Alex Green during last season’s game against the Detroit Lions at Lambeau Field. The Packers won 27-20. Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports photograph

Multiple reports over the past couple of days have indicated that Green Bay Packers third year running back Alex Green is the man in the team’s backfield – the number one back.

Well, we have to remember that it’s still June and that while the Packers are obliged to provide every opportunity to allow Green to compete for the starting running back position, we all know it’s all on paper. I think it’s pretty clear that Ted Thompson went out and drafted two high-quality running backs for a reason – to add depth and competition to the position, but to also allow those rookies to come in and compete.

My guess is that the table is set and that the rookies – Eddie Lacy and Johnathan Franklin – are in place to slide into the majority of the team’s offensive schemes.

That’s not to say that Green or DuJuan Harris, James Starks or even undrafted free agent Angelo Pease won’t be competing for a spot on the 53-man roster come training camp. In fact, it’s expected that they will compete.

But to come out a month before training camp and announce that Green is the starter is simply fodder for debate.

No doubt, this will be one of the position competitions to watch and Green has as good of a shot at winning playing time as any of the backs who will hit the field in July. It’s also pretty clear that Green was forced into the full-time starting role last year before his knee was fully functional. Will he be 100 percent by July? It appears that way.

Here’s what Green had to say about his injured knee:

“That was the frustrating part. I’d go back, see a play and say, ‘I know I can make that cut’ or ‘I know I can break that tackle. I know I can explode.’ But physically, not being able to do it was frustrating. I knew that wasn’t the kind of player I am. That’s finally behind me. That’s finally behind me.

“Being able to cut without going, ‘Ahhh!’ and knowing in my head that it hurts terribly. So just being able to cut and not feel any pain and not think about it.”

In fact, despite his injured knee, he was the team’s leading rusher last season with 464 yards and a per-carry average of 3.4 yards. He didn’t find the end zone once. His role diminished by the end of the season last year when James Starks was thrown back into the lineup and after DuJuan Harris emerged as the team’s best runner the final month.

How it all plays out in the coming couple of months will be interesting.

Don’t get me wrong. I feel there is a place for Green on the Packers’ roster, but the team can’t keep everyone. My guess that when push comes to shove, James Starks will be either cut or traded, Angelo Pease (if he’s the real deal) will be hidden on the practice squad and the Packers go with Lacy, Franklin, Green and Harris.

What do you think, Packers fans? Is Green a legitimate threat to be the number one running back?

Leave a comment below, follow us on Facebook, or on Twitter.

Kansas State Wildcats running back Angelo Pease showed Packers Head Coach Mike McCarthy some instincts that could make him a viable candidate for the Packers running back rotation. John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports photograph

Much has been written in the post-NFL draft blogosphere about the potential and promise of Eddie Lacy and Johnathan Franklin, Green Bay’s impact rookie running back duo.

Understandably so.

Both players were reportedly high on many team’s draft boards, and each possess tantalizing skill sets and fresh legs. Their ability to learn the playbook, improve and maintain conditioning and most importantly, stay healthy during training camp this summer will be determining factors in how much playing time they see during the upcoming 2013 season.

At this early stage either player could easily be penciled in as the opening day starter who lines up in the backfield behind Aaron Rodgers.

Their presence has undoubtedly made getting a good night’s sleep difficult for the likes of DuJuan Harris, Alex Green and James Starks. Green Bay recently attempted to trade Starks in the aftermath of the draft but no suitors have been found to-date for the ex-Buffalo University star. For the onetime key component in the Packers running game during the fabled season-ending run in 2010 that culminated in the Super Bowl XLV title, the clock may be ticking.

James Starks has shown promise, but hasn’t been able to stay on the field for any length of time for the Packers. Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports photograph

In the “what have you done for me lately” NFL, it’s not out of the question to think that Starks has gone from world champion and heir apparent to the lead running back duties in Titletown to being injured and out of a job. Realistically, the market for an injury-prone running back with a history of fumbling is likely limited. It’s a distinct possibility that Starks may have played his last game in a Packers uniform. Green Bay has already cut ties with rusher Brandon Saine.

Packer backfield, once a liability, now a strength

By most accounts the Packers, by way of the draft, have immensely upgraded a backfield unit that was widely recognized as a severe liability in recent seasons and have turned it – at least on paper – into a formidable strength. The Packers have typically utilized a “who’s hot” committee approach at running back, with no one player demonstrating much consistency in recent years, save late-season bloomer DuJuan Harris.

At one point in 2012 he suited up (with a suit and matching tie) and sold cars for a dealership in Jacksonville, Fla. He was signed in October and ended up rushing for 157 yards and two touchdowns on 34 carries over four games. His diminutive stature (he’s listed at a generous 5-9 in the Green Bay media guide) allowed him to disappear behind the offensive line, make cuts and then burst upfield to daylight. Fans and coaches alike immediately fell in love with Harris.

Of course, Green Bay features the elite Rodgers behind center. The lack of an established back who can be the focal point in the Packers running game has been a catalyst for a “pass to set up the pass” offensive philosophy. At times, defenses have blatantly ignored the ground attack and flooded the typical passing lanes with extra defenders. This contributed to Aaron Rodgers having somewhat less success throwing the football in 2012 compared to his incredible MVP season in 2011.

The fact is, the Packers are in much better shape at this point in the off-season heading into training camp than they have been in years. And that’s a fact that will only help the offense take the next step forward as Green Bay attempts to build a unit to take pressure off Rodgers and help churn out first downs and chew up clock during the latter stages of the inevitable wintry playoff games that are on the horizon. Their inability to do both are major reasons why they were unable to advance in each of the last two postseasons.

Angelo Pease – could he help the Packers running game?
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Angelo Pease, an undrafted gem

With the drafting of Lacy and Franklin, one would think that Green Bay is set at running back heading into 2013. However, Ted Thompson isn’t one to rest on his laurels after the draft. Coming out of the Packers’ rookie orientation camp over the weekend it appears that he may have orchestrated yet another small coup in his mission to continue to overhaul and upgrade the backfield rotation.

Angelo Pease, an undrafted (and relatively unknown) free agent running back from Kansas State University participated in drills and wowed coaches on multiple occasions during the initial practice sessions. At one point, McCarthy said he thought Pease “looked like Lacy” the way he lowered his shoulders and quickly accelerated up field. Quite the compliment for a player who rushed for just 333 yards on 60 carries in Manhattan in 2011. Pease was clocked at 4.50 in the 40-yard dash at his pro day in March and he has capable hands, snaring 23 passes as a senior.

According to Tyler Dunne of the Journal Sentinel, head coach McCarthy heaped praise on the ex-Wildcat, saying “He had another run today. I think he’s a good young back … He’s here for a reason. So that’s a credit to the player and that’s a credit to our personnel department. You’re also practicing in helmets and shorts and that’s why you have to be practical about what you saw today. It really confirms movement ability, athletic ability. Are they systematic? Do they fit what you’re looking for?”

After just one weekend in Green Bay, it’s looking like a possibility that Pease may be a fit. He ran hard, and looked fluid, decisive and quick in the offense. Those are adjectives that have rarely been used to describe the style of play for any running back currently on the roster for the Packers in recent seasons. It remains to be seen if Pease will be offered a contract to continue his offseason team workouts but Thompson would be remiss not to afford the rookie camp standout at least another opportunity to suit up in full pads this summer when the drills matter more – and performance counts.

The 2013 edition of the draft was one that Ted Thompson and company absolutely had to nail and it appears they are right on track with their stable of running back personnel additions.

The way things are going so far, the Green Bay running game could be in store for big things this fall.

Eddie Lacy works out during the Green Bay Packers rookie orientation weekend. Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

Forget the offensive line; forget the defensive line; and don’t even worry about safety – the most-watched and most interesting Training Camp competition for the Green Bay Packers is going to come down to running back.

So, Ted Thompson goes out and drafts two high-profile rookies at the running back position … what does that tell Alex Green, James Starks, and DuJuan Harris? Well, if nothing else, it places them on notice that management was not happy with what they saw last year and there will be changes.

The first was announced last week by Head Coach Mike McCarthy when he told the world he was flip-flopping the offensive line – moving RT Bryan Bulaga and RG Josh Sitton to the left side to replace LG T.J. Lang (who will move to the right side) and Marshall Newhouse, who will have to compete for the right tackle position with two, three, maybe even four other guys.

Though McCarthy said that the major shakeup along the line was more in line with his feeling it will help protect his $110 million quarterback, Aaron Rodgers, he must also think that it won’t hurt the running game.

The second major indication that management wasn’t pleased with last year’s running game was the fact that Thompson drafted Eddie Lacy out of Alabama in the second round and then traded up to nab Johnathan Franklin out of UCLA in the fourth round.

In-house backs, especially James Starks, are now wondering whether they will be around when the kickoff of the season-opener in San Francisco comes around. Starks was rumored to be on the trading block draft weekend, and he’s probably still there – though it’s unclear whether anyone would be interested in the oft-injured Packer.

Green, who stepped in as the featured back when Cedric Benson went down with a foot injury last year, was the team’s leading rusher. However, his 400-plus yards were mostly one- and two-yard efforts that consistently left the Packers with third and long situations last year. While Rodgers was adept at picking up first downs on many of those downs, it put undue pressure on the passing game to produce.

Harris was the bright spot for the Packers last year as he came out of nowhere to kick the running game in the butt at the end of the season, though it was much too little, too late as the Packers were still relying too heavily on their pass offense. While Harris was productive in his limited time on the field, it’s not real clear whether anyone thinks he’s a three-down back. Most see him as a change-of-pace weapon.

Senior Bowl north squad running back Johnathan Franklin of UCLA (23) carries the ball during the Senior Bowl north squad practice at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

Enter Lacy and Franklin. Both came into this past weekend’s rookie orientation practices as the golden boys ready to rescue a dying run game. According to McCarthy, he wasn’t disappointed in what he saw. He called Lacy “smooth” and was real impressed with how Franklin handled punt and kicks – leaving one to think the Packers are leaning heavily on the possibility of his taking those duties over from Randall Cobb. That, of course, will have to play out in Training Camp.

And while Lacy and Franklin were impressive, there was another guy who caught the eye of McCarthy – Angelo Pease, an undrafted free agent who was called out twice by the head coach during his two press conferences.

So, what does this all mean?

Well, it means that there will be heady competition at the position come late July – something that did not exist at all last year. That lack of competition didn’t help that aspect of the game at all. Starks was penciled in as the starter heading into training camp, immediately got hurt and then the Packers were literally left with little. They scrambled to sign Benson at the last minute to shore things up, but that lasted until the fifth game of the season when he went down to injury and was out for the rest of the year.

How will Alex Green fit into the Packers running game in 2013?
Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

Thompson and McCarthy weren’t about to let that happen again. Thus the drafting and signing of players who can fill the bill.

What will be the outcome of all this? Well, unless things change drastically, we don’t see Starks in the mix at all. Green and Harris will be in the fight for their lives and Lacy and Franklin – and possibly Pease – will be given long, hard looks.

Who emerges as the starter? Well, at this point, you’ve got to give the nod to Lacy, the big, hard running back who could wear defenses down. Throw in Harris, Franklin, Green and possibly Pease as players that should fit in well and contribute.

If I were the head coach, that’s how the stars would align – but I’m not, so we’ll leave the tough decisions up the Packers management. That’s why they get the big bucks and we just get to write about it.

It should be an interesting show to watch.

Stay tuned …

In the meantime, here’s a video that includes some clips of Angelo Pease

St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson rushes against the Seattle Seahawks during the first quarter at CenturyLink Field. Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

Less than two months ago, Cheesehead Nation had its collective panties in a bunch because the Green Bay Packers were pseudo-courting free agent running back Steven Jackson.

Remember that?

When Jackson signed with Atlanta in mid-March, it seemed some broken-hearted Packers fans were ready to call it a lost season.

“[S]tarting to think ted might be more of a great college talent scout and not a great gm,” opined one reader on BleacherReport.com.

Hey, good lookin’. Mind if Ted Thompson buys you a drink? He’s not looking for anything serious, you know.

“Jackson is better then [sic] anything we have now,” wrote another, on ESPN.com, “and better then [sic] what is in the draft. He would have been a much needed upgrade. Now it will be another so-so year with the 2nd & 3rd rate running backs we have now.”

Even some LombardiAve.com readers were deflated and critical of what we’ll now refer to as The Steven Jackson Flirtation: “Other teams get better, and TT just sits there,” one reader commented. “Like the East end of a West bound horse! No running game, no problem we’ll lowball all the RB’s. Then we can say we tried!”

I almost expected some of those folks to start quoting old country songs. Or posting their heartbreak on their Facebook and Twitter feeds. “Thanks, Ted Thompson. I’ll never love again! Waaaaah!”

So, Packers GM Ted Thompson spurns on a 30-year-old running back with more than 10,000 yards on the tires, and then? He  drafts running backs Eddie Lacy and Jonathan Franklin — arguably the top two backs in the draft — and gets them at bargain prices in the second and fourth rounds. Younger, hotter. Faster.

Awww yeah.

So what would TT now say to those folks who panicked following the unconsummated Steven Jackson Flirtation? Probably something along the lines of, “Sorry, he just wasn’t my type.” Which is to say, too old and too expensive. And not a home-grown Packers draft product. “Used up” is a term some might use.

Not all Packers fans reacted negatively, but shouldn’t this serve as a cautionary tale for future free-agent signing periods? I mean, Ted Thompson didn’t exactly blindside us; you’d think the Packers faithful would have seen that coming. Ted is fickle when it comes to his flirtations. Hey, we all want the Packers to improve — that’s part of being a fan. But in spite of two straight embarrassing ejections from the playoffs, the team is still winning division titles, still making the playoffs. And Ted still manages to be the belle of the ball.

For this guy, Ted Thompson will make a real commitment. Photo: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

And look at what we got by way of Thompson’s failed flirtation: In Lacy, we potentially have a powerful, Jackson-esque pounder who actually has more wiggle and comparable receiving skills. Second round, folks.

In Franklin, we got a back who has been compared with Baltimore’s Ray Rice due to his speed and skill set. Suddenly, the team that lives and dies by the passing game may not have enough footballs to hand off. (Ooh, Ted. I’m a little turned on).

And what does this ultimately do? It helps protect Aaron Rodgers’ butt, for one thing, but it also should help the Packers re-open the downfield passing game at which Rodgers is so dominant when he can work play-action. As long as the newly-reconfigured offensive line can open holes in the zone blocking scheme the Packers use, we should begin to reap the rewards right out of the gate.

Perhaps even more importantly is that this gives Green Bay quality depth at the running back position for the foreseeable future. Remember the collective groan last year when Cedric Benson went down in game five, just when he was starting to gel with the offense?

This way, if Lacy’s turf toe injury re-asserts itself and he misses a couple of games, it isn’t the end of times, and DuJuan Harris and Alex Green won’t have to shoulder the load alone (you won’t have to take them to the prom, you just keep them in your phone in case you need a date).

When you consider all this in retrospect, it makes the Steven Jackson Flirtation seem much more like a win than a loss, don’t you think? I can hardly wait to see what Ted gives these guys next year for Valentine’s Day.

Eddie Lacy runs against Kent State. John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports photograph

Like many Packers’ fans, I was excited when Green Bay selected Alabama running back Eddie Lacy at the end of the second round. What a steal at that point in the draft. I was also excited when they traded back into the fourth round to take running back Jonathan Franklin from UCLA. This completely surprised me.

Franklin was a guy I had tagged for Green Bay since his great week at the Senior Bowl. He just seemed to fit perfectly into the Green Bay offense. Lacy and Franklin were my two highest rated running backs going into the draft, and I would have been happy if the Packers got either one. Now I am ecstatic they got both. A surprising, yet brilliant move by Ted Thompson and his staff.

Eddie Lacy
Debby Wong-USA TODAY Sports

With Lacy and Franklin in the backfield the running back position could become a real strength for the Packers’ offense next season. Maintaining a consistent running game seems to have been the Packers’ Achilles heel the past few seasons. They haven’t had a back eclipse the 100-yard mark in a regular season game since Brandon Jackson did it early in the 2010 season. Since then, Green Bay has been shuffling various backs in and out of the lineup searching for “the guy” who will make opposing defenses account for the run. This running back carousel has been difficult to watch.

When the Kansas City Chiefs slowed the high-powered Green Bay offense at the end of the 2011 season and then the New York Giants did it again a few weeks later in the playoffs, teams finally found the formula to beat the Green Bay Packers.

Opposing defenses took away Green Bay’s big plays and throws over the middle by dropping their safeties into a two-shell coverage (Cover 2) and putting their linebackers back into zone coverage in the middle of the field. Opposing defensive linemen only needed to worry about rushing the passer. We saw this time and time again last season when Green Bay played teams like the San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Seahawks.

Aaron Rodgers is sacked by New York Giants linebacker Chase Blackburn during the first quarter of an NFL game at MetLife Stadium. Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Teams weren’t made to account for the run. It wasn’t a threat. Their pass rushers didn’t have to hesitate and check for run. They just went after the quarterback. Play action was nearly a non-factor. The result was a significant drop in big plays for the Green Bay offense, and Aaron Rodgers getting sacked 51 times—most by any quarterback in the league last year. Rodgers was still able to make plays and put up good numbers, but the Packers weren’t nearly as dominant on this side of the ball as they had been in previous seasons.

Establishing an effective running game will force teams to account for more than just the pass, and get Green Bay’s offense back on track to being dominant, once again. Let’s look at how Lacy and Franklin may help Green Bay’s offense next season and force teams to play the Packers differently.

Eddie Lacy

At 5-11 and 231 pounds, Lacy is a big back, to say the least. He’s a powerful downhill runner who isn’t afraid to lower his pads and deliver a hit on opposing defenders. He has a natural knack for finding holes in the line and has quick feet for a back his size. The Packers haven’t had this type of running back since maybe Ahman Green.

Lacy can be a force. He sheds arm tackles easily and rarely goes down upon the first hit. The Packers need a guy like this that can pound the ball between the tackles and strike a little fear into defenses. I can just imagine Lacy running over 49ers linebackers like he did Manti Te’o in the BCS Championship game.

Some criticize Lacy because he ran behind one of the better offensive lines in college football, but if you watch Lacy’s footage, he’s breaking a lot of tackles and showing the right burst through the holes. His production in college is clearly more than just having a good offensive line. Plus, he ran the ball in the SEC, the toughest and most competitive division in college football, and put up impressive numbers. He ran for 1,322 yards and 17 touchdowns with a 6.7 yards per carry average in 2012.  I think this guy is for real.

Eddie Lacy is tackled by Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker Manti Te’o

It is too early to tell if Lacy will be the clear favorite to start on Sundays at running back, but if he proves to bring some bite to the Packers running game it could be a real game-changer for Green Bay.

Opposing defenses would have to stop playing two-shell coverage all the time, and walk an eighth defender into the box to play the run. This would allow the wide receivers to get single coverage on the outside and enable Rodgers to pick the mismatch he wants to exploit. This would also allow the Packers to run an effective play action and hit more big plays downfield as teams are forced to respect the run and not drop their safeties on first and second down.

It will also prevent linebackers from dropping back in coverage on most downs, which will leave the middle of the field more open for the tight ends and crossing routes by receivers. Defensive linemen won’t just tee off on the quarterback. They’ll have to respect the run, which give Rodgers a little bit more time when dropping back to pass. If defensive linemen even hesitate for a split second before rushing the passer, this could make all the difference in the world.

A physical back like Lacy also can be effective on the goal line and in short yardage situations. No longer will you see the Packers go with empty-back sets on third and one. Yay! Having a physical runner will also help Green Bay close out games and dominate time of possession. Something they struggled with in key games last season. During our live NFL Draft blog, fellow lombardiave writer, John Dewey, made the point that having an effective running game also helps out the defense. If Green Bay can sustain drives and maintain time of possession, this would all their defense time to rest and be fresh when they take the field.

Finally, to run effectively late in the season when temperatures drop, you need a big, physical runner, like Lacy. Lacy could be the gameday closer that can sustain success late into the season. He’s the type of player Green Bay has lacked for years.

Get a feel for the kind of runner Lacy is and check out some of his highlights:

Johnathan Franklin

Franklin offers a different skill set than Lacy. Franklin was highly productive at UCLA, rushing for a school record 1,734 yards as a senior and recording 13 touchdowns.

He is more of a cutback runner who offers a good burst through the hole and has the speed to turn on the burners and break off a big run. Running backs coach Alex Van Pelt called Franklin “elusive” and “a guy that will make you miss.” That is exactly what Franklin is. He makes people miss. He is a change-ofpace type of back and potential home run hitter. Watch some of his footage against Nebraska and Colorado and you’ll see a back who can break through arm tackles and spin his way out of trouble. Franklin’s quick feet and good vision make him a dangerous weapon in space.

Johnathan Franklin runs with the ball in the first quarter against the Arizona Wildcats at the Rose Bowl. Andrew Fielding-USA TODAY Sports

Franklin may challenge Lacy for the starting spot at running back, and at the very least, Franklin will provide Green Bay with a very good third down back and situational player. Franklin can catch the ball out of the backfield and pass block just as well as he can run the ball. And that is saying something. Van Pelt called both Lacy and Franklin the “best two passing blocking backs in this year’s draft.”

Franklin will offer Rodgers additional pass protecting support, and he has the skills to receive effectively out of the backfield. He will frequently win one-on-one matchups against linebackers who try to cover him, giving the Packers another mismatch to exploit in the passing game.

Franklin will work great out of shotgun and spread formations (something the Packers like to run). If you notice in the footage, Franklin frequently ran out of the shotgun, and this is something that will add another dynamic to Green Bay’s no huddle and third down offense. If Franklin can offer a rushing threat from shotgun formations, this just gives opposing defenses another weapon to account for in the Green Bay Packers spread offense.

Franklin is also great in the screen game, which is another effective way to slow down the opposing team’s pass rush. If teams have to begin accounting for Franklin’s running and receiving ability out of the shotgun and spread formations, then that will force teams to play the Green Bay receivers and tight ends in single man coverage. This will only give Rodgers more options when trying to pick and choice which matchups to exploit on the field.

Check out some of Franklin’s gameday footage against Nebraska:

Both Lacy and Franklin should breathe life into the previously lethargic Green Bay running game. With the addition of these two backs and the potential of DuJuan Harris, the Packers’ backfield is beginning to look like a position of strength for the first time in long while. The competition at this position should be exciting to watch over the offseason, and it’s reasonable to think a featured back will emerge from this group next season.

An effective running game will make the passing game better, the pass protection better, the play action game better, the redzone offense better, the defense better, and even your beer and brat at Lambeau Field taste better (OK, maybe I got carried away on that one). The Packers will always be a pass-first type of offense with Rodgers at the helm, but adding a couple of quality backs that can revitalize the running game will help relieve some of the pressure on Rodgers and open up the passing game.

It should be exciting to watch unfold.

Cedric Benson started last season as the Packers running back before being injured. He has not yet been signed by the Packers and one wonders if he will given the team’s draft.
Dean Hall photograph

Ted Thompson and Mike McCarthy didn’t send any mixed messages last weekend when they expended two of their draft picks on running backs – and not just on any old running backs who happened to be available – they went all in and selected two of the best backs on the board.

Their call was loud and clear: The Green Bay Packers are going to improve their running game and they are serious about it.

James Starks (44) is upended by Minnesota Vikings cornerback Josh Robinson (21) while rushing with the football during the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. The Packers defeated the Vikings 23-14. Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

By selecting Eddie Lacy with their lone second round pick and then turning around in the fourth round and selecting Johnathan Franklin, the Packers had one eye on their in-house running backs – James Starks, Alex Green, and DuJuan Harris. Without saying a word, the Packers put these three running backs on notice while upping the ante, increasing the competition and putting on full display their lack of confidence in that phase of the game.

As a team, the Packers ran the ball an average of 27.1 times per game in 2012, so it wasn’t like they got completely away from the attempt to show they could do it. However, they averaged just 3.9 yards per attempt and 106.4 per game, finishing twentieth overall in the league.

So, what’s wrong with that, you say? Nothing, if you’re satisfied with mediocrity.

Compare that with the Washington Redskins, who finished first overall in the league. Washington carried the ball 32.4 times per game, averaging 5.2 yards per carry and 169.3 yards per game.

That’s a big difference.

The Packers longest run from scrimmage was 41 yards and the one bit of good news was that they fumbled just four times.

The mediocre statistics for the Packers was a focal point for Thompson in this year’s draft – and rightly so.

The Packers, who started their season with Cedric Benson as their starter, was just beginning to see some production from the veteran when he went down with the dreaded lisfranc foot injury against the Indianapolis Colts. Next up was Alex Green, who led the team with 464 yards. While he was a steady player for the most part, Green didn’t seem to have the acceleration and cutting ability because he was coming off a serious knee injury suffered the year before. He wasn’t himself. James Starks made an attempt at a comeback of his own, but went down with a knee injury not long after coming back and was lost for the remainder of the season.

Alex Green Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

While DuJuan Harris, the diminutive ball of energy, inserted some spunk and power into the Packers game at the end of the season, it’s clear that he isn’t a three-down back. He could be a productive change of pace back for the Packers this season and because of that, will most likely stick.

But with the new guys coming in, a whole new attitude and energy should come with them. One of the best competitions to watch as the Packers begin their early season workouts, OTAs and then get into Training Camp will be among the running backs.

We’re sure Ted Thompson and Mike McCarthy will have an eye glued to that part of the field as well.

Stay tuned …

The Green Bay Packers waived running back Brandon Saine today leaving the team with just three backs on their roster. Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

The Green Bay Packers announced this afternoon that they have waived running back Brandon Saine. Tyler Dunne of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported that Joe Flanagan, Saine’s agent, said his client had failed a physical with the team.

Saine, the 24-year-old running back was signed in July 2011 as an undrafted free agent out of Ohio State, going on to appear in six games for the Packers last season. As a rookie he gained 69 yards rushing and receiving and was often injured.

Waiving Saine leaves the Packers with just three running backs on the current roster: James Starks, Alex Green, and DuJuan Harris, though veteran Cedric Benson was to have paid a visit to the Packers today to determine his future with the team.

The cutting of Saine may also tip the Packers hand that they most likely will draft a running back in the NFL Draft that begins tomorrow night. While Alabama running back Eddie Lacy has been most often linked to the Packers draft, it’s unlikely Ted Thompson will expend a first round choice on a running back. The only running back he has drafted as high as the second round since taking over as GM of the Packers was Brandon Jackson.

October 13, 2012; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins defensive end Datone Jones (56) defends against Utah Utes offensive linesman Sam Brenner (74) and offensive linesman Jeremiah Tofaeono (76) during the second half at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Sports Illustrated’s Chris Burke, in his Audibles column, takes a look at the NFL Draft and the safe picks for NFC North teams and those that are being considered as surprise picks.

Burke sees the Packers going defensive line and talks about how UCLA defensive end Datone Jones would be the safest pick, saying:

Somewhere along the line in this draft, the Packers need to add some depth up front on D. Last year’s second-round pick, DE Jerel Worthy, tore his ACL in late December and may not be ready to go in 2013, leaving the Packers thin behind their three starters (Ryan Pickett, B.J. Raji, C.J. Wilson).

Not only would Jones represent terrific value at No. 26, but also the versatile former UCLA Bruin could plug in just about anywhere the Packers wanted. Solid both as a run-stopper and pass-rusher, Jones would add the pop Green Bay needs.

He’s right. The Packers defensive line is in deep flux right now with the uncertainty surrounding the availability of Worthy, the aging of Pickett and the inconsistency of Wilson. The Packers will most likely attempt to extend the contract for Raji, but the team needs more depth and younger legs along  the line.

North Carolina Tar Heels running back Giovani Bernard.
Mark Dolejs-USA TODAY Sports

However, it’s Burke’s surprise pick that I really like – Giovani Bernard. The North Carolina running back, in my opinion, would infuse a new playmaking element to the Packers backfield – a dynamic back who can catch the ball out of the backfield is what the Packers need. Whether Ted Thompson goes offense or defense is the debate that will continue right up until the Packers selection is announced.

Here’s what Burke said about Bernard:

Bernard might be the missing piece. Carrying some injury concerns, Bernard has taken a back seat to Alabama’s Eddie Lacy throughout most of the draft process, but he may wind up in the more productive role. That’s especially true if he finds his way to a place like Green Bay, where a wide-open offense can take advantage of his quickness and ability to catch passes out of the backfield.

This would be a luxury pick more than a need-based one, but the Packers are close enough to Super Bowl contention to be able to roll the dice like that.

Burke’s projections for the Lions, Vikings and Bears are as intriguing as his picks for the Packers. Check them out by going to Burke’s page. And don’t forget to tell us how you feel about all this by leaving a comment below, liking us on Facebook, and following us on Twitter.

DuJuan Harris was the Packers best running back at the end of last season.
Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

Three days ago, the rumor wires announced that the Green Bay Packers and Pittsburgh Steelers were interested in securing the services of former New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw.

Today, Bradshaw confirmed that information and added another team to the mix – the New York Jets.

Ahmad Bradshaw could add a punch the team hasn’t seen at running back for some time.
Jim O photograph

Interviewed today on ESPN Radio’s The Michael Kay Show, Bradshaw said that he was ready to go back to work and that the Jets had expressed interest as well as the Steelers and Packers.

“Pittsburgh, the Jets and the Packers, which are teams that I feel like need a running back, that I could help. Like I said, it’s a process. I just want to take it slow.”arious

And slow it is … the Packers head coach Mike McCarthy may have signaled today that the Packers are looking at various ways of manning the backfield. He said that he was impressed with the play of DuJuan Harris last season and that he should have a place in the Packers backfield in 2013. Most agree that Harris is not a three-down back, but could certainly provide a change-up to another backfield mate who might be the pounding type of back that Bradshaw could bring to the Packers.

“I wish we would have had DuJuan earlier,” McCarthy told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel today. “He was a young man that we were just getting ready to try to put in the game. Everybody’s like ‘just put him in there.’ Well, hell, you put him in there, there aren’t too many runs in our offense where we can’t go to a pass and now he’s protecting for Aaron Rodgers.

“That’s why there’s a lot of stress schematically and responsibility wise on our running backs, and that’s not going to change because of our quarterback. Once he got ready, I felt great about the way DuJuan finished the season. Looking forward to having him for an offseason and look for good things for him.”

Alex Green struggled last year, but was coming off a major knee injury.
Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

If the Packers pursue Bradshaw aggressively and do find a way to sign him, the Packers could have one of the most dynamic one-two punch backfields in the league. If the Packers don’t get Bradshaw in the end, they may look to the draft to select a running back as early as the first or second round. Clearly, the team is looking to bolster the backfield – if they weren’t they wouldn’t have pursued Steven Jackson until the end, nor would they have shown any interest in Bradshaw.

I feel the Packers know they can’t go into 2013 relying on James Starks and Alex Green, for that matter, Cedric Benson. The team needs some fresh blood and Bradshaw and Harris may be the answer.

But it could be a while before we know anything about Bradshaw as he is committed to playing the market for all he can get. ”I’ve decided not to work out with teams yet,” Bradshaw said today. “I want to be as healthy as I can be, I want to be explosive, and I want teams to see what they are able to get. Right now, I’m working on that, and I think it’s coming along faster and faster. I’m walking around without the boot.”

How long that takes isn’t clear, but he can’t leave teams hanging for too long. Should we expect him to start working out before the draft? Teams like the Packers or Steelers will want to make plans and if they use draft picks to fill their need, Bradshaw may be left without some teams with which to audition.

And if Bradshaw wants to go to a team to be the main man, he’s got to show he’s healthy enough to do so.

“I want to go to a team (where) I can be the No. 1 back, get multiple carries every game. I just want to be able to help and be a big part of it,” Bradshaw said.

McCarthy also understands the teams needs at the position and how one or two players will need to make it work: ”It’s tough on your run blocking unit when you’ve got a different running back all the time,” McCarthy said. “Not that we’re just going to try to stay with one but you’d like to get into a one-two punch deal and maybe get some more rhythm and let guys build off last week’s performance and adjust to how the defense is playing week in and week out based on what you did the week before.”

At this point, the backfield is in flux. The Packers will need to make some big decisions between now and the draft and will most likely be tweaking the personnel after the draft.

One thing is for sure, if it’s Bradshaw and Harris, they could add an element to the Packers’ offense that’s not been seen for some time.

Are the Packers interested in signing St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson and do they have the wherewithal to do so?
Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

Sports Illustrated’s Peter King got all of Packers Nation talking Friday when he was caught on video telling St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson that he’s gotta “go to Green Bay” and Jackson saying that it “makes sense.” But the talk today is that Jackson’s best bet will be the Atlanta Falcons, who are looking at replacing Michael Turner who was cut late last week. Chris Wessling, an Around the League writer for NFL.com posted today that according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Jackson’s best move would be to go to the Falcons. However, he also doesn’t write off the Packers and also makes mention of the Denver Broncosas another team that might have an interest in Jackson.

Cedric Benson went down with injury early in the year. Will the Packers bring him back?
Mary Langenfeld-USA TODAY Sports

The real question on this end is whether the Packers have an actual interest in Jackson. There have been no rumblings coming from anyone associated with the Packers on any type of interest or even any contact with the runner who is a perennial 1,000-yard rusher. The Packers running game was in a shambles last year after Cedric Benson went down with a foot injury a few weeks into the season. The Packers attempted to push second-year runner Alex Green into the position, but it was clear after a few weeks that he wasn’t going to be the guy. oft-injured James Starks made a brief comeback and showed some of his 2010 abilities, but he, too, went down with injury. The Packers then turned to DuJuan Harris late in the season and he showed some spunk and power – however, most agree he would be most effective as a change-of-pace back and not an every down back. And while the Packers brought back Ryan Grant late in the season, he was mostly ineffective and won’t be brought back in 2013. Jackson would fill that role as he not only runs with power, but catches the ball out of the backfield well. Whether Ted Thompson would want to commit – or whether he has the money to commit – to Jackson is a question only he can answer. The Packers are around $21 million under the salary cap, but when you start adding up the funds that will be needed to sign restricted free agents, draft choices and undrafted free agents, you’re looking at least $7 million. That still leaves the Packers with what might seem plenty of cash until you look at who they have yet to sign – quarterback Aaron Rodgers and linebacker Clay Matthews - for sure – and possibly defensive lineman B.J. Raji.

Will DuJuan Harris be a big part of the Packers running game in 2013?
Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

Just Rodgers alone is going to command more than $20 million per year and Matthews will most likely get at least half that, so the bank account will be quickly depleted. The only way Thompson frees up more money is if he cuts ties with tight end Jermichael Finley, who’s due a bunch of money at the end of March, or linebacker A.J. Hawk, who will be due more than $5 million this year. Those are intriguing situations which have Packers Nation divided at this time, but will be resolved sometime soon. So, in the end, Jackson may end up going to Atlanta or Denver because the Packers can’t afford it. Though Jackson is right – from a football standpoint, having him in the Green and Gold does make a lot of sense. Stay tuned.

Early on in the season and especially following the debacle in Seattle, Green Bay Packers offensive linemen were muttering about how opposing team’s defensive linemen were, to paraphrase, pinning their ears back and coming after Aaron Rodgers. No respect or consideration for that matter was given to the Packers running game. Opposing defenses were simply charging hard for Aaron Rodgers, an offensive lineman’s nightmare.

All season long Packers Coach Mike McCarthy has been trying to establish the running game. Now after two consecutive 100-plus yard games by-committee efforts, the pundits are up in arms.

The argument, and it’s a good one, is you can’t take the ball out of Aaron Rodgers hands and expect to win. There are no Adrian Petersons in the Packer backfield. This is true. Alex Green, DuJuan Harris, Ryan Grant, and when healthy, James Starks are not going to win you Super Bowls. But they might ensure Packers fans that Aaron Rodgers stays on the field so they have a fighting chance.

Of course it would be nice, but the Packers don’t need an Adrian Peterson. They simply need a respectable running game. They need the opposing team’s defensive lineman to hesitate just a second to see if the Packers are running the ball. That second is the difference between Aaron Rodgers finding an open receiver and Aaron Rodgers running for his life.

The other portion of the argument is opposing defenses simply don’t respect the Packers running backs enough to slow their charge of Aaron Rodgers. There is probably some truth to this perspective. But as Packers fans know, Mike McCarthy is stubborn. His commitment to running the ball this year is evidence of that. The success of the running game against the Vikings and the Lions is proof that you don’t need an All-Pro running back to run past defenders. It simply means the Packers running backs need to capitalize on opportunity. And it seems they have the talent to do so.

Establishing the running game will open up the short passing game and ultimately the deep pass. In 2011 the Packers were able to score at will by throwing the ball and then throwing the ball some more. Opposing teams have caught on to this scheme.

Now it’s time to migrate back a bit closer to the roots of the West Coast Offense on which the Packers predicate their scheme.

Establish the run, get yards in chunks with the short pass, and then take it to the bank with the long pass. Despite what the pundits say, you can have it both ways.

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But when he ripped off that 10-yard run on the Packers first play from scrimmage, heads turned, eyebrows raised and there was a collective shout of “who?” across the NFL world.

So, just who is this guy? Clearly, he’s a young running back who has a spark and explosiveness that Packers fans haven’t seen in a long, long time in the team’s backfield. But he’s also a guy who has only seven carries as a Green Bay Packer. The 31 yards he picked up for the Packers Sunday night were minuscule in the grand scheme of the NFL’s world. He’s no Emmitt Smith. He’s no Jim Brown. He’s no Walter Payton. He’s no Barry Sanders.

But he did give the Packers some hope and needed depth in a season when the team’s run game has been near nonexistent. About the only person on the planet who has seemed committed to the team’s efforts to run this season has been been head coach Mike McCarthy. Surprisingly, in the past five games the Packers have averaged 136 yards per contest – a statistic that is surprising for the Packers and their pass-happy attack.

While that particular statistic may come as a surprise to many, even more of a surprise to me has been McCarthy’s continued commitment to the ground game … but it is December. In Green Bay. In the NFC North. Running the ball at this time of year wins championships and McCarthy clearly understands this. Even when his team fell behind by 14-0 to the Lions Sunday night, McCarthy stayed with the plan, didn’t panic and didn’t abandon the run. Part of that plan was to utilize the 5-foot, 7-inch Harris.

It all paid off late in the game when the offensive line opened a huge hole and Harris ran 14 yards untouched for a touchdown that all but sealed the Packers win over the Lions and ensured another step toward a potential NFC North Division title. Who would have thought that, with MVP quarterback Aaron Rodgers under center, that it would be the ground game that would be propelling the Packers at this point in the season.

And who would have thought that we would be cheering the efforts of a diminutive running back just days after the team had re-signed one of its better backs in recent years – Ryan Grant?

But to get back to Harris – no, he’s not an every down back who will carry the load through an entire 16-game NFL season, but he does appear to be a change-of-pace back who could add a new dimension to the Packers backfield. It’s unclear whether he can catch the ball consistently, but his college statistics weren’t completely devoid of receiving yards (see below), so Mike McCarthy must feel comfortable with that part of his game. Only time will tell on that front.

But he may be that diamond in the rough – the player who has slipped through the cracks, if you will – who could help the Packers to their next step along this slippery slope that has been the 2012 season. Harris has already slipped through the fingers of many. As an undrafted free agent, he was originally signed by the Jacksonville Jaguars out of Troy where he played 50 games over four years, rushed 540 times for 2,635 yards (4.9 average) and scored 27 times. He also caught 79 passes for 553 yards (7 yard average) and scored five times through the air.

He stuck with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2011 but was released by that team Aug. 25, 2012. He was then picked up off waivers by the Pittsburgh Steelers on Aug. 27. However, his stay with that team was short-lived as he was released just four days later.

He was out of football until Oct. 24 when the Packers silently signed him to their practice squad. On Dec. 1, he was signed to the team’s active roster. He got his first playing time Sunday night on national television and was on the field for the Packers first offensive play, took the pitch from Aaron Rodgers and scooted behind the block of another undrafted free agent, right tackle Don Barclay, for 10 yards and his first, first down carry for the Packers. He got five more carries on the night in which he picked up two or fewer yards per crack until he burst through the fourth quarter hole for his first NFL touchdown and the opportunity for his first Lambeau Leap.

So, given the quick start to his Packers career, how he fits in from here on out is up to McCarthy. He most likely will be utilized much like he was this past Sunday night, but in the end he could be just what the running game doctor ordered.

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Nov 4, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers running back James Starks (44) rushes with the football during the game against the Arizona Cardinals at Lambeau Field. The Packers defeated the Cardinals 31-17. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

I had to look back at one of my old blog posts from a different site from back in the 2010 SB season after Sunday’s game.  At the time, the Packers were on the edge, injuries had taken a toll and they just couldn’t run the ball.

Sound familiar? This is my blog entry from early December of 2010:

Was that a running game I saw?

December 6, 2010

By citizen 

 

What many football pundits, analysts and Packer fans have been looking for is a Packer running game.  Last week, even I made the point that the Packers didn’t have a running game… not by choice, but by necessity, based on personnel.  But, I think they may have answered the call for “balance” with rookie James Starks.  Starks was a sixth round pick who missed his entire senior season at the U of Buffalo with a shoulder injury.  Then, after a hamstring injury back in May, Starks spent the first 12 weeks on the PUP until his NFL debut against the ‘Niners.   Starks showed vision and power while carrying 18 times for 73 yards.  He isn’t Adrian Petersen, Matt Forte, or Javid Best…but I think he could be the answer to those who question the Packers’ ability to run the ball in December and January.  After seeing Starks this week, is there anyone who thinks we’d have gone for a QB sneak from the 2 yd line… twice?  Me neither.

 Could James Starks be the difference? 

I don’t even remember very many aspects of that game other than the arrival of a running game.  Even at that point, it wasn’t great, but it was REAL.  The same happened on Sunday against the Cardinals.

Starks has been dealing with a turf-toe injury most of the season and is always one mistake away from being in McCarthy’s dog house.  After his fumble that Rodgers had to dive on Sunday, I didn’t see him for a full quarter.  Not coincidentally, in my opinion, the Packers offense struggled to move the ball with him on the bench. (No first downs in the third quarter)  He was the workhorse in the fourth quarter to burn the clock with 10 carries for 30 yards, not great, but not terrible when everyone in the stadium knows what’s coming.  He had seven carries for 41 yards before the fourth quarter.

Alex Green benefited as well, and I think it has to do with the differences in their running style. Starks is better in a crowd. He shows patience and commits to a cut, goes downhill and may break a tackle or two. Green is better in space, he isn’t as patient but he is full speed right away and if he gets in the open he can make plays.

Is this the end of our running woes? We won’t know the answer  for a few weeks, but here’s to history repeating itself!

Tommy Marquardt

Follow me on twitter @PegLegPilot

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Oct 7, 2012; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Green Bay Packers running back Alex Green (20) breaks through the middle of the line for a gain against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. Indianapolis defeated Green Bay 30-27. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-US PRESSWIRE

Who would have thought a month ago that the Green Bay Packers would be lamenting the loss of it’s best running back.

That’s because Packers fans haven’t had much to cheer about when it came to a running game since James Starks came out of nowhere in 2010 to help lead the Packers to a Super Bowl championship.

When Cedric Benson went down in his fifth game with the Packers, the collective groan across Packers Nation was loud and clear.

Take away the 40-yard run that Alex Green ripped off late in last Sunday’s game against the Indianapolis Colts, and there was little to show in the ground game after Benson went down.

So, the question now is whether the Packers can rely on either Green or the oft-injured Starks to continue what Benson was establishing. Green, the Flyin’ Hawaiian, is an enigma whose potential is untapped.

Whether head coach Mike McCarthy will give him the ball remains to be seen. If Starks ever makes it back to the field, his rust will be evident – again, does McCarthy have the confidence in utilizing him?

If the Packers don’t consider any kind of run game, the rest of the season could be brutal. Without the run game, the Packers will have to put all the pressure on quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

We’ve seen how that has worked out so far this season. While Rodgers has played well, he admits his performance so far this season has not been acceptable – it hasn’t lived up to everyone’s expectations, as well as his own expectations. The good thing is that he accepts that fact and is doing everything in his power to turn it around.

But without the support of some semblance of a run game, a much better turnout by the defense and a receiving corps that also picks up its game, Rodgers can’t be asked to carry the load for the rest of the team.

In getting back to the run game, it will be difficult for the Packers to defeat teams like the Houston Texans, the Arizona Cardinals, as well as division rivals Minnesota, Detroit and Chicago without one.

Though the Packers are a pass-first team – and everyone knows that – Benson had brought about a renewed toughness to the team’s backfield. Opposing defenses were faced with stopping Benson first and then getting after Rodgers.

When they don’t have to worry about a bruising back pounding the line, defensive linemen can let loose not he quarterback. Packers coaches are surely attempting to develop a game plan that will put players in the best position to succeed and that includes getting Green and Starks into situations where they can help the team.

They have no choice. In order to win, pounding the ball inside and out will be crucial to giving Rodgers and the rest of the offensive unit a chance. Throw in some delays, screens and check downs, the Packers have a chance to keep their running game fresh and unpredictable.

If they can’t get it going, it will be a long run uphill for the Packers.

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Check out www.packers.com for Mike McCarthy's Monday press conference.

Green Bay Packers coach Mike McCarthy announced during his Monday afternoon press conference that rookie running back Alex Green will be out for the remainder of the season with a knee injury.

But the good news coming out of the coach’s Monday presser was that the injury to Greg Jennings’ hand is just a bruise. The bye week comes just in time for him.

McCarthy also touched on the players’ and staff’s schedules with the bye week, how the players are graded by the staff in each game and said he believes the Packers are playing “above average” at this point in the season.

On Green’s injury, McCarthy said surgery would be required, but it would probably be later in the week once the swelling from the injury subsided.

He also said the players would get the rest of the week off, but would be back in Green Bay by the end of the week to begin preparations for their trip to San Diego next week.

The head coach said that this was an important part of the season and that because of the team’s performance to date he was going to give the players the entire week off, but also said it was important for the players not to be seen or heard from during this week. In other words, that they should stay out of trouble and to keep focused on being a member of the Green Bay Packers.

For the recorded video of McCarthy’s presser, visit www.packers.com.

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It was plays like this that made John Kuhn a fan favorite last year. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Who’s going to rule in the Green Bay Packers’ backfield as NFL teams (hopefully) begin training camp in the next couple of weeks?
Logic would say that Ryan Grant is still the top dog who must be dethroned from his starting job – an event that if it happens is something with which Grant will live. (more…)