2012 Packers Offseason (1 Viewer)

[sho nuff]

Apparently the team and Rodgers are close to agreeing on an extension.Twitter saying 5 years $96 million.How funny if they get that done before Brees and the Saints get a deal done.

Hope it's true, obviously the key to the offense. Pay the man.

Yep it's well deserved. Backup QB should be a priority though, especially towards the end of that deal. I know yall would love for him to play into his late 30's like Brady/Manning/Favre...but that doesn't always happen.

Sure...which is why they keep drafting or signing QBs to develop.

 

[scrumptrulescent]

Apparently the team and Rodgers are close to agreeing on an extension.Twitter saying 5 years $96 million.

Smart money. He's young, he's a fantastic guy on/off the field (great rep for the team), he's a fierce competitor, he's one of the elite in the NFL, it keeps showing players that this organization takes care of it's own.

 

[Dork Matter]

Are there any signs that the Packers are thinking of giving Cobb touches at RB? I've heard him compared to Welker, and Welker has filled a "long handoff" quasi-RB role in the past. With Hernandez showing how a receiver can serve as a key-breaker when switching to a run play, I'd think Cobb, a former RB, in that kind of role would be a big benefit to the offense.

 

[scrumptrulescent]

Are there any signs that the Packers are thinking of giving Cobb touches at RB? I've heard him compared to Welker, and Welker has filled a "long handoff" quasi-RB role in the past. With Hernandez showing how a receiver can serve as a key-breaker when switching to a run play, I'd think Cobb, a former RB, in that kind of role would be a big benefit to the offense.

Isn't Cobb a former QB?

 

[Dork Matter]

Waldman's 2011 RSP refers to Cobb as a former RB.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Are there any signs that the Packers are thinking of giving Cobb touches at RB? I've heard him compared to Welker, and Welker has filled a "long handoff" quasi-RB role in the past. With Hernandez showing how a receiver can serve as a key-breaker when switching to a run play, I'd think Cobb, a former RB, in that kind of role would be a big benefit to the offense.

Isn't Cobb a former QB?

Yeah, he played some QB at Kentucky as well as WR, returner, wildcat QB, etc. Mr. Do it All

 

[Faust]

Do the Packers have enough in backfield?

By Gregg Rosenthal

Around The League editor

It's hard to find fault with most of the Green Bay Packers' roster, especially on offense. The big exception is at running back, where the team is doing a lot of hoping and projecting.

The Green Bay Press-Gazette calls it the "thinnest position group" on the team. We agree. Let's take a look.

No. 1 James Starks: The Packers are projecting he can be a dynamic lead back. Starks has shown flashes of being a centerpiece back, but he has struggled with nagging injuries and only carried the ball 133 times last season.

Primary backups Alex Green and Brandon Saine: Green is a third-round pick from a year ago that is coming off reconstructive knee surgery. He hasn't practiced at all this summer and it's unclear if he'll be ready for camp. Saine looked passable in a third-down role last year, but his ceiling looks limited.

The depth is provided by undrafted running backs Marc Tyler and Du'ane Bennett: Neither player made a huge impression in OTAs, but it's hard for running backs to shine in non-contact practices. Fullback John Kuhn can also help out with carries.

If you are going to be thin anywhere, running back is not a bad option. They can be replaced. Still, this is not an overly promising group. If Starks gets hurt again, it looks particularly ugly.

"I think the coaches feel comfortable with what we got now," Green said earlier this month.

The Packers don't sound especially likely to bring in a veteran in camp, so this should be the group the Packers roll with. Unless Green quickly emerges, the position has potential to drag down Green Bay's otherwise incredible offense.

 

[Faust]

Packers: The risk/reward of James Starks

By Kevin Seifert | ESPN.com

Expanding on our initial observations from Green Bay Packers minicamp:

We should add a qualifying statement to last week's assertion, the one where we said the Packers have committed to James Starks as their primary running back for 2012. Here's a better way of putting it: To the extent that the Packers will have a primary running back in 2012, James Starks appears to be the one and only candidate.

The difference? The Packers have the NFL's reigning MVP at quarterback and one of the league's most dynamic passing games. They will run the ball in 2012, but employing a reliable 250-carry ball carrier isn't as high on their priority list as it might be for some teams.

Packers coach Mike McCarthy has indicated plans to tweak his running scheme this offseason, but if the team felt it needed to elevate the production of its running game dramatically, it likely would have added to its personnel this offseason. Instead, the Packers did not re-sign veteran Ryan Grant and conducted spring minicamp with Starks and second-year player Brandon Saine (70 career NFL snaps) as their top two runners.

(Alex Green, a third-round draft pick in 2011, was still recovering from surgery to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his knee.)

Starks has demonstrated strength and burst at times over the past two seasons, but the most important statistic of his career is that he has been healthy for only 16 games -- including the playoffs -- over the past three years. He missed his final season at Buffalo because of a torn labrum in his shoulder, was limited to seven games as a rookie because of a serious hamstring injury and was ineffective last season after spraining his knee and ankle in Week 11.

That, by definition, makes Starks' ascension a risk, but it's one the Packers figure they can manage as long as their passing game remains the crux of their offense. During a conversation last week, McCarthy widely praised Starks skills' -- including significant development as a pass protector -- while acknowledging his health will be the key.

"James [is a] very talented young man," McCarthy said. "The most important statistic for him is going to be availability. It has nothing to do with his skill set. He's getting better and better and better. … He's a young, raw guy that needs to play. If he can stay healthy, I think he'll make a significant jump as a player."

And in this offense, at least, that's probably enough.

 

[Faust]

Packers minicamp: Three observations

By Kevin Seifert | ESPN.com

GREEN BAY, Wis. -- I spent a good portion of Tuesday picking up information and background for future blog posts on the Green Bay Packers. But I've never been good at keeping secrets, so let me pass along the gist of several topics I plan to expand on later:

[*]The Packers have committed to James Starks as their primary running back. Ryan Grant's locker is now occupied, indicating his return is not in the team's plans, and Tuesday, Starks took the first-team repetitions while second-year back Alex Green continued his recovery from knee surgery. Starks has a long injury history, but coach Mike McCarthy is clearly prepared to take that risk. McCarthy: "He's a young raw guy that needs to play. If he can stay healthy, I think he'll make a significant jump as a player."

[*]The Packers have taken great measures to increase competition along their defensive line, which naturally makes you wonder why they are not counting more on fourth-year player B.J. Raji. From what I gather, the Packers thought Raji played too many snaps in 2011 -- he played 79.5 percent of plays last season, fifth-most among all NFL defensive linemen -- and hope the personnel influx can help his production. "We really need to get back to quality over quantity there," McCarthy said.

[*]I am no expert, but quarterback Graham Harrell appeared to have decent enough velocity on his throws. More important, there is absolutely no indication that the Packers are considering other alternatives to back up starter Aaron Rodgers. "He's on track to be a darn good quarterback," quarterbacks coach Ben McAdoo said.

 

[Balco]

I also hope someone emerges to put AJ Hawk on the bench. D Line seems to be getting maligned (and rightfully so, they need someone to step up and be a rotation player to give the starters rest), but Hawk was the worst player on the front seven.

 

[Mr Rodgers neighborhood]

Are there any signs that the Packers are thinking of giving Cobb touches at RB? I've heard him compared to Welker, and Welker has filled a "long handoff" quasi-RB role in the past. With Hernandez showing how a receiver can serve as a key-breaker when switching to a run play, I'd think Cobb, a former RB, in that kind of role would be a big benefit to the offense.

I haven't seen the comparison to Welker, but he does remind me of Percy Harvin. Maybe not the top end speed, but stronger, and lacks migraines.

 

[griff321]

Are there any signs that the Packers are thinking of giving Cobb touches at RB? I've heard him compared to Welker, and Welker has filled a "long handoff" quasi-RB role in the past. With Hernandez showing how a receiver can serve as a key-breaker when switching to a run play, I'd think Cobb, a former RB, in that kind of role would be a big benefit to the offense.

I haven't seen the comparison to Welker, but he does remind me of Percy Harvin. Maybe not the top end speed, but stronger, and lacks migraines.

Percy is a beast. Cobb has the same kind of shiftiness that Percy has, but I'd say he's a poor man's version of him.

 

[Sabertooth]

He may be a poor man's Harvin but he has the best qb in the NFL firing him the ball so that could work in his favor. Of course there are many mor e mouths to feed in GB.

 

[sho nuff]

I also hope someone emerges to put AJ Hawk on the bench. D Line seems to be getting maligned (and rightfully so, they need someone to step up and be a rotation player to give the starters rest), but Hawk was the worst player on the front seven.

The OLB spot opposite of Matthews was the worst spot on the front 7 last year.

 

[Mr Rodgers neighborhood]

Are there any signs that the Packers are thinking of giving Cobb touches at RB? I've heard him compared to Welker, and Welker has filled a "long handoff" quasi-RB role in the past. With Hernandez showing how a receiver can serve as a key-breaker when switching to a run play, I'd think Cobb, a former RB, in that kind of role would be a big benefit to the offense.

I haven't seen the comparison to Welker, but he does remind me of Percy Harvin. Maybe not the top end speed, but stronger, and lacks migraines.

Percy is a beast. Cobb has the same kind of shiftiness that Percy has, but I'd say he's a poor man's version of him.

That's the thing... I don't think he's a poor mans version of Harvin. Similar.

 

[Mr Rodgers neighborhood]

I also hope someone emerges to put AJ Hawk on the bench. D Line seems to be getting maligned (and rightfully so, they need someone to step up and be a rotation player to give the starters rest), but Hawk was the worst player on the front seven.

The OLB spot opposite of Matthews was the worst spot on the front 7 last year.

I would say the disaster at OLB last year was the worst spot at any position last year.

 

[Balco]

I also hope someone emerges to put AJ Hawk on the bench. D Line seems to be getting maligned (and rightfully so, they need someone to step up and be a rotation player to give the starters rest), but Hawk was the worst player on the front seven.

The OLB spot opposite of Matthews was the worst spot on the front 7 last year.

I would say the disaster at OLB last year was the worst spot at any position last year.

There was serious issue rushing the passer opposite Matthews, but Hawk was atrocious against the run.

 

[Sabertooth]

I also hope someone emerges to put AJ Hawk on the bench. D Line seems to be getting maligned (and rightfully so, they need someone to step up and be a rotation player to give the starters rest), but Hawk was the worst player on the front seven.

The OLB spot opposite of Matthews was the worst spot on the front 7 last year.

I would say the disaster at OLB last year was the worst spot at any position last year.

There was serious issue rushing the passer opposite Matthews, but Hawk was atrocious against the run.

They lost the edge. They obviously needed to retool and they are doing it methodically. Although I had really wished they would bring in OJ Atogwe.

 

[Faust]

Aaron Rodgers' well-being essential to Packers' hopes

By Gregg Rosenthal

Around The League editor

NFL Total Access" continues with its "32 teams in 32 days" series. We decided to score some brownie points by writing an accompanying post each night. We'll focus on one goal that each team needs to accomplish before Week 1.

Green Bay Packers must put Aaron Rodgers in bubble wrap

We could talk about the lack of depth in the Packers' backfield. The team's wide receiver battle should be fun to watch in camp. But really, what else matters other than Rodgers' health?

Rodgers is the best player in the NFL. His backup is a fourth-year undrafted quarterback who has never thrown a pass in the NFL. We think the world of Packers coach Mike McCarthy's quarterback-developing skills, but it's hard to imagine Graham Harrell winning games if something should happen to Rodgers. The Packers are standing strong behind Harrell and don't appear likely to add a veteran.

Yes, almost every team can't afford to lose a starting quarterback. But the drop-off isn't nearly as dramatic and most teams are not the 2012 Packers.

This Green Bay team is the most talented in the league. They have the most talented quarterback and a group of players in their primes who grew up together. They have unmatched continuity. It's the NFL, so anything could happen but the Packers are the Super Bowl favorites. It's not fair but anything less than a title will be a disappointment.

That's why August doesn't really matter that much for this Packers team. They are past that. Just get to the games that matter with Rodgers intact.

Video Link:

32 in 32: Packers

03:14 – The "NFL Total Access" crew debates the Green Bay Packers' biggest weakness heading into the 2012 season.

 

[Faust]

A.J. Hawk could lose playing time to D.J. Smith

There is a school of thought among those that follow the Green Bay Packers that second-year linebacker D.J. Smith should challenge incumbent A.J. Hawk for snaps, if not his starting job.

While the Packers kinda-sorta-not-really defended Hawk's performance last year, Smith is a logical fan favorite after a promising rookie season. The sixth-round pick flashed when called upon and seems to deserve a longer look like former fan favorite Desmond Bishop once did. (Bishop now starts next to Hawk).

Paul Imig of FoxSportsWisconsin points out that Smith is unlikely to replace Hawk because they don't really play the same position. Even though they are both inside linebackers.

"You can say it's kind of minor, but it's kind of a big difference," Smith said. "It's still a middle linebacker, but one position (Hawk's) has more responsibility than the other. When it comes to A.J.'s spot, he's the signal caller. He's the guy that runs the show. He's the quarterback of the whole thing. He gets guys lined up, ready to go and makes all the checks when things switch around."

Smith believes he's the No. 2 behind Bishop, while Robert Francois is Hawk's true backup. That makes it unlikely Hawk will get displaced as a starter.

"As far as I know, that's all I know," Smith said.

"He can play either one," Capers said. "He's smart enough, he can play either one. I think D.J. will be competing."

Smith's quotes throughout the article were deferential to Hawk, but Capers words mean more. He's going to find a way to get the best players on the field.

 

[sho nuff]

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/tramon-williams-still-dealing-serious-153604408--nfl.html

Tramon still hurting.

Shoulder only at 50%???

Big question marks there. They can't afford to lose him either after Collins' career is over.

2 young talented guys back there that they can't really count on.

Woodson's career about done. They better hope that pass rush improves with the draft picks and getting people healthy because the secondary could be trouble.

 

[Mr Rodgers neighborhood]

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/tramon-williams-still-dealing-serious-153604408--nfl.htmlTramon still hurting.Shoulder only at 50%???Big question marks there. They can't afford to lose him either after Collins' career is over.2 young talented guys back there that they can't really count on.Woodson's career about done. They better hope that pass rush improves with the draft picks and getting people healthy because the secondary could be trouble.

I read that Tramon played last season with his nerve in his shoulder firing at about 15 percent. We've still got a few months before it's time to hit the panic button, but Sam Shields needs to work on tackling in the meantime. Just curious, but how do you figure that Charles Woodson is just about done? He's not a shutdown corner, but he's still an elite playmaker. The move to safety, which is coming will further prolong his career. Yes he's lost a step, but Charles Woodson at 90% of his former self is still a very, very good player to have.I've also read that House has performed strong in mini camps.

 

[griff321]

What's the word on Harrell? I know footballguys staff think fairly little of him, but a lot of that has to do with his arm strength. It sounds like he's been putting in the time and if the coaching staff isn't looking for outside help then that's enough for me to look at him as a viable flyer in deep dynasty leagues.

 

[Sabertooth]

What's the word on Harrell? I know footballguys staff think fairly little of him, but a lot of that has to do with his arm strength. It sounds like he's been putting in the time and if the coaching staff isn't looking for outside help then that's enough for me to look at him as a viable flyer in deep dynasty leagues.

Haven't heard much but you have to think the fact that they didn't bring in a guy like Orton speaks to their comfort with him. FBG seem to really put a lot of value on the cannon arm. Thus their BJ Coleman love.

 

[sho nuff]

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/tramon-williams-still-dealing-serious-153604408--nfl.htmlTramon still hurting.Shoulder only at 50%???Big question marks there. They can't afford to lose him either after Collins' career is over.2 young talented guys back there that they can't really count on.Woodson's career about done. They better hope that pass rush improves with the draft picks and getting people healthy because the secondary could be trouble.

I read that Tramon played last season with his nerve in his shoulder firing at about 15 percent. We've still got a few months before it's time to hit the panic button, but Sam Shields needs to work on tackling in the meantime. Just curious, but how do you figure that Charles Woodson is just about done? He's not a shutdown corner, but he's still an elite playmaker. The move to safety, which is coming will further prolong his career. Yes he's lost a step, but Charles Woodson at 90% of his former self is still a very, very good player to have.I've also read that House has performed strong in mini camps.

Woodson struggled in coverage last year and his blitzes were not getting there either (Bush looked like the better blitzer of the two).I agree that if they move him to Safety, it will prolong it.But that still leaves that void at corner.Makes more sense now that they drafted Hayward now.

 

[sho nuff]

What's the word on Harrell? I know footballguys staff think fairly little of him, but a lot of that has to do with his arm strength. It sounds like he's been putting in the time and if the coaching staff isn't looking for outside help then that's enough for me to look at him as a viable flyer in deep dynasty leagues.

Haven't heard much but you have to think the fact that they didn't bring in a guy like Orton speaks to their comfort with him. FBG seem to really put a lot of value on the cannon arm. Thus their BJ Coleman love.

Coaches seem to have raved about him again and talked about how he looked stronger this year coming in.Also remember this will be his first full offseason as he did not get one last year.

 

[cr8f]

What's the word on Harrell? I know footballguys staff think fairly little of him, but a lot of that has to do with his arm strength. It sounds like he's been putting in the time and if the coaching staff isn't looking for outside help then that's enough for me to look at him as a viable flyer in deep dynasty leagues.

Haven't heard much but you have to think the fact that they didn't bring in a guy like Orton speaks to their comfort with him. FBG seem to really put a lot of value on the cannon arm. Thus their BJ Coleman love.

Coaches seem to have raved about him again and talked about how he looked stronger this year coming in.Also remember this will be his first full offseason as he did not get one last year.

They have worked on his overall strength and especially his arm strength too. He couldn't make several throws before the draft but word is he is much improved.McCarthy has been good developing QB's.

 

[Faust]

Randall Cobb's versatility an asset to Rodgers, Packers

By Gregg Rosenthal

Around The League editor

As we count down the days to training camp, Around the League will examine one player from every team set for a breakout campaign in 2012. Next up: The Green Bay Packers

The Green Bay Packers' roster is littered with young players that have already broken out. A team full of largely homegrown players selected by general manager Ted Thompson backed up a Super Bowl title with a 15-1 record in 2011.

A jarring playoff exit to the New York Giants doesn't erase the fact this is the most talented, cohesive depth chart in the league. In today's NFL, no team is especially likely to win the Super Bowl. But no team is more likely to win it this season than the Packers.

Making the Leap: Randall Cobb

Randall Cobb doesn't have an easy path to be this team's breakout player because the Packers' wideout depth chart is so stacked. Greg Jennings and Jordy Nelson are the starters. James Jones and Donald Driver make terrific reserves. But Cobb is going to force the Packers to find room.

Cobb announced his presence as a rookie with two touchdowns in the season opener, but he barely played on offense that night against the New Orleans Saints. As late as Week 13 against the Giants, Cobb was an afterthought. His playtime and production gradually increased after that.

Cobb's three games with his most offensive snaps came in a row from Weeks 14-16, according to ProFootballFocus. It's hard not to notice Cobb's efficiency. He caught all 11 passes thrown at him for 158 yards in his final four games of the year, including the playoffs. For the season, Cobb caught over 80 percent of his targets. That was the highest number in the league for receivers with more than 15 catches.

Like a lot of return men, Cobb played mostly out of the slot. (He had his way with Javier Arenas against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 15.) But the Packers also got him involved on the outside in some two and three-wide receiver sets. Cobb sometimes struggles to get off the line of scrimmage because of his size, but he creates space with his quickness and sharp cuts. When Cobb gets the ball in space, he makes people miss.

This Packers group is not easy to break into. Cobb's rookie stats were similar to Jordy Nelson's in 2008, but we don't think it will take Cobb as long to break out. His pure speed and ability to make defenders miss can make Cobb Green Bay's answer to Victor Cruz.

Cobb can run the ball. (Heck, he can throw the ball well as a part-time college quarterback at Kentucky.) He can line up all over the field. He can turn a five-yard pass into an 80-yard touchdown. Cobb brings skills to the table that Donald Driver and James Jones simply can't offer.

We've learned repeatedly that Mike McCarthy and Aaron Rodgers squeeze the most out of their receiver talent. They should find a way to use Cobb plenty in 2012.

 

[Faust]

Charlie Peprah a favorite to start for Packers

By Brian McIntyre

Around the League writer

With the release of three-time Pro Bowl safety Nick Collins for medical issues (neck) in March, the Green Bay Packers' starting strong safety position opposite is up for grabs.

Veteran Charlie Peprah stepped in after Collins was injured and finished third on the team in tackles (94), and his five interceptions ranked second on the team behind Charles Woodson. Peprah has missed offseason workouts with a knee injury, but he has the inside track to start, while Woodson could also play safety in nickel and dime situations.

Joining the competition will be M.D. Jennings, who joined the Packers as an undrafted free agent last summer and played primarily on special teams as a rookie, and Jerron McMillian, a 2012 fourth-round pick from Maine. McMillian will most likely follow Jennings' path and be a core special teams player this season, but he's looking forward to competing for a bigger role in training camp.

"I'm going to learn the playbook as well as I can," McMillian said, according to a Monday report from Tyler Dunne of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. "I'm going to know my job and know what everyone else is doing around me to help my job at that position. I'll just go out there and compete, work as hard as I can. That's all I can do."

Dunne notes that the coaching staff likes Peprah's experience and that having dependability and continuity in the back end of the defense figures to give him an edge.

One interesting statistic from the Packers' 2011 season is that neither Burnett nor Peprah had a single penalty called against them, despite official playing-time documents showing that the two combined for 2,014 defensive snaps.

 

[Sabertooth]

Randall Cobb's versatility an asset to Rodgers, Packers

By Gregg Rosenthal

Around The League editor

As we count down the days to training camp, Around the League will examine one player from every team set for a breakout campaign in 2012. Next up: The Green Bay Packers

The Green Bay Packers' roster is littered with young players that have already broken out. A team full of largely homegrown players selected by general manager Ted Thompson backed up a Super Bowl title with a 15-1 record in 2011.

A jarring playoff exit to the New York Giants doesn't erase the fact this is the most talented, cohesive depth chart in the league. In today's NFL, no team is especially likely to win the Super Bowl. But no team is more likely to win it this season than the Packers.

Making the Leap: Randall Cobb

Randall Cobb doesn't have an easy path to be this team's breakout player because the Packers' wideout depth chart is so stacked. Greg Jennings and Jordy Nelson are the starters. James Jones and Donald Driver make terrific reserves. But Cobb is going to force the Packers to find room.

Cobb announced his presence as a rookie with two touchdowns in the season opener, but he barely played on offense that night against the New Orleans Saints. As late as Week 13 against the Giants, Cobb was an afterthought. His playtime and production gradually increased after that.

Cobb's three games with his most offensive snaps came in a row from Weeks 14-16, according to ProFootballFocus. It's hard not to notice Cobb's efficiency. He caught all 11 passes thrown at him for 158 yards in his final four games of the year, including the playoffs. For the season, Cobb caught over 80 percent of his targets. That was the highest number in the league for receivers with more than 15 catches.

Like a lot of return men, Cobb played mostly out of the slot. (He had his way with Javier Arenas against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 15.) But the Packers also got him involved on the outside in some two and three-wide receiver sets. Cobb sometimes struggles to get off the line of scrimmage because of his size, but he creates space with his quickness and sharp cuts. When Cobb gets the ball in space, he makes people miss.

This Packers group is not easy to break into. Cobb's rookie stats were similar to Jordy Nelson's in 2008, but we don't think it will take Cobb as long to break out. His pure speed and ability to make defenders miss can make Cobb Green Bay's answer to Victor Cruz.

Cobb can run the ball. (Heck, he can throw the ball well as a part-time college quarterback at Kentucky.) He can line up all over the field. He can turn a five-yard pass into an 80-yard touchdown. Cobb brings skills to the table that Donald Driver and James Jones simply can't offer.

We've learned repeatedly that Mike McCarthy and Aaron Rodgers squeeze the most out of their receiver talent. They should find a way to use Cobb plenty in 2012.

I paid quite a bit in a recent dynasty startup for Cobb. I hope he continues to ascend. I think he will. James Jones will be an afterthought come fall.

 

[todisco1]

Question for those who think Cobb's breakout year is 2012 - at whose expense does Cobb succeed? IMO there's very little chance that (a health) Jennings, Nelson, Finley and Cobb will all be consistent fantasy starters. Even on that prolific passing offense that's one player too much. Do people expect Nelson's numbers to drop drastically while Cobb's rise? I'm just curious - I like Cobb, but have a hard time reading him this year because there just seem to be too many mouths to feed.

 

[Faust]

Chat with Kevin Seifert

Excerpt:

Andre (Canada)

Which NFC North second year player takes the biggest leap in terms of performance?

Kevin Seifert (2:01 PM)

A lot of people think Randall Cobb of the Packers is going to make a lot of noise this season. Remember, he was barely 21 when the season started last year. Got better as it went on.

 

[Sabertooth]

Question for those who think Cobb's breakout year is 2012 - at whose expense does Cobb succeed? IMO there's very little chance that (a health) Jennings, Nelson, Finley and Cobb will all be consistent fantasy starters. Even on that prolific passing offense that's one player too much. Do people expect Nelson's numbers to drop drastically while Cobb's rise? I'm just curious - I like Cobb, but have a hard time reading him this year because there just seem to be too many mouths to feed.

I think he takes chips out of Driver and Jones but also eats into Jennings and Jordy. So a little of everything. Rodgers can only throw the ball to one player per drop back obviously. I don't think Finley is suddenly going to go Gronko on us. He doesn't have the hands. Jennings is very good but isn't a guy who demands 100 catches a season. Jordy is fantastic at what he does but that's different from what Cobb does. I think Cobb just finds his own role at the expense of all the others. He's good enough to do so. I think around 60 balls for Cobb is reasonable. Jones and Driver had 75 balls between them. Cobb had 25 last season, add in 20 more as he moves past Jones and Driver, chip in a few from Jennings and Nelson and you are sitting around 60 catches. 15 ypc gives us around 900 yards, and half dozen touchdowns sounds about right. I think the yardage is closer to 800 though.

 

[Alex P Keaton]

Question for those who think Cobb's breakout year is 2012 - at whose expense does Cobb succeed? IMO there's very little chance that (a health) Jennings, Nelson, Finley and Cobb will all be consistent fantasy starters. Even on that prolific passing offense that's one player too much. Do people expect Nelson's numbers to drop drastically while Cobb's rise? I'm just curious - I like Cobb, but have a hard time reading him this year because there just seem to be too many mouths to feed.

I think he takes chips out of Driver and Jones but also eats into Jennings and Jordy. So a little of everything. Rodgers can only throw the ball to one player per drop back obviously. I don't think Finley is suddenly going to go Gronko on us. He doesn't have the hands. Jennings is very good but isn't a guy who demands 100 catches a season. Jordy is fantastic at what he does but that's different from what Cobb does. I think Cobb just finds his own role at the expense of all the others. He's good enough to do so. I think around 60 balls for Cobb is reasonable. Jones and Driver had 75 balls between them. Cobb had 25 last season, add in 20 more as he moves past Jones and Driver, chip in a few from Jennings and Nelson and you are sitting around 60 catches. 15 ypc gives us around 900 yards, and half dozen touchdowns sounds about right. I think the yardage is closer to 800 though.

Wait, you really see him cutting into Jennings? I don't see that in the least. Jordy...maybe on the margin. Driver - barely will catch a ball this year....he'll have 10-20 catches max, barring injuries. Just interested in the logic that says Jennings or Jordy take any meaningful hit.

 

[smackdaddies]

Question for those who think Cobb's breakout year is 2012 - at whose expense does Cobb succeed? IMO there's very little chance that (a health) Jennings, Nelson, Finley and Cobb will all be consistent fantasy starters. Even on that prolific passing offense that's one player too much. Do people expect Nelson's numbers to drop drastically while Cobb's rise? I'm just curious - I like Cobb, but have a hard time reading him this year because there just seem to be too many mouths to feed.

Driver takes the hit this year, plus some from Jordy. I have a hard time however seeing Cobb get more than 45 rcpts. To much talent and ARod tosses the ball around to too many rcvrs. However, if your in a league that scores return yards as part of player positions, Cobb could be a very legit #2 WR on your team

 

[az_prof]

Question for those who think Cobb's breakout year is 2012 - at whose expense does Cobb succeed? IMO there's very little chance that (a health) Jennings, Nelson, Finley and Cobb will all be consistent fantasy starters. Even on that prolific passing offense that's one player too much. Do people expect Nelson's numbers to drop drastically while Cobb's rise? I'm just curious - I like Cobb, but have a hard time reading him this year because there just seem to be too many mouths to feed.

Driver takes the hit this year, plus some from Jordy. I have a hard time however seeing Cobb get more than 45 rcpts. To much talent and ARod tosses the ball around to too many rcvrs. However, if your in a league that scores return yards as part of player positions, Cobb could be a very legit #2 WR on your team

I pretty much agree with this. I do see James Jones and Driver being eclipsed and Cobb getting a good chunk of their change. I also see Jordy losing a bit--IMO last year was his career year. But I can't see Cobb catching more than 50 in 2012 unless there are some injuries in front of him.

 

[sho nuff]

Question for those who think Cobb's breakout year is 2012 - at whose expense does Cobb succeed? IMO there's very little chance that (a health) Jennings, Nelson, Finley and Cobb will all be consistent fantasy starters. Even on that prolific passing offense that's one player too much. Do people expect Nelson's numbers to drop drastically while Cobb's rise? I'm just curious - I like Cobb, but have a hard time reading him this year because there just seem to be too many mouths to feed.

Driver takes the hit this year, plus some from Jordy. I have a hard time however seeing Cobb get more than 45 rcpts. To much talent and ARod tosses the ball around to too many rcvrs. However, if your in a league that scores return yards as part of player positions, Cobb could be a very legit #2 WR on your team

I pretty much agree with this. I do see James Jones and Driver being eclipsed and Cobb getting a good chunk of their change. I also see Jordy losing a bit--IMO last year was his career year. But I can't see Cobb catching more than 50 in 2012 unless there are some injuries in front of him.

I can see Jones being unloaded to make room for one of the young guys they have in camp (Gurley, Borel...)Also possibly they keep 6 WRs active this season and still get rid of Jones.

 

[Sabertooth]

Question for those who think Cobb's breakout year is 2012 - at whose expense does Cobb succeed? IMO there's very little chance that (a health) Jennings, Nelson, Finley and Cobb will all be consistent fantasy starters. Even on that prolific passing offense that's one player too much. Do people expect Nelson's numbers to drop drastically while Cobb's rise? I'm just curious - I like Cobb, but have a hard time reading him this year because there just seem to be too many mouths to feed.

I think he takes chips out of Driver and Jones but also eats into Jennings and Jordy. So a little of everything. Rodgers can only throw the ball to one player per drop back obviously. I don't think Finley is suddenly going to go Gronko on us. He doesn't have the hands. Jennings is very good but isn't a guy who demands 100 catches a season. Jordy is fantastic at what he does but that's different from what Cobb does. I think Cobb just finds his own role at the expense of all the others. He's good enough to do so. I think around 60 balls for Cobb is reasonable. Jones and Driver had 75 balls between them. Cobb had 25 last season, add in 20 more as he moves past Jones and Driver, chip in a few from Jennings and Nelson and you are sitting around 60 catches. 15 ypc gives us around 900 yards, and half dozen touchdowns sounds about right. I think the yardage is closer to 800 though.

Wait, you really see him cutting into Jennings? I don't see that in the least. Jordy...maybe on the margin. Driver - barely will catch a ball this year....he'll have 10-20 catches max, barring injuries. Just interested in the logic that says Jennings or Jordy take any meaningful hit.

Lots of things can happen. The logic is that Cobb is a very gifted football player and those players tend to get used.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Question for those who think Cobb's breakout year is 2012 - at whose expense does Cobb succeed? IMO there's very little chance that (a health) Jennings, Nelson, Finley and Cobb will all be consistent fantasy starters. Even on that prolific passing offense that's one player too much. Do people expect Nelson's numbers to drop drastically while Cobb's rise? I'm just curious - I like Cobb, but have a hard time reading him this year because there just seem to be too many mouths to feed.

I think he takes chips out of Driver and Jones but also eats into Jennings and Jordy. So a little of everything. Rodgers can only throw the ball to one player per drop back obviously. I don't think Finley is suddenly going to go Gronko on us. He doesn't have the hands. Jennings is very good but isn't a guy who demands 100 catches a season. Jordy is fantastic at what he does but that's different from what Cobb does. I think Cobb just finds his own role at the expense of all the others. He's good enough to do so. I think around 60 balls for Cobb is reasonable. Jones and Driver had 75 balls between them. Cobb had 25 last season, add in 20 more as he moves past Jones and Driver, chip in a few from Jennings and Nelson and you are sitting around 60 catches. 15 ypc gives us around 900 yards, and half dozen touchdowns sounds about right. I think the yardage is closer to 800 though.

Wait, you really see him cutting into Jennings? I don't see that in the least. Jordy...maybe on the margin. Driver - barely will catch a ball this year....he'll have 10-20 catches max, barring injuries. Just interested in the logic that says Jennings or Jordy take any meaningful hit.

Lots of things can happen. The logic is that Cobb is a very gifted football player and those players tend to get used.

Cobb is gifted and athletic. I could see him being a very good slot WR in the future for many reasons. GB doesn't have a slot guy right now. Nelson works a lot better on the outside using his frame. Finley can go outside or work the seam because he's tall. Jones is average. Jennings can move all over the place. But Cobb isn't the best at getting off the LOS, so the slot is perfect for him to use his quickness and get a release. Matched up against nickel CB, LB, S types and play in the mold of Welker/Cruz/Lance Moore/Collie/etc. The problem is that it's tough to get targets because too many hands in the cookie jar in GB.

 

[Touchdown There]

Question for those who think Cobb's breakout year is 2012 - at whose expense does Cobb succeed? IMO there's very little chance that (a health) Jennings, Nelson, Finley and Cobb will all be consistent fantasy starters. Even on that prolific passing offense that's one player too much. Do people expect Nelson's numbers to drop drastically while Cobb's rise? I'm just curious - I like Cobb, but have a hard time reading him this year because there just seem to be too many mouths to feed.

I think he takes chips out of Driver and Jones but also eats into Jennings and Jordy. So a little of everything. Rodgers can only throw the ball to one player per drop back obviously. I don't think Finley is suddenly going to go Gronko on us. He doesn't have the hands. Jennings is very good but isn't a guy who demands 100 catches a season. Jordy is fantastic at what he does but that's different from what Cobb does. I think Cobb just finds his own role at the expense of all the others. He's good enough to do so. I think around 60 balls for Cobb is reasonable. Jones and Driver had 75 balls between them. Cobb had 25 last season, add in 20 more as he moves past Jones and Driver, chip in a few from Jennings and Nelson and you are sitting around 60 catches. 15 ypc gives us around 900 yards, and half dozen touchdowns sounds about right. I think the yardage is closer to 800 though.

Wait, you really see him cutting into Jennings? I don't see that in the least. Jordy...maybe on the margin. Driver - barely will catch a ball this year....he'll have 10-20 catches max, barring injuries. Just interested in the logic that says Jennings or Jordy take any meaningful hit.

Lots of things can happen. The logic is that Cobb is a very gifted football player and those players tend to get used.

Cobb is gifted and athletic. I could see him being a very good slot WR in the future for many reasons. GB doesn't have a slot guy right now. Nelson works a lot better on the outside using his frame. Finley can go outside or work the seam because he's tall. Jones is average. Jennings can move all over the place. But Cobb isn't the best at getting off the LOS, so the slot is perfect for him to use his quickness and get a release. Matched up against nickel CB, LB, S types and play in the mold of Welker/Cruz/Lance Moore/Collie/etc. The problem is that it's tough to get targets because too many hands in the cookie jar in GB.

Definitely too many hands in the cookie jar. If Cobb does well this year it will be because they trade Jones. I don't think the Pack are going to find a trade partner. Cobb will likely be a return specialist and WR4.

 

[smackdaddies]

Question for those who think Cobb's breakout year is 2012 - at whose expense does Cobb succeed? IMO there's very little chance that (a health) Jennings, Nelson, Finley and Cobb will all be consistent fantasy starters. Even on that prolific passing offense that's one player too much. Do people expect Nelson's numbers to drop drastically while Cobb's rise? I'm just curious - I like Cobb, but have a hard time reading him this year because there just seem to be too many mouths to feed.

I think he takes chips out of Driver and Jones but also eats into Jennings and Jordy. So a little of everything. Rodgers can only throw the ball to one player per drop back obviously. I don't think Finley is suddenly going to go Gronko on us. He doesn't have the hands. Jennings is very good but isn't a guy who demands 100 catches a season. Jordy is fantastic at what he does but that's different from what Cobb does. I think Cobb just finds his own role at the expense of all the others. He's good enough to do so. I think around 60 balls for Cobb is reasonable. Jones and Driver had 75 balls between them. Cobb had 25 last season, add in 20 more as he moves past Jones and Driver, chip in a few from Jennings and Nelson and you are sitting around 60 catches. 15 ypc gives us around 900 yards, and half dozen touchdowns sounds about right. I think the yardage is closer to 800 though.

Wait, you really see him cutting into Jennings? I don't see that in the least. Jordy...maybe on the margin. Driver - barely will catch a ball this year....he'll have 10-20 catches max, barring injuries. Just interested in the logic that says Jennings or Jordy take any meaningful hit.

Lots of things can happen. The logic is that Cobb is a very gifted football player and those players tend to get used.

Sure he is gifted....just not as much as Jennings, Jordy or JFin....Toss in that ARod shares the ball better than anyone....There are simply not enough balls thrown to get him over 45

 

[Sabertooth]

Question for those who think Cobb's breakout year is 2012 - at whose expense does Cobb succeed? IMO there's very little chance that (a health) Jennings, Nelson, Finley and Cobb will all be consistent fantasy starters. Even on that prolific passing offense that's one player too much. Do people expect Nelson's numbers to drop drastically while Cobb's rise? I'm just curious - I like Cobb, but have a hard time reading him this year because there just seem to be too many mouths to feed.

I think he takes chips out of Driver and Jones but also eats into Jennings and Jordy. So a little of everything. Rodgers can only throw the ball to one player per drop back obviously. I don't think Finley is suddenly going to go Gronko on us. He doesn't have the hands. Jennings is very good but isn't a guy who demands 100 catches a season. Jordy is fantastic at what he does but that's different from what Cobb does. I think Cobb just finds his own role at the expense of all the others. He's good enough to do so. I think around 60 balls for Cobb is reasonable. Jones and Driver had 75 balls between them. Cobb had 25 last season, add in 20 more as he moves past Jones and Driver, chip in a few from Jennings and Nelson and you are sitting around 60 catches. 15 ypc gives us around 900 yards, and half dozen touchdowns sounds about right. I think the yardage is closer to 800 though.

Wait, you really see him cutting into Jennings? I don't see that in the least. Jordy...maybe on the margin. Driver - barely will catch a ball this year....he'll have 10-20 catches max, barring injuries. Just interested in the logic that says Jennings or Jordy take any meaningful hit.

Lots of things can happen. The logic is that Cobb is a very gifted football player and those players tend to get used.

Cobb is gifted and athletic. I could see him being a very good slot WR in the future for many reasons. GB doesn't have a slot guy right now. Nelson works a lot better on the outside using his frame. Finley can go outside or work the seam because he's tall. Jones is average. Jennings can move all over the place. But Cobb isn't the best at getting off the LOS, so the slot is perfect for him to use his quickness and get a release. Matched up against nickel CB, LB, S types and play in the mold of Welker/Cruz/Lance Moore/Collie/etc. The problem is that it's tough to get targets because too many hands in the cookie jar in GB.

I agree there are a lot of good weapons. But everybody just assumes that Jordy and Jennings are too good to lose targets. Fact is, neither is a target hog like Larry Fitzgerald or Calvin. They are both very good. So is Cobb.

 

[Sabertooth]

Question for those who think Cobb's breakout year is 2012 - at whose expense does Cobb succeed? IMO there's very little chance that (a health) Jennings, Nelson, Finley and Cobb will all be consistent fantasy starters. Even on that prolific passing offense that's one player too much. Do people expect Nelson's numbers to drop drastically while Cobb's rise? I'm just curious - I like Cobb, but have a hard time reading him this year because there just seem to be too many mouths to feed.

I think he takes chips out of Driver and Jones but also eats into Jennings and Jordy. So a little of everything. Rodgers can only throw the ball to one player per drop back obviously. I don't think Finley is suddenly going to go Gronko on us. He doesn't have the hands. Jennings is very good but isn't a guy who demands 100 catches a season. Jordy is fantastic at what he does but that's different from what Cobb does. I think Cobb just finds his own role at the expense of all the others. He's good enough to do so. I think around 60 balls for Cobb is reasonable. Jones and Driver had 75 balls between them. Cobb had 25 last season, add in 20 more as he moves past Jones and Driver, chip in a few from Jennings and Nelson and you are sitting around 60 catches. 15 ypc gives us around 900 yards, and half dozen touchdowns sounds about right. I think the yardage is closer to 800 though.

Wait, you really see him cutting into Jennings? I don't see that in the least. Jordy...maybe on the margin. Driver - barely will catch a ball this year....he'll have 10-20 catches max, barring injuries. Just interested in the logic that says Jennings or Jordy take any meaningful hit.

Lots of things can happen. The logic is that Cobb is a very gifted football player and those players tend to get used.

Cobb is gifted and athletic. I could see him being a very good slot WR in the future for many reasons. GB doesn't have a slot guy right now. Nelson works a lot better on the outside using his frame. Finley can go outside or work the seam because he's tall. Jones is average. Jennings can move all over the place. But Cobb isn't the best at getting off the LOS, so the slot is perfect for him to use his quickness and get a release. Matched up against nickel CB, LB, S types and play in the mold of Welker/Cruz/Lance Moore/Collie/etc. The problem is that it's tough to get targets because too many hands in the cookie jar in GB.

Definitely too many hands in the cookie jar. If Cobb does well this year it will be because they trade Jones. I don't think the Pack are going to find a trade partner. Cobb will likely be a return specialist and WR4.

I don't think Jones is good going to be ahead of Cobb on the depth chart. I think Cobb transitions into the WR3 role this season.

 

[cr8f]

Jones is good going to be ahead of Cobb on the depth chart. I think Cobb transitions into the WR3 role this season.

They are much different players. I like Jones but he didn't get many opportunities last year after blowing so many the 2 years previous. His completion percentage was better last year but with Nelson and Cobb there isn't much left.Hopefully he'll be traded.

 

[Sabertooth]

Jones is good going to be ahead of Cobb on the depth chart. I think Cobb transitions into the WR3 role this season.

They are much different players. I like Jones but he didn't get many opportunities last year after blowing so many the 2 years previous. His completion percentage was better last year but with Nelson and Cobb there isn't much left.Hopefully he'll be traded.

I think he drops to wr4 this season and probably goes elsewhere afterwards. He's another Bob Ferguson type guy.

 

[KingPrawn]

Brett-Favre-not-expected-to-attend-Green-Bay-Packers-Hall-of-Fame-banquet-induction-of-Mike-Holmgren

Former Packers President Bob Harlan said Tuesday an attempt to bring Brett Favre back to Green Bay later this month for the Packers Hall of Fame banquet likely will be unsuccessful.

Harlan told ESPN Milwaukee that someone from the Hall of Fame called Favre’s agent, Bus Cook, to invite the former quarterback to coach Mike Holmgren’s July 21 induction ceremony at the Lambeau Field Atrium.

“This would be the perfect time for him to come back, come into Green Bay,” Harlan told members of the Hall of Fame committee. “The crowd at the Hall of Fame banquet is an adoring crowd, they’re as loyal to the Green Bay Packers as anybody.”

Harlan said it’s his understanding Cook never returned the call.

“Unfortunately, I don’t think he’s going to do it,” Harlan said. “We did approach his agent, and I don’t think Brett’s going to do it. I feel badly about that.”

Favre attended the 2008 Hall of Fame banquet to present Frank Winters for induction. He was traded the next month to the New York Jets and his relationship with the Packers has remained rocky.

Harlan seems intent on mending fences between the two factions.

“He’s got to come back someday and have his number retired,” Harlan told ESPN Milwaukee. “He’s going to go into the Packers Hall of Fame; I think he should go into the Packers Hall of Fame before he goes into Canton.”

 

[smackdaddies]

Question for those who think Cobb's breakout year is 2012 - at whose expense does Cobb succeed? IMO there's very little chance that (a health) Jennings, Nelson, Finley and Cobb will all be consistent fantasy starters. Even on that prolific passing offense that's one player too much. Do people expect Nelson's numbers to drop drastically while Cobb's rise? I'm just curious - I like Cobb, but have a hard time reading him this year because there just seem to be too many mouths to feed.

I think he takes chips out of Driver and Jones but also eats into Jennings and Jordy. So a little of everything. Rodgers can only throw the ball to one player per drop back obviously. I don't think Finley is suddenly going to go Gronko on us. He doesn't have the hands. Jennings is very good but isn't a guy who demands 100 catches a season. Jordy is fantastic at what he does but that's different from what Cobb does. I think Cobb just finds his own role at the expense of all the others. He's good enough to do so. I think around 60 balls for Cobb is reasonable. Jones and Driver had 75 balls between them. Cobb had 25 last season, add in 20 more as he moves past Jones and Driver, chip in a few from Jennings and Nelson and you are sitting around 60 catches. 15 ypc gives us around 900 yards, and half dozen touchdowns sounds about right. I think the yardage is closer to 800 though.

Wait, you really see him cutting into Jennings? I don't see that in the least. Jordy...maybe on the margin. Driver - barely will catch a ball this year....he'll have 10-20 catches max, barring injuries. Just interested in the logic that says Jennings or Jordy take any meaningful hit.

Lots of things can happen. The logic is that Cobb is a very gifted football player and those players tend to get used.

Cobb is gifted and athletic. I could see him being a very good slot WR in the future for many reasons. GB doesn't have a slot guy right now. Nelson works a lot better on the outside using his frame. Finley can go outside or work the seam because he's tall. Jones is average. Jennings can move all over the place. But Cobb isn't the best at getting off the LOS, so the slot is perfect for him to use his quickness and get a release. Matched up against nickel CB, LB, S types and play in the mold of Welker/Cruz/Lance Moore/Collie/etc. The problem is that it's tough to get targets because too many hands in the cookie jar in GB.

Definitely too many hands in the cookie jar. If Cobb does well this year it will be because they trade Jones. I don't think the Pack are going to find a trade partner. Cobb will likely be a return specialist and WR4.

I don't think Jones is good going to be ahead of Cobb on the depth chart. I think Cobb transitions into the WR3 role this season.

#4 - Jennings, Jordy JFin, then CobbThere just are not enough passes for Cobb to get so many....

 

[Sabertooth]

Question for those who think Cobb's breakout year is 2012 - at whose expense does Cobb succeed? IMO there's very little chance that (a health) Jennings, Nelson, Finley and Cobb will all be consistent fantasy starters. Even on that prolific passing offense that's one player too much. Do people expect Nelson's numbers to drop drastically while Cobb's rise? I'm just curious - I like Cobb, but have a hard time reading him this year because there just seem to be too many mouths to feed.

I think he takes chips out of Driver and Jones but also eats into Jennings and Jordy. So a little of everything. Rodgers can only throw the ball to one player per drop back obviously. I don't think Finley is suddenly going to go Gronko on us. He doesn't have the hands. Jennings is very good but isn't a guy who demands 100 catches a season. Jordy is fantastic at what he does but that's different from what Cobb does. I think Cobb just finds his own role at the expense of all the others. He's good enough to do so. I think around 60 balls for Cobb is reasonable. Jones and Driver had 75 balls between them. Cobb had 25 last season, add in 20 more as he moves past Jones and Driver, chip in a few from Jennings and Nelson and you are sitting around 60 catches. 15 ypc gives us around 900 yards, and half dozen touchdowns sounds about right. I think the yardage is closer to 800 though.

Wait, you really see him cutting into Jennings? I don't see that in the least. Jordy...maybe on the margin. Driver - barely will catch a ball this year....he'll have 10-20 catches max, barring injuries. Just interested in the logic that says Jennings or Jordy take any meaningful hit.

Lots of things can happen. The logic is that Cobb is a very gifted football player and those players tend to get used.

Cobb is gifted and athletic. I could see him being a very good slot WR in the future for many reasons. GB doesn't have a slot guy right now. Nelson works a lot better on the outside using his frame. Finley can go outside or work the seam because he's tall. Jones is average. Jennings can move all over the place. But Cobb isn't the best at getting off the LOS, so the slot is perfect for him to use his quickness and get a release. Matched up against nickel CB, LB, S types and play in the mold of Welker/Cruz/Lance Moore/Collie/etc. The problem is that it's tough to get targets because too many hands in the cookie jar in GB.

Definitely too many hands in the cookie jar. If Cobb does well this year it will be because they trade Jones. I don't think the Pack are going to find a trade partner. Cobb will likely be a return specialist and WR4.

I don't think Jones is good going to be ahead of Cobb on the depth chart. I think Cobb transitions into the WR3 role this season.

#4 - Jennings, Jordy JFin, then CobbThere just are not enough passes for Cobb to get so many....

Finley isn't a wideout. And he's overrated. It think you seriously underestimate Cobb's talent.

 

[todisco1]

Sabertooth, do you expect Cobb to eclipse 1k this year? I like Cobb's talent but I just can't see it happening barring an injury to Jennings or Nelson.

You can say Finley is overrated (and he may be) but he's still a pretty big part of the offense. He had 750+ yds and 8 TDs last year and most thought he underperformed. I'd expect him to be about the same in terms of numbers, and it would be next to impossible for Nelson/Jennings/Cobb to be over 1k with Finley around 700-800. I just don't think it's realistic to expect Cobb to be a viable option this season - he could easily get 600-700 yds and 5-6 TDs, but that's not someone I'd be happy plugging in my lineup on a weekly basis.

 

[Faust]

Is James Starks ready to break out for Packers?

By Marc Sessler

Writer

The Green Bay Packers rained down points last season, almost in spite of the team's unrewarding ground game.

James Starks was the best back on the roster, but he only had 578 yards, and the Packers finished 27th in rushing. It makes what Aaron Rodgers accomplished even more impressive, but coach Mike McCarthy would like the option for a little more balance this season. With Ryan Grant out of the picture, Starks has been tapped to lead the way.

The Packers had high hopes for Starks after he rushed for 315 yards in four games during Green Bay's Super Bowl run two seasons ago. He was derailed by injuries late last season, and when he played, he was inconsistent. The team, however, is encouraged by his first full offseason with the team.

"He looks great," McCarthy told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. "He had a breakout playoff run (in 2010). Some guys just hit that injury phase in their careers and just have to work themselves out of it. Starks has some of that. He's had some tough challenges just getting hurt."

We've become accustomed to a thin ground game in Green Bay, and you could argue it doesn't matter. The Packers leaned hard on Rodgers last season (gaining 77 percent of the team's yards through the air) and managed to win 15 games. The New York Giants couldn't run the ball to save their lives last season and won a title.

Teams don't buy into Green Bay's running game right now. We're not sure Starks will change that, but the Packers are going to give it a try.

Healthy Starks may improve Packers' run game

Team hopes for breakout season

By Rob Reischel, for the Journal Sentinel

Green Bay - The NFL draft had just ended in late April, and Packer coach Mike McCarthy was talking about his high-powered offense.

"Well, we're going to run the ball more (in 2012) because we're going to get our stats up," McCarthy said with a straight face.

Then he added: "That's a joke."

Of course it is. Since arriving in Green Bay in 2006, McCarthy's teams have traveled almost exclusively by air, and the ground game has gone the way of the covered wagon.

In those six seasons, the Packers have run 5,685 plays from scrimmage during the regular season. Of those, 3,713 have been designed passes (65.3%).

Green Bay has gained 36,557 yards in that time - including 26,460 via the pass (72.4%).

McCarthy leaned on the passing game more than ever in 2011. The Packers gained 77.0% of their yards through the air and called passing plays 65.6% of the time.

As the NFL has transitioned into a league dominated by the forward pass, McCarthy has been at the head of the curve. By and large, McCarthy is going to win on the arm of quarterback Aaron Rodgers and a gifted group of receivers.

And really, who can argue? Since McCarthy took over, the Packers are 63-33, have won a Super Bowl, and reached the playoffs four times.

But for the first time since 2009 - the last year Green Bay had a 1,000-yard rusher - the Packers might give their running game more than a passing glance.

That's because third-year back James Starks appears capable of a breakout season. The key with Starks, as always, will be health.

Starks has the physical gifts to be the best back McCarthy has coached in Green Bay.

He's 6 foot 2, 218 pounds and carries just 7% body fat.

Starks ran the 40-yard dash in 4.51 seconds coming out of Buffalo in 2010. And while Starks hasn't been timed since, he insists, "I'm much faster today. I can just tell. I can feel it."

As Starks showed during Green Bay's run to the Super Bowl title in 2010 - when he ran for 315 yards in four games - he's capable of being the bell cow. But can he do it for more than just short stints?

"He looks great. Looks great," McCarthy said of Starks recently. "He had a breakout playoff run (in 2010). Some guys just hit that injury phase in their careers and just have to work themselves out of it.

"Starks has some of that. He's had some tough challenges just getting hurt."

That's for sure.

At the University of Buffalo, Starks dealt with hamstring issues and a mild concussion in 2006; a broken hand, hip and turf toe injuries in 2008; and a torn labrum in his left shoulder that sidelined him for his entire senior season in 2009.

Starks missed 13 regular season games during his rookie year with the Packers in 2010, due primarily to hamstring injuries. Then in 2011, Starks missed three regular season games with an ankle injury.

When Starks has been healthy, he's produced. There was the big 2010 postseason, and Starks led the Packers with 578 rushing yards last season.

But staying on the field has been a six-year struggle now.

"It is what it is. It's football," Starks said of his injury issues. "It's a physical game. People get hurt all the time. If you get down, you're going to stay down. I'm going to get right back up. I'm going to pray. And I'm always going to be a driver and striver.

"Last year is in the past. I don't think I had a horrible year or anything, but sometimes things don't go your way. I've bought into the system here, and things are going fine. We're winning games with how much I've been doing. You never know what's going to happen. God willing, things will go my way."

Starks spent much of the off-season working on his hamstrings, which have given him fits for years. He's also thicker through the chest, and has lowered his body fat by 1-2%.

Does that make him ready for a breakout season?

"You hope that every guy gets better every year," Packer offensive coordinator Tom Clements said. "He has a lot of ability. He's powerful, runs hard, catches the ball out of the backfield pretty well. We're hopeful."

In many ways, this will be a make-or-break year for Starks.

He's already 26, extremely old for a third-year player. And considering the other backs on the roster are even greener than Starks, it's likely to be his show.

Alex Green, a third-round draft pick in 2011, suffered a torn ACL in Week 7 last season and his status for the start of the season remains unclear.

Brandon Saine, who went undrafted in 2011, had just 18 carries.

Ryan Grant, the No. 5 rusher in franchise history, remains an unrestricted free agent. But the Packers have shown little to no interest.

So it's likely sink or swim with Starks.

"I feel like I do every year, and that's to have a breakout year," Starks said. "That's everybody's dream, but you never know what God has in store for you.

"I approach every year the same. I just work hard, pray on it, and hope that everything will eventually go right, go smooth. I've been here for a while now, so I'm getting comfortable. Eventually it will come."

There won't be a better chance than 2012.