is a bit of an oxymoron, isn't it? Talking about Da Bearz and Lions in the same sentence as the word "improve." C'mon, right?
Well, there is no doubt after the early days of free agency signings that the playing field will have changed when the Packers meet their division foes to the south and east this Fall. Da Bearz management somehow got ownership (i.e., the McCaskeys) to pry open their wallet and fork over what reports say could be up to $121 million for three players: defensive end Julius Peppers, tight end Brandon Manumaleuna and running back Chester Taylor. So, perhaps we'll see improved defensive line play in Chicago. Taylor was primarily a 3rd down back with the ViQueens and will spell Matt Forte at running back. Still, they have Jay Cutler at QB (how'd that big signing work out last season, by the way? Oh...right...) and still nobody for him to throw to. A shame, really, given that bucketload of money they gave to Cutler last season...and then there were all those draft choices they traded away as part of that deal, too. You can almost smell the desperation coming out of Chi-Town, can't you?
As for the Lions, the perennial bottom feeders of the division and league, they signed defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch and receiver Nate Burleson. They also traded a couple late-round draft picks for defensive tackle Corey Williams and cornerback Chris Houston. Interesting moves that should help the rebuilding process in Detroit. But they still have a long way to go.
As regards the ViQueens, the only thing that matters there -- or in the division, really -- is whether Ol' #4 decides to come back. Given that the 'Queens will let him come dancing back in for a few weeks of training camp prior to the season, my bet is we'll see Brett Favre under center for one mo' go 'round in that funky purple.
The Pack, of course, has really done little in the way of outside free agency signings. GM Ted Thompson seems to be more focused on keeping the best of his own roster on board, resigning LT Chad Clifton and S Nick Collins and letting DE Aaron Kampman walk away.
The only true free agent signing so far came yesterday in the form of WR Charles Dillon. Who? From the Packers own press release: "The Green Bay Packers have signed WR Charles Dillon. Executive Vice President, General Manager and Director of Football Operations Ted Thompson announced the signing Tuesday. A 6-foot, 202-pound first-year player, Dillon spent time with the Indianapolis Colts during training camp in 2008. A former Washington State letterman, he spent the 2009 season with the Spokane Shock in af2. He will wear No. 17." Ah, now we know.
A wide receiver issued #17. Kind of like a baseball pitcher being issued #91. Likelihood of sticking? You got it, not much, particularly with the Pack's already exceptional receiving corps as your competition. Unless, that is, Dillon's exceptional speed and apparent ability to find the endzone (at least on shortened arena league fields) gives him a shot as a returner on special teams. Ya never know.
Packers to unveil a third uniform this weekend
Perhaps some of the biggest news to potentially emerge this weekend during the Packers Fan Fest at Lambeau Field will be the unveiling of the official third "alternate" jersey and uniform for this season and perhaps beyond. The only scuttlebutt so far, confirmed on the Packers website, is that the look will derive from the Pack's first decade of existence. For those not up on their Packers history, that would be the 1920s. According to an article at packers.com, "In their first decade, the Packers wore navy blue jerseys with golden or canvas-colored pants and a brown leather helmet. The uniform to be unveiled Friday will be a re-creation of a uniform from that era, modified to adhere to current NFL guidelines regarding elements like jersey numbers and names."
Of course, there will also be merchandising opportunities galore that come along with the new look: "The third jerseys, as well as the accompanying sideline apparel that the coaches and support staff will wear during the game, will be available to fans in the Packers Pro Shop at a later date. Murphy anticipated that would be sometime around training camp or the start of the regular season."
So...keep an eye out...what's old is new again for Packer fans everywhere.
Well, there is no doubt after the early days of free agency signings that the playing field will have changed when the Packers meet their division foes to the south and east this Fall. Da Bearz management somehow got ownership (i.e., the McCaskeys) to pry open their wallet and fork over what reports say could be up to $121 million for three players: defensive end Julius Peppers, tight end Brandon Manumaleuna and running back Chester Taylor. So, perhaps we'll see improved defensive line play in Chicago. Taylor was primarily a 3rd down back with the ViQueens and will spell Matt Forte at running back. Still, they have Jay Cutler at QB (how'd that big signing work out last season, by the way? Oh...right...) and still nobody for him to throw to. A shame, really, given that bucketload of money they gave to Cutler last season...and then there were all those draft choices they traded away as part of that deal, too. You can almost smell the desperation coming out of Chi-Town, can't you?
As for the Lions, the perennial bottom feeders of the division and league, they signed defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch and receiver Nate Burleson. They also traded a couple late-round draft picks for defensive tackle Corey Williams and cornerback Chris Houston. Interesting moves that should help the rebuilding process in Detroit. But they still have a long way to go.
As regards the ViQueens, the only thing that matters there -- or in the division, really -- is whether Ol' #4 decides to come back. Given that the 'Queens will let him come dancing back in for a few weeks of training camp prior to the season, my bet is we'll see Brett Favre under center for one mo' go 'round in that funky purple.
The Pack, of course, has really done little in the way of outside free agency signings. GM Ted Thompson seems to be more focused on keeping the best of his own roster on board, resigning LT Chad Clifton and S Nick Collins and letting DE Aaron Kampman walk away.
The only true free agent signing so far came yesterday in the form of WR Charles Dillon. Who? From the Packers own press release: "The Green Bay Packers have signed WR Charles Dillon. Executive Vice President, General Manager and Director of Football Operations Ted Thompson announced the signing Tuesday. A 6-foot, 202-pound first-year player, Dillon spent time with the Indianapolis Colts during training camp in 2008. A former Washington State letterman, he spent the 2009 season with the Spokane Shock in af2. He will wear No. 17." Ah, now we know.
A wide receiver issued #17. Kind of like a baseball pitcher being issued #91. Likelihood of sticking? You got it, not much, particularly with the Pack's already exceptional receiving corps as your competition. Unless, that is, Dillon's exceptional speed and apparent ability to find the endzone (at least on shortened arena league fields) gives him a shot as a returner on special teams. Ya never know.
Packers to unveil a third uniform this weekend
Perhaps some of the biggest news to potentially emerge this weekend during the Packers Fan Fest at Lambeau Field will be the unveiling of the official third "alternate" jersey and uniform for this season and perhaps beyond. The only scuttlebutt so far, confirmed on the Packers website, is that the look will derive from the Pack's first decade of existence. For those not up on their Packers history, that would be the 1920s. According to an article at packers.com, "In their first decade, the Packers wore navy blue jerseys with golden or canvas-colored pants and a brown leather helmet. The uniform to be unveiled Friday will be a re-creation of a uniform from that era, modified to adhere to current NFL guidelines regarding elements like jersey numbers and names."
Of course, there will also be merchandising opportunities galore that come along with the new look: "The third jerseys, as well as the accompanying sideline apparel that the coaches and support staff will wear during the game, will be available to fans in the Packers Pro Shop at a later date. Murphy anticipated that would be sometime around training camp or the start of the regular season."
So...keep an eye out...what's old is new again for Packer fans everywhere.
Tuesday, March 09, 2010
Collins sticks with the Pack
In what can only be described as a good moment in the free agent period, S Nick Collins has signed his restricted free agent tender offer, according to a report in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, confirmed by Collins' agent.
Both sides apparently want to get a long-term deal done and Collins and his agent see this tender offer and signing as a good faith effort on his part and that of the Packers to try to get those negotiations jump started. The deal is one year for $3.3 million. The Packers sent a clear signal that they wanted to retain Collins by placing the highest tender on him. Any interested team would have had to compensate the Packers with both a first- and third-round draft choice if it signed him and the Packers declined to match the offer. The Pack in effect took Collins off the market with that tender.
You can read more about the deal here.
This is good news for the Packers as it should lock down a critical piece of the defensive secondary, particularly at a time when a few of the other pieces might not be as certain due to age, injury, etc. The secondary was tremendous last season, led by CB Charles Woodson. Having Collins at safety is a key to keeping that unit's overall performance among the top in the league.
Both sides apparently want to get a long-term deal done and Collins and his agent see this tender offer and signing as a good faith effort on his part and that of the Packers to try to get those negotiations jump started. The deal is one year for $3.3 million. The Packers sent a clear signal that they wanted to retain Collins by placing the highest tender on him. Any interested team would have had to compensate the Packers with both a first- and third-round draft choice if it signed him and the Packers declined to match the offer. The Pack in effect took Collins off the market with that tender.
You can read more about the deal here.
This is good news for the Packers as it should lock down a critical piece of the defensive secondary, particularly at a time when a few of the other pieces might not be as certain due to age, injury, etc. The secondary was tremendous last season, led by CB Charles Woodson. Having Collins at safety is a key to keeping that unit's overall performance among the top in the league.
Monday, March 08, 2010
Kampman heads to Jacksonville
In a very anticlimactic departure, longtime Packer Aaron Kampman has left the building, so to speak.
After being moved from his down defensive end position to upright outside linebacker in the Packers new 3-4 scheme last season, it was apparent that Kampman wasn't happy. Whether through an inability or an unwillingness to adapt to the system, Kampman was a fish out of water. It was apparent. With free agency looming, the Packers should have traded him. Instead, they waited, apparently thinking he'd come around. The only thing that came around was a season-ending knee injury which all but guaranteed that Kampman would move on and the Packers would receive absolutely nothing for one of the best pass rushing defensive ends in the league. Sad on a lot of fronts.
Kampman was and is a fan fave. He was a valuable member of the Packers and extended Green Bay community. His leadership will be missed.
The Florida Times-Union reported Kampman's new contract with the Jaguars is worth $26 million over four years, including $11 million guaranteed. And, yes, the Jags play the ol' 4-3 in which Kampman admits feeling much more comfortable.
Anyway, the Pack last week kept LT Chad Clifton as a security blanket to protect QB Aaron Rodgers. This week, they decided they couldn't fit this round peg called Aaron Kampman into the square hole of the 3-4 scheme.
See ya, Mr. Kampman. Thanks for your eight years of great service to the Green 'n' Gold.
You can read more about Kampman's signing with the Jaguars here.
After being moved from his down defensive end position to upright outside linebacker in the Packers new 3-4 scheme last season, it was apparent that Kampman wasn't happy. Whether through an inability or an unwillingness to adapt to the system, Kampman was a fish out of water. It was apparent. With free agency looming, the Packers should have traded him. Instead, they waited, apparently thinking he'd come around. The only thing that came around was a season-ending knee injury which all but guaranteed that Kampman would move on and the Packers would receive absolutely nothing for one of the best pass rushing defensive ends in the league. Sad on a lot of fronts.
Kampman was and is a fan fave. He was a valuable member of the Packers and extended Green Bay community. His leadership will be missed.
The Florida Times-Union reported Kampman's new contract with the Jaguars is worth $26 million over four years, including $11 million guaranteed. And, yes, the Jags play the ol' 4-3 in which Kampman admits feeling much more comfortable.
Anyway, the Pack last week kept LT Chad Clifton as a security blanket to protect QB Aaron Rodgers. This week, they decided they couldn't fit this round peg called Aaron Kampman into the square hole of the 3-4 scheme.
See ya, Mr. Kampman. Thanks for your eight years of great service to the Green 'n' Gold.
You can read more about Kampman's signing with the Jaguars here.
Thursday, March 04, 2010
Packers make offers to nine
Packer safeties Nick Collins and Atari Bigby, cornerbacks Tramon Williams and Will Blackmon, offensive guards Daryn Colledge and Jason Spitz, defensive end Johnny Jolly, fullback John Kuhn and tight end Spencer Havner all received tender offers from the Packers on Wednesday, according to a report in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. What the dollar amounts in each case were is still unkown.
Basically, these qualifying tenders mean that if one of these restricted free agents -- with the exception of Havner -- walks away and accepts an offer elsewhere, the Packers are entitled to compensation in the form of a specific round draft choice.
One of the players to whom an offer was not extended was punter Jeremy Kapinos. The Pack have only a street free agent punter on board right now, Tim Masthay, so they will be looking for help on the free agent and/or draft market for sure.
Check out the article noted above for more info.
Basically, these qualifying tenders mean that if one of these restricted free agents -- with the exception of Havner -- walks away and accepts an offer elsewhere, the Packers are entitled to compensation in the form of a specific round draft choice.
One of the players to whom an offer was not extended was punter Jeremy Kapinos. The Pack have only a street free agent punter on board right now, Tim Masthay, so they will be looking for help on the free agent and/or draft market for sure.
Check out the article noted above for more info.
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