While we're still waiting to see what the 2009 regular season holds in the way of scheduling -- other than what we already know about opening weekend (Da Bearz at Lambeau) and Turkey Day (at Detroit) -- we now at least can start to sniff the the new football season.
While specific dates and times are yet to be determined, as well as TV coverage outside of the state, you'll be seeing the Pack play their first two games at home and then wind up with two on the road.
Aug. 13-17: Cleveland Browns (Gold pkg.)
Midwest Shrine Game
TV: state
Aug. 20-24: Buffalo Bills
Bishop's Charities Game
TV: state
Aug. 27-31: at Arizona Cardinals
TV: state
Sept. 3-4: at Tennessee Titans
TV: state
Note for the dim: the date ranges indicated above do not mean the games actually last, e.g., from Aug. 13-17, just that the game will take place sometime during that time frame; that's the "to be determined" part of things at this point. Just so we're clear.
You can learn more here.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Friday, March 27, 2009
Packers - gasp - sign free agent
Well this one sure slid in under the radar. The Packers have had their first unrestricted free agent signing of the offseason. And it was for a lineman! But, before you get your hopes up, no, it wasn't for a defensive lineman. Other side of the ball.
The Pack signed 26-year-old guard/center Duke Preston, who was formerly with the Buffalo Bills, to a two-year deal. Preston is an impressive physical specimen at 6'5" and 326 lbs. According to a report in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, "A fourth-round draft choice from the University of Illinois in 2005, Preston has appeared in 59 games with 20 starts, all with the Buffalo Bills. In addition to playing guard and center, he has played some right tackle." In other words, he's just the kind of young, athletic, big body type the Pack has been moving toward on the O-line. Still, according to the report, the Packers view Preston as a bit of a project with the potential for a big up-side. Given the questions surrounding the availability of long-time veteran right tackle and fan fave, Mark Tauscher, adding someone such as Preston provides the Pack with a bit of starting insurance upfront. (In fact, because of the expected rehab time for Tauscher's injury from late last season, the Pack will be well into the first weeks of the 2009 season by the time he might be available...which then may force the Packers to go another direction. They'd like to re-sign him, but time and need may force their hand. And that would be a sad way for a home-grown Wisconsin boy like Tauscher to end his career with the Packers.)
You can read more about the Preston signing here.
St. Vince video
Some of you may have already seen this video produced by NFL Films about the now iconic figure of "St. Vince." I just happened to stumble upon it so thought I'd share it with those who have yet to see it, or who want to see it again. It's a nice piece about a genuinely nice guy, as those of you who may have met him at Lambeau Field can attest.
Check it out here.
The Pack signed 26-year-old guard/center Duke Preston, who was formerly with the Buffalo Bills, to a two-year deal. Preston is an impressive physical specimen at 6'5" and 326 lbs. According to a report in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, "A fourth-round draft choice from the University of Illinois in 2005, Preston has appeared in 59 games with 20 starts, all with the Buffalo Bills. In addition to playing guard and center, he has played some right tackle." In other words, he's just the kind of young, athletic, big body type the Pack has been moving toward on the O-line. Still, according to the report, the Packers view Preston as a bit of a project with the potential for a big up-side. Given the questions surrounding the availability of long-time veteran right tackle and fan fave, Mark Tauscher, adding someone such as Preston provides the Pack with a bit of starting insurance upfront. (In fact, because of the expected rehab time for Tauscher's injury from late last season, the Pack will be well into the first weeks of the 2009 season by the time he might be available...which then may force the Packers to go another direction. They'd like to re-sign him, but time and need may force their hand. And that would be a sad way for a home-grown Wisconsin boy like Tauscher to end his career with the Packers.)
You can read more about the Preston signing here.
St. Vince video
Some of you may have already seen this video produced by NFL Films about the now iconic figure of "St. Vince." I just happened to stumble upon it so thought I'd share it with those who have yet to see it, or who want to see it again. It's a nice piece about a genuinely nice guy, as those of you who may have met him at Lambeau Field can attest.
Check it out here.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Packers open season vs Da Bearz; also play on Thanksgiving
Despite the ho-hum season last year and the absence of Ol' #4, the Packers remain a huge national TV draw. That's why the NFL rewarded the Pack with an opening weekend Sunday night game at home against Da Bearz. The Pack will beat up on Da Bearz on Sunday evening, September 13, at 7:30 p.m. Central time, and you can bet Lambeau Field will be cranked up. The game will be carried by NBC. This will be the 178th meeting between the two teams; no teams have played each other more.
For the second time in three seasons, the Packers will be playing on Thanksgiving. The Pack will play the Lions at Detroit's Ford Field at 11:30 a.m. (CT) on Thursday, November 26. So make your turkey plans for later in the afternoon, folks. The game will be televised nationally by FOX. According to the Packers, this marks the 33rd Thanksgiving contest in franchise history. At one time, it seemed as if it was always the Packers and Lions on Thanksgiving. Can't you just hear the late, great Ray Scott announcing those games?
Anyway, this is the second straight year the Packers have opened the season with a nationally televised game. Go Pack Go!!!
Only the opening weekend and the Thanksgiving game schedules were announced by the league. The NFL will release the full season schedule in April. The other games announced were: Tennessee at Pittsburgh, Thursday night, Sept. 10; Buffalo at New England and San Diego at Oakland, Monday night, Sept. 14; Oakland at Dallas and New York Giants at Denver on Nov. 26 (Thanksgiving Day).
You can read more about the announced Packers' games here.
For the second time in three seasons, the Packers will be playing on Thanksgiving. The Pack will play the Lions at Detroit's Ford Field at 11:30 a.m. (CT) on Thursday, November 26. So make your turkey plans for later in the afternoon, folks. The game will be televised nationally by FOX. According to the Packers, this marks the 33rd Thanksgiving contest in franchise history. At one time, it seemed as if it was always the Packers and Lions on Thanksgiving. Can't you just hear the late, great Ray Scott announcing those games?
Anyway, this is the second straight year the Packers have opened the season with a nationally televised game. Go Pack Go!!!
Only the opening weekend and the Thanksgiving game schedules were announced by the league. The NFL will release the full season schedule in April. The other games announced were: Tennessee at Pittsburgh, Thursday night, Sept. 10; Buffalo at New England and San Diego at Oakland, Monday night, Sept. 14; Oakland at Dallas and New York Giants at Denver on Nov. 26 (Thanksgiving Day).
You can read more about the announced Packers' games here.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Let the voluntary offseason program begin!
I know. That headline doesn't exactly roll off the tongue. But it is factual, so at least it has that going for it.
Packers players in Green Bay for the voluntary portion of their offseason training. That includes weight lifting, conditioning, watching film...that sort of thing. Although head coach Mike McCarthy has made it clear that to him voluntary is pretty much the same as mandatory. He can't require players to attend the workouts. But he can certainly remember who was there and who wasn't as things progress toward the start of organized team activities (OTAs), mini-camps, etc. Especially if somebody doesn't show who is under contract but wants to negotiate a new deal.
That description would fit D-back Nick Collins. He has a year remaining on his existing contract. But apparently, taking a cue from last year's shenanigans by RB Ryan Grant, he has decided not to participate with his teammates in these voluntary activities as a way to show that he's a bit unhappy. Collins is back home in Florida. Granted, he and his wife are expecting the birth of a child. But that's likely not the reason he's not in Green Bay. According to an article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, "...according to a source with knowledge of the situation...he and his agent are frustrated with the lack of attention Collins has received heading into the last year of his contract...". Imagine that: a professional athlete who is unhappy with a contract. Shocking.
While Collins had a breakout season last year -- seven interceptions, led the league with 295 interception return yards, NFC Pro Bowl starter -- the Pack seems to have higher priorities before re-doing his contract. Because of an escalator clause, his contract already will bump up from a little more than $500K to more than $3 million. Given that jump, it would seem the Packers aren't in any hurry to sweeten the pot longer term. Especially since they don't know how well he will fit with the new 3-4 defense.
On the other hand, D-back Tramon Williams is attending these voluntary workouts. And he doesn't have a contract. Yes, kids, it's a topsy-turvy world: you have a contract that gives you a $2.5 million raise and you don't show; you don't have a contract and you do. Hmmm...'tis a puzzlement!
Williams probably has an insurance agreement that would cover his existing salary, $460,000, if he were to get injured while he is without contract. However, if he doesn't have something worked out by the time OTAs start in May, Williams likely won't show because of the greater risk from injury; all he has to be concerned about now is injury from lifting weights, conditioning exercises and watching film with coaches.
Keep an eye on both of these situations as things move toward OTAs and mini-camp. In the meantime, you can read more here if you care to.
Montgomery and Hunter re-signed
Without much fanfare this week, the Packers re-signed two of their back up players: DE Michael Montgomery and LB Jason Hunter.
Montgomery was an unrestricted free agent and apparently had some interest from a few other clubs. But in the end, he stayed with the team he knew and who knew him. Given the dearth of defensive line players on the current Packer roster, keeping someone such as Montgomery, even as a back up, isn't a bad move.
Hunter would show occasional flashes, but as this article notes, "Asked to gain weight to play inside on passing downs last season, Hunter wasn't as maneuverable or as effective on special teams." However, given that the Packers sprung for a $1 million tender offer for him, it would seem they are counting on him to step up his play on a more consistent basis. In the new 3-4 scheme, linebackers are key. Having players whose strengths and weaknesses are known means a greater likelihood of putting them in situations to succeed. Let's hope that's the case with Hunter, even in a back up role and on special teams.
Packers players in Green Bay for the voluntary portion of their offseason training. That includes weight lifting, conditioning, watching film...that sort of thing. Although head coach Mike McCarthy has made it clear that to him voluntary is pretty much the same as mandatory. He can't require players to attend the workouts. But he can certainly remember who was there and who wasn't as things progress toward the start of organized team activities (OTAs), mini-camps, etc. Especially if somebody doesn't show who is under contract but wants to negotiate a new deal.
That description would fit D-back Nick Collins. He has a year remaining on his existing contract. But apparently, taking a cue from last year's shenanigans by RB Ryan Grant, he has decided not to participate with his teammates in these voluntary activities as a way to show that he's a bit unhappy. Collins is back home in Florida. Granted, he and his wife are expecting the birth of a child. But that's likely not the reason he's not in Green Bay. According to an article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, "...according to a source with knowledge of the situation...he and his agent are frustrated with the lack of attention Collins has received heading into the last year of his contract...". Imagine that: a professional athlete who is unhappy with a contract. Shocking.
While Collins had a breakout season last year -- seven interceptions, led the league with 295 interception return yards, NFC Pro Bowl starter -- the Pack seems to have higher priorities before re-doing his contract. Because of an escalator clause, his contract already will bump up from a little more than $500K to more than $3 million. Given that jump, it would seem the Packers aren't in any hurry to sweeten the pot longer term. Especially since they don't know how well he will fit with the new 3-4 defense.
On the other hand, D-back Tramon Williams is attending these voluntary workouts. And he doesn't have a contract. Yes, kids, it's a topsy-turvy world: you have a contract that gives you a $2.5 million raise and you don't show; you don't have a contract and you do. Hmmm...'tis a puzzlement!
Williams probably has an insurance agreement that would cover his existing salary, $460,000, if he were to get injured while he is without contract. However, if he doesn't have something worked out by the time OTAs start in May, Williams likely won't show because of the greater risk from injury; all he has to be concerned about now is injury from lifting weights, conditioning exercises and watching film with coaches.
Keep an eye on both of these situations as things move toward OTAs and mini-camp. In the meantime, you can read more here if you care to.
Montgomery and Hunter re-signed
Without much fanfare this week, the Packers re-signed two of their back up players: DE Michael Montgomery and LB Jason Hunter.
Montgomery was an unrestricted free agent and apparently had some interest from a few other clubs. But in the end, he stayed with the team he knew and who knew him. Given the dearth of defensive line players on the current Packer roster, keeping someone such as Montgomery, even as a back up, isn't a bad move.
Hunter would show occasional flashes, but as this article notes, "Asked to gain weight to play inside on passing downs last season, Hunter wasn't as maneuverable or as effective on special teams." However, given that the Packers sprung for a $1 million tender offer for him, it would seem they are counting on him to step up his play on a more consistent basis. In the new 3-4 scheme, linebackers are key. Having players whose strengths and weaknesses are known means a greater likelihood of putting them in situations to succeed. Let's hope that's the case with Hunter, even in a back up role and on special teams.
Monday, March 16, 2009
Bush is back
No...not that Bush. (Add your own political viewpoint here.)
We're talking about cornerback Jarrett Bush, who was a Packers' restricted free agent. Bush had received an offer sheet from the Titans. The Packers had seven days to match the offer, and did. According to Bush's agent, Derrick Fox, it's a a three-year deal worth $4.5 million. It includes a $1 million signing bonus. Bush's base salaries are $1 million this year, $1.1 million in 2010 and $1.4 million in 2011. Playing time incentives are apparently also part of the deal and can raise its overall value.
So far, a majority of the fan feedback to the article at the online site for the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel seems a bit, oh, unsupportive of this move by Packers GM Ted Thompson, shall we say.
While Bush was one of those players who generally played well on special teams -- and hence, why he was of interest to other teams -- he often seemed to be...hmmm...not so spectacular actually playing his cornerback position. Perhaps a new defensive coordinator and staff can get more out of him.
But questions now arise among the Packer faithful as to how this may affect fellow corner Tramon Williams, who is much more of a key figure in the Packers' secondary. A holdout might be forthcoming.
We're talking about cornerback Jarrett Bush, who was a Packers' restricted free agent. Bush had received an offer sheet from the Titans. The Packers had seven days to match the offer, and did. According to Bush's agent, Derrick Fox, it's a a three-year deal worth $4.5 million. It includes a $1 million signing bonus. Bush's base salaries are $1 million this year, $1.1 million in 2010 and $1.4 million in 2011. Playing time incentives are apparently also part of the deal and can raise its overall value.
So far, a majority of the fan feedback to the article at the online site for the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel seems a bit, oh, unsupportive of this move by Packers GM Ted Thompson, shall we say.
While Bush was one of those players who generally played well on special teams -- and hence, why he was of interest to other teams -- he often seemed to be...hmmm...not so spectacular actually playing his cornerback position. Perhaps a new defensive coordinator and staff can get more out of him.
But questions now arise among the Packer faithful as to how this may affect fellow corner Tramon Williams, who is much more of a key figure in the Packers' secondary. A holdout might be forthcoming.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Packers Fan Fest notes
The Fifth Annual Packers Fan Fest took place yesterday and today at the Lambeau Field Atrium. And, perhaps for the first time, it was not a sell-out. Management, players and fans all attributed that rare circumstance to the current economic situation.
Another nod to current situations related to retiring Ol' #4's number. Packers President Mark Murphy indicated that would probably not happen this season. He told reporters that both sides probably need a bit of time to pass before that happens. And, Murphy pointed out, the Packers had already had to cancel one such retirement ceremony, implying that they'd just as soon wait to see if Mr. Favre is, in fact, retired for good this time. As to renewing the marketing deal the Packers had on the table to Favre last year, that is apparently not a given. Something would likely be done. But whether it would be along the same lines as the Pack extended to Favre last season appears questionable.
Kampman on board with new "D"
New Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers told reporters that one of the first players to come to see him in his office was defensive end Aaron Kampman. According to Capers, Kampman wanted to know what weight Capers wanted him to play at. The two apparently had quite a good conversation, leaving Capers with the impression that Kampman is excited about the new defensive scheme. That's a good thing. Because for the Pack to have any chance with the new 3-4 defense this season, Kampman really has to have a great season...wherever and however they play him in the scheme.
Bush gets offer from Titans
Restricted free agent defensive back Jarrett Bush was signed to an offer sheet by the Tennessee Titans on Friday. Terms were not yet known. According to a report on ESPN.com, "The Green Bay Packers retained a right of first refusal to Bush by making him a one-year tender offer of $1.01 million last month. Green Bay has seven days to match or pass on the offer sheet. If the Packers match it, they keep Bush and assume the terms of the offer sheet. If they pass, Bush moves to Tennessee and the Packers receive no draft pick compensation, since Bush originally entered the league as an undrafted free agent."
As the article notes, "Bush started one of 47 games in three seasons, but the former Utah State standout can help a team in a lot of ways, including as a nickel back. He has double-digit special teams tackles in each of three seasons in the league, including 17 last season." At 6'2" and 200 pounds, Bush can play either corner or safety, and delivered some big hits on special teams. But with the Packers' signing of D-back Anthony Smith this last week, Bush might very well be expendable.
Another nod to current situations related to retiring Ol' #4's number. Packers President Mark Murphy indicated that would probably not happen this season. He told reporters that both sides probably need a bit of time to pass before that happens. And, Murphy pointed out, the Packers had already had to cancel one such retirement ceremony, implying that they'd just as soon wait to see if Mr. Favre is, in fact, retired for good this time. As to renewing the marketing deal the Packers had on the table to Favre last year, that is apparently not a given. Something would likely be done. But whether it would be along the same lines as the Pack extended to Favre last season appears questionable.
Kampman on board with new "D"
New Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers told reporters that one of the first players to come to see him in his office was defensive end Aaron Kampman. According to Capers, Kampman wanted to know what weight Capers wanted him to play at. The two apparently had quite a good conversation, leaving Capers with the impression that Kampman is excited about the new defensive scheme. That's a good thing. Because for the Pack to have any chance with the new 3-4 defense this season, Kampman really has to have a great season...wherever and however they play him in the scheme.
Bush gets offer from Titans
Restricted free agent defensive back Jarrett Bush was signed to an offer sheet by the Tennessee Titans on Friday. Terms were not yet known. According to a report on ESPN.com, "The Green Bay Packers retained a right of first refusal to Bush by making him a one-year tender offer of $1.01 million last month. Green Bay has seven days to match or pass on the offer sheet. If the Packers match it, they keep Bush and assume the terms of the offer sheet. If they pass, Bush moves to Tennessee and the Packers receive no draft pick compensation, since Bush originally entered the league as an undrafted free agent."
As the article notes, "Bush started one of 47 games in three seasons, but the former Utah State standout can help a team in a lot of ways, including as a nickel back. He has double-digit special teams tackles in each of three seasons in the league, including 17 last season." At 6'2" and 200 pounds, Bush can play either corner or safety, and delivered some big hits on special teams. But with the Packers' signing of D-back Anthony Smith this last week, Bush might very well be expendable.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Packers announce offseason schedule
According to a press release from the Green Bay Packers:
The Green Bay Packers have set the bulk of their offseason schedule leading up to training camp for 2009.
Following the start of the offseason strength and conditioning program on Monday and the NFL Draft in late April, the Packers will hold their annual rookie orientation from May 1-3.
Organized team activities (OTAs) then begin on May 26 and will run through June 18, with the team holding three on-field OTAs per week during that four-week span. The offseason schedule then concludes with a three-day, full-squad mini-camp from June 23-25.
Training camp is slated to begin in late July, but the team's exact reporting date has not yet been set. Players generally report to training camp 15 days prior to the first preseason game.
Key Offseason Dates
The Green Bay Packers have set the bulk of their offseason schedule leading up to training camp for 2009.
Following the start of the offseason strength and conditioning program on Monday and the NFL Draft in late April, the Packers will hold their annual rookie orientation from May 1-3.
Organized team activities (OTAs) then begin on May 26 and will run through June 18, with the team holding three on-field OTAs per week during that four-week span. The offseason schedule then concludes with a three-day, full-squad mini-camp from June 23-25.
Training camp is slated to begin in late July, but the team's exact reporting date has not yet been set. Players generally report to training camp 15 days prior to the first preseason game.
Key Offseason Dates
- Packers Fan Fest: March 13-14 (tickets still available)
- Beginning of Packers' offseason program: March 16
- NFL Draft: April 25-26
- Rookie orientation: May 1-3
- Packers Tailgate Tour: May 11-14
- Organized Team Activities (OTAs): May 26-June 18
- Full-squad mini-camp: June 23-25
- Packers Hall of Fame Induction Banquet: July 18
- Training Camp: late July (exact reporting date TBD)
Saturday, March 07, 2009
In need of defensive line help, Packers sign a safety
As has been rumored for the last several days, the Packers had interest in adding free agent Steelers safety, Anthony Smith, to their roster. And so they did.
Smith was a 10-game starter in 2007, but disappeared last year. At age 26, he is young and said to be loaded with athletic ability. The knock on him has been his maturity. As noted in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel report on the signing, "Smith's career took a wrong turn in Week 13 of 2007 when he guaranteed a victory on the road against the New England Patriots, who then hammered the Steelers, 34-13." Worse, Smith was the safety in coverage who got burned on two of those Patriots' touchdowns.
You can read more about Smith, his past play, and why the Pack decided to take a shot on him despite possible attitude adjustments that might be necessary on his part, here.
It's great that the Packers are dipping into the free agency pool. Just a shame there's nothing on the D-line front so far.
Smith was a 10-game starter in 2007, but disappeared last year. At age 26, he is young and said to be loaded with athletic ability. The knock on him has been his maturity. As noted in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel report on the signing, "Smith's career took a wrong turn in Week 13 of 2007 when he guaranteed a victory on the road against the New England Patriots, who then hammered the Steelers, 34-13." Worse, Smith was the safety in coverage who got burned on two of those Patriots' touchdowns.
You can read more about Smith, his past play, and why the Pack decided to take a shot on him despite possible attitude adjustments that might be necessary on his part, here.
It's great that the Packers are dipping into the free agency pool. Just a shame there's nothing on the D-line front so far.
Wednesday, March 04, 2009
A break from the usual...
OK, Packer fans, a slight diversion from the usual team-related fare.
We're going just a bit farther afield. Don't worry. We're still dealing with a Wisconsin sports icon. In this case, the great Bob Uecker. Yes, more generally known as the long-time radio voice of the Milwaukee Brewers. Some true sports geeks will also recall that he actually did have a major league baseball career, beginning with his hometown Milwaukee Braves, and after brief detours with the Cardinals (where he actually won a championship ring in 1964) and Phillies, ending his career with the Braves after their move to Atlanta. OK, only had a career .200 batting average...but, hey, he was in the bigs,man! Still, the late, great Johnny Carson always introduced Ueck as "Mr. Baseball" the 64 times he appeared on The Tonight Show.
Of course, for some, Uecker will always be TV's Mr. Belvedere. Wait...or was that the butler's name? Whatever.
Anwyay, check out the clip of comedian Artie Lange on David Letterman sharing a few Uecker stories. You can find it on this page. Then look for Lange and clip title, "Artie Lange and The Cough Button."
We'll return to our normal hand-ringing over the Packers' free agency non-participation sometime soon. Keep checking back.
We're going just a bit farther afield. Don't worry. We're still dealing with a Wisconsin sports icon. In this case, the great Bob Uecker. Yes, more generally known as the long-time radio voice of the Milwaukee Brewers. Some true sports geeks will also recall that he actually did have a major league baseball career, beginning with his hometown Milwaukee Braves, and after brief detours with the Cardinals (where he actually won a championship ring in 1964) and Phillies, ending his career with the Braves after their move to Atlanta. OK, only had a career .200 batting average...but, hey, he was in the bigs,man! Still, the late, great Johnny Carson always introduced Ueck as "Mr. Baseball" the 64 times he appeared on The Tonight Show.
Of course, for some, Uecker will always be TV's Mr. Belvedere. Wait...or was that the butler's name? Whatever.
Anwyay, check out the clip of comedian Artie Lange on David Letterman sharing a few Uecker stories. You can find it on this page. Then look for Lange and clip title, "Artie Lange and The Cough Button."
We'll return to our normal hand-ringing over the Packers' free agency non-participation sometime soon. Keep checking back.
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
OK, this is not good...
So, the Pack has $30 million in salary cap room and any attempt to bolster a thin defensive line through quality free agent help has seemingly vanished as the few available top candidates signed elsewhere. Which leaves the Pack with basically Ryan Pickett, Johnny Jolly, Cullen Jenkins, Aaron Kampman and Justin Harrell (well, he's on the roster anyway) as the defensive line. How and why the Pack didn't seriously go after help to bolster what was already the weak link in last year's defense is a mystery. Granted, both the Redskins and Giants threw a boatload of money at Albert Haynesworth and Chris Canty, respectively. And, probably to most people's way of thinking, overpaid. Certainly this was Packer GM Ted Thompson's point of view, who is never one to throw away money. That was also the case with Colin Cole, whom the Packers lost via free agency to Seattle. While Cole was starting to finally make an impact, with $6 million of guaranteed contract money, Seattle definitely overpaid.
The problem is, that established the market. And there weren't that many quality free agent defensive linemen available to begin with. Reportedly, the Pack has had some discussions with the agents for San Diego's Igor Olshansky, Baltimore's Marques Douglas and New England's Mike Wright, but nothing firm. In fact, other reports were circulating yesterday that Olshanksy had come to terms with Houston.
So where does this leave the Pack? Apparently shifting gears and looking for a safety instead. Go figure.
Check out this article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel for more on that approach, as well as a few other free agent possibilities.
Bottom line is that unless somehow the Pack captures lightening in a bottle with one of the middle-of-the-road or over-the-hill free agents still on the market, or gets lucky with a draft pick, new defensive coordinator Dom Capers is going to have to be very creative with his schemes. Because right now, the Pack's defensive line situation is looking precarious at best.
The problem is, that established the market. And there weren't that many quality free agent defensive linemen available to begin with. Reportedly, the Pack has had some discussions with the agents for San Diego's Igor Olshansky, Baltimore's Marques Douglas and New England's Mike Wright, but nothing firm. In fact, other reports were circulating yesterday that Olshanksy had come to terms with Houston.
So where does this leave the Pack? Apparently shifting gears and looking for a safety instead. Go figure.
Check out this article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel for more on that approach, as well as a few other free agent possibilities.
Bottom line is that unless somehow the Pack captures lightening in a bottle with one of the middle-of-the-road or over-the-hill free agents still on the market, or gets lucky with a draft pick, new defensive coordinator Dom Capers is going to have to be very creative with his schemes. Because right now, the Pack's defensive line situation is looking precarious at best.
Sunday, March 01, 2009
Packers miss out on Canty, lose Cole
The Packers, somewhat contrary to form, had publicly expressed some interest in Cowboys free agent defensive end, Chris Canty. At 6'7" and a tad over 300 pounds, he would have been a good addition for the Pack's new 3-4 scheme. Well, the Pack can now go back to form: Canty reportedly has signed 6-year, $42 million deal with the NY Giants.
Moving right along...
One of the the Packers' own that they hoped to hang on to, defensive lineman Colin Cole, has reportedly signed a 5 year, $21.5 million deal with Seattle. The loss of Cole hurts what was already a thin defensive line. The Pack had thought that if they couldn't resign Cole they could make a strong run at Canty. Not if you believe the report in the Green Bay Press-Gazette, which is showing the Newark Star-Ledger as the news source, and a supposed confirmation from one of those ubiquitous "NFL sources."
The quality free agents who could help the Packers upfront in the new 3-4 scheme is now falling off rather considerably. The Pack may now wind up having to hope that Ryan Pickett and Johnny Jolly can rotate to hold the point of attack, along with somehow getting a bookend of some kind to Aaron Kampman.
Cole was just starting to come on as a real player and losing him is a definite blow. And not even being able to have a face to face with Canty before he agreed to terms with the Giants is also disappointing. It will be interesting to see what Ted Thompson does now with the $30 million in salary cap room he's sitting on.
Moving right along...
One of the the Packers' own that they hoped to hang on to, defensive lineman Colin Cole, has reportedly signed a 5 year, $21.5 million deal with Seattle. The loss of Cole hurts what was already a thin defensive line. The Pack had thought that if they couldn't resign Cole they could make a strong run at Canty. Not if you believe the report in the Green Bay Press-Gazette, which is showing the Newark Star-Ledger as the news source, and a supposed confirmation from one of those ubiquitous "NFL sources."
The quality free agents who could help the Packers upfront in the new 3-4 scheme is now falling off rather considerably. The Pack may now wind up having to hope that Ryan Pickett and Johnny Jolly can rotate to hold the point of attack, along with somehow getting a bookend of some kind to Aaron Kampman.
Cole was just starting to come on as a real player and losing him is a definite blow. And not even being able to have a face to face with Canty before he agreed to terms with the Giants is also disappointing. It will be interesting to see what Ted Thompson does now with the $30 million in salary cap room he's sitting on.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Packers try to keep their own
The Packers under GM Ted Thompson have always tried to retain their own valuable potential free agents rather than pull in outsiders. Them ya know is better than them ya don't...or something like that
That's why the Packers today issued qualifying tender offers to five of their own players: S Atari Bigby, CB Jarrett Bush, DE Jason Hunter, FB John Kuhn and WR Ruvell Martin. CB Tramon Williams, an exclusive-rights free agent, also was issued a one-year tender offer. Most of these offers are in the $1 million to $1.5 million range. Basically, the Packers reserve the right to match any offer each of these players might receive from another team by issuing these qualifying tenders. It's a preemptive strike before the free agency period begins at midnight tonight.
Who is on this list is as interesting as who isn't: WR Shaun Bodiford and TE Tory Humphrey. Bodiford is a player who always seemed to have a wealth of potential but he could never stay on the field; he's only played in six games over the last two seasons. Given that it would have cost the Pack a minimum of $1.01 million to continue to hope for that potential -- and given the depth of excellent receivers the Packers have on the squad already -- parting ways was the best option. As for Humphrey, his agent, Blake Baratz, is quoted as telling the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel that "The Packers seem to want him back and he wants to come back." Baratz and the Packers have apparently already had discussions about Humphrey's return.
You can read the Packers' brief announcement about the tender offers here.
That's why the Packers today issued qualifying tender offers to five of their own players: S Atari Bigby, CB Jarrett Bush, DE Jason Hunter, FB John Kuhn and WR Ruvell Martin. CB Tramon Williams, an exclusive-rights free agent, also was issued a one-year tender offer. Most of these offers are in the $1 million to $1.5 million range. Basically, the Packers reserve the right to match any offer each of these players might receive from another team by issuing these qualifying tenders. It's a preemptive strike before the free agency period begins at midnight tonight.
Who is on this list is as interesting as who isn't: WR Shaun Bodiford and TE Tory Humphrey. Bodiford is a player who always seemed to have a wealth of potential but he could never stay on the field; he's only played in six games over the last two seasons. Given that it would have cost the Pack a minimum of $1.01 million to continue to hope for that potential -- and given the depth of excellent receivers the Packers have on the squad already -- parting ways was the best option. As for Humphrey, his agent, Blake Baratz, is quoted as telling the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel that "The Packers seem to want him back and he wants to come back." Baratz and the Packers have apparently already had discussions about Humphrey's return.
You can read the Packers' brief announcement about the tender offers here.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
What's up with the Pack at the NFL Combine?
As any football fan knows, this is the time of year when we start dreaming. About young football players who can help transform our team. Especially if our team has a Top 10 draft pick. Which our team -- the Packers -- does. Number 9 to be exact. (For those of you old enough to remember, or enough of a music fan to get the reference, let's just say that, finally, Ringo Starr's prophetic statement came true: "number nine...number nine...").
So, with the NFL Combine going on in Indianapolis this weekend, what are the Packers up to? As you might well imagine, evaluating talent. Sitting at number 9 gives the Pack lots of options. According to some of the pundits, the top of this draft is deep on offensive possibilities, particularly offensive tackles. With LT Chad Clifton showing signs of wear and tear, and RT Mark Tauscher rehabbing from his season-ending knee injury, a tackle might be on the top of the Packers' list of needs. Although according to an article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, "The top three left tackles in the National Football League draft won't be available for the Green Bay Packers to take with the No. 9 selection based on a Journal Sentinel poll of executives representing 25% of the league." That doesn't mean a good tackle isn't available, of course. Nor does it mean that's the way the Pack would go anyway. "Best available athlete" is usually the standard operating procedure.
So what other needs could be met? Obviously, with the Pack's move to the 3-4 defensive scheme, nose tackles and linebackers become positions of interest. Some believe the pickings are a bit slim in terms of nose tackle talent. As for linebackers, again, not a lot there at the top of the draft.
Would the Packers take a running back at number 9? Not with the seeming commitment they have to Ryan Grant. A back or two farther down the draft certainly is likely.
A few of the mock drafts out there still have the Pack selecting DB Malcolm Jenkins from Ohio State. Mel Kiper said on ESPN the other day, without specific reference to the Packers, that Jenkins' draft position will depend upon his time in the 40-yard dash. A good 40 time would assure Jenkins of going in the top 10. (If you want to hear an interesting discussion of this issue, with specific mention of Jenkins and some others, check out Kiper's comments on ESPN radio here.)
So what will Packers GM Ted Thompson do with his pick? There's about nine weeks to go before the draft...so...stay tuned. But in the meantime, you can read a lot of what's going on in this Combine blog from the Journal-Sentinel's Greg Bedard. Check out Mike McCarthy's comments especially for his thoughts related to personnel, the change in defensive scheme, etc.
So, with the NFL Combine going on in Indianapolis this weekend, what are the Packers up to? As you might well imagine, evaluating talent. Sitting at number 9 gives the Pack lots of options. According to some of the pundits, the top of this draft is deep on offensive possibilities, particularly offensive tackles. With LT Chad Clifton showing signs of wear and tear, and RT Mark Tauscher rehabbing from his season-ending knee injury, a tackle might be on the top of the Packers' list of needs. Although according to an article in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, "The top three left tackles in the National Football League draft won't be available for the Green Bay Packers to take with the No. 9 selection based on a Journal Sentinel poll of executives representing 25% of the league." That doesn't mean a good tackle isn't available, of course. Nor does it mean that's the way the Pack would go anyway. "Best available athlete" is usually the standard operating procedure.
So what other needs could be met? Obviously, with the Pack's move to the 3-4 defensive scheme, nose tackles and linebackers become positions of interest. Some believe the pickings are a bit slim in terms of nose tackle talent. As for linebackers, again, not a lot there at the top of the draft.
Would the Packers take a running back at number 9? Not with the seeming commitment they have to Ryan Grant. A back or two farther down the draft certainly is likely.
A few of the mock drafts out there still have the Pack selecting DB Malcolm Jenkins from Ohio State. Mel Kiper said on ESPN the other day, without specific reference to the Packers, that Jenkins' draft position will depend upon his time in the 40-yard dash. A good 40 time would assure Jenkins of going in the top 10. (If you want to hear an interesting discussion of this issue, with specific mention of Jenkins and some others, check out Kiper's comments on ESPN radio here.)
So what will Packers GM Ted Thompson do with his pick? There's about nine weeks to go before the draft...so...stay tuned. But in the meantime, you can read a lot of what's going on in this Combine blog from the Journal-Sentinel's Greg Bedard. Check out Mike McCarthy's comments especially for his thoughts related to personnel, the change in defensive scheme, etc.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Two Days On: Favre Still Retired...and Talking
OK, OK, I know that headline reference is getting old very quickly. Won't use it again. Well, probably not.
Anyway, ol' #4 -- Brett Favre -- gave his first extensive post-retirement on-air interview today on ESPN with that network's Ed Werder. Defintely worth watching. Even if he is wearing a Jets cap. Check it out right here, and settle in for about 15-20 minutes.
If you want to read about the interview and some of his quotes, check out the story here. Brett makes it clear in the interview he loved being a Packer and loves the fans, but also admits that he was angry at Packers' management last year because of the way he felt he was treated. Like we didn't already know that. Still, Brett appears much more reflective than perhaps we might expect. Perhaps we'll see him in Green Bay to retire that jersey sooner that initially thought.
Packers Fan Fest
The Packers will host their annual fan celebration, Packers Fan Fest, March 13-14.
According to an email from the Packers:
"For the popular autograph sessions, we've got a great lineup of our current players, including Atari Bigby, Nick Collins, Mason Crosby, Donald Driver, Ryan Grant, Al Harris, Cullen Jenkins, James Jones, Aaron Kampman and Ryan Pickett. And it's always great to see our alumni, with this year's group including Donny Anderson, LeRoy Butler, Willie Davis, William Henderson, Jerry Kramer, Dorsey Levens, Jan Stenerud, Frank Winters and Ron Wolf.
Fans also will be excited to meet our coaches, particularly new defensive coordinator Dom Capers and his staff, at the Friday night meet-and-greet. On Saturday, the coaches' strategy sessions will be particularly interesting, especially when the "Defense 101" session discusses the new '3-4' defense the Packers will employ in 2009.
An attraction not to be overlooked is the exclusive tour through the team's locker room on Saturday. Fans can see behind-the-scenes areas not offered on the regular stadium tour. Also, admission to the Packers Hall of Fame is included as part of the event.
Tickets are available, and priced again at $85 per person. It's an event for the whole family, and kids 6 and younger enter free with a ticketed adult, so please bring along the young fans in your family. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster online, over the phone and in person."
For more info on purchasing tickets and a complete listing of Fan Fest activities, just click here.
Anyway, ol' #4 -- Brett Favre -- gave his first extensive post-retirement on-air interview today on ESPN with that network's Ed Werder. Defintely worth watching. Even if he is wearing a Jets cap. Check it out right here, and settle in for about 15-20 minutes.
If you want to read about the interview and some of his quotes, check out the story here. Brett makes it clear in the interview he loved being a Packer and loves the fans, but also admits that he was angry at Packers' management last year because of the way he felt he was treated. Like we didn't already know that. Still, Brett appears much more reflective than perhaps we might expect. Perhaps we'll see him in Green Bay to retire that jersey sooner that initially thought.
Packers Fan Fest
The Packers will host their annual fan celebration, Packers Fan Fest, March 13-14.
According to an email from the Packers:
"For the popular autograph sessions, we've got a great lineup of our current players, including Atari Bigby, Nick Collins, Mason Crosby, Donald Driver, Ryan Grant, Al Harris, Cullen Jenkins, James Jones, Aaron Kampman and Ryan Pickett. And it's always great to see our alumni, with this year's group including Donny Anderson, LeRoy Butler, Willie Davis, William Henderson, Jerry Kramer, Dorsey Levens, Jan Stenerud, Frank Winters and Ron Wolf.
Fans also will be excited to meet our coaches, particularly new defensive coordinator Dom Capers and his staff, at the Friday night meet-and-greet. On Saturday, the coaches' strategy sessions will be particularly interesting, especially when the "Defense 101" session discusses the new '3-4' defense the Packers will employ in 2009.
An attraction not to be overlooked is the exclusive tour through the team's locker room on Saturday. Fans can see behind-the-scenes areas not offered on the regular stadium tour. Also, admission to the Packers Hall of Fame is included as part of the event.
Tickets are available, and priced again at $85 per person. It's an event for the whole family, and kids 6 and younger enter free with a ticketed adult, so please bring along the young fans in your family. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster online, over the phone and in person."
For more info on purchasing tickets and a complete listing of Fan Fest activities, just click here.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
24 Hours Later: Favre Still Retired
It's now about 24 hours since the news broke that ol' #4, Brett Favre, announced his re-retirement. And the news is: he's still retired. But...didn't we hear that once before? Hmmm...
The general consensus among all the sports TV and radio pundits is that this time it just might stick. Why? Sure sounds as if Brett found out that his body was finally giving out after 18 years being the gunslinger.
You may recall reading comments after the end of the season that Jets' sources were strongly suggesting to Brett that if he wanted to return that he should have surgery to fix the elbow/shoulder problems which basically became very apparent down the season stretch. Brett just wasn't able to throw the ball with the zip and accuracy for which he was famous. And it didn't appear as if Brett was too anxious to go under the knife and re-hab just to essentially get one more year of play in to spite Packers' GM Ted Thompson. He'd already done that. Heck, in Favre's interview with ESPN's Ed Werder (see yesterday's post for link), he said that he really didn't care whether his stats were better than new Packers QB Aaron Rodgers, he just wanted to have the Jets win more games than the Packers. He succeeded in that latter goal. He got his personal revenge on Thompson that way, at least.
So, how are we going to know that Brett actually stays with his decision? As one Green Bay sports reporter noted, a clue will be as to whether Brett does decide to have surgery or not. If so, that might be a precursor to yet another comeback. How likely is that? Based on Favre's comments, this time it sounds like he might actually have realized it's time to hang up the cleats for good.
But we thought once before.
Judge for yourself. You can listen to a bit of Favre's teleconference below.
If you want to read Brett's retirement non-press conference comments, you can do so here. You can also see lots of links to lots of other related comments.
One of the better clips is a "burn" from sports guy Jim Rome about how Favre blew it with Green Bay, not vice versa. Watch for yourself.
Statement from the Packers
The Packers took a good portion of yesterday to come up with their official statement. It's short and sweet, which is probably for the best.
The general consensus among all the sports TV and radio pundits is that this time it just might stick. Why? Sure sounds as if Brett found out that his body was finally giving out after 18 years being the gunslinger.
You may recall reading comments after the end of the season that Jets' sources were strongly suggesting to Brett that if he wanted to return that he should have surgery to fix the elbow/shoulder problems which basically became very apparent down the season stretch. Brett just wasn't able to throw the ball with the zip and accuracy for which he was famous. And it didn't appear as if Brett was too anxious to go under the knife and re-hab just to essentially get one more year of play in to spite Packers' GM Ted Thompson. He'd already done that. Heck, in Favre's interview with ESPN's Ed Werder (see yesterday's post for link), he said that he really didn't care whether his stats were better than new Packers QB Aaron Rodgers, he just wanted to have the Jets win more games than the Packers. He succeeded in that latter goal. He got his personal revenge on Thompson that way, at least.
So, how are we going to know that Brett actually stays with his decision? As one Green Bay sports reporter noted, a clue will be as to whether Brett does decide to have surgery or not. If so, that might be a precursor to yet another comeback. How likely is that? Based on Favre's comments, this time it sounds like he might actually have realized it's time to hang up the cleats for good.
But we thought once before.
Judge for yourself. You can listen to a bit of Favre's teleconference below.
If you want to read Brett's retirement non-press conference comments, you can do so here. You can also see lots of links to lots of other related comments.
One of the better clips is a "burn" from sports guy Jim Rome about how Favre blew it with Green Bay, not vice versa. Watch for yourself.
Statement from the Packers
The Packers took a good portion of yesterday to come up with their official statement. It's short and sweet, which is probably for the best.
Congratulations to Brett on a remarkable career. The Packers organization wishes him and his family well. Brett always will hold a special place in Green Bay Packers history, and we remain committed to retiring his number at an appropriate time in the future.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Favre retires...again
According to breaking news from ESPN.com, ol' #4, Brett Favre, is reprising his role as a retired QB. ESPN is reporting that Favre told his agent, Bus Cook, to inform the Jets of his decision. Some TV reports were indicating that there had apparently been an initial informal feeler to see if the Jets would release Favre so that he could have the possibility of playing with another team, likely the ViQueens. The Jets denied that request, apparently. (Thank you, Jets.)
Of course, Brett couldn't resist apparently sticking it once again to the Packers. According to the report, "In an e-mail to ESPN's Ed Werder, Favre indicated that he had no regrets about leaving the game with the Jets rather than with his old team, the Green Bay Packers." Read the rest of the article to find out more about exactly how much spite Favre actually had and has toward Packers' GM Ted Thompson.
From the sounds of things, Favre will not be holding Retirement Press Conference - Part II.
There has as of yet been no official comment from either the Jets or the Packers about this news.
One might also expect, given the loathing which Favre holds for Thompson, that as long as Thompson is GM of the Pack there will probably not be any willingness on Favre's part to participate in any Packer-related events, number retirement ceremony, etc. Too bad Brett can't get let go, as it will do him far more harm in the long run than it will the Pack.
Read the ESPN.com story here.
Retirement Advice from other QBs
The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel ran a great article several days ago in which it interviewed several former NFL QB greats regarding their transitions from the playing field to retirement, as well as any advice they might have for Brett.
In light of today's breaking news, you might find this article an interesting read. Check it out here.
Of course, Brett couldn't resist apparently sticking it once again to the Packers. According to the report, "In an e-mail to ESPN's Ed Werder, Favre indicated that he had no regrets about leaving the game with the Jets rather than with his old team, the Green Bay Packers." Read the rest of the article to find out more about exactly how much spite Favre actually had and has toward Packers' GM Ted Thompson.
From the sounds of things, Favre will not be holding Retirement Press Conference - Part II.
There has as of yet been no official comment from either the Jets or the Packers about this news.
One might also expect, given the loathing which Favre holds for Thompson, that as long as Thompson is GM of the Pack there will probably not be any willingness on Favre's part to participate in any Packer-related events, number retirement ceremony, etc. Too bad Brett can't get let go, as it will do him far more harm in the long run than it will the Pack.
Read the ESPN.com story here.
Retirement Advice from other QBs
The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel ran a great article several days ago in which it interviewed several former NFL QB greats regarding their transitions from the playing field to retirement, as well as any advice they might have for Brett.
In light of today's breaking news, you might find this article an interesting read. Check it out here.
Sunday, February 01, 2009
What it was, was football
It's Super Bowl Sunday, one of the most hyped and overrated days in all of sports. The 43rd variation on the theme takes place later today in Tampa. Regrettably, the only connection today for Packer fans is in the name of the trophy: the Vince Lombardi Trophy. And, as even those who aren't major sports fans probably know, it's the Steelers vs. the Cardinals. All the prognosticators say the Steelers will win because of their tremendous defense. True, defense usually wins championships and the playbook says that if you get to Cardinals' QB Kurt Warner he can be rattled and make mistakes. But Philadelphia knew this two weeks ago. And still, Warner lit them up. This is a Cardinals team that has an explosive offense, got hot at the right time, and given its history is proof positive of the adage that even a blind squirrel finds a nut once in a while.
My head tells me the Steelers will indeed win because they are the better team. But the Cardinals have beaten better teams on the way to Tampa. I like the underdog. I won't predict a score. But I will be rooting for the Cardinals despite my long-standing appreciation for the Steelers. Let's just hope it's a good game throughout. I'm looking forward to seeing Springsteen at halftime and to putting on the 3D glasses for that commercial...yes, I entertain easily. But when the Packers aren't there to generate the real excitement, this is all we have left.
Let's put the game in perspective
Sometimes -- especially when something becomes just a bit overblown -- it's useful to view it from a fresh perspective. Nothing could do so better as regards football in general than Andy Griffith's famous monologue, from 1953 no less.
Here's audio of that famous bit, to which someone has also attached some animation. I'm also providing the transcript below for those who need a bit of help understanding Griffith's accentuated Carolina drawl. Enjoy!
What It Was, Was Football
My head tells me the Steelers will indeed win because they are the better team. But the Cardinals have beaten better teams on the way to Tampa. I like the underdog. I won't predict a score. But I will be rooting for the Cardinals despite my long-standing appreciation for the Steelers. Let's just hope it's a good game throughout. I'm looking forward to seeing Springsteen at halftime and to putting on the 3D glasses for that commercial...yes, I entertain easily. But when the Packers aren't there to generate the real excitement, this is all we have left.
Let's put the game in perspective
Sometimes -- especially when something becomes just a bit overblown -- it's useful to view it from a fresh perspective. Nothing could do so better as regards football in general than Andy Griffith's famous monologue, from 1953 no less.
Here's audio of that famous bit, to which someone has also attached some animation. I'm also providing the transcript below for those who need a bit of help understanding Griffith's accentuated Carolina drawl. Enjoy!
What It Was, Was Football
It was back last October, I believe it was. We was a-goin’ t’ hold
a tent service in this college town.
And we got thar about dinnertime on Saturday And different ones
of us thought we ought to get us a mouthful to eat before
that we set up the tent.
And so, we got down off of the truck and followed this little bunch of
people through this small little bitty patch of woods.
And we come up on a big sign, says “Get somethin’ to eat here!”
And I went up and got me two hot dogs and a big Orange drink.
And before I could take ary mouthful of that food this whole raft of
people come up around me
and got me to where I couldn’t eat nothin’ up like—
and I dropped my big Orange drink. I did!
Well friends, they commenced to move and they wasn’t so much
I could do except to move with ‘em.
Well, we commenced to go through all kinds of doors and gates
and I don’t know what all, and I looked up over one of ‘em
and it says “North Gate”, and we kept on a-goin’ through there,
and pretty soon we come up on a young boy.
And he says “Ticket, please…” And I says “Friend, I don’t have a ticket.
I don’t even know where it is that I’m a-goin’.” I did!
Well he says “Come out as quick as you can.”
And I says “I’ll do ‘er—I’ll turn around the first chance I get.”
Well, we kept on a-movin’ through there and pretty soon everyone
got where it was that they was a’goin’ because they parted
and I could see pretty good. I could!
And what I seen was this whole raft a people a-settin’ on these
two banks and a-lookin’ at one another acrosst this purty little
green cow pasture! Well, they was! And somebody had took
and drawed white lines all over it and drove posts in it and
I don’t know what all! And I looked down there and I seen
five or six convicts a-runnin’ up and down and a-blowin’ whistles!
They was!
And then I looked down there and I seen these pretty girls
a-wearin’ these little bitty short dresses and a-dancin’ around,
an’ so I set down and thought I’d see what it was that was
a-gonna happen. I did!
And about the time I got set down good, I looked down there
and I seen thirty or forty men come a-runnin’ out of one end
of a great big outhouse down there! They did!
An’ everybody where I was a-settin’ got up and hollered!
And about that time thirty or forty come a-runnin out of the
other end of that outhouse and the other bank full—
THEY got up and hollered!
An’ I asked this feller that was a-settin’ beside me, I says
“Friend, what is it that they’re a-hollerin’ for?”
Well he whopped me on the back and he says
“Buddy, have a drink!”
Well, I says “I believe I will have another big Orange.”
An’ I got it and set back down.
An’ when I got back down there again, I seen that them men
had got in two little bitty bunches down there.
They had—real close together--and they voted! They did!
They voted and elected one man apiece.
And them two men come out in the middle of that cow pasture
and shook hands like they hadn’t seen one another in a long time.
And then a convict come over to where they was a-standin’ an’ he
took out a quarter and they commenced to odd-man right there!
They did!
Well, after a while I seen what it was that they was a-odd-mannin’ for.
It was that both bunches-full of them men wanted this funny-lookin’
little punkin to play with! They did, and I know friends that they
couldn’t-a eat it ‘ cause they kicked it the whole evenin’
and it never busted!
But anyhow what I was a-tellin’ was that both bunches-full wanted
that thang and one bunch got it an’ it made the other bunch
just as mad as they could be and friends I seen that evenin’
the awfullest fight that I’d ever seen in my life!
I did! They would run at one another and kick one another
and throw one another down and stomp on one another
and grind their feet in one another and I don’t know what all!
And just as fast as one would get hurt they’d tote him off
and run another’n on!
Well, they done that as long as I set there but pretty soon
this boy that had said “Ticket please…” he come up to me and
he says “Friend, you’re gonna have to leave because it is that
you don’t have a ticket.” And I says “Well, alright…” an’ I got up
an’ left. An’ I don’t know, friends, until this day what it was that they
was a-doin’ down there, but I have studied about it, and I think it’s
some kindly of a contest where they see which bunch-full of them
men can take that punkin an’ run from one end of that cow pasture
to the other’n without either gettin’ knocked down—
‘er steppin’ in somethin’ !
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Kevin Greene joins coaching staff
Although this will be his first full-time coaching gig, former linebacker Kevin Greene says now is the time to get on this side of the game. The opportunity to join his former coach in Pittsburgh and Carolina, Dom Capers, as part of the new defensive coaching staff at Green Bay was too good to pass up. Greene will coach outside linebackers. Assistant head coach/linebackers Winston Moss will have his title restructured to reflect that in addition to still retaining his assistant head coach title he will coach inside linebackers.
While Greene may not have a lot of coaching experience -- he did have some volunteer coaching experience with a variety of teams over the past five summers -- you can't question his linebacker credentials as a player. He was one of those guys that always brought an attitude and backed it up with his tough-as-nails play. As an article in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel points out, "Greene personified the 3-4 outside linebacker in Capers' blitz-happy defense, finishing third on the NFL's all-time sack list behind Bruce Smith and Reggie White. His understanding of the position will help potential outside linebackers Aaron Kampman, Brady Poppinga, Desmond Bishop and Jeremy Thompson adjust to a new position."
In the move to the 3-4, Greene's background could be invaluable. Linebackers play a much larger role in this defensive scheme and the Packers are going to have to maximize the play they get from that unit in order to be successful. If nothing else, having Greene in your face should up the intensity for those players.
You can read a really good article about Greene here.
Peter King says Favre done
In an interview on ESPN's Pardon the Interruption yesterday, Sports Illustrated's Peter King -- a favorite texting buddy of Brett Favre -- said he thinks Brett is done. He said Brett knows that he can still play. According to King, Jets' doctors recommended strongly, though, that if Brett wanted to continue to play he should have surgery to repair his shoulder. Brett said no. For King, that told him Brett had decided to hang it up. The only other possibility was if Brett could play "where he really wanted to be." When pressed by PIT co-host Tony Kornheiser as to where that would be, King didn't say Green Bay. Instead, he said Minnesota. The follow-up question about why Minnesota, of course, was not asked. But we all know that would only be to be able to play the Packers twice and stick it to GM Ted Thompson.
What's the likelihood of this happening? Possible, one supposes, although not probable. The Packers had a provision in their trade deal with the Jets that if the Jets traded Favre to the ViQueens that the Packers would get three first round draft picks from the Jets as "poison pill" compensation. But, if the Jets cut Brett, any team would be free to sign him. However, as King noted in his interview, any team doing so would just be picking up a one-year bandaid at best; and would any team really want to do that?
Let's just hope that King is right and Brett decides, once and for all, to hang up the cleats. It's what he should have done last year when he first announced his retirement. He could have gone out with a lot of class and dignity and the undying affection of Packer fans everywhere. Instead...well...you know.
The drama isn't done yet. But in the next few months one would hope so.
2009 Draft
It's mid-January, Super Bowl week, and the best that most Packer fans can do these days is start thinking about the NFL draft.
For those who want to get an early start on the speculation, check out Mel Kiper's early line on the 2009 picks with his initial mock draft. At this point, he has the Pack taking CB Malcolm Jenkins out of Ohio State. You can see all of Kiper's picks here.
While starting to find replacements for Al Harris and Charles Woodson is not a bad idea, given the move to the 3-4 scheme, one might think that the Packers' need for linebackers and nose tackles might take a higher priority. One other definite need going into this draft will be to find solid offensive tackles. LT Chad Clifton started to show definite signs of wear and age this last season and RT Mark Tauscher is a question mark after his season-ending knee injury, as well as his age.
We'll keep you posted on other mock drafts as they pop up.
While Greene may not have a lot of coaching experience -- he did have some volunteer coaching experience with a variety of teams over the past five summers -- you can't question his linebacker credentials as a player. He was one of those guys that always brought an attitude and backed it up with his tough-as-nails play. As an article in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel points out, "Greene personified the 3-4 outside linebacker in Capers' blitz-happy defense, finishing third on the NFL's all-time sack list behind Bruce Smith and Reggie White. His understanding of the position will help potential outside linebackers Aaron Kampman, Brady Poppinga, Desmond Bishop and Jeremy Thompson adjust to a new position."
In the move to the 3-4, Greene's background could be invaluable. Linebackers play a much larger role in this defensive scheme and the Packers are going to have to maximize the play they get from that unit in order to be successful. If nothing else, having Greene in your face should up the intensity for those players.
You can read a really good article about Greene here.
Peter King says Favre done
In an interview on ESPN's Pardon the Interruption yesterday, Sports Illustrated's Peter King -- a favorite texting buddy of Brett Favre -- said he thinks Brett is done. He said Brett knows that he can still play. According to King, Jets' doctors recommended strongly, though, that if Brett wanted to continue to play he should have surgery to repair his shoulder. Brett said no. For King, that told him Brett had decided to hang it up. The only other possibility was if Brett could play "where he really wanted to be." When pressed by PIT co-host Tony Kornheiser as to where that would be, King didn't say Green Bay. Instead, he said Minnesota. The follow-up question about why Minnesota, of course, was not asked. But we all know that would only be to be able to play the Packers twice and stick it to GM Ted Thompson.
What's the likelihood of this happening? Possible, one supposes, although not probable. The Packers had a provision in their trade deal with the Jets that if the Jets traded Favre to the ViQueens that the Packers would get three first round draft picks from the Jets as "poison pill" compensation. But, if the Jets cut Brett, any team would be free to sign him. However, as King noted in his interview, any team doing so would just be picking up a one-year bandaid at best; and would any team really want to do that?
Let's just hope that King is right and Brett decides, once and for all, to hang up the cleats. It's what he should have done last year when he first announced his retirement. He could have gone out with a lot of class and dignity and the undying affection of Packer fans everywhere. Instead...well...you know.
The drama isn't done yet. But in the next few months one would hope so.
2009 Draft
It's mid-January, Super Bowl week, and the best that most Packer fans can do these days is start thinking about the NFL draft.
For those who want to get an early start on the speculation, check out Mel Kiper's early line on the 2009 picks with his initial mock draft. At this point, he has the Pack taking CB Malcolm Jenkins out of Ohio State. You can see all of Kiper's picks here.
While starting to find replacements for Al Harris and Charles Woodson is not a bad idea, given the move to the 3-4 scheme, one might think that the Packers' need for linebackers and nose tackles might take a higher priority. One other definite need going into this draft will be to find solid offensive tackles. LT Chad Clifton started to show definite signs of wear and age this last season and RT Mark Tauscher is a question mark after his season-ending knee injury, as well as his age.
We'll keep you posted on other mock drafts as they pop up.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
A few moments with Dom Capers
The Packers' new defensive coordinator, Dom Capers, didn't waste much time getting in the swing of things. He met with reporters today for about 30 minutes.
Not surprisingly, he said he was excited to be in Green Bay. He said some more interesting things, as well.
If you want to read some excerpts, check those out here.
For the full transcript, go here.
Not surprisingly, he said he was excited to be in Green Bay. He said some more interesting things, as well.
If you want to read some excerpts, check those out here.
For the full transcript, go here.
Monday, January 19, 2009
It's official: Capers and the 3-4 now in Green Bay
The hire of Dom Capers as offensive coordinator seemed to come out of the blue. It was a fast and furious romance over the weekend between head coach Mike McCarthy and his new defensive coordinator. It must have been a magical weekend. Because not only did the Pack hire Capers, McCarthy also has already made the decision to run the 3-4 defensive scheme with which Capers is most well-versed.
But in McCarthy's press conference earlier this afternoon in which he made the Capers announcement official, he also gave indications that the team would use both 3- and 4-man fronts.
It will be worth your time to read the transcript of the press conference for more insights on the Capers hire, personnel considerations, other staff hires, etc. It's the whole enchilada right here.
Polls Underway
By the way, for about the next week we're running a pair of polls in the righthand column as to whether you like the move to hire Dom Capers or not, as well as your opinion of the 3-4 in Green Bay. Let us and other fans know what you think by taking a moment to respond to the polls. And best of all...they're FREE!!!
But in McCarthy's press conference earlier this afternoon in which he made the Capers announcement official, he also gave indications that the team would use both 3- and 4-man fronts.
It will be worth your time to read the transcript of the press conference for more insights on the Capers hire, personnel considerations, other staff hires, etc. It's the whole enchilada right here.
Polls Underway
By the way, for about the next week we're running a pair of polls in the righthand column as to whether you like the move to hire Dom Capers or not, as well as your opinion of the 3-4 in Green Bay. Let us and other fans know what you think by taking a moment to respond to the polls. And best of all...they're FREE!!!
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