**Not-so-offical Green Bay Packers Off-season Thread** (1 Viewer)

[Ditkaless Wonders]

I have been a Thompson supporter in these threads. I generally like what he and mcCarthy have been doing, which is not to say I agree with all their moves, nor that I am happy with the results this year which I believe are an anomolous bump in the road. That said I was unhappy with the Rodgers pick though I recognized its value. I thought that pick would drive Favre off the team and that it would not make the best use of the window available to the team. I wanted Luis Castillo. Now the Rodgers pick has obviously produced great value as demonstrated this year. What, however, might have been the story last year for instance if the Packers had Castillo? Might he have been enough defensive help to have gotten them over the Giants and into the Superbowl? It would of course only be speculation, but when judging the Rodgers pick I consider such matters.

All in all I think the regime, which I hated at first, has retooled the team and has it headed in a positive direction. I don't judge them on this one season as sometimes #### just happens. I do, however, want to see a very positive direction next year as one year may be anomolous but if it turns into two bad years in a row and three out of the last four then my patience will be worn.

I do note that Thompson has replaced the R.B.'s, replaced the interior of an aging offensive line, cleared out and replaced a defensive line, improved the wide recievers, replaced an aging Q.B., upgraded and brought youth to the L.B.'s and upgraded the defensive backfield and replaced a kicker. He has gotten an incredible anount done, and has some players who can clearly play well in this league and who can show great growth. This team is not in the decline in spite of the record. this is a team growing and maturing and I am excited by the possibilities. Those who are disappointed are, IMO, forgetting how much work Thompson was faced with. The Packers who had brought us so much joy had aged in place just like the Lombardi team had. the difference I see is that we don't appear at this time to be headed for two decades of frustration before returning to watchable and exciting football.

 

[Sabertooth]

Also I thought Castillo was the guy that failed his steriods test before entering the league and wrote a letter to all the teams explaining why he took roids.

Not exactly the type of character TT likes.

 

[Ditkaless Wonders]

Also I thought Castillo was the guy that failed his steriods test before entering the league and wrote a letter to all the teams explaining why he took roids. Not exactly the type of character TT likes.

I am a big beleiver in character. Character is revealed not when we fall, put in whether and how we get up. I don't know Castilo's character. I would have had concerns. I could not decide whether I found his letter sincere or smarmy. All I am saying, and mind you I am a supporter of Thompson having been won over, is that evaluating the pick of Rodgers is not simply a question of whether Rodgers has succeeded, it is a question of what might have been. In that vein the Packers had a bench player in Rodgers last year. They might have had an impactful player starting on their defense in a championship game at home. Of course they may have gone a different diretion and have drafted one of the many busts picked within 5 picks of theirs. I do love this place. I am 99% in one camp, I allow, however, that I have some reservations, and then I find myself explaining those reservations as if defending the point of view that I clearly do not share as my main viewpoint..

 

[Sabertooth]

Also I thought Castillo was the guy that failed his steriods test before entering the league and wrote a letter to all the teams explaining why he took roids. Not exactly the type of character TT likes.

I am a big beleiver in character. Character is revealed not when we fall, put in whether and how we get up. I don't know Castilo's character. I would have had concerns. I could not decide whether I found his letter sincere or smarmy. All I am saying, and mind you I am a supporter of Thompson having been won over, is that evaluating the pick of Rodgers is not simply a question of whether Rodgers has succeeded, it is a question of what might have been. In that vein the Packers had a bench player in Rodgers last year. They might have had an impactful player starting on their defense in a championship game at home. Of course they may have gone a different diretion and have drafted one of the many busts picked within 5 picks of theirs. I do love this place. I am 99% in one camp, I allow, however, that I have some reservations, and then I find myself explaining those reservations as if defending the point of view that I clearly do not share as my main viewpoint..

True. I agree, I am not all roses on Thompson after having supported him greatly in the past few years. I supported the Favre decision but wonder where all of this supposed depth was this season. I mean, they've spent 17 picks on defensive players since Thompson was hired. Only 3 have become consistent contributors, and it's not like the starting lineup of a bottom third defense should be all that hard to crack. It would be one thing if we were the Steelers and had studs galore. We have probably two or three players on defense that would start on a top squad. Anyone with above average skill should be able to start on this D. When you build through the draft almost exclusively, you have to hit a better percentage than that. I think this is the year that the honeymoon was to have ended. And I don't see that they are any better than the team Sherman left. They supposedly have depth but that depth doesn't matter if they can't play. Even the special teams sucked this season. I remember Sherman saying once that your backups can be positional player or good special teamers, but rarely are they both. We have a lot of guys that are neither.

 

[Kleck]

Stock announces retirement

By Greg A. Bedard of the Journal Sentinel

Jan. 2, 2009 4:55 p.m.

Green Bay - The first domino on the Packers' coaching staff has fallen: Special teams coordinator Mike Stock announced his retirement this evening after three seasons with the team.

Stock's special team's units fared poorly throughout this season -- they declined in every category but punt return average -- and his future with the Packers was very much in doubt, much like that of defensive coordinator Bob Sanders. Nothing has been announced yet about Sanders' job security.

While Stock is 69 and has coached for 44 years, he made no mention of possibly retiring when asked about his future over the past few weeks.

"It all depends on one thing and one thing only: How long does he (coach Mike McCarthy) want me to stay? That's what it depends on," Stock said recently.

But in announcing his retirement through the Packers, Stock said he decided it was best to walk away.

"My passion for the game was strong through the very last contest, but in thinking further about the commitment needed for another season and discussing it with my family, ultimately I decided this was the best decision for us," Stock said. "I've been very fortunate throughout my life to play and coach a sport I love very much. I thank the Green Bay Packers for the opportunity to spend three wonderful years here. I'll miss the games, and I'll miss the people. But I look forward to spending more time with my wife, my three children and five grandchildren."

McCarthy, who coached with Stock with the Kansas City Chiefs, praised Stock in a statement released by the team.

"I would like to thank Mike for all of his contributions over the past three years," McCarthy said. "The energy and passion he consistently displayed as a coach is something I've admired since we first worked together in Kansas City in 1995. Mike had a positive impact in developing many of the younger players on our roster, which we will continue to benefit from in coming seasons. I wish him, Peggy and their entire family all the best in Mike's retirement years."

Assistant special teams coach Shawn Slocum, who has also been with the team all three years of McCarthy's tenure, will likely be one of several possible candidates to replace Stock.

- Developing -

 

[Stinger Ray]

From JS Online...

Should the Packers retain Bob Sanders as defensive coordinator?

Yes (11%)

No (89%)

Total Responses: 3423

http://www.jsonline.com/sports/packers/37029339.html

 

[Balco]

I think the Packers # 1 target should be Carolina T, Jordan Gross, although I am sure he will come at a hefty price. He can play left and right tackle and would really help our O Line.

 

[Papa Schnay]

I've heard that GB wants to pursue Tony Gonzalez and trade one of their 3rd round picks for him this offseason...supposedly THAT trade almost happened last year but broke down because GB wanted to give them a conditional pick that started out as a 4th and ended up as a 3rd if he committed to play 2 years in GB.

If they do that and add at least 1 "type A" free agent in one of their positions of need and draft a good prospect to fill another position of need and add depth with the rest of the picks I'd consider this offseason a success

 

[Balco]

I've heard that GB wants to pursue Tony Gonzalez and trade one of their 3rd round picks for him this offseason...supposedly THAT trade almost happened last year but broke down because GB wanted to give them a conditional pick that started out as a 4th and ended up as a 3rd if he committed to play 2 years in GB.If they do that and add at least 1 "type A" free agent in one of their positions of need and draft a good prospect to fill another position of need and add depth with the rest of the picks I'd consider this offseason a success

If you told me we could get Gonzalez and Gross, I would consider it a very successful offseason. I would like to see them pursue a linebacker who can tackle and not overpursue, as well. Don't have to break the bank there.

 

[Papa Schnay]

I think the addition of a guy like Julius Peppers or Gross would make things interesting....or even Ray Lewis, haha

I think the lines need the MOST help though

 

[Balco]

I think the addition of a guy like Julius Peppers or Gross would make things interesting....or even Ray Lewis, hahaI think the lines need the MOST help though

Gross should undoubtedly be the # 1 target. We don't need superstars at linebacker, we need players who can wrap up and not run themselves out of the play. AJ Hawk was horrible this season.

 

[Kleck]

There are four very good OTs (A Smith, Oher, Monroe, J Smith) that I really like as top 10 talents in the draft, and Green Bay should have a chance on at least one of them if they choose to go that route. Even some of the 2nd tier OTs look like solid NFL prospects and could be a steal in the 2nd round because of how deep I think this year's OT class is.

 

[jurrassic]

Thompson is not going to draft an OL in the first round, nor will he sign an expensive one in free agency. The O-line isn't nearly in as bad a shape as everyone is alluding to. The offense ranked 8th in the league, and the running game picked up mid-year. The coaching staff is attributing the lack of succes running early in the season to Grant's hold-out and their inability to name the starting line early enough in the pre-season for them to jell. Protection did have a tendency to break down but Rodgers holds the ball alot. Favre, who was much less mobile, was not nearly sacked as much the past 2 years. Thompson has spent 2nd, 3rd, and 4th round draft choices on the line in the last 3 drafts and minus Clifton and Tauscher, they are young. The work needs to be done on defense and in the backfield. I like Grant, Jackson, Lumpkin, and Wynn, but none of them are special. They may not draft a starter, but a back like Felix Jones, or Leon Washington would add a great dimension to the offense. The defense needs alot of work.

 

[Stinger Ray]

Thompson is not going to draft an OL in the first round, nor will he sign an expensive one in free agency. The O-line isn't nearly in as bad a shape as everyone is alluding to. The offense ranked 8th in the league, and the running game picked up mid-year. The coaching staff is attributing the lack of succes running early in the season to Grant's hold-out and their inability to name the starting line early enough in the pre-season for them to jell. Protection did have a tendency to break down but Rodgers holds the ball alot. Favre, who was much less mobile, was not nearly sacked as much the past 2 years. Thompson has spent 2nd, 3rd, and 4th round draft choices on the line in the last 3 drafts and minus Clifton and Tauscher, they are young. The work needs to be done on defense and in the backfield. I like Grant, Jackson, Lumpkin, and Wynn, but none of them are special. They may not draft a starter, but a back like Felix Jones, or Leon Washington would add a great dimension to the offense. The defense needs alot of work.

Greg Bedard from the Journal Sentinel has been stating over and over the Packers need to get a playmaking RB like Washington.

 

[Kleck]

Thompson is not going to draft an OL in the first round, nor will he sign an expensive one in free agency. The O-line isn't nearly in as bad a shape as everyone is alluding to. The offense ranked 8th in the league, and the running game picked up mid-year. The coaching staff is attributing the lack of succes running early in the season to Grant's hold-out and their inability to name the starting line early enough in the pre-season for them to jell. Protection did have a tendency to break down but Rodgers holds the ball alot. Favre, who was much less mobile, was not nearly sacked as much the past 2 years. Thompson has spent 2nd, 3rd, and 4th round draft choices on the line in the last 3 drafts and minus Clifton and Tauscher, they are young. The work needs to be done on defense and in the backfield. I like Grant, Jackson, Lumpkin, and Wynn, but none of them are special. They may not draft a starter, but a back like Felix Jones, or Leon Washington would add a great dimension to the offense. The defense needs alot of work.

I think what makes some of us nervous about the O-line is Tauscher's injury and being a UFA, Clifton possibly slowing down a little and some of these young guys not looking as good as we hoped. The Packers have been solid at the anchors for quite a while, and it's the last place on the O-line you want to be weak at with a young QB. I'm not saying they have to draft an OT in the 1st or go after a high price FA, but if they lose Tauscher it becomes an area where more depth may be needed.

 

[Kleck]

Thompson is not going to draft an OL in the first round, nor will he sign an expensive one in free agency. The O-line isn't nearly in as bad a shape as everyone is alluding to. The offense ranked 8th in the league, and the running game picked up mid-year. The coaching staff is attributing the lack of succes running early in the season to Grant's hold-out and their inability to name the starting line early enough in the pre-season for them to jell. Protection did have a tendency to break down but Rodgers holds the ball alot. Favre, who was much less mobile, was not nearly sacked as much the past 2 years. Thompson has spent 2nd, 3rd, and 4th round draft choices on the line in the last 3 drafts and minus Clifton and Tauscher, they are young. The work needs to be done on defense and in the backfield. I like Grant, Jackson, Lumpkin, and Wynn, but none of them are special. They may not draft a starter, but a back like Felix Jones, or Leon Washington would add a great dimension to the offense. The defense needs alot of work.

Greg Bedard from the Journal Sentinel has been stating over and over the Packers need to get a playmaking RB like Washington.

I like the Packers RBs, but a real dynamic playmaker like Washington would be nice. Someone Rodgers can hit on some screen passes, give them a few rushes and even use them as a returner. Sproles is a FA. CJ Spiller is also an interesting prospect (if he declares).

 

[deep vacuum]

I've heard that GB wants to pursue Tony Gonzalez and trade one of their 3rd round picks for him this offseason...supposedly THAT trade almost happened last year but broke down because GB wanted to give them a conditional pick that started out as a 4th and ended up as a 3rd if he committed to play 2 years in GB.If they do that and add at least 1 "type A" free agent in one of their positions of need and draft a good prospect to fill another position of need and add depth with the rest of the picks I'd consider this offseason a success

If you told me we could get Gonzalez and Gross, I would consider it a very successful offseason. I would like to see them pursue a linebacker who can tackle and not overpursue, as well. Don't have to break the bank there.

If Finley develops as they hope, I would rather Thompson keep that extra 3rd round pick and use it on defense.

 

[Kitrick Taylor]

Thompson is not going to draft an OL in the first round, nor will he sign an expensive one in free agency. The O-line isn't nearly in as bad a shape as everyone is alluding to. The offense ranked 8th in the league, and the running game picked up mid-year. The coaching staff is attributing the lack of succes running early in the season to Grant's hold-out and their inability to name the starting line early enough in the pre-season for them to jell. Protection did have a tendency to break down but Rodgers holds the ball alot. Favre, who was much less mobile, was not nearly sacked as much the past 2 years. Thompson has spent 2nd, 3rd, and 4th round draft choices on the line in the last 3 drafts and minus Clifton and Tauscher, they are young. The work needs to be done on defense and in the backfield. I like Grant, Jackson, Lumpkin, and Wynn, but none of them are special. They may not draft a starter, but a back like Felix Jones, or Leon Washington would add a great dimension to the offense. The defense needs alot of work.

I tend to disagree about the oline. I agree it is not a train wreck or a desperate need, but Clifton is starting to decline, and Tauscher is coming off an ACL injury. OT could be a real problem position next year. I could definitely see Gross being the target of FA, or an OT be the Packers 1st or 2nd round pick. It also wouldn't shock me if TT went with a LB with that 1st rounder. Curry and Maualuga are both excellent prospects and despite it not being the primary need for the Packers, taking the best player is always a good idea. I really like Maualuga, and think he could bring the attitude to the front seven they seem to be lacking.

 

[Balco]

Thompson is not going to draft an OL in the first round, nor will he sign an expensive one in free agency. The O-line isn't nearly in as bad a shape as everyone is alluding to. The offense ranked 8th in the league, and the running game picked up mid-year. The coaching staff is attributing the lack of succes running early in the season to Grant's hold-out and their inability to name the starting line early enough in the pre-season for them to jell. Protection did have a tendency to break down but Rodgers holds the ball alot. Favre, who was much less mobile, was not nearly sacked as much the past 2 years. Thompson has spent 2nd, 3rd, and 4th round draft choices on the line in the last 3 drafts and minus Clifton and Tauscher, they are young. The work needs to be done on defense and in the backfield. I like Grant, Jackson, Lumpkin, and Wynn, but none of them are special. They may not draft a starter, but a back like Felix Jones, or Leon Washington would add a great dimension to the offense. The defense needs alot of work.

I tend to disagree about the oline. I agree it is not a train wreck or a desperate need, but Clifton is starting to decline, and Tauscher is coming off an ACL injury. OT could be a real problem position next year. I could definitely see Gross being the target of FA, or an OT be the Packers 1st or 2nd round pick. It also wouldn't shock me if TT went with a LB with that 1st rounder. Curry and Maualuga are both excellent prospects and despite it not being the primary need for the Packers, taking the best player is always a good idea. I really like Maualuga, and think he could bring the attitude to the front seven they seem to be lacking.

A couple things:There is no linebacker worthy of the # 9 pick in this draft, Maualuga is a big name, and he can deliver some bone jarring hits, but he is an undisciplined player, and does not have natural instincts at the position. Curry is the type of linebacker we need, but # 9 is a bit high. I am not a fan of 4-3 linebackers going in the early 1st round. It is rare nowadays to see a 4-3 linebacker stay on the field every down.Completely agree on the O Tackle need. Tauscher is coming off a serious knee injury and Clifton is getting up there in age. We do not have any known replacements on this roster right now. My first option would be to sign Jordan Gross, and draft a tackle on the first day in a very talent rich draft at that position. I do think we have talent on the interior, we just need to get the right guys in the right positions.

 

[Kleck]

PACKER MINI-PURGE COMING?

Posted by Mike Florio on January 2, 2009, 9:04 p.m. EST

Before we received word via e-mail from the Packers that special teams coordinator Mike Stock has retired, a reader asked us via e-mail if we’d caught wind of rumors that Stock and three other members of the team’s coaching staff were in danger of being relieved of their duties.

So after hearing about Stock, we ran the rumors by a league source with knowledge of the dynamics of the team’s football operations. Though our source has heard nothing definitive, the source was aware of the rumors that Stock, defensive coordinator Bob Sanders, defensive ends coach Carl Hairston, and offensive line coach James Campen could be gone.

Campen and Sanders were working with the team when coach Mike McCarthy was hired. Harison arrived with McCarthy in 2006.

 

[Stinger Ray]

Thompson is not going to draft an OL in the first round, nor will he sign an expensive one in free agency. The O-line isn't nearly in as bad a shape as everyone is alluding to. The offense ranked 8th in the league, and the running game picked up mid-year. The coaching staff is attributing the lack of succes running early in the season to Grant's hold-out and their inability to name the starting line early enough in the pre-season for them to jell. Protection did have a tendency to break down but Rodgers holds the ball alot. Favre, who was much less mobile, was not nearly sacked as much the past 2 years. Thompson has spent 2nd, 3rd, and 4th round draft choices on the line in the last 3 drafts and minus Clifton and Tauscher, they are young. The work needs to be done on defense and in the backfield. I like Grant, Jackson, Lumpkin, and Wynn, but none of them are special. They may not draft a starter, but a back like Felix Jones, or Leon Washington would add a great dimension to the offense. The defense needs alot of work.

Greg Bedard from the Journal Sentinel has been stating over and over the Packers need to get a playmaking RB like Washington.

I like the Packers RBs, but a real dynamic playmaker like Washington would be nice. Someone Rodgers can hit on some screen passes, give them a few rushes and even use them as a returner. Sproles is a FA. CJ Spiller is also an interesting prospect that I wouldn't mind drafting.

So... officially that person is NOT brandon Jackson? I concur, but Im not a Packer fan. And no fan of Jackson.

Bedard has made mention often that he and the other beat writers can't understand why Jackson hasn't seen the field more. Apparently the coaching staff gets quite testy when it is brought up too.

 

[Mario Kart]

Thompson is not going to draft an OL in the first round, nor will he sign an expensive one in free agency. The O-line isn't nearly in as bad a shape as everyone is alluding to. The offense ranked 8th in the league, and the running game picked up mid-year. The coaching staff is attributing the lack of succes running early in the season to Grant's hold-out and their inability to name the starting line early enough in the pre-season for them to jell. Protection did have a tendency to break down but Rodgers holds the ball alot. Favre, who was much less mobile, was not nearly sacked as much the past 2 years. Thompson has spent 2nd, 3rd, and 4th round draft choices on the line in the last 3 drafts and minus Clifton and Tauscher, they are young. The work needs to be done on defense and in the backfield. I like Grant, Jackson, Lumpkin, and Wynn, but none of them are special. They may not draft a starter, but a back like Felix Jones, or Leon Washington would add a great dimension to the offense. The defense needs alot of work.

Greg Bedard from the Journal Sentinel has been stating over and over the Packers need to get a playmaking RB like Washington.

I like the Packers RBs, but a real dynamic playmaker like Washington would be nice. Someone Rodgers can hit on some screen passes, give them a few rushes and even use them as a returner. Sproles is a FA. CJ Spiller is also an interesting prospect that I wouldn't mind drafting.

So... officially that person is NOT brandon Jackson? I concur, but Im not a Packer fan. And no fan of Jackson.

Bedard has made mention often that he and the other beat writers can't understand why Jackson hasn't seen the field more. Apparently the coaching staff gets quite testy when it is brought up too.

No offense to Brandon Jackson but I finally figured out who he reminds me of and his role on the team. Brandon Jackson is the second coming of Keith Woodside.

 

[jurrassic]

Thompson is not going to draft an OL in the first round, nor will he sign an expensive one in free agency. The O-line isn't nearly in as bad a shape as everyone is alluding to. The offense ranked 8th in the league, and the running game picked up mid-year. The coaching staff is attributing the lack of succes running early in the season to Grant's hold-out and their inability to name the starting line early enough in the pre-season for them to jell. Protection did have a tendency to break down but Rodgers holds the ball alot. Favre, who was much less mobile, was not nearly sacked as much the past 2 years. Thompson has spent 2nd, 3rd, and 4th round draft choices on the line in the last 3 drafts and minus Clifton and Tauscher, they are young. The work needs to be done on defense and in the backfield. I like Grant, Jackson, Lumpkin, and Wynn, but none of them are special. They may not draft a starter, but a back like Felix Jones, or Leon Washington would add a great dimension to the offense. The defense needs alot of work.

Greg Bedard from the Journal Sentinel has been stating over and over the Packers need to get a playmaking RB like Washington.

I like the Packers RBs, but a real dynamic playmaker like Washington would be nice. Someone Rodgers can hit on some screen passes, give them a few rushes and even use them as a returner. Sproles is a FA. CJ Spiller is also an interesting prospect that I wouldn't mind drafting.

So... officially that person is NOT brandon Jackson? I concur, but Im not a Packer fan. And no fan of Jackson.

Bedard has made mention often that he and the other beat writers can't understand why Jackson hasn't seen the field more. Apparently the coaching staff gets quite testy when it is brought up too.

No offense to Brandon Jackson but I finally figured out who he reminds me of and his role on the team. Brandon Jackson is the second coming of Keith Woodside.

Jackson is a decent back. You don't win championships with decent backs.

 

[jurrassic]

Thompson is not going to draft an OL in the first round, nor will he sign an expensive one in free agency. The O-line isn't nearly in as bad a shape as everyone is alluding to. The offense ranked 8th in the league, and the running game picked up mid-year. The coaching staff is attributing the lack of succes running early in the season to Grant's hold-out and their inability to name the starting line early enough in the pre-season for them to jell. Protection did have a tendency to break down but Rodgers holds the ball alot. Favre, who was much less mobile, was not nearly sacked as much the past 2 years. Thompson has spent 2nd, 3rd, and 4th round draft choices on the line in the last 3 drafts and minus Clifton and Tauscher, they are young. The work needs to be done on defense and in the backfield. I like Grant, Jackson, Lumpkin, and Wynn, but none of them are special. They may not draft a starter, but a back like Felix Jones, or Leon Washington would add a great dimension to the offense. The defense needs alot of work.

I tend to disagree about the oline. I agree it is not a train wreck or a desperate need, but Clifton is starting to decline, and Tauscher is coming off an ACL injury. OT could be a real problem position next year. I could definitely see Gross being the target of FA, or an OT be the Packers 1st or 2nd round pick. It also wouldn't shock me if TT went with a LB with that 1st rounder. Curry and Maualuga are both excellent prospects and despite it not being the primary need for the Packers, taking the best player is always a good idea. I really like Maualuga, and think he could bring the attitude to the front seven they seem to be lacking.

A couple things:There is no linebacker worthy of the # 9 pick in this draft, Maualuga is a big name, and he can deliver some bone jarring hits, but he is an undisciplined player, and does not have natural instincts at the position. Curry is the type of linebacker we need, but # 9 is a bit high. I am not a fan of 4-3 linebackers going in the early 1st round. It is rare nowadays to see a 4-3 linebacker stay on the field every down.Completely agree on the O Tackle need. Tauscher is coming off a serious knee injury and Clifton is getting up there in age. We do not have any known replacements on this roster right now. My first option would be to sign Jordan Gross, and draft a tackle on the first day in a very talent rich draft at that position. I do think we have talent on the interior, we just need to get the right guys in the right positions.

I agree on the linebackers, and after Hawk, I don't think Thompson would grab another backer in the top 10. It should be interesting, and wouldn't surprise me if he traded down in round 1 again. You may perceive OT as a need, but I don't think the Packers do. They have 2 guys with considerable playing experience they feel can play tackle and are young and cheap. I would much rather see the money spent on keeping the core and helping the defense.

 

[bcr8f]

The #9 pick? I can see him trading down a few spots.

 

[Stinger Ray]

The #9 pick? I can see him trading down a few spots.

Why?

 

[Kleck]

Sproles is a FA.

 

[Aaronstory]

Thompson is not going to draft an OL in the first round, nor will he sign an expensive one in free agency. The O-line isn't nearly in as bad a shape as everyone is alluding to. The offense ranked 8th in the league, and the running game picked up mid-year. The coaching staff is attributing the lack of succes running early in the season to Grant's hold-out and their inability to name the starting line early enough in the pre-season for them to jell. Protection did have a tendency to break down but Rodgers holds the ball alot. Favre, who was much less mobile, was not nearly sacked as much the past 2 years. Thompson has spent 2nd, 3rd, and 4th round draft choices on the line in the last 3 drafts and minus Clifton and Tauscher, they are young. The work needs to be done on defense and in the backfield. I like Grant, Jackson, Lumpkin, and Wynn, but none of them are special. They may not draft a starter, but a back like Felix Jones, or Leon Washington would add a great dimension to the offense. The defense needs alot of work.

I tend to disagree about the oline. I agree it is not a train wreck or a desperate need, but Clifton is starting to decline, and Tauscher is coming off an ACL injury. OT could be a real problem position next year. I could definitely see Gross being the target of FA, or an OT be the Packers 1st or 2nd round pick. It also wouldn't shock me if TT went with a LB with that 1st rounder. Curry and Maualuga are both excellent prospects and despite it not being the primary need for the Packers, taking the best player is always a good idea. I really like Maualuga, and think he could bring the attitude to the front seven they seem to be lacking.

A couple things:There is no linebacker worthy of the # 9 pick in this draft, Maualuga is a big name, and he can deliver some bone jarring hits, but he is an undisciplined player, and does not have natural instincts at the position. Curry is the type of linebacker we need, but # 9 is a bit high. I am not a fan of 4-3 linebackers going in the early 1st round. It is rare nowadays to see a 4-3 linebacker stay on the field every down.Completely agree on the O Tackle need. Tauscher is coming off a serious knee injury and Clifton is getting up there in age. We do not have any known replacements on this roster right now. My first option would be to sign Jordan Gross, and draft a tackle on the first day in a very talent rich draft at that position. I do think we have talent on the interior, we just need to get the right guys in the right positions.

You may perceive OT as a need, but I don't think the Packers do. They have 2 guys with considerable playing experience they feel can play tackle and are young and cheap. I would much rather see the money spent on keeping the core and helping the defense.

This is spot on.

 

[Eviloutsider]

Sanders Gone:

http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/2009/0...s-fire-sanders/

 

[mr. furley]

Sanders Gone:

http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/2009/0...s-fire-sanders/

do i know you

 

[Kitrick Taylor]

Sanders Gone:

http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/2009/0...s-fire-sanders/

Thompson is 2 for 2 in offseason moves so far. 'Now lets bring in a more pressure orientated scheme.

 

[Stinger Ray]

Nothing reported yet at the GB Press Gazette or Journal Sentinel.

 

[The Kerminator]

Do they now bring somebody in or promote Moss? Mike Nolan a possibility.

 

[Balco]

Do they now bring somebody in or promote Moss? Mike Nolan a possibility.

I can't see them promoting internally. There are a ton of solid candidates out there. Nolan was mentioned as one. Some other candidates (although I am not saying they are solid) Rod Marinelli and Greg Robinson.

 

[Kleck]

Packer Update - TOP 10 COORDINATORS-IN-WAITING

TOP 10 COORDINATORS-IN-WAITING

THE TOP 5

1) TODD BOWLES (DBs/Miami) - "Bowles, 45, is a former NFL player who has coached for Bill Parcells in both Dallas and Miami. He is regarded as a hard worker and a good teacher. The thing I really like about him is that he's not wedded to one specific system. He can coach either the 4-3 or the 3-4. He also has ties to the Green Bay organization. He worked in the personnel department under Ron Wolf (and alongside Ted Thompson) in the mid-90s.”

2) SEAN MCDERMOTT (DBs/Philadelphia) - "McDermott, 34, is the perfect choice if you're looking to find the next [Giants DC] Steve Spagnuolo. He's worked under Jim Johnson for 10 years. I also like the fact that he's coached multiple positions. His resume is very similar to those of Spagnuolo and [Ravens HC] John Harbaugh. That's a good selling point.”

3) SAL SUNSERI (DL/Carolina) - "Sunseri, 49, has been flying under the radar in Carolina, but he does an excellent job year after year. He's a fiery-type of coach who gets the most out of his players. He worked with Mike McCarthy at Pitt in the late 80s. I'm not sure if the two are still friendly, but that prior relationship can't hurt."

4) CHUCK CECIL (DBs/Tennessee) - "Cecil, 44, would make a lot of sense. He played for the Packers from ‘88 to ‘92 and he'd get a strong recommendation from Titans GM Mike Reinfeldt, who happens to be very close with Thompson. Cecil is an extremely intense coach who would give any defense an instant identity. His only real negative is a reckless driving conviction from earlier in the year."

5) ALAN WILLIAMS (DBs/Indy) - “Tony Dungy thinks the world of this young man, and that’s good enough for me. Williams, 39, is soft-spoken, but he works hard and relates extremely well to his players. Does that sound familiar? I’m not sure what McCarthy thinks of the Cover-2 scheme, but it’s something to think about considering that Charles Woodson and Al Harris won’t be around forever.”

THE NEXT 5

6) KEITH BUTLER (LBs/Pittsburgh) - “Butler, 52, has worked under **** LeBeau for the past six years, so he’s 3-4 all the way. That’s probably one of the reasons why he hasn’t gotten hired as a coordinator yet. He’s a terrific position coach who's more than ready for the next challenge."

7) DARREN PERRY (DBs/Oakland) - “Perry, 40, has been an excellent defensive backs coach for years. What I like about him is his varied resume. He worked under LeBeau in Pittsburgh and under Rob Ryan in Oakland. Talk about learning two totally different schemes from two totally different teachers.”

8) PEPPER JOHNSON (DL/New England) - “Johnson, 44, played linebacker under Bill Belichick with the Giants and has coached defense under him for the past eight years in New England. He’s done an equally impressive job of developing youngsters and improving veterans. Like Butler, his biggest drawback is his background in the 3-4.”

9) JOE WOODS (DBs/Minnesota) - "Woods, 38, has done a nice job with the Vikings after coming over from Tampa Bay in 2006. He reminds me of [steelers HC] Mike Tomlin. He may need a little more experience, but he's going to be at or near the top of every team's wish list in a year or two."

10) BILL SHERIDAN (LBs/Giants) - "Sheridan, 49, has only been in the NFL for four years, but he's already earned a solid reputation around the league. His unit continues to perform at a pretty high level despite suffering a number of key injuries and free agent defections over the past few seasons."

 

[Balco]

Of those listed McDermott would be my # 1. I love the defense Philadelphia employs, especially with all of the blitzing. Looking at his age as well as that of Johnsons, I wonder if he is the heir apparent in Philly.

I guess I have been hiding under a rock but Chuck Cecil coaches??? Man I used to love watching him play, he would bloody himself up making hits. Unfortunately, he was horrible in coverage.

 

[VTjkru]

TT will draft the best player available at #9 and it's as simple as that. If for some odd reason Crabtree falls to #9, he'll be a Packer.

 

[Kleck]

I've been hearing a lot people throwing McDermott's name out there as a potential DC hire. I like Jim Johnson's defense too, and that system could be an easy adjustment and a nice fit.

 

[Kleck]

JSOnline Packers Blog - Report: Sanders fired

Report: Sanders fired

By Greg A. Bedard of the Journal Sentinel

Jan. 4, 2009 7:06 p.m.

Green Bay - Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Bob Sanders has been fired by coach Mike McCarthy, according to a report at nationalfootballpost.com.

Players on the Packers' defense had not been told of the move yet.

The web site is run by Andrew Brandt, the Packers' former VP of player finance, and Jack Bechta, the agent of cornerback Al Harris. No other details were offered.

Sanders' ouster follows the retirement of special teams coordinator Mike Stock by just a few days.

Sanders had been the defensive coordinator since McCarthy's first season in 2006. Sanders first joined the Packers in '05 under former coordinator Jim Bates. When Bates was not asked to stay on after McCarthy was hired, Sanders got the job and kept the same defense, which he also ran with the Miami Dolphins.

The Packers' defense finished 22nd in points allowed, 20th in yardage allowed and 26th in rushing yards allowed.

Sanders' 4-3 scheme, which featured press coverage by cornerbacks and little if no blitzing, came under scrutiny at the end of the '07 season when the New York Giants picked it apart in the NFC championship game.

Assistant head coach/linebackers coach Winston Moss could be a leading candidate to replace Sanders if he does not get the St. Louis Rams head coaching job. He reportedly will be brought back for a second interview by the Rams.

Even if the Rams had a lot of interest, Moss may very well feel being a coordinator would be his best move at this time. He has often talked of his plan of being a head coach. That would undoubtedly call for him to call his own defense, something he has not done in 10 years as an NFL assistant.

"I feel as though that if an opportunity was to present itself to become a defensive coordinator, yes I would like that opportunity when the time is right," Moss said recently.

Moss said he is not married to Sanders' scheme, or the blitz-heavy strategy used by Jim Haslett, Moss' boss for six seasons with the New Orleans Saints.

"I'm more along the line of whatever players that you end of having, put them in a great scheme, put them the best possible position to make a play and then get the hell out of the way," Moss said.

If McCarthy decides to switch schemes and go more for a 3-4 defense, former San Francisco 49ers coach Mike Nolan and former Cleveland Browns coach Romeo Crennel are available. Nolan hired McCarthy as the 49ers' offensive coordinator in 2005.

Other options on the 4-3 track include former Jacksonville Jaguars coordinator Gregg Williams.

- Developing -

 

[Stinger Ray]

 

[deep vacuum]

 

[Chicago Hooligan]

and the Vikings lost

AND Morrissey's album leaked

best day of '09 so far

 

[ScottyFargo]

and the Vikings lostAND Morrissey's album leakedbest day of '09 so far

Packers STILL went from 13-3 to 6-10.

 

[Chicago Hooligan]

U MAD

 

[Sup_Yo]

and the Vikings lostAND Morrissey's album leakedbest day of '09 so far

Packers STILL went from 13-3 to 6-10.

LOLUMAD?

 

[Ditkaless Wonders]

and the Vikings lostAND Morrissey's album leakedbest day of '09 so far

Packers STILL went from 13-3 to 6-10.

So Scotty, many of us had the courtesy not to rub salt in the wound of the Vikings embarassment today, but you come over here to wipe poop on the floor, poop you likely got on your shoes walking across the metrodome carpet where the Vikings had just #### themselves. Tell me, did doing so get some of the stench out of your nostrils?

 

[Eviloutsider]

and the Vikings lostAND Morrissey's album leakedbest day of '09 so far

Packers STILL went from 13-3 to 6-10.

That was last year. Ancient history as far as I am concerned.

 

[Eviloutsider]

Sanders Gone:

http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/2009/0...s-fire-sanders/

do i know you

I hope not.

 

[sho nuff]

Not shocking on Sanders so far.

I agree on the above that McDermott seems to be a nice fit as I have always liked the way the Philly D has run.

There are some other names out there like Crennell, Gregg Williams, Nolan that are not bad hires either IMO.

Also was thinking the other day while watching SD...as Im sure other fans for the Packers and other teams had the same thought about Sproles...looked great. Very explosive and would like nice in GB.

To the thought of Brandon Jackson...not sure what it is, he looks good at times, so so at times...but lately also cannot stay on the field.

Is he nothing more than a backup RB in this league?

Now, its a pipe dream...but if they are sold on Sproles and like Jackson enough...trade Grant before paying his bonus and get something for him.

Then go in with Sproles, Jackson, and Wynn (and Lumpy even if he can come back from his injury).

 

[smackdaddies]

Not to harp on this for too long, but... replacing Favre was supposed to be impossible, and now that Thompson and his staff have done it as well as anyone could have possibly hoped or imagined, some of you guys are writing it off as luck. This baffles me. Rodgers was drafted specifically to start at QB for the Packers one day. It's not like you can plan to trade a 1st round player down the road for value. So yeah, I think Thompson's regime absolutely deserves credit for correctly evaluating Rodgers' talent (which is what you want your GM to do!).

The point is TT's draft plan wasn't to draft a QB with his 1st round pick, but with arguably the best QB in the draft falling all the way into the 20's, it was a no brainer for TT to make the pick.

A no brainer that all those other GM's passed on.TT made a good pick, and Rodgers had time to develop.