Where will Charles Woodson land and do the Packers have any interest in bringing him back?
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Former Green Bay Packers CB/S Charles Woodson might have been headed to a new team by this weekend had he not been such a nice guy.

That’s because after paying a visit to the Denver Broncos earlier this week and leaving without a contract, he may have gone straight to Oakland for a visit – a team that reportedly has an offer waiting for him on the table.

Charles Woodson has teams interested in his services.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

But instead, Woodson flew back to Michigan for a charity appearance he had on the books at Mott Children’s Hospital. The charity work may have held up his day job search, but it seems like it won’t be long until Woodson signs somewhere – at least the interest level is heating up and it appears a handful of teams have called him.

That’s a different scenario than Woodson faced the past few weeks as he sat on the couch awaiting a call – the 2009 Defensive Player of the Year even went so far as to say publicly that teams were probably seeing him as an “ancient” player.

His agent, Carl Poston, told the Associated Press today that Woodson’s visit to the Raiders will be held Tuesday if he doesn’t sign with Oakland. The New York Giants and the Carolina Panthers, as well as two other unnamed teams,  have also expressed an interest.

One of the caveats for Woodson, at least previously, was that he wanted to sign with a contender. Of the teams named, it seems only the Giants would fit into that role. Could one of the unnamed teams be the Packers?

That’s a possibility, but of course Packers team brass have indicated that if Woodson were to be brought back to Green Bay the price would have to be right.

Charles Woodson left Denver today without a contract, meaning the chances of Woodson playing for a contender were drastically reduced. Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports photograph

Late this evening, the Denver Post reported that former Green Bay Packers S/CB Charles Woodson visited with the Denver Broncos today, but left town without a contract.

Here’s what the paper reported:

Woodson spent much of the day with Broncos coaches, personnel and a few players at the team’s Dove Valley headquarters.

Although, the Oakland Raiders and Carolina Panthers also are interested in signing the versatile defensive back, the Broncos were likely the leading candidate for Woodson because they have the best chance to win a Super Bowl this year.

It seems that Woodson’s window of opportunity to play for a contender is closing quickly once again. Though Woodson’s agent stated yesterday the Raiders had a deal already on the table, his client hadn’t made a decision and wanted to visit the Broncos before acting on any contract.

Woodson has been vocal about the lack of interest he has drawn since the Packers cut him just after the season ended. At one point he stated that teams across the league viewed him as “ancient” and that it was disappointing he hadn’t found a home.

Clearly, that disappointment has multiplied for Woodson.

When asked yesterday whether the Packers would have any interest in bringing Woodson back to Green Bay, Packers President Mark Murphy said “probably not,” but left the door open a crack by saying that they had to wait and see how things played out with Woodson – almost making it sound like the Packers might be interested if they have a need and they could get him to come back under their terms.

The Packers didn’t draft a safety and team officials have said they were satisfied with the players they have in-house to play the position … Morgan Burnett, Jerron McMillian, and M.D. Jennings. Though woefully thin at safety, the Packers haven’t made any moves to bring in players to bolster the position and add some competition.

Charles Woodson playing one-on-one against Calvin “Megatron” Johnson of the Detroit Lions.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Whether they might have an interest in Woodson won’t play out for a while and even if they did bring Woodson back, there’s no guarantee he would even make the team.

Woodson must now decide between playing for a team with no chance of winning a title or waiting for a contender to call. For now, unless Woodson jumps on the Raiders contract, he’s destined to ride the couch until a contender calls.

Whether that contender is the Packers remains to be seen.

I guess one should never say never.

Charles Woodson may be headed to either Oakland or Denver.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Mid-afternoon tweets today, Tuesday, May 14, are indicating that former Packers S/CB Charles Woodson has already been offered a contract to return to the team where his professional career began, the Oakland Raiders.

Earlier today, it was reported among several sources that Woodson had been invited to a visit to the Denver Broncos and it seems that is still on, but according to other tweets, Woodson had already been offered a contract by the Raiders.

Here are a couple of the tweets:

#Breaking: Per his agent, the #Raiders have made a contract offer to former #Packers DB Charles Woodson, he will also visit the #Broncos.

— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_RealUpdates) May 14, 2013

Charles Woodson’s agent says Raiders have offer on the table wp.me/p14QSB-8VY1

— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) May 14, 2013

This has got to be good news in the Woodson camp. Earlier this spring, Sir Charles couldn’t keep his disappointment from showing when he said that teams had not been calling and that he thought many around the league thought he was “ancient.”

So, today’s developments have got to be an encouraging sign for the longtime Raider and Packer.

No doubt the Raiders’ Reggie McKenzie, a longtime Packers front office guy, has had an influence in the pursuit of Woodson. Also of note, you can bet that Mike McCarthy and Ted Thompson, though they made the decision to part ways with Woodson, are probably counting their blessings that he is considering a move to the AFC West and not a team in the NFC.

We will keep on top of the situation and report any other news as it becomes available.

Stay tuned …

Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Charles Woodson, in my opinion, is one of the Green Bay Packers all-time great players. His dedication to his craft, leadership, and ability to get the job done on Sundays positions him alongside the likes of Leroy Butler and Willie Wood in the annals of Packers history. His willingness to tackle and his nose for the ball made the Packers defense better each and every game.

The Packers released Woodson in February. As of today he remains a free-agent. The San Francisco 49ers kicked the tires on Woodson earlier in the offseason and some reports state that he is still on their radar. Many argue the Packers should bring Woodson back. I believe it is in the best interest of the team to move forward without him.

In 2012, the Packers struggled with parting with another all-time great Packer, Donald Driver. Some may argue that Driver still had some good football in front of him. I’ll be frank; I am not one of them. Not to take anything away from the career contributions Driver made to the Green Bay Packers, but the game had passed him by.

Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

It seemed to me that Driver’s decreased playing time and diminished role had a negative effect on the team. Driver was not happy, but he handled a difficult situation with class. Several weeks Driver was not a part of the active roster, including the NFC Wild Card game against the Minnesota Vikings. Then the following week against the San Francisco 49ers Driver was activated. Driver had even gone as far to state that he would play special teams against San Francisco. To me the move to activate Driver was a sign of weakness that rippled through the locker room. It implied that there was a significant chance that the Packers may lose and it is best for the organization to have Donald Driver on the active roster.

When the Packers released Woodson in February it was reported that the Packers did not even attempt to bring him back at a reduced salary. From the outside looking in I believe this was very much intentional by Ted Thompson and the Packers. They learned from the 2012 experience with Donald Driver and did not want to repeat this scenario with Woodson.

Just like many believed Driver had something left in the tank, the same is thought about Woodson. I don’t doubt that there are still interceptions to be made and ball carriers to be brought down by Charles Woodson. But his ability to compete at a high level each and every down no longer exists. He has lost a step – maybe two – and his health, specifically his collarbone, is a liability.

Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

Sooner or later the Packers had to say goodbye to number 21. This is never easy with iconic players. Keeping Woodson around for the 2013 season stunts the growth of young players like Jerron McMillian, M.D. Jennings, and Sean Richardson. It creates unnecessary drama and simply does not make the team better.

Ted Thompson has been tasked with parting ways with a number of Packer greats. He handled the Driver scenario well, but probably should not have brought him back in 2012.

Fresh off that situation, Thompson simply tore off the proverbial bandage. It smarts at first, but then the healing begins. The Packers are better for it and I think Charles Woodson will find himself in a better situation as well.

Packers fans love Charles Woodson … and so do his fellow players.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Former Green Bay Packers cornerback Charles Woodson missed a gob of games last season because of the broken collarbone he suffered for the second time in three years – yet he was still voted the 85th best player in all of professional football.

Clearly, Sir Charles has a lot of friends in the league – the ranking being broadcast on the NFL Network is put together by members of the players fraternity.

No question Woodson has put together a Hall of Fame career the past 15 seasons, but if this ranking is based on the best players from last season, the former Packer, in my humble opinion, is rated way too high. In fact, I question whether he should have made the list at all?

Let’s take a closer look.

Woodson played in only seven games last year, had 1.5 sacks, one interception, five passes defensed, one forced fumble, 25 tackles, and 13 assisted tackles.

Again, being ranked at all in the top 100 takes a spot away from a player who might deserve it.

Don’t get me wrong. Like any Packers fan, I love the guy. He’s had one heck of a career, but the Packers cut ways with him for a reason (or multiple reasons) and it’s doubtful he will find a team who wants him in 2013 – that is unless a roster spot opens up because of injury as the season approaches.

Here’s what Packers cornerback and former teammate Tramon Williams had to say. It pretty much sums it up.

“I personally learned so much from him as a friend and a player. So, I mean, it’s kind of hard to talk about this right now with the circumstances. He’s a brother to me. He’s going to be missed by Packer Nation. And I love him.”

My feeling is that Woodson got the sympathy vote here. See his 2012 stats below and you tell me …

Charles Woodson in better days with the Green Bay Packers.
Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports

Former Green Bay Packers cornerback Charles Woodson has been sitting without a team, without any interest from any team for a long time … and for a period of time that must be seem like an eternity for Sir Charles.

The NFL Draft has come and gone and the latest word on where Woodson may end up is with the Baltimore Ravens – at least that’s what CBS Sports NFL insider Jason La Canfora says in a post that describes the best landing spots for nine big-name free agents still on the market.

In addition to Woodson, La Canfora writes about these veterans and where they may end up in the coming weeks:

DE John Abraham: New England

G Brandon Moore: Chicago

RT Tyson Clabo: Atlanta, Dallas, or Miami

LT Bryant McKinnie: Baltimore, Miami, or San Diego

LB Karlos Dansby: Buffalo

RT Eric Winston: Miami

DL Richard Seymour: Indianapolis

OLB Dwight Freeney: Denver

DB Charles Woodson: Baltimore

Here’s what La Canfora says about Woodson going to the Ravens:

He may not have much to offer, but he’s a total pro, has seen both sides of the NFL evolution process (going from looking like a disinterested potential bust to one of the most respected veterans in the game) and long ago realized that there won’t be big money for him. He could make sense for the Ravens. Baltimore just lost Ray Lewis andEd Reed. Having drafted safety Matt Elam, who is talented but could have attitude issues, and with young starting corner Jimmy Smith a character concern in the past as well, a steady, reliable old head like Woodson in a locker room lacking leaders might not be the worst investment the Ravens could make.

Though the 49ers brought Woodson in for a visit last month, they have solidified their defensive backfield since then and haven’t had to pursue the high priced veteran. Though there was some interest, it was lukewarm at best. There has even been talk about the Packers bringing Woodson back, but the chance of that happening is about equal to the likelihood that the Packers would consider bring back Brett Favre.

In the meantime, we’ll keep an eye out for one of our all-time favorite Packers players. We want the best for him and hope he eventually finds a place to land … as long as it’s not with the Vikings, Lions or Bears.

When Charles Woodson has the ball in his hands, it’s usually not a good sign for the quarterback.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

When the Green Bay Packers travel to Candlestick Park to face the San Francisco 49ers Sept. 8, Aaron Rodgers hopes that there isn’t a familiar face lining up against him – that’s because Rodgers tweeted yesterday that the best defensive back he ever faced was his own teammate, Charles Woodson.

Coaches and players always say the factor that makes them better is the level of competition they face in practice. The better their teammates, the better player they become. It only makes sense. When you’ve got a Charles Woodson playing on the opposite side of the ball, it’s pretty clear why Aaron Rodgers has become one of the best at his craft. You learn from the best, you become the best.

Charles Woodson makes a solo tackle of Adrian Peterson in the open field – a task not many have been able to do.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

But the reality of Woodson donning the red of the Niners come the start of the season gained some momentum this week when San Francisco’s General Manager GM Trent Baalke told reporters that the team still had an interest in signing the former Packer.

Woodson was cut by the Packers in February and has had only one visit – with the Niners – during the entire free agent signing period. Woodson has gotten zero interest from the 31 other teams, including the Packers.

There have been some reports saying the Packers may have an interest in bringing Woodson back after the draft, but it doesn’t seem those reports will have legs. The opportunity to land with the 49ers seems like his best bet at this point.

And if that does transpire, watch for Aaron Rodgers to be looking to throw to the side of the field opposite Woodson Sept. 8.

Here is Rodgers’ tweet:

“@sportz_wiz: @aaronrodgers12:Who is the best DB you’ve faced? Someone that makes u throw away from his side.” Charles Woodson

— Aaron Rodgers (@AaronRodgers12) April 20, 2013

The Minnesota Vikings are still in search of a championship ring like former Packers cornerback Charles Woodson shows off here. It’s kind of ironic that he is wearing Vikings purple in this photo. Could the Vikings come calling for his services anytime soon? Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Well, one of the first stories I came across this morning during my daily perusal of the newest available information about the NFL was a piece on Rant Sports: “Should the Minnesota Vikings Pursue Charles Woodson?”

Well heck, why not?

Clearly, with the Vikings still stinging from the shun put on them by Antoine Winfield, their longtime cornerback who signed yesterday with the Seattle Seahawks, they will be looking for help in solidifying their defensive backfield.

Charles Woodson is still waiting for an NFL team to call.
Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

Woodson could be an answer for them, though in my humble opinion, they would do better by working the draft – but maybe that’s what Ted Thompson does, not the Vikings brass.

We’ve seen it before – and I don’t even have to list all the former Packers who have donned the purple of Minnesota. The Vikings are continuously sniffing the Packers dumpster and convincing former Green Bay stars to cross the river to the land of 10,000 lakes. Why not Woodson?

Well, one of the issues may be money. Though Woodson is sitting at home without nary a phone call from interested teams, he’s still going to want to be paid a significant amount. Though it won’t be anywhere close to the $10 million he was scheduled to get this season with the Packers before they cut him, one could imagine that he could command at least a single-year deal in the $2 million to $3 million range.

Will the Vikings bite? My hope is not, but Woodson is ready to move on anything at this point. My guess is that if the Vikings do have any interest that they will wait until after the draft where they may be able to bolster their defensive backfield without having to resort to signing older, expensive players. Or they may just take the plunge and make the call to Woodson.

Stay tuned …

Former Green Bay Packers cornerback Charles Woodson is having a tough time finding a new home. USA TODAY Sports photograph

It was announced last night that former Minnesota Vikings cornerback Antoine Winfield signed a one year contract with the Seattle Seahawks, thus ending his search for a team after being let go last month by the Vikings in a salary cap money-saving move.

While the Seahawks’ signing provides that franchise significant depth at a position where you can’t have enough good players, it also sends one to wondering that if Winfield was finally signed, why not former Green Bay Packers cornerback Charles Woodson.

Woodson, who was released by the Packers in February so they could save money against the cap, has been vocal recently – saying that he thinks team see him as “ancient” and that when he was a free agent back in 2006, he saw the same kind of neglect.

A fan favorite in Green Bay (see comments below and on our Facebook page), Woodson seems stuck in neutral, with no interest being shown by teams across the NFL. There have been reports recently that the Packers may take Woodson back into the fold after the draft, but that’s simply speculation as team officials have give zero indication that that’s the case.

So, how does Woodson find a home? That’s for he and his agent to figure out. But as an outsider looking in (and a huge Woodson fan, I might add), there is empathy for the future Hall of Famer. It’s a cruel business and the signing of Winfield only emphasizes that point for guys like Woodson.

When I recently posted a reaction piece to the story about the Packers possibly taking Woodson back after the draft, the reaction among our Facebook fans was strong. Most of them love Woodson and want him back, as you can see. Interesting to see all the love:

• Chandni Patel I hope so!

  Wednesday at 4:51pm · Like · 2
• 

  Joe Taycher Jr. It wouldn’t surprise me.

  Wednesday at 4:56pm · Like
• 

  Jeremy Amundsen They should! 1 year deal for league minimum or 1 mil. I’m amazed nobody wants him. He can still play situationally at safety and have a positive impact.

  Wednesday at 5:03pm · Edited · Like · 2
• 

  Doris Jones DuFresne I WISH!!

  Wednesday at 4:58pm · Like
• 

  Tiffany Cummings Please oh please I hope so!

  Wednesday at 5:01pm via mobile · Like
• 

  Amy Tasson BRING HIM BACK !!! Why not ?

  Wednesday at 5:02pm · Like
• 

  Noreen Thomas If his agent makes a deal with TT?

  Wednesday at 5:08pm via mobile · Like
• 

  Erika Benfield They should

  Wednesday at 5:14pm via mobile · Like
• 

  Larry Oyen I love Leroy! But he hasent been right yet about Packer personnel moves.

  Wednesday at 5:19pm · Like · 1
• 

  Brian Ramsey Yeah well Woodson should retire a Packer,,, Id hate to see him against us

  Wednesday at 5:22pm · Like · 1
• 

  Owen Hamilton awesome picture !!!

  Wednesday at 5:31pm · Unlike · 1
• 

  Dion Dahlgren I wouldnt argue wit it

  Wednesday at 5:39pm · Like
• 

  Timothy Carlson i’d like to see him back in the Packer Family

  Wednesday at 6:44pm · Like
• 

  Don Johnson Who cares????????

  Wednesday at 6:54pm via mobile · Like
• 

  Julie McClure Jurkovich Maybe for a lower price…for a year… & he can retire a Packer.

  Wednesday at 6:55pm via mobile · Like
• 

  Danette Krosko I hope LeRoy is right

  Wednesday at 7:04pm · Like
• 

  Jessica Ott it would be awesome if leroy was right.

  Wednesday at 7:15pm · Like
• 

  Michael Pollard Charles has too much pride to play for less than he thinks he’s worth, and quite frankly, I don’t blame him. He will always be remembered for his play and great leadership in helping us win a Super Bowl.

  Wednesday at 7:49pm · Like
• 

  Norma Hulburt ted thompson can’t see that was on the field last year was a failer also

  Wednesday at 8:17pm · Like
• 

  Sal Parker I say Get him !! We need more than buncha college boys on the team

  Wednesday at 8:54pm · Like
• 

  Lisa Schaitberger I hope he is right…

  Wednesday at 9:17pm · Like
• 

  Jeremie Manninen yea right the packers spend any money on a useful free agent while Murphy is in charge, that’s a damn good joke

  Wednesday at 9:45pm · Like
• 

  Renee Glerum Dwyer Oh yes, bring him back!

  Wednesday at 9:49pm · Like · 1
• 

  Travis Kovnesky they better !!! he is still awsome,gives 100 percent and is a team leader,sign him to a cheaper contract !!! grab urlacher too just to screw over the bears !!!

  Wednesday at 10:51pm · Like
• 

  Michael W Kinney He is half the defense, bring him back!

  Wednesday at 11:23pm · Like
• 

  Pat Randle I hope they do. I love him and think it would be great if he was back with the Packers this coming season.

  Wednesday at 11:31pm · Like
• 

  Terry J Vey They never tried to get him to sign at a lower price b4 cutting him!Sounds like they really moved on!I like Woodson and would like to see him get another chance in the NFL but doubt it will be with the Pack

  Thursday at 2:31am · Like
• 

  Gary Venema I’d like to see him back. I don’t think it would hurt, he’s an experienced veteran. Even from the bench I think he’d have value. But I don’t know if he’d be willing to come back. Sometimes ego gets in the way. Just ask Mr. Favre.

  Thursday at 4:08am · Like
• 

  Brandon Zeckovich Woodson is Cutler’s favorite receiver. Right, Jim Emerson?

  Thursday at 4:12am · Like · 2
• 

  Chad Pflueger would love to see him back in green bay his production might be down but he would be a very good leader for the young guys

  Thursday at 8:31am · Like · 1
• 

  Brad Robole I really doubt it. When they make up their mind to move on there is no going back.

  Thursday at 6:25pm · Like

Former Green Bay Packers cornerback Charles Woodson
Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports

Former Green Bay Packers safety LeRoy Butler likes to talk – and tweet – something he did Monday where he claimed that Charles Woodson would be brought back to the team after the draft.

Here’s what Butler said:

Packers would like Woodson back, after the draft, to make sure they can make a fair offer, 4 teams are also interested

The story posted today by former Lombardiave.com writer Jason Hirschhorn brought to light the tweet, while arguing convincingly how such a statement just can’t be true.

Our friend Hirschhorn argues that the Packers simply wouldn’t have an interest in Woodson for a number of reasons:

Don’t expect Ted Thompson to consider bringing Charles Woodson back after the draft. Mary Langenfeld-USA TODAY Sports

• If the Packers really wanted him, they would have attempted to get him to sign a restructured deal that would have kept him in Green Bay for the rest of his career;

• Packers GM Ted Thompson doesn’t make it a habit of keeping or adding older, injured players to his roster – and paying them millions to be on the roster to boot; and

• The only team since the start of free agency that has expressed interest was the San Francisco 49ers, who recently signed Nnamdi Asomugha, thus ending any apparent interest in Woodson’s services.

As much as we all like Woodson as a football player, we could see the writing on the wall last season. After breaking the same collarbone he broke in the Super Bowl two seasons earlier, Woodson was slated to get back on the field the first week of December, but it wasn’t until the playoffs that Woodson fully made it back.

Clearly, the Packers were pleased with the play of their younger defensive backs and weren’t rushing to get Woodson back on the field.

Charles Woodson had some good days with the Green Bay Packers, but they are over.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

It was less than a month later that the Packers cut Woodson loose. While Sir Charles would say the Packers didn’t call to offer a proposal to restructure a deal, the fact of the matter is that he’s a cornerback on an island and his name isn’t Derrelle Revis.

Ted Thompson is moving forward – have we heard that before? The real moment of truth could come in the draft. Should Thompson select a safety in the draft, expect all talk about Woodson coming back to die out completely. While the temptation to bring Woodson back at a bargain basement price might be considered, that notion, too, will die.

Woodson is a Hall of Famer. He has more pride than to accept a deal like that and despite what Butler likes to tweet, I just don’t see it happening … I don’t think our friend Mr. Hirschhorn would either.

Yes, Ted, it’s time to move on. Don’t listen to LeRoy Butler.

Former Packer Charles Woodson awaits the call …
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Michael David Smith of profootballtalk.com posted an interesting piece about former Green Bay Packers cornerback/safety Charles Woodson and his inability to find a team.

I hate to say it, but this is nothing new – this type of treatment of older players has been going on since the inception of the league and it shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone.

Charles Woodson has always been a fan favorite.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Just a couple of days ago, I posted a piece asking whether it was time that Woodson considered retirement. I’m still of that ilk. He’s had an incredible career – a Hall of Fame-caliber career – and he’s on the downside of it. Sir Charles has to realize that. Will one more year really enhance what he’s already accomplished over the past 15 years? He’s been the league’s defensive player of the year, he’s a Super Bowl champion, he’s played in 206 career games, he’s made 589 tackles, has had 130 assists, 119 passes defensed, and most importantly he’s had 55 interceptions that have been returned 896 yards – 11 of which have been returned to the house for touchdowns. His longest return was 62 yards.

Here’s what he had to say on NFL AM: “I’m 36, so of course I’m considered ancient in the game right now, and teams are looking for younger players and trying to make their rosters younger. If you’re an older guy they kind of push you to the side, and they’ll maybe look at you much later on down the road, when I guess they figure they can get you much cheaper.”

He hit the nail on the head with that quote.

Will another year, maybe two really cement his place in NFL history? Not unless he finds a team where he’s going to be the guy who played like he did with the Packers in 2009-10 – and we all know that’s just not going to happen.

We’ve all seen our favorite players slink off into the twilight of their careers riding the bench and watching the younger guys take their place. It happens. That’s what’s happening here. Maybe Sir Charles and Brian Urlacher should compare notes. They may find some similarities in their situations.

Charles Woodson has always been known as a shutdown cornerback.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

What will occur is that Woodson will ride the couch until late August when a team’s defensive backfield is depleted and they are desperate to find a seasoned veteran they can bring in to fill out the roster and fill in the gaps while their players heal. Woodson is the poster child for that situation. It’s unfortunate, but it is the inevitable.

He’s had his day in the sun. It’s time for him to move over and to move on with life outside of football. Woodson is an incredibly bright individual who will have many, many opportunities beyond the field. If it doesn’t happen this year, then next year.

In my mind, it should be sooner than later. But I’m not Charles Woodson. That decision will ultimately be his.

In the meantime, we wish him the best. He’s too classy of a guy to be used within the system and then thrown onto the scrap heap of former players.

Green Bay Packers safety Charles Woodson during the game against the Minnesota Vikings in the NFC Wild Card playoff game at Lambeau Field. Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports photograph

Nnamdi Asomugha, the former Philadelphia Eagles cornerback who was released this offseason, signed this afternoon and made the San Francisco 49ers one player better – that is if you’re an Asomugha believer and feel he can help replace the loss of the Niners’ Dashon Goldson. The signing also made Charles Woodson an unwanted man.

For those interested Green Bay Packers fans, what does this mean for Woodson – the free agent who a month ago was one of the hottest commodities on the free agent market, but has since dropped off the face of the NFL planet?

Well, it means that the only team to date that had expressed an interest in the veteran cornerback – the 49ers – are officially not interested. And neither is any other NFL team, so it seems.

So, as a free agent twisting in the wind, would the Packers show any interest in bringing Woodson back into the fold?

The short answer is not at $10 million per year and the long answer is that probably not – at any price. The Packers will have the opportunity to continue to shore up its defense through the draft and won’t be looking to bring back a player who was oft-injured and not a big part of their success the past season.

In other words, it’s time to move on.

Woodson had an incredible second half of a career in Green Bay, will most certainly be inducted into the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame and is a strong candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. But it seems that even if he does catch on with a team for another run in 2013, his days are numbered.

In fact, at this point, he may be riding the couch well into the start of training camp and possibly even into the start of the season. There may be teams that encounter injuries at some point and may give Woodson a look, but it seems maybe it’s time for him to consider announcing his retirement.

By losing out on a bid to join the Niners, Woodson should start to see the writing on the wall – especially if no other teams come calling – and come calling soon.

Personally, I would like to see him hang ‘em up at a point in his career when he will be seen in a good light. Too many times we see veterans hang on too long and watch as they slowly fade away.

I don’t want to watch a great player like Woodson succumb to the “one more year” syndrome. Let’s hope we don’t have to do so.

Jan 5, 2013; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers safety Charles Woodson (21) during the game against the Minnesota Vikings in the NFC Wild Card playoff game at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

“Hallelujah,” is what former Green Bay Packers cornerback Charles Woodson exclaimed today when hearing that the NFL had decided to scrap the tuck rule. His role in the play that brought the rule into the national limelight is well known. He was the Oakland Raider who hit New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady on the play when Brady seemingly fumbled the ball away.

Well, we all know what transpired after that …

“It shouldn’t have taken this long,” Woodson said in an interview on the NFL Network. “It’s been 11 years I guess now. It’s about time that they turned it over. It really was just a badly explained rule from the jump, and it didn’t make a whole lot of sense the way the rule was interpreted. So I think the best thing was for them to just throw it out.”

But the league’s move to dump the rule has been the only highlight for Woodson in recent weeks. After being released by the Packers in a salary cap move last month, Woodson is still trying to find a new home – and it doesn’t look at this point like he’s got any hope for a change. Woodson’s only visit came last week when he visited the San Francisco 49ers. To date, the Niners haven’t called.

“I think, looking back, this is my second time in free agency and I’ve kind of been shunned both times,” Woodson was quoted as saying today. “So I guess this time around, I’m a little more patient with it and just waiting around to see what happens.

“I don’t take it personal. I understand how the game goes, I’ve seen it for 15 years now, and I’ve seen how it works. Just got to have a little patience.”

We’re pleased that Woodson isn’t taking it personal – or at least that’s what he is saying. We expect that Woodson will land somewhere at some time, but you’ve got to believe that time is running out on the 36-year-old.

The question I have is why not the Packers? Woodson obviously knows at this point that his price has got to drop significantly – he’s certainly not worth the $10 million he was set to make with the Packers in 2013. I wouldn’t be surprised if the Packers can get him at their price that they wouldn’t hesitate in brining him back. His presence in the locker room and his efforts on the field are legendary. What he could continue to do for those young Packer defensive backs would be immeasurable.

But aside from wishful thinking, the chance of Ted Thompson pulling the trigger are probably as high as bringing back Brett Favre.

Here’s to Woodson’s perseverance and we hope he finds a home and it happens for him soon.

It’s been a month since Charles Woodson was released by the Green Bay Packers. Where will he land?
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Former Green Bay Packers cornerback Charles Woodson paid a visit to the San Francisco 49ers last Wednesday, spending the day with officials from that club – but other than that visit, not much has been heard from the Sir Charles camp in recent weeks.

The fact that he’s drawn little interest from other teams, though his agent, Carl Poston, said in an interview with the San Francisco Examiner that they were busy trying to line up visits, one has to wonder just where the former Packer will end up. It’s been a month since Green Bay released the veteran in a salary cap money-saving move and Woodson, because he was cut, could have signed with any team at any time.

While he may have been laying low with an intent, one would think that he might have landed a job as soon as possible. Such has not been the case.

Let me throw this out there – could Woodson actually land back in Green Bay?

While the chances are slim to none, the Packers, if they can get him for the right price, wouldn’t be doing themselves any harm by bringing him back – at the right price, of course. Whether Woodson would want to come back is another issue.

No doubt, he’s moved on, but if the days go by and he doesn’t garner much interest I wouldn’t be surprised to see the issue raised – at least in the media.

Woodson was scheduled to make $10 million in 2013 with the Packers and clearly his value has dropped significantly over the past month, especially since the first few days of free agency. With the softening of the market due to signings completed, one wonders just how much a team, including the Packers, would be willing to pay for his services.

At age 36, we’re sure he would consider a single-season deal as a stopgap player … and he said he was interested in going only to a contender. The question is whether a contender would be willing to expend the funds. The Niners are certainly contenders – they have not, as of Saturday afternoon – extended an offer.

About a week ago, it was reported that Woodson was contacted by four teams – the Seattle Seahawks, New York Jets, Miami Dolphins and New York Giants. None of those teams have as yet invited Woodson in for a visit.

Woodson was one of several options the 49ers were considering to help them fill the void left when Dashon Goldson left for a huge contract in Tampa Bay. The Niners also had Nnamdi Asomugha, the former Raider and Eagle, in for a visit.

“He enjoyed the visit and I think they enjoyed him,” Poston told the Examiner Thursday. “I think it went very well, but I understand they have some people in. It just depends on which way they want to go. I’m just waiting for them to get back to me.”

Those aren’t real reassuring or confident words and because there has been no contract offered yet, one has to wonder if the Niners have an actual interest.

In a look at the remaining free agents still on the market, NFL.com listed Woodson under the category “effective in the right role” and had this to say about him:  ”If the 49ers don’t bite, we’re not sure where Woodson could land.”

NFL.com listed Woodson as the thirty-first rated free agent still on the mark right above, believe it or not, Packers linebacker Brad Jones (#32) and Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher (#33).

So, where will Woodson land?

The clock is ticking …

Former Green Bay Packers cornerback Charles Woodson may have as many as four suitors as of today.
Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Yesterday, we here at lombardiave.com reported that Charles Woodson may have been getting interest from Jerry Jones and the Dallas Cowboys.

In this age of Internet news, that may be so, it may be wrong – that’s because today’s information indicates that there are at least four teams that have joined the Woodson band and are seeking the services of the former Green Bay Packer.

Tomorrow there may be more – or less.

But just for the sake of staying current we’ll focus on those who have been mentioned today. There have been several news sources, including the the bigblueview that have posted today the New York Giants have joined the fray that is also occupied by the Seattle Seahawks, New York Jets, and Miami Dolphins.

There has been no mention today of the Cowboys.

One thing is for certain – it appears that if these rumors turn out to be true the former Raider and Packer will have plenty of offers from the field in which to consider. How fast things move along in an actual signing also remains to be seen.

If Woodson stays true to his word that he wanted to join a “contender,” then that may narrow the selection process. I’m not sure he would consider the Jets or the Dolphins contenders at this point, but who am I to say? Should he indeed choose one of those two teams to hammer out an agreement, he might know more than we do.

As for the Giants and Seahawks – well, he would have a good argument for signing with either of those two teams.

Again, these are simply rumors that are flying across the Internet today, so take them with a grain of salt. They may die by the time the next news cycle comes around.

Stay tuned …

Oct 14, 2012; Houston, TX, USA; Green Bay Packers safety Charles Woodson (21) against the Houston Texans in the fourth quarter at Reliant Stadium. The Packers defeated the Texans 42-24. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Former Green Bay Packers cornerback Charles Woodson, who was released by the his former team last month, may have a new home – the Dallas Cowboys.

That statement in itself is rather revolting in that a classy guy like Sir Charles being recruited by the antithesis of fair play, Jerry Jones, makes me ill. However, little can we do. Woodson, who would probably fit well with the Cowboys because of their need at safety, may find himself sitting in Jerry Jones’s office sometime within the week. With the hiring of Monty Kiffen as the Cowboys’ new defensive coordinator taking over for Rob Ryan, the Cowboys are looking for a new identity and it could start with Woodson.

Though the names of Dashon Goldson, Jairus Byrd and Ed Reed have been bantered about in Dallas, those guys are probably out of reach even for Jerry Jones, but Woodson might be in his price range. Considering that Cowboys’ officials have gone on record as saying they feel Woodson still has a lot in the tank, Jones might be convinced that the 36-year-old potential Hall of Famer could be a great addition.

Whether Woodson wants to go there is another matter. Upon his release from the Packers one of the first things that Woodson said was that he wanted to go to a contender. Would he consider the Cowboys in that category?

Well, it might take some convincing by Jones, but we’ve seen the old snake oil salesman work his pitch in the past. It will be very interesting to see where Woodson lands, whether it’s Dallas or some other team.

Like an old friend, we wish Sir Charles the best and hope he finds what he’s looking for … as long as it’s as far away from Green Bay as possible.

Richard Sherman makes a plea for Charles Woodson to sign with Seattle.

Richard Sherman, that loud, but pretty talented cornerback for the Seattle Seahawks, made an appearance on the NFL Network last weekend and made a direct plea for the services of former Green Bay Packers‘ cornerback/safety Charles Woodson.

Though the verbose cornerback is known for his on-field trash-talking and aggressive play, he clearly needs some spit and polish with his television delivery skills. However, he did get his message across.

Making his plea on the network’s NFL Total Access program, Sherman looked directly into the camera and said:

“Seattle … we would love to have you. We have some pretty decent players – we have a secondary that … we would love for you to call it home … we have some decent players … we play man coverage, we play zone … we have veterans like Marcus Truffant and we would love your help.”

When prompted to convince Woodson to sign with Seattle because the Seahawks are legitimate contenders for a Super Bowl, here’s what he had to say:

Charles Woodson was a lockdown cornerback with the Green Bay Packers, but time has caught up with him.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

“We stumbled this year in Atlanta … 25 seconds away or whatever. We have everything in place, you know, we have a great quarterback, we have a top five defense … you can make us the top one defense … hey, top number one defense, you can make us one of the best defenses in the league, Charles … I’m just sayin’ – we’re pretty good right now, but you can make us great … just wanna be elite. Can you help us? Help us out … please Charles.”

Sherman is right about the Seattle defense … they finished with the fourth best defense in the league, giving up an average of 306 yards per game and a league-low 245 total points in 16 games. Would Woodson propel that defense any higher? It’s hard to imagine that Woodson would even crack the starting lineup of that unit, but anything’s possible.

However, I see Woodson signing with a team where he can become the heart and soul of the defensive unit, much like he did in Green Bay. He wants to go to a contender – Seattle fits that bill – but he would also like to be “the man” and a starter. For the kind of money Woodson is commanding, it’s difficult to believe that any team would sign him as a backup or even as a nickel or dime player.

In fact, I’m wondering how Sherman’s defensive teammates are reacting to his plea to Woodson. I’m sure they want to keep their jobs. Maybe Woodson would like to take over the corner position currently held by Sherman? Not likely.

Mr. Woodson, take my advice … steer clear of Mr. Sherman and Seattle. There are other teams out there with more need and more dollars for you.

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Nov 18, 2012; Detroit, MI, USA; Green Bay Packers strong safety Charles Woodson before the game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

With the release of Charles Woodson by the Green Bay Packers this week, there was plenty of ink devoted to the move. Most of it was the simple announcement, others providing speculation of where he might end up, while others waxing poetic about what he has meant to the Packers and the NFL.

I spent a few minutes trolling the Internet to see what I could come up with as to what others are saying about the future Packers Hall of Famer and probable Pro Football Hall of Famer.

So, without further adieu, here is a rundown.

Enjoy …

May 22, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers general manager Ted Thompson (right) visits with Texas A

Packers’ general manager Ted Thompson has one hell of a hard job. His decisions are viewed and analyzed by millions who take them personally. Even calls that are objectively easy, like not re-signing Donald Driver, can gather storm clouds in the form of angry Green Bay fans. It often takes years before his moves are given due credit.

Such is likely the case once again with Charles Woodson’s release.

Many cried foul in the wake of the Woodson news. A 15-year veteran, seven with the Packers, Woodson was widely acknowledged as the “heart” of Green Bay’s defense. The common themes amongst the angst-ridden were Packers GM Ted Thompson’s “insensitivity,” “disloyalty,” and “stupidity.” If the only opinions that mattered were those of the fans, Thompson would be joining Woodson on his way out of Green Bay.

But those opinions – formed largely through emotion and sentimentality – don’t matter. The only opinions that mean anything are those of Thompson and his assistants.

Green Bay Packers general manager Ted Thompson during the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Lambeau Field. Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Thompson operates like a mathematician. He crunches numbers, projects production, and makes the personnel decisions. And more often than not, Thompson has made the right calls: calls that fans, so often emotional and sentimental, can’t understand. What those fans fail to understand is that in order for a GM to be successful, he needs to approach decisions as a detached third party. That may feel wrong to fans, but success is built through proper perspective.

When Thompson analyzed Woodson, he weighed the production the Packers would receive versus the $10 million cost. He then looked at the replacement options. With the emergence of slot corner Casey Hayward and safeties Jerron McMillian and M.D. Jennings, the decision was simple.

Woodson’s release, along with the pending departure of Greg Jennings, is part of a big picture approach to team building. Few would argue that there isn’t a drop off from those veterans to their inexperienced successors, but these moves aren’t made in a vacuum.

Thompson knows this isn’t a decision between Woodson and McMillian. It’s a decision between Woodson and B.J. Raji, or Woodson and Matthews, or any of the other players in need of a contract extension. Because Thompson is so skilled as a talent evaluator, there are just too many good players to keep on one roster. At that point, the best move for the Packers is to retain the younger players who can contribute for longer. Woodson fell on the wrong side of that equation.

Defensive end Joe Johnson, one of the most disappointing free agent signings in Green Bay Packers history.

If you find yourself questioning this approach, just think back to the Mike Sherman era. Sherman was aggressive in free agency and ignored age in doing so. In 2001, Sherman signed Joe Johnson, a 30-year-old defensive end with 21 sacks over the previous two seasons. Johnson received a six year, $33 million contract, much of which was guaranteed. In return, the Packers received only 11 games played.

The biggest disappointment wasn’t how ineffective or unavailable Johnson was, but rather how much valuable cap space the contract ate up. By deferring much of Johnson’s signing bonus, Sherman guaranteed that the Packers would lose valuable assets in the years to come. That debt was paid following the 2004 season when the Packers lacked the cap room to re-sign All-Pro guards Mike Wahle and Marco Rivera.

Mike Wahle (68) talks with Marco Rivera (62) during their final season together in 2004.

Those twin losses effectively ended the Mike Sherman era as well as the Packers’ early 2000s run as contenders. Without Wahle and Rivera, the offense changed overnight. Favre, sacked only 12 times in 2004, was dropped behind the line 24 times the following year. Not coincidentally, his interception total rose to a league high 29. Green Bay wouldn’t have a winning record again until 2007.

Would Woodson have gone the way of Joe Johnson had he been retained? Likely not, but that doesn’t alter the cap ramifications of such a move. Woodson’s return would have meant departure for someone important, if not this year than next.

And it’s not only the big names that could be leaving. Sam Shields, Brad Jones, Bryan Bulaga, James Jones, Morgan Burnett, and Desmond Bishop are among those whose contracts expire over the next two years. At 36, Woodson doesn’t have the value to Green Bay as those players.

Fans may view Thompson’s decision on Woodson as inglorious, but choosing long-term championship contention over sentimentality is anything but.

Jason Hirschhorn covers the Green Bay Packers for Lombardiave.com. He has previously written for Hail to the Orange, College Hoops Net, Mocking the Draft, LiveBall Sports, and the List Universe. He is a senior writer for Beats Per Minute, an indie-music webzine. Follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/JBHirschhorn.

Charles Woodson has worn the Green and Gold with pride for seven years. For that, we are grateful.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

When it comes to the Green Bay Packers and Charles Woodson, is change  good or is it bad?

I get easily confused as I move up in years and it seems that I am not the only one who is confused as to if it is good or bad.

Yesterday the Green Bay Packers released Charles Woodson.  By many accounts he was the heart and soul of the defense – a leader in the locker room and on the field.

He was also an aging veteran who had been injured most of last season and was poised to be a big hit against the salary cap.

During his departure, younger and faster players showed they could handle his job, so he became expendable.  He became a statistic of the business side of the NFL.

So that leads us to the big question: Is the release of Woodson good or bad?  I read many posts that criticized the release.  One fan wrote, “ I can’t really believe they did this … they have made some dumb moves but this one tops the rest.”  Many other fans questioned the loss of his leadership.

While other fans realized that his salary cap hit, his age and declining speed were all factors in his release , they wished him well and put their faith in the brain trust at 1265 Lombardi Avenue to do what is best for the team.

So is it good or bad?  After separating the emotional aspects of losing another well-liked player who represented the team with class and dignity, I think the move was done at the right time and with the best interests of the team and more importantly for the right reasons.

Take a step back and look at the big picture.

Woodson is an aging veteran who was moved from his original position to cover his deficiencies in covering younger and faster players.

While recovering from his second broken collarbone, younger players stepped up and in his absence they were able to raise and maintain a level of play that improved the defense.  Now I am not saying that Woodson was the cause of the defense’s poor play over the past few years, what I am pointing out is that the younger players showed that they were ready to fill the void in his absence.  Once they proved that, his ticket out of Green Bay was stamped.

B.J. Raji is one of the cornerstones who will lead the Packers into the future.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

There is also the concept that the needs of the team are more important than the desire to keep a player because of the emotional attachment (see Donald Driver).  Everyone is familiar with the necessity to sign Aaron Rodgers, Clay Matthews and BJ Raji to new contracts.  These players are the current cornerstones of the team and Thompson and Mark Murphy have to address these needs to sustain the team’s level of play.  Woodson’s contract was something that could have hindered future extensions.

Finally, there is the question of the loss of his leadership on and off the field.  Yes it will be missed.  But in the past, Reggie White, LeRoy Butler, Brett Favre and many other leaders have moved on and the team found their replacements.  His loss is not going to create a leadership vacuum.  It will, if anything, force younger players who have watched him lead, step and and be that leader.  To quote Disney’s “The Lion King” (NFL version), it is the circle of life.

In the end, the release of Woodson was a well-calculated decision based on the needs of the team in conjunction with the fact that younger players had developed enough to fill his spot admirably, thus there would be no dropoff in play in the secondary.  The release was best for the team and that is what we, as fans, need to focus upon.

Players come and players go.  In time, Aaron Rodgers, Clay Matthews and other fan favorites will leave the team, just as Woodson has.  The Packers will survive.  There will be bumps and bruises, and learning curves for new players and new team leaders, but the Green and Gold is bigger than any one player.

So, Mr. Woodson, thank you for your dedicated play, your passion and leadership.  Thank you for leading this team to a Super Bowl victory.  We all look forward to the day when you enter the Packers Hall of Fame and the NFL Hall of Fame (as a Packer).  Though you did not want to be here at first, you embraced us and we embraced you.  Change may hurt, but I believe that in this case, the change is good for all those involved.

New opportunities will arise for everyone involved and your time here will be treasured.  You wore the Green and Gold with pride and for that we are forever grateful.