Ted Thompson has been successful with the draft and develop program, but does he need to be more creative in player management? Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports photograph
Considering Green Bay Packers General Manager Ted Thompson‘s record, it is difficult to question his track record of success, but can the “draft and develop” system be too much of a good thing?
It may be early yet, but from looking at the recent 49ers contest, the Packers appear to be having some of the same problems that have plagued them in recent years – lack of a consistent pass rush, stout defensive back play and a sporadic running game. Is it time for the Packers to consider a possible trade or a dip into the free agent pool?
We have seen time and again other teams being active in those two venues (e.g Seattle with RB Marshawn Lynch, Denver with QB Peyton Manning, New Orleans with Drew Brees, etc). That is not to say that these teams are often successful in taking such gambles, but there can sometimes be gold at that rainbow.
What Packers fans may hate to see is a replay of the time when Brett Favre was in his prime and the team failed to put more offensive playmakers around him and the team, while still a contender, and never won another Super Bowl with Favre. Could that happen again with Aaron Rodgers because our defense is playing at an inconsistent level?
Just wondering at this point and it is certainly far from time to panic but if the Packers want to be considered prime contenders for the NFL title this season, one of two things need to happen – first, the defense needs to find its identity and make plays with more consistency with its current cast of players or, second, Ted Thompson needs to find a player or two from somewhere else who can provide the boost the team has needed for the past two seasons.
If Thompson fails to do so, history could repeat itself and Rodgers, like Favre, will have one Super Bowl ring.
