Packers RB discussion (1 Viewer)

[Block]

The more I think about it, the more I find the Packers' RB situation among the most intriguing topics in fantasy football this season. On no team is less known about the potential starters, but arguably on no team (without a definite starter) does the starter (whomever it may be) have better fantasy prospects.

Runners like Edgar Bennett, Dorsey Levens, and Ahman Green have thrived in Green Bay with Brett Favre as quarterback, and I expect that to continue this year.

Most on this board seem to assume that Brandon Jackson will be that guy. He certainly could be, but I find that assumption flawed. Before we go any further, I'll try to explain why:

First, his collegiate career wasn't incredible. He did very little in 2004 and 2005, partially due to injuries. He started off slow in 2006 before picking it up over the final 9 games, eventually gaining 1300 yards and 10 TDs altogether. He has good hands and a quick burst, but lacks any long speed.

More disturbing, however, is his continued injury history. He had recurring shoulder problems in college and has had some sort of knee "issue" since getting drafted. Since any of his potential value is based on that 9-game showing last year, this makes him a risky prospect even if you expect him to eventually get the job.

Another thing of note that I have not seen anyone mention is this: while he was a second round pick, he was only the 63rd overall selection, the second-to-last pick of the round (after guys like Kenny Irons and Chris Henry). The Packers originally held the 47th overall pick and traded down. This means, at the very least, that the Packers weren't desperate to get Jackson, as there was a chance he would be gone by pick 63. If Jackson were selected two picks later, in the 3rd round, I suspect the hysteria surrounding his prospects would be significantly dulled.

Then we come to Vernand Morency, another enigma. Morency was selected by the Texans with the 73rd overall pick two years ago (notice, only 10 picks after Jackson; was there this kind of hype surrounding Morency?). He didn't see much action in 2005 behind Domanick Davis, and was traded to the Packers early last year in a swap for Samkon Gado. He started in place of Ahman Green a couple of times, and finished the year with a total of 552 yards and 2 TDs.

We really haven't seen enough of Morency at the pro level to know whether he can be "the guy", but he has done well with his limited opportunities thus far. I think it is also worthwhile to compare Morency's college stats to Jackson's: in his senior season at Oklahoma State, Morency amassed 1575 yards for 13 TDs. He did more in his earlier years than Jackson, with over 1000 yards in his previous years.

Everything I've heard thus far in the press indicates that Morency is atop the depth chart right now. There remains an outside chance that a sleeper like Noah Herron or Deshawn Wynn could emerge, but that's unlikely.

It basically comes down to Morency or Jackson, and at this point everyone seems to be assuming that Jackson will be the guy. Morency can be had 5 or 6 rounds after Jackson in a dynasty league, and probably even more in a redraft.

I guess I'm asking to be convinced. After all of this, is there really any reason to think it is Jackson instead of Morency, except that Jackson is the new shiny penny while Morency has been around for two years? The Packers didn't use a terribly high pick to take Jackson, he has an injury history and only started a few collegiate games, and Morency has been called the starter everywhere I've looked. I just don't get the hype with him.

*apologies for length*

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

This is a very good idea for a discussion as I was just thinking about it.

Anyways

If a RB gets drafted in the 3rd round of the draft and is a backup his first year to a player that has proven himself(Davis)....that seems standard.

However, the next year the Starting RB(Davis) is injured and the only other players around that RB are old 1st round busts(Dayne) and late round rookies(Lundi)....wouldn't you think that player should start?...I would

Then why would that team trade him for Samekon Gado?

Getting traded away from a perfect situation for him to start....isn't the best sign.

Also being 27 years old despite his NFL experience also doesn't help....damn Minor league baseball.

 

[Block]

This is a very good idea for a discussion as I was just thinking about it.AnywaysIf a RB gets drafted in the 3rd round of the draft and is a backup his first year to a player that has proven himself....that seems standard.However, the next year the RB is injured and the only other players around that RB are old 1st round busts(Dayne) and late round rookies(Lundi)....wouldn't you think that player should start?...I wouldThen why would that team trade him for Samekon Gado?Getting traded away from a perfect situation for him to start....isn't the best sign.Also being 27 years old despite his NFL experience also doesn't help....damn Minor league baseball.

Well, to be accurate, Morency was drafted by Casserly and Capers and traded after Kubiak got the job. The Packers traded away Gado for him, who had done very well with them the previous year. That shows faith in him I think.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

This is a very good idea for a discussion as I was just thinking about it.AnywaysIf a RB gets drafted in the 3rd round of the draft and is a backup his first year to a player that has proven himself....that seems standard.However, the next year the RB is injured and the only other players around that RB are old 1st round busts(Dayne) and late round rookies(Lundi)....wouldn't you think that player should start?...I wouldThen why would that team trade him for Samekon Gado?Getting traded away from a perfect situation for him to start....isn't the best sign.Also being 27 years old despite his NFL experience also doesn't help....damn Minor league baseball.

Well, to be accurate, Morency was drafted by Casserly and Capers and traded after Kubiak got the job. The Packers traded away Gado for him, who had done very well with them the previous year. That shows faith in him I think.

Ok...well then why would a zone blocking scheme trade him away(Kubiak), only to have him enter a team starting the zone blocking scheme(Packers)?

 

[Block]

This is a very good idea for a discussion as I was just thinking about it.AnywaysIf a RB gets drafted in the 3rd round of the draft and is a backup his first year to a player that has proven himself....that seems standard.However, the next year the RB is injured and the only other players around that RB are old 1st round busts(Dayne) and late round rookies(Lundi)....wouldn't you think that player should start?...I wouldThen why would that team trade him for Samekon Gado?Getting traded away from a perfect situation for him to start....isn't the best sign.Also being 27 years old despite his NFL experience also doesn't help....damn Minor league baseball.

Well, to be accurate, Morency was drafted by Casserly and Capers and traded after Kubiak got the job. The Packers traded away Gado for him, who had done very well with them the previous year. That shows faith in him I think.

Ok...well then why would a zone blocking scheme trade him away(Kubiak), only to have him enter a team starting the zone blocking scheme(Packers)?

You'd have to ask the Texans that. He looked good in the two games he started last year and they're still calling him the starter, while Gado hasn't done anything in Houston. Most would probably agree that the trade looks better for the Packers right now.

 

[ImTheScientist]

This is a very good idea for a discussion as I was just thinking about it.AnywaysIf a RB gets drafted in the 3rd round of the draft and is a backup his first year to a player that has proven himself....that seems standard.However, the next year the RB is injured and the only other players around that RB are old 1st round busts(Dayne) and late round rookies(Lundi)....wouldn't you think that player should start?...I wouldThen why would that team trade him for Samekon Gado?Getting traded away from a perfect situation for him to start....isn't the best sign.Also being 27 years old despite his NFL experience also doesn't help....damn Minor league baseball.

Well, to be accurate, Morency was drafted by Casserly and Capers and traded after Kubiak got the job. The Packers traded away Gado for him, who had done very well with them the previous year. That shows faith in him I think.

Morency was traded before Kubiak got the job. Morency was a Packer last year...See game logs

 

[Block]

This is a very good idea for a discussion as I was just thinking about it.AnywaysIf a RB gets drafted in the 3rd round of the draft and is a backup his first year to a player that has proven himself....that seems standard.However, the next year the RB is injured and the only other players around that RB are old 1st round busts(Dayne) and late round rookies(Lundi)....wouldn't you think that player should start?...I wouldThen why would that team trade him for Samekon Gado?Getting traded away from a perfect situation for him to start....isn't the best sign.Also being 27 years old despite his NFL experience also doesn't help....damn Minor league baseball.

Well, to be accurate, Morency was drafted by Casserly and Capers and traded after Kubiak got the job. The Packers traded away Gado for him, who had done very well with them the previous year. That shows faith in him I think.

Morency was traded before Kubiak got the job. Morency was a Packer last year...See game logs

He played one game with the Texans in 2006, so this is definitely wrong.edit: he was traded on September 13, 2006. Look it up.

 

[ImTheScientist]

This is a very good idea for a discussion as I was just thinking about it.AnywaysIf a RB gets drafted in the 3rd round of the draft and is a backup his first year to a player that has proven himself....that seems standard.However, the next year the RB is injured and the only other players around that RB are old 1st round busts(Dayne) and late round rookies(Lundi)....wouldn't you think that player should start?...I wouldThen why would that team trade him for Samekon Gado?Getting traded away from a perfect situation for him to start....isn't the best sign.Also being 27 years old despite his NFL experience also doesn't help....damn Minor league baseball.

Well, to be accurate, Morency was drafted by Casserly and Capers and traded after Kubiak got the job. The Packers traded away Gado for him, who had done very well with them the previous year. That shows faith in him I think.

Morency was traded before Kubiak got the job. Morency was a Packer last year...See game logs

He played one game with the Texans in 2006, so this is definitely wrong.edit: he was traded on September 13, 2006. Look it up.

I forgot Kubiak coached them last year....hahaha sorry.

 

[ImTheScientist]

As for their situation:

I think it will end up being RBBC all year with the hot back getting the start. The only way Jackson will be allowed the majority of the carries is if he shows he can pass block. The value pick will be to draft Morency. I would only want him as a RB 4 or RB 5

 

[duaneok66]

As for their situation:

I think it will end up being RBBC all year with the hot back getting the start. The only way Jackson will be allowed the majority of the carries is if he shows he can pass block. The value pick will be to draft Morency. I would only want him as a RB 4 or RB 5

Herron did well in that role last year, so I think he stays in that role . . .

 

[crnerblitz]

This is a very good idea for a discussion as I was just thinking about it.AnywaysIf a RB gets drafted in the 3rd round of the draft and is a backup his first year to a player that has proven himself....that seems standard.However, the next year the RB is injured and the only other players around that RB are old 1st round busts(Dayne) and late round rookies(Lundi)....wouldn't you think that player should start?...I wouldThen why would that team trade him for Samekon Gado?Getting traded away from a perfect situation for him to start....isn't the best sign.Also being 27 years old despite his NFL experience also doesn't help....damn Minor league baseball.

Well, to be accurate, Morency was drafted by Casserly and Capers and traded after Kubiak got the job. The Packers traded away Gado for him, who had done very well with them the previous year. That shows faith in him I think.

Ok...well then why would a zone blocking scheme trade him away(Kubiak), only to have him enter a team starting the zone blocking scheme(Packers)?

Nick, I thought we already covered this. Without inside the front office info we can only speculate using current info. That info points to the inductive reasoning that it wasn't so much that Gado was targeted but instead that it was Morency was targeted and traded for. The difference being in whom approched whom.

 

[Block]

Just to reiterate, I want someone to explain to me why Jackson is valued so much higher than Morency currently. Everything I see points to Morency being at least on par with Jackson in value, if not higher. But that's not what is being played out in drafts.

 

[Sweetness_34]

Good discussion. One thing to note: Brandon Jackson played in the same scheme that the Packers employ....something to consider.

Also, for anyone interested in actually seeing both of them run, here are some useful videos

Brandon Jackson

- Not much sample size on Morency but he showed some nice shiftiness in that run

 

[Jercules]

I'd take Jackson over Morency for the simple reason that Jackson, on the outset, seems to have a higher ceiling. Either guy can likely be had late in drafts, and late in drafts it's a good idea to shoot for a boom-or-bust guy over someone who may be steady but is ultimately guaranteed not to be a difference-maker.

Through this same logic, Jacobs > Droughns, Norwood > Dunn, and so forth.

 

[aggie_dave]

I think it's the tendency of FFL to value the unknown and get excited about rookie prospects every year.

Morency, on one hand, is somewhat of a known commodity. We've seen him play, and we've seen him do some good and some bad. The fact that he was unable to emerge from the running back slop that was in Houston after the Davis injury says a little about what some coaches have thought of his ability. Then you look at Green Bay when Green went down last year, and he had one good week and Herron had one good week with the remainder of the year being very pedestrian from him. So with some opportunities, he has really failed to show that he can be "the guy."

Jackson, on the other hand, is more of an unknown. Maybe he can be the next Packers back of the future, or maybe he will flop. I don't necessarily think it's fair to say that because he didn't put out four amazing years in college means he is destined to flop though (see Lendale White or Frank Gore for each side of that one). I also don't think it's fair to say that because the Packers traded down that he wasn't what they were looking for. It could just be they wanted him early in the 2nd round but new it was a reach and so they got value by trading down to take him.

Nonetheless, it is undoubtedly easier to get excited thinking about how good Jackson could be than to get excited already having an idea about how good Morency is. Truth is, it will probably be an RBBC the entire year unless someone just blows up with Herron supporters being the ones hung out to dry.

 

[Block]

Good discussion. One thing to note: Brandon Jackson played in the same scheme that the Packers employ....something to consider.

Also, for anyone interested in actually seeing both of them run, here are some useful videos

Brandon Jackson

Good observations. From what I've seen, they both have similar speed (neither will be a breakaway threat). Jackson probably has slightly better hands but is more of a north-south runner, while Morency is shiftier and can make people miss. Morency has reportedly upped his weight to 220, and at 5'11 220 is more the prototypical size than jackson at 5'9 210, but that probably doesn't matter. I would say that Morency is probably the better athlete given his baseball career, but obviously Jackson is athletic as well.

 

[Block]

I'd take Jackson over Morency for the simple reason that Jackson, on the outset, seems to have a higher ceiling. Either guy can likely be had late in drafts, and late in drafts it's a good idea to shoot for a boom-or-bust guy over someone who may be steady but is ultimately guaranteed not to be a difference-maker.Through this same logic, Jacobs > Droughns, Norwood > Dunn, and so forth.

I agree on the general premise, but in the other cases you mentioned involve a younger player and an old guy who has worn down a bit. Morency has never been given a shot, so I don't understand why people presume Jackson has a higher ceiling. They are both unknowns, really. I don't see why Morency would have any less chance of blowing up than Jackson, if given the full workload.

 

[AB in DC]

(notice, only 10 picks after Jackson; was there this kind of hype surrounding Morency?).

I don't know if the threads from back then are still in the system, but there were some doozies.

 

[Illegal Pants Downfield]

Just to reiterate, I want someone to explain to me why Jackson is valued so much higher than Morency currently. Everything I see points to Morency being at least on par with Jackson in value, if not higher. But that's not what is being played out in drafts.

You keep saying that Jackson is going "so much higher"...But antsports ADP has them just a couple picks apart:

http://www.antsports.com/adp.aspx

And MFL drafting reports have Jackson as the #38 RB on average, to Morency's #41, so that's not a drastic difference either:

http://football.myfantasyleague.com/2007/d...EEPER&TIME=

FWIW, I agree with you that Morency is probably the back to get, if you're drafting now for a redraft...

 

[Block]

Just to reiterate, I want someone to explain to me why Jackson is valued so much higher than Morency currently. Everything I see points to Morency being at least on par with Jackson in value, if not higher. But that's not what is being played out in drafts.

You keep saying that Jackson is going "so much higher"...But antsports ADP has them just a couple picks apart:

http://www.antsports.com/adp.aspx

And MFL drafting reports have Jackson as the #38 RB on average, to Morency's #41, so that's not a drastic difference either:

http://football.myfantasyleague.com/2007/d...EEPER&TIME=

FWIW, I agree with you that Morency is probably the back to get, if you're drafting now for a redraft...

That's closer than I thought they were. I may be basing this off of some mocks I have been in, and the general attitude towards the two on this board.

 

[Dirty Weasel]

I think it's the tendency of FFL to value the unknown and get excited about rookie prospects every year.

Morency, on one hand, is somewhat of a known commodity. We've seen him play, and we've seen him do some good and some bad. The fact that he was unable to emerge from the running back slop that was in Houston after the Davis injury says a little about what some coaches have thought of his ability. Then you look at Green Bay when Green went down last year, and he had one good week and Herron had one good week with the remainder of the year being very pedestrian from him. So with some opportunities, he has really failed to show that he can be "the guy."

Jackson, on the other hand, is more of an unknown. Maybe he can be the next Packers back of the future, or maybe he will flop. I don't necessarily think it's fair to say that because he didn't put out four amazing years in college means he is destined to flop though (see Lendale White or Frank Gore for each side of that one). I also don't think it's fair to say that because the Packers traded down that he wasn't what they were looking for. It could just be they wanted him early in the 2nd round but new it was a reach and so they got value by trading down to take him.

Nonetheless, it is undoubtedly easier to get excited thinking about how good Jackson could be than to get excited already having an idea about how good Morency is. Truth is, it will probably be an RBBC the entire year unless someone just blows up with Herron supporters being the ones hung out to dry.

FWIW, here is another RB who couldn't emerge from the "RB slop", AKA Ron Dayne...New York Giants

Ron Dayne - 2000 - 228 carries, 2001 - 180 carries, 2002 - 125 carries

Tiki Barber - 2000 - 213 carries, 2001 - 166 carries, 2002 - 303 carries

It took the Giants 6 years before they realized Tiki was the man. They even let Dayne come in as a rookie in 2000 and get more carries for 2 straight years, and Tiki had been on the team since NYG drafted him in the 2nd round in 1997.

 

[Block]

Another thing to consider is that no RB has ever really "emerged from the slop" in Houston. Even Domanick Davis during his "stud" years would average under 4 yards a carry.

 

[Burning Sensation]

Another thing to consider is that no RB has ever really "emerged from the slop" in Houston. Even Domanick Davis during his "stud" years would average under 4 yards a carry.

That is not true.http://subscribers.footballguys.com/players/DaviDo01-2.php

 

[Block]

Another thing to consider is that no RB has ever really "emerged from the slop" in Houston. Even Domanick Davis during his "stud" years would average under 4 yards a carry.

That is not true.http://subscribers.footballguys.com/players/DaviDo01-2.php

Well one year under 4, the others close to. Most of his value was in his catches, not his ypr, is what I meant. They have never had a very good run game.

 

[jesseasi]

At this point I think it is Morency's job to win. Seems like he is saying and doing all the right things. Been a workout monster this off season and has shown up to all the mini camps working hard.

I have even heard him talk about how he wants to be the next A. Green. A castoff that when given a 2nd chance proves his worth. (Seattle basically dumped A. Green before he became a super star).

At this point I view Morency as a great gamble. He will for sure get his shot - what he does with it - who knows.

I own Morency is my dynasty league and I am keeping my fingers crossed that he emerges from this RBBC and become the main back. Either way I am expecting him to serve as a good #3 RB for the start of the season with a chance to become a #2 or a #4.

I can also say that I was shocked when GB did not draft Lynch and passed up on Irons and Henry then traded down - that MUST mean they were not so worried about their RB situation.

 

[identikit]

At this point I think it is Morency's job to win. Seems like he is saying and doing all the right things. Been a workout monster this off season and has shown up to all the mini camps working hard.

I have even heard him talk about how he wants to be the next A. Green. A castoff that when given a 2nd chance proves his worth. (Seattle basically dumped A. Green before he became a super star).

At this point I view Morency as a great gamble. He will for sure get his shot - what he does with it - who knows.

I own Morency is my dynasty league and I am keeping my fingers crossed that he emerges from this RBBC and become the main back. Either way I am expecting him to serve as a good #3 RB for the start of the season with a chance to become a #2 or a #4.

I can also say that I was shocked when GB did not draft Lynch and passed up on Irons and Henry then traded down - that MUST mean they were not so worried about their RB situation.

Lynch was gone (to Buffalo) @1.12 before Green Bay picked @ 1.16. Not to say they couldn't have traded up to get him.Id

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

At this point I think it is Morency's job to win. Seems like he is saying and doing all the right things. Been a workout monster this off season and has shown up to all the mini camps working hard.

I have even heard him talk about how he wants to be the next A. Green. A castoff that when given a 2nd chance proves his worth. (Seattle basically dumped A. Green before he became a super star).

At this point I view Morency as a great gamble. He will for sure get his shot - what he does with it - who knows.

I own Morency is my dynasty league and I am keeping my fingers crossed that he emerges from this RBBC and become the main back. Either way I am expecting him to serve as a good #3 RB for the start of the season with a chance to become a #2 or a #4.

I can also say that I was shocked when GB did not draft Lynch and passed up on Irons and Henry then traded down - that MUST mean they were not so worried about their RB situation.

Lynch was gone (to Buffalo) @1.12 before Green Bay picked @ 1.16. Not to say they couldn't have traded up to get him.Id

Way to set him straight Mark.

 

[On The Rocks]

Everything I've heard thus far in the press indicates that Morency is atop the depth chart right now. There remains an outside chance that a sleeper like Noah Herron or Deshawn Wynn could emerge, but that's unlikely.

I would like a little more homer opinion on Herron. Anyone?

 

[Sabertooth]

Everything I've heard thus far in the press indicates that Morency is atop the depth chart right now. There remains an outside chance that a sleeper like Noah Herron or Deshawn Wynn could emerge, but that's unlikely.

I would like a little more homer opinion on Herron. Anyone?

Noah Herron seemed like he belongs in the NFL, however at this level he's just a guy. He had some solid blocking skills but is better suited for the backup/third down role. He just doesn't impress in any one area.

 

[Bri]

I expect them to decide that they need more and sign a free agent or make a trade for a temporary fix.

I don't think Morrency is the answer and the impression I get from chatter is that Jackson is a year away. I think they wanted to spruce things up from Ahman, Najeh, Fisher, Gado backfield but it's possible they jumped too soon. A vet for a year would cure much of that.

 

[Block]

I expect them to decide that they need more and sign a free agent or make a trade for a temporary fix.I don't think Morrency is the answer and the impression I get from chatter is that Jackson is a year away. I think they wanted to spruce things up from Ahman, Najeh, Fisher, Gado backfield but it's possible they jumped too soon. A vet for a year would cure much of that.

At this point, who can they get? Corey Dillon is all I can think of.

 

[Sabertooth]

I expect them to decide that they need more and sign a free agent or make a trade for a temporary fix.I don't think Morrency is the answer and the impression I get from chatter is that Jackson is a year away. I think they wanted to spruce things up from Ahman, Najeh, Fisher, Gado backfield but it's possible they jumped too soon. A vet for a year would cure much of that.

Chris Brown makes a lot of sense there in my opinion.

 

[Block]

I expect them to decide that they need more and sign a free agent or make a trade for a temporary fix.I don't think Morrency is the answer and the impression I get from chatter is that Jackson is a year away. I think they wanted to spruce things up from Ahman, Najeh, Fisher, Gado backfield but it's possible they jumped too soon. A vet for a year would cure much of that.

Chris Brown makes a lot of sense there in my opinion.

he is off the market

 

[On The Rocks]

I expect them to decide that they need more and sign a free agent or make a trade for a temporary fix.I don't think Morrency is the answer and the impression I get from chatter is that Jackson is a year away. I think they wanted to spruce things up from Ahman, Najeh, Fisher, Gado backfield but it's possible they jumped too soon. A vet for a year would cure much of that.

At this point, who can they get? Corey Dillon is all I can think of.

If Dwayne Wright impresses enough in the training camp for the Bills, the Bills could let Anthony Thomas go for a 6th or 7th round pick.A-Train clearly isn't a long term answer, but would be worth a look.

 

[Sabertooth]

I expect them to decide that they need more and sign a free agent or make a trade for a temporary fix.I don't think Morrency is the answer and the impression I get from chatter is that Jackson is a year away. I think they wanted to spruce things up from Ahman, Najeh, Fisher, Gado backfield but it's possible they jumped too soon. A vet for a year would cure much of that.

Chris Brown makes a lot of sense there in my opinion.

he is off the market

Not off the trade market! Just kidding, I hadn't read that yet.

 

[Block]

I expect them to decide that they need more and sign a free agent or make a trade for a temporary fix.I don't think Morrency is the answer and the impression I get from chatter is that Jackson is a year away. I think they wanted to spruce things up from Ahman, Najeh, Fisher, Gado backfield but it's possible they jumped too soon. A vet for a year would cure much of that.

At this point, who can they get? Corey Dillon is all I can think of.

If Dwayne Wright impresses enough in the training camp for the Bills, the Bills could let Anthony Thomas go for a 6th or 7th round pick.A-Train clearly isn't a long term answer, but would be worth a look.

I think you are a bit misguided if you think the A-train is an upgrade over what they have now.

 

[msommer]

I expect them to decide that they need more and sign a free agent or make a trade for a temporary fix.I don't think Morrency is the answer and the impression I get from chatter is that Jackson is a year away. I think they wanted to spruce things up from Ahman, Najeh, Fisher, Gado backfield but it's possible they jumped too soon. A vet for a year would cure much of that.

At this point, who can they get? Corey Dillon is all I can think of.

If Dwayne Wright impresses enough in the training camp for the Bills, the Bills could let Anthony Thomas go for a 6th or 7th round pick.A-Train clearly isn't a long term answer, but would be worth a look.

I think you are a bit misguided if you think the A-train is an upgrade over what they have now.

Even if he was - a backfield with two rookies in the prime spots would likely not be such a hot idea

 

[Sabertooth]

I expect them to decide that they need more and sign a free agent or make a trade for a temporary fix.I don't think Morrency is the answer and the impression I get from chatter is that Jackson is a year away. I think they wanted to spruce things up from Ahman, Najeh, Fisher, Gado backfield but it's possible they jumped too soon. A vet for a year would cure much of that.

At this point, who can they get? Corey Dillon is all I can think of.

If Dwayne Wright impresses enough in the training camp for the Bills, the Bills could let Anthony Thomas go for a 6th or 7th round pick.A-Train clearly isn't a long term answer, but would be worth a look.

I think you are a bit misguided if you think the A-train is an upgrade over what they have now.

Even if he was - a backfield with two rookies in the prime spots would likely not be such a hot idea

 

[Bri]

I expect them to decide that they need more and sign a free agent or make a trade for a temporary fix.I don't think Morrency is the answer and the impression I get from chatter is that Jackson is a year away. I think they wanted to spruce things up from Ahman, Najeh, Fisher, Gado backfield but it's possible they jumped too soon. A vet for a year would cure much of that.

At this point, who can they get? Corey Dillon is all I can think of.

I don't think Dillon would do it. I think he is done or starting for a top top top team. Soon that may be playing for a top top top team.Right now the market may seem slim for a RB but when the young guys start producing teams cut/trade veterans and their salaries. I don't think the "who" has necessarily been decide yet. Anthony Thomas with Wright producing is a similar scenario but that would have to leave the Bills with a RB that they're sure can protect the QB. Many times a young set of RB means poor QB protection.Trades that could/would/may be possible would be for Jones in DAL or Betts or Taylor in MIN but then we're talking major trades and not some 1 year plugin and we're off on an unrealistic path.Fred Taylor is a sad story that he still doesn't have too too much money. I would love for the Jags to say MJD is who we're gonna roll with and trade Taylor+the Pack give him a real big one year deal. I don't think that happens though.Ya just gotta sit tight and wait, sorry.

 

[Block]

I expect them to decide that they need more and sign a free agent or make a trade for a temporary fix.I don't think Morrency is the answer and the impression I get from chatter is that Jackson is a year away. I think they wanted to spruce things up from Ahman, Najeh, Fisher, Gado backfield but it's possible they jumped too soon. A vet for a year would cure much of that.

At this point, who can they get? Corey Dillon is all I can think of.

If Dwayne Wright impresses enough in the training camp for the Bills, the Bills could let Anthony Thomas go for a 6th or 7th round pick.A-Train clearly isn't a long term answer, but would be worth a look.

I think you are a bit misguided if you think the A-train is an upgrade over what they have now.

Even if he was - a backfield with two rookies in the prime spots would likely not be such a hot idea

I think he means that, if the Bills were to trate Anthony Thomas, their top two RBs would by Lynch and Wright, both rookies.I was a bit also, but I think I figured it out.

 

[On The Rocks]

I expect them to decide that they need more and sign a free agent or make a trade for a temporary fix.I don't think Morrency is the answer and the impression I get from chatter is that Jackson is a year away. I think they wanted to spruce things up from Ahman, Najeh, Fisher, Gado backfield but it's possible they jumped too soon. A vet for a year would cure much of that.

At this point, who can they get? Corey Dillon is all I can think of.

If Dwayne Wright impresses enough in the training camp for the Bills, the Bills could let Anthony Thomas go for a 6th or 7th round pick.A-Train clearly isn't a long term answer, but would be worth a look.

I think you are a bit misguided if you think the A-train is an upgrade over what they have now.

I think you are probably right. But at this point, you aren't going to get much better than what you already have.

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

Another thing of note that I have not seen anyone mention is this: while he was a second round pick, he was only the 63rd overall selection, the second-to-last pick of the round (after guys like Kenny Irons and Chris Henry). The Packers originally held the 47th overall pick and traded down. This means, at the very least, that the Packers weren't desperate to get Jackson, as there was a chance he would be gone by pick 63.

First, nice thread, and nice post to get it started.I'm not so sure about your contention here. While Irons was a solid first day pick, and Henry, despite the mixed bag of reviews, was also thought of as a first day pick by the time the draft rolled around, Jackson was more of an unknown. Some thought he came out too early, his injury track record was spotty, and he didn't have the gaudy workout numbers of someone like Henry. I think late 2nd was in the very early part of the range that most of us saw when we valued Jackson's draft stock. It just as well could have been that the Packers traded down because they felt there was a very good chance of getting the guy they wanted (Jackson) at 63, and they could add picks in the process. I would have put the chances of Jackson still being there at 63 at 90%+, I don't think I'm alone.

 

[Block]

I expect them to decide that they need more and sign a free agent or make a trade for a temporary fix.I don't think Morrency is the answer and the impression I get from chatter is that Jackson is a year away. I think they wanted to spruce things up from Ahman, Najeh, Fisher, Gado backfield but it's possible they jumped too soon. A vet for a year would cure much of that.

At this point, who can they get? Corey Dillon is all I can think of.

If Dwayne Wright impresses enough in the training camp for the Bills, the Bills could let Anthony Thomas go for a 6th or 7th round pick.A-Train clearly isn't a long term answer, but would be worth a look.

I think you are a bit misguided if you think the A-train is an upgrade over what they have now.

I think you are probably right. But at this point, you aren't going to get much better than what you already have.

That's sorta the point of this post. Right now it looks like either Morency or Jackson will receive 250-300 touches this season as the starter. They need to be discussed to figure out what their value is.

 

[Block]

Another thing of note that I have not seen anyone mention is this: while he was a second round pick, he was only the 63rd overall selection, the second-to-last pick of the round (after guys like Kenny Irons and Chris Henry). The Packers originally held the 47th overall pick and traded down. This means, at the very least, that the Packers weren't desperate to get Jackson, as there was a chance he would be gone by pick 63.

First, nice thread, and nice post to get it started.I'm not so sure about your contention here. While Irons was a solid first day pick, and Henry, despite the mixed bag of reviews, was also thought of as a first day pick by the time the draft rolled around, Jackson was more of an unknown. Some thought he came out too early, his injury track record was spotty, and he didn't have the gaudy workout numbers of someone like Henry. I think late 2nd was in the very early part of the range that most of us saw when we valued Jackson's draft stock. It just as well could have been that the Packers traded down because they felt there was a very good chance of getting the guy they wanted (Jackson) at 63, and they could add picks in the process. I would have put the chances of Jackson still being there at 63 at 90%+, I don't think I'm alone.

Maybe so, but I think if you are really sold on a guy you don't take that risk. There's no definitive answer on this one; I just think the hype surrounding Jackson is a bit unfounded.

 

[switz]

Just my opinion from what I've seen of both these backs...

Jackson doesn't have what's required to be an NFL start. Period. Backup, fine. But not a starter, and add to his lack of talent, a lack of experience, anyone looking for him to wrest the job away will be very disappointed.

Morency has a tremendous amount of talent, but also has been short on experience. Over the past two years, he's finally gotten a few shots, and looked decent, not stellar, but decent. However, ifhe continues to grow, he could be a servicable starter in GB. Reminds me of an old Packer, Vince Workman.

If you target one of these guys, it should be Morency. But only as BYE week filler.

 

[moleculo]

good thread.

Morency had a shot last year, and came up short. IIRC, he had fumbling issues. I speculate that is the reason Harron came on.

Iin the off-season - the Pack were confident in Morency/Harron enough to let Green walk, but not confident enough to draft a RB highly (2nd round). As Block posted, Jackson was not drafted as highly as he could have been, so you would have to assume that the Pack were prepared to enter this season with Morency/Harron alone. I don't really know how to read this.

Should Morency stop fumbling, he should have the inside track to the starters job, and by all accounts he is making the most of it. This will be one of the more interesting camp battles to keep an eye on for sure.

 

[Block]

good thread.Morency had a shot last year, and came up short. IIRC, he had fumbling issues. I speculate that is the reason Harron came on.Iin the off-season - the Pack were confident in Morency/Harron enough to let Green walk, but not confident enough to draft a RB highly (2nd round). As Block posted, Jackson was not drafted as highly as he could have been, so you would have to assume that the Pack were prepared to enter this season with Morency/Harron alone. I don't really know how to read this.Should Morency stop fumbling, he should have the inside track to the starters job, and by all accounts he is making the most of it. This will be one of the more interesting camp battles to keep an eye on for sure.

Herron had one big game in week 5 but other than that really didn't do much. Morency was getting significant looks towards the end of the year while Herron was limited to 3rd-down duty.I don't really see Herron as much of a factor, but I could be wrong.

 

[ookook]

I would be shocked if Morency did not get the lion's share of the carries in GB this year.

I think he will be fine, but will be limited by the overall poor play of the GB offense.

I suspect he has value at his ADP right now, as people shy away due to Jackson, who is really going to be a non-factor unless he lights things up at a crazy level with the limited opportunities he will get.

If one took Green and Morency as their RB2 and RB3 they would likely be in good shape, as it would mean quality WRs being drafted in the 2nd and 3rd.

 

[Family Matters]

As for their situation:

I think it will end up being RBBC all year with the hot back getting the start. The only way Jackson will be allowed the majority of the carries is if he shows he can pass block. The value pick will be to draft Morency. I would only want him as a RB 4 or RB 5

This is critical. Poor pass blocking will keep him on the sidelines. They aren't going to risk Favre with a guy who can't get it doen in protection or blitz pick ups. I don't know how this will shake out but it's worth noting that if the Packers were feeling Morency isn't a viable option that they would've likely used a first to get their guy. I really think either of these guys could become the man back but I also feel both will be given a fair opportunity to win it.

 

[ookook]

In a re-draft I might take Herron before Jackson, but only as the handcuff to Morency....