Packers quarterback Graham Harrell throws a pass against the Kansas City Chiefs at Lambeau Field. Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

The 2012 NFL Cut Day has come and gone as the Green Bay Packers have gone with Graham Harrell. But Harrell is not the most proven backup – there are three former backup quarterbacks who have proven track records that Green Bay needs to consider.

New England Patriots quarterback Brian Hoyer (8) unloads pass during preseason.

QB Brian Hoyer

Brian Hoyer was the backup for the Patriots and he has shown he has the potential to be a starter in the NFL but now is a free agent after being surprisingly cut by the Patriots as they chose to keep Ryan Mallett as the backup over Hoyer. Hoyer has been developed in the same system that helped Tom Brady become an elite and helped Matt Cassel go from a backup USC quarterback to the starter for the Kansas City Chiefs. Hoyer would be worth signing by the Packers as he could also be used as a trade chip next offseason to bring in a draft pick, unlike what they were able to do with Matt Flynn.

Cleveland Browns quarterback Seneca Wallace throws a pass against the Chicago Bears during preseason. Eric P. Mull-USPRESSWIRE

QB Seneca Wallace

Seneca Wallace is a proven veteran quarterback who has been solid when given the chance to start in the past. Wallace has some mobility to get out of the pocket and can sramble and pick up yardage. Wallace is a also a fairly acurate quarterback who might not make the big play but will get lots of solid completions. Seneca Wallace does not throw too many interceptions either. Wallace would provide a solid veteran presence as a backup and on the field if Aaron Rodgers were to be hurt as Wallace would be a smart signing just like Hoyer.

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Stephen McGee (7) throws a pass against the Miami Dolphins. Tim Heitman-US PRESSWIRE

QB Stephen McGee

Former Cowboys and Texas A&M quarterback Stephen McGee has come in when Tony Romo was injured in the past in Dallas and been a reliable quarterback in games. Now McGee may not be as well known around the league as Hoyer and Wallace but he is a proven backup that the Packers could potentially keep for multiple seasons. McGee has the ability to get out of the pocket when he needs to and is fairly accurate. He he will not make big plays as he has never averaged more than 5.41 yards per completion. McGee is not as known as Hoyer or Wallace but might just be the best possible backup the Packers could get.

July 26, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers tight end Jermichael Finley (88) catches a pass during training camp practice at Ray Nitschke Field in Green Bay, WI. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Looking ahead, The Green Bay Packers coaching staff is focusing on the Cincinnati Bengals, their next preseason opponent this coming Thursday.

While looking at the film of last Thursday’s hideous game against the Cleveland Browns, the Packers must now start looking at players on the bubble who will probably get one more week of practice and at least one more game to try to make the 53 man roster. Clearly, there are going to be some talented players moving on to other teams, but that’s the nature of the NFL Beast.

Going on this week, the Packers will be taking another look at Graham Harrell, the number two quarterback who hasn’t shown much so far this preseason. Deciding on the top defensive linemen, defensive backs and linebackers will also be a key development coming out of camp in the next week or so.

But there will be some good news this week, as well. It looks like receiver Greg Jennings and tight end Jermichael Finley will be practicing in hopes he’s ready to go this Thursday at Cincinnati. But even more intriguing will be the first look at running back Cedric Benson. With James Starks at least a week, maybe two, from getting back on the field, it looks like it’s Benson’s time to step up into the starting role. He will be backed up by Alex Green and Marc Tyler.

What makes the start by Benson, who practiced for the first time in pads Sunday, is that he will be going against his former team, the Bengals. Though he probably won’t get more than a couple of series of work, it will be interesting to see how he fits into the Packers system.

Here’s the list of changes as provided by the Packers public relations department:

PACKERS ANNOUNCE CHANGES TO TRAINING CAMP SCHEDULE

The Green Bay Packers have announced changes to their training camp schedule for Aug. 12-14.

The Packers’ two practices on Aug. 12-13 that were originally scheduled for 7 p.m. at Ray Nitschke Field have been moved to 11:15 a.m. Practice on Aug. 14 has been shifted from 3:30 p.m. to 11:15 a.m.

TRAINING CAMP SCHEDULE FOR AUG. 11-30 (REVISED TIMES IN BOLD/ITALICS)

Saturday, Aug. 11                                     7 p.m. (Pads)

Sunday, Aug. 12                                      11:15 a.m. (Pads)

Monday, Aug. 13                                     11:15 a.m. (Pads)

Tuesday, Aug. 14                                    11:15 a.m. (Pads)

Wednesday, Aug. 15                                No practice

Thursday, Aug. 16                                    Preseason game vs. Cleveland Browns, 7 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 17                                         No practice

Saturday, Aug. 18                                     No practice

Sunday, Aug. 19                                       11:15 a.m. (Pads)

Monday, Aug. 20                                      11:15 a.m. (Pads)

Tuesday, Aug. 21                                      11 a.m. (Helmets)

Wednesday, Aug. 22                                No practice

Thursday, Aug. 23                                    Preseason game at Cincinnati Bengals, 6 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 24                                         No practice

Saturday, Aug. 25                                     No practice

Sunday, Aug. 26                                       11:15 a.m. (Pads)

Monday, Aug. 27                                      11:15 a.m. (Pads)

Tuesday, Aug. 28                                      11 a.m. (Helmets)

Wednesday, Aug. 29                                No practice

Thursday, Aug. 30                                    Preseason game vs. Kansas City Chiefs, 6 p.m.

* All practice dates, locations, times and dress are subject to change. All times CDT.

Though not the riveting excitement that can be found in a regular season game, this scrimmage provided insight into the new players who are starting to make a name for themselves. Look for performances from guys like Jerel Worthy, Davon House, Nick Perry and of course Aaron Rodgers.

This will provide a quick look into how the team’s shaping up and concludes with the field goal kicking contest among offensive and defensive linemen.

Enjoy.

August 3, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers general manager Ted Thompson (left) talks with head coach Mike McCarthy prior to the family night scrimmage at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, WI. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

In addition to closing out the Packers’ Family Night with a field goal kicking contest between offensive and defensive lineman, there were some other items of interest that came out of one of the more successful family nights in recent history.

Here’s a look:

• It didn’t rain! After several Family Nights had been either rained out completely or shortened because of rain, there wasn’t a drop in the air.

• The 11-member Lambeau Leap – According to Donald Driver, the effort to have all 11 members of the Packers climb the wall after the first team’s touchdowns was orchestrated by Greg Jennings.

• Donald Driver continuing to make plays.

July 26, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) lines up under center during training camp practice at Ray Nitschke Field in Green Bay, WI. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

• The sourpuss referee who called an unsportsmanlike penalty after the 11-man Lambeau Leap was pretty lame. IT’S FAMILY NIGHT, DUDE! Apparently he didn’t get the memo until the first team’s second touchdown – he didn’t throw the flag after that.

• Linebacker Dezman Moses seems to be the real deal. Getting some snaps with the number one defense must have given him an emotional boost, but he’s quickly rising the depth charts and continues to make plays. He clearly outplayed Erik Walden and could be considered the third best outside linebacker on the roster.

• It was unusual for Mike McCarthy not to tell the press about why left tackle Marshall Newhouse left the field. He’s usually pretty good at disclosing immediately injuries that occur both in practice and after games.

• Seeing Mason Crosby miss so many field goal attempts. Though most that he missed were from long distance, he showed he is human. It was nice to see him nail a 60-yarder. Newly-re-signed punter Tim Masthay also had a solid night. Getting kicks down within the 10 and 20-yard line consistently and even having one pinned down on the one yard line.

So now that the scrimmage is past, it’s now time for the team to look ahead to the first preseason game at San Diego. The Packers will have the opportunity to practice making long road trips and figuring out the logistics right away. It will be an interesting week of practice as they get ready for the Thursday night game.

June 12, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker Dezman Moses (54) during the team

Don’t expect the starting units to play more than one or two possessions. It will be interesting to see what players step up and get noticed in this first preseason game.

Look for Davon House, Dez Moses, and Casey Hayward on the defense to make plays. Many are also looking to first round pick Nick Perry to start making plays opposite Clay Matthews. He’s been relatively quiet in Training Camp, many attributing it to his learning curve. Let’s hope so.

Aaron Rodgers understands the Packers have a good problem: Depth. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Aaron Rodgers knows.

In fact, he knows too much. In an interview yesterday, he talked about his receiving corps and the other positions on the team that are so deep that there will have to be cuts made that  will be difficult.

I guess that’s a good problem to have.

We only hope those players cut don’t come back to haunt the Packers.

In the meantime, here’s what Rodgers had to say:

Giving Aaron Rodgers alleys in which to throw through is the offensive line's responsibility. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

When Marshall Newhouse was escorted off the Lambeau Field turf by Green Bay Packers’ medical personnel near the end of the team’s scrimmage Friday night, it wasn’t a good sight.

While the Packers’ offensive line starters, from left to right, are solid, any kind of injury to any of them places the team in jeopardy. When Newhouse went down, the Packers had to reach deep into the bench for replacements. Yes, it’s only the first week of Training Camp and it’s certainly not time to roll into panic mode, but the depth on the line must be recognized.

Behind Marshall is last year’s first round draft choice, Derek Sherrod, who has been a project and is coming back from a broken leg he suffered against the Kansas City Chiefs near the end of last season. Andrew Datko, a seventh round pick this year is also a project and coming off a couple of surgeries to his shoulders.

Behind them are the likes of Tommie Draheim and Don Barclay, two other rookies, are trying to make the team.

Needless to say, the experience on the line beyond the starters is minimal. When you’re trying to cobble together a unit that’s responsible for protecting the league’s Most Valuable Player, that’s not necessarily a good thing. Couple that with a unit that has to try to put together a consistent rushing game – at least enough of a rush to keep the Peppers and Allens at bay – the Packers have their work cut out.

It’s inevitable that there will be injuries along the line. Rarely, if ever, does a team make it through an entire season with its offensive and defensive lines intact. So, when the injuries occur, the next man in line has to step in without a discernible drop-off.

Packers guard T.J. Lang knows all about stepping in. He did so last year when the Packers lost Daryn Colledge to free agency. Here’s what he had to say when Newhouse went down during the scrimmage:

“But we have a young offensive line and that’s what we’re trying to do in training camp. We’re trying to get as many guys ready to play as we can. Injuries are part of the game. The next man has to step up, go out there and play. If somebody goes down, that’s what we’ll have to do.”

In theory, he’s right. Let’s hope that in practice, he’s also right.

July 28, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers tight end D.J. Williams (84) makes a one handed catch during training camp practice at Ray Nitschke Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

From all indications, the Green Bay Packers have had a very productive week of training camp practices.

And if one doesn’t believe that, just ask Head Coach Mike McCarthy.

Not only is the coach fired up about being back with his team for the start of a new season, he seems even more excited to talk about it.

After Wednesday’s practice, McCarthy held his daily round at the microphone answering questions and talking about what he’s seeing.

An animated McCarthy took to the podium to crack a couple of jokes – as wry as they were – tussle a bit with a reporter, call out the efforts of some of the players who are standing out to him and describe where the team is headed at this point.

He began, as he always does, with an injury report. On the good news front, he told reporteres that John Kuhn and Desmond Bishop were headed toward a full return to practice, but he also mentioned that wide receiver Tori Gurley left because of a leg injury. He didn’t say how severe it was.

Gurley can ill-afford to miss any practice time as he competes against a deep and talented pool of players vying for a roster spot at that position.

Most interesting from McCarthy today was his take on the defense, which he said amped it up Wednesday afternoon and focused on their blitz packages.

“I felt it was important to crank it up,” McCarthy said, implying that the team is just beginning to get into the swing of the camp with now being the time for both the offense and defense to begin giving their best shots.

This is the time of camp when players stand out and show their value.

It’s also a time when both the offense and defense show what they’re made of.

“We had great work on both sides … it’s great for the offense … we had some quality work today.”

That said, what I feel will bring this team togther this year is the depth on the defense. Not only will it give opponents jitters once the games begin, but a better defense always makes for a better offense. After all, it’s the offense that has to go up against the defense every day at practice.

If one can imagine the Packers’ offense getting any better, consider that it’s only inevitable. As the defense stiffens, the offense needs to also bring its best.

Anyway, it’s great news from McCarthy.

The head coach also called out some players who have been standing out for him. Davon House, the second year defensive back was mentioned by McCarthy, but he would be remiss not to mention players from the offensive side as well.

Nov 14, 2011; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers tight end Ryan Taylor (82) during the game against the Minnesota Vikings at Lambeau Field. The Packers defeated the Vikings 45-7. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

He was asked about tight end D.J. Williams and said that he’s been impressive. “The quickest way to the end zone is the middle of the field,” McCarthy said, indicating that the skill set Williams brings to the field allows the offense to exploit the middle.

“D.J. Williams … Ryan Taylor … really happy with those guys,” McCarthy said.

Other notes of interest:

• McCarthy’s concerns about the transition from morning practices to evening practices and the need to do so to make the adjustment to the game schedule;

• His disagreement that Packers backs – Marc Tyler in particular – were having difficulty adjusting to pass protection; and

• His discussion about readying his team for Family Night.

With injuries at a minimum, it seems this first week of training camp has been very productive for the Packers. Can you believe that it’s just a few days before the team kicks off its preseason schedule?

While some may yawn at the prospect, I look at preseason games as the Super Bowl – you see for the guys on the bubble, the guys who are fighting for a job, this is their Super Bowl. This is their time to shine.

That’s why I love watching these games. You can pick out the guys who have a shot, you have the opportunity to watch players for the first time who are the stars of the future and you can always pinpoint the guys who will be turning in their playbook the following Monday.

July 31, 2010; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers defensive end Mike Neal (96) takes part in a blocking drill during training camp at Ray Nitschke Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIREAfter the first days of training camp, much can be learned about the 2012 Green Bay Packers. Nothing more stands out to me, however, than the improvements being made on the defensive side of the ball.This is probably because of all the competitions being held on the defensive side, meaning more chances for players further down the depth chart to make their names known.One example would be Davon House – a rookie last season. He has been making plays left and right by getting interceptions and just making big plays all around. Head Coach Mike McCarthy thinks he can develop into a solid bump and run cornerback in the NFL sooner rather than later.Another player making big plays in the secondary has been second round pick, Casey Hayward out of Vanderbilt. Both House and Hayward, have been taking turns making big plays in the, seemed to be improved, Packers' secondary. Hayward is talked about as being a ball hawk cornerback with good speed.Both players have a good chance to move up the depth charts quickly if they continue on these hot streaks.Moving from the secondary, the Packers have also seen improvements along the defensive line where another rookie, Mike Daniels out of Iowa, has made the most of his opportunities. He has the size, strength, and even the quick feet to shed blocks and become a force in both slowing down the running and passing attack.Green Bay Packers defensive end Jerel Worthy

Another rookie making big strides early would be defensive lineman Jerel Worthy out of Michigan State University. He’s been consistently improving from day to day but where he has been making the biggest impact has been the defensive attitude he has brought to the team. He has a lot of energy which he uses to pump up not only himself, but the rest of the Packers’ defense.

The final two players who have made an impact early are returning veterans Charles Woodson and B.J.Raji.

Woodson has been playing safety in the Packers’ base defense which, ultimately, places him always in better position to make big plays on the ball and this is exactly what he has been doing in the first days of training camp.

Raji had a slow year last season, but it seems as if he is trying to turn it around this season. He has slimmed down to become more athletic and be able to slide around blocks a lot easier and this has made a big difference in training camp so far.

There will be much more to come with training camp getting under way but after the first days of training camp, not much more can be asked out of the defense as they look much improved from last season.

In addition to tight end Jermichael Finley hitting the practice field for the first time, Anthony Hargrove talked about his role on the team and that he has resigned himself to the fact that the bounty suspension on him will probably stick and he won’t be activated until November – if he indeed makes the roster.

Newly-acquired center Jeff Saturday – who has been relatively silent – also went on record today, talking about how he likes the structure of the Packers camp in comparison to those of the past that he experienced with the Colts.

Some good news is that Jermichael Finley was back at practice and is expected to participate in pad practices later this week.

Other notes of interest from Monday as reported by the Green Bay Press Gazette:

Here is the official press release issued by the Packers:

TODAY’S PRACTICE MOVED INDOORS

 Due to inclement weather, the Packers’ practice today at 8:15 a.m. has been moved indoors. The practice will be closed to the public due to space limitations inside the Don Hutson Center and players will not be riding bikes due to the weather.

Who will hoist the Vince Lombardi Trophy in February 2012? Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-US PRESSWIRE

Yesterday, July 26, everyone was pretty giddy with the start of NFL training camps across the league.

The focus here, of course, was Green Bay. But it didn’t matter whether you were – Chicago, New Orleans, New York or San Francisco – the talk was all the same.

“Guys are flying’ around;” “Great to be back;” “Ready to get going;” “Super Bowl.”

Everyone is going to the Super Bowl, if you believe what players and coaches were spouting yesterday. Well, of course it’s great to hear that all are optimistic about going to and winning a Super Bowl. That’s the way it should be on the first day of training camp.

But now that the first day is gone, let’s get real. Let’s stop the talk and let’s just get down to brass tacks. Jacksonville is not going to the Super Bowl. Tennessee is not going to the Super Bowl. Cleveland is not going to the Super Bowl. St. Louis is not going to the Super Bowl.

To get to the Super Bowl may never happen for some teams in the NFL, such as Cleveland and Jacksonville, but I guess it’s OK to have goals and the set the bar high.

But let’s move on now. Let’s start talking about the nuts and bolts – the competitions within each camp where players are fighting for that 53-man final roster spot. Yes, let’s get real.

While the Chicago Bears have as good a shot at reaching the Super Bowl as just about anyone in the League, at least Brandon Marshall hit the nail on the head in his interview yesterday when asked about the words “Super Bowl.” Almost in awe, he said, “It’s real.”

Will Marshall, Cutler and company make it real? Well, they have to get by the Packers, Lions and Vikings to do it. Is that “real?” I can’t say yet.

All I can say at this point is that it truly is time to get real.

Each training camp, the Packers players ride the bikes of area kids from Lambeau Field across the street to Ray Nitschke Field for practice.

As you can see above, even one Brett Favre rode a bike at one time, though he doesn’t look none too happy about it – nor do the kids.

But I digress – check out the video below. This was taken in 2011 and there are a couple of surprises in which players ride the bikes.

Green Bay Packers wide receiver Randall Cobb. Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Training camp has begun for the Packers as Green Bay prepares to make a run at another Super Bowl this season.

With that said, which Packers players will have breakout seasons?

WR Randall Cobb

Randall Cobb made a big impact last year as he gave the Packers an impact return man who could break out for at least one huge return a game. Cobb’s speed will make him one of the most dangerous players in the NFL as he will be able to burn a lot of secondaries over the top on play action passes. Cobb’s speed will also allow him to seperate on normal pass plays as a slot receiver which makes him that much more dangerous. Randall Cobb will make the Packers’ already dangerous offense even more dangerous which will allow Aaron Rodgers to win another MVP.

June 12, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker Nick Perry (53) during the team

OLB Nick Perry

Nick Perry was the top pick for the Packers this year and can be an immediate starter for the Packers at outside linebacker opposite of Clay Matthews.

Perry has already shown an excellent ability at shedding blockers and getting tons of sacks against quality Pac-12 offensive lineman. Perry will be a sack machine for the Packers as he is the player that Green Bay has been needing across from Clay Matthews. Perry will be a contender for rookie of the year as he will big help to a Packer defense that has needed help.

June 12, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers cornerback Casey Hayward (29) during the team

CB Casey Hayward

Casey Hayward was a very successful player coming out of Vanderbilt and players that have tons of success in college tend to have some level of success in the pros.

With Charles Woodson most likely moving to safety, Hayward is the perfect person to become the nickel cornerback as his ball-hawking skills will allow him to make an immediate impact in his first year against slot receivers.

Hayward also can back up at safety with his excellent ball-hawking skills. Hayward will look like a steal after this season as the Packers have found another good, young cornerback.

Jan 15, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) catches a hail mary pass for a touchdown over Green Bay Packers cornerback Charles Woodson (21) and strong safety Charlie Peprah (26) in the second quarter of the 2011 NFC divisional playoff game at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: William Perlman/THE-STAR LEDGER via US PRESSWIRE

Many will question the Packers’ move to cut Peprah since there is no immediate player destined for that starting position.

Or is there?

On the first day of training camp, Charles Woodson was playing at strong safety in the Packers’ base defense throughout the day. Of course, the Packers do not use their base defense as often as other teams but it was just a sign that the Packers really are considering moving Woodson around this year in order for him to make the biggest impact possible for the team.

Last year, the Packers experimented with moving Woodson around instead of always sticking to the cornerback position. It did show to be a success with Woodson being able to make more plays by always being in the right position. Now it seems the Packers are determined to try this out for an entire season and see how much production is produced from Woodson as a result.

When Woodson was not playing the safety position on the first day of training camp, M.D.Jennings took most of the reps followed by 4th round rookie from Maine, Jerron McMillian.

Jennings was an undrafted rookie coming out of Arkansas State last year and made the Packers’ practice squad. Throughout continued improvement with the practice squad, Jennings was eventually put on the active roster and played well in his limited playing time throughout the 2011 season.

McMillian was the Packers’ 4th round choice in this year’s NFL Draft. Coming from a smaller school, Maine University, McMillian had to have a tremendous career in order to even think about being drafted in the NFL. In his two years, he started every game and was named to the All-CAA second team in 2010. He is a very fast player who can also be a ball hawk in a NFL defense.

It now appears that Jennings and McMillian will battle throughout training camp and the pre-season to see who will claim the vacant spot left by Charlie Peprah. No matter who wins the battle, though, they will not see as much time as they would expect being a starter with Woodson now being spread around the defense.

The start of Training Camp in Green Bay means many will be traveling to watch their favorite team train. Dan Hogan photograph

Are you making the pilgrimage to Mecca? No, not the Muslim Holy Land – we’re talking about the destination of so many Green Bay Packers fans each summer – training camp for the 13-time NFL champions.

If so, you will find much more than just an opportunity to sit outside the fence at Ray Nitschke Field adjacent to the Don Hutson Center and in the shadows of Lambeau Field. In addition to watching the Packers players go through their paces during the early weeks of August, one can visit Lambeau Field, take a slow stroll through the Packers Hall of Fame and take one of the many tours of the stadium given each day.

But it’s Packers.com that has one of the most thorough looks at all the activities available around the city of Green Bay for those who might also want to stay a few days.

Scroll down or take a trip over to Packers.com for the list.

Either way, the trip to Green Bay has become an annual event for many for good reason – it’s a blast.

Packers’ Training Camp opens Thursday; features fan experiences

The Green Bay Packers’ Ray Nitschke Field will greet players and fans alike on Thursday afternoon, July 26, for the opening of the 67th edition of training camp, presented by Bellin Health. Twenty practices are scheduled through Aug. 30.

Training camp visitors are encouraged to use http://www.packers.com/trainingcamp for an all-encompassing guide to daily practice schedules, activities schedules and other important information.

According to the Greater Green Bay Convention and Visitors Bureau and a 2010 study by AECOM, training camp, along with Packers Family Night, presented by Bellin Health, will attract an estimated 100,000 visitors from across the nation and as many as 20 foreign countries from July 26 through the final open practice, Aug. 30. With an economic impact estimated at $10 million, training camp is a financial boost to many area businesses.

Nitschke Field will open 90 minutes prior to the scheduled practice time and will close 30 minutes after the completion of practice. Concessions will be available for purchase. Carry-ins are permitted, but should take up no more room than the space below a person’s feet. Smoking and alcohol are prohibited. More Nitschke Field policies are available online at packers.com/trainingcamp.

The Tundra Tailgate Zone, a free attraction in the parking lot on the stadium’s east side, returns to offer fans climate-controlled tents that will house the Packers Experience presented by Kemps. Other attractions will be located outside the tents.

The Packers Experience presented by Kemps, a popular interactive games area that annually draws thousands, returns for a ninth summer. Free to the public, it begins July 26 and runs through Aug. 30. Hours vary each day, based on the practice schedule and are subject to change. It will be closed July 29 and Aug. 4, 8-10, 15-18 and 22-25. All children 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult or guardian to enter the area. A signed waiver of liability by the minor’s parent or legal guardian is required upon entering and may be downloaded from http://www.packers.com/trainingcamp.

The Future Lambeau Leapers Autograph Building, presented by Cleary Building Corp., is designed specifically for fans ages 12 and younger, and is located in the Tundra Tailgate Zone. The area will give kids the chance to meet players, shake their hands and potentially get autographs. Players will appear in the Cleary building on select dates, the first being July 26 after the 8:15 a.m. workout. For a complete list of dates and times, please visit packers.com/trainingcamp and click the “player interaction” tab. The Arise Health Plan Wellness Headquarters also returns this year as an interactive area to engage fans in healthy living. Other Packers partners will have a presence at camp, too, including: Packer Fan Tours, Packers Pro Shop, the Green Bay Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, DiGiorno, Chili’s, Wendy’s and Cost Cutters. A complimentary camp guide will be available daily at theMilwaukee Journal Sentinel kiosk near the practice field.

The Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame is a popular attraction for training camp attendees. Its extended training camp hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday (920/569-7512 hotline).Lambeau Field Stadium Tours feature expanded hours during camp as well (schedules are available online and through the hotline: 920/569-7513). Ticket sales begin at 8 a.m. Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. on Sundays. TheLegendary Lambeau Experience, a two-hour walking tour, returns this summer. It features stops in the Lee Remmel Press Box, the network TV broadcast booth and the visitors’ locker room. Included in the tour is an admission pass to the Packers Hall of Fame, a snack on the tour, a Packers souvenir, and a $5 interactive game card for the Curly’s Game Zone at Curly’s Pub.

The Packers Pro Shop also features extended training camp hours: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. (8 p.m. on days with night practices) Monday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday (800/992-5750 hotline). Special hours will be in place for Family Night and preseason games. Additionally, the Lambeau Field Atrium will be open to visitors and contains several dining options, includingCurly’s Pub and Frozen in Time, plus two eateries. Curly’s Pub this summer will offer new menu items, including the “Fan vs. Food” combo, which challenges fans to eat a 1 lb. burger, an order of fries and a milkshake to win a victory T-shirt. Check http://www.packers.com/trainingcamp for hours of operation.

A Fan Assistance Kiosk also will be located at Nitschke Field.

Nov 20, 2011; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers running back James Starks against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half at Lambeau Field. The Packers won 35-26. Mandatory Credit: Mary Langenfeld-US PRESSWIRE

Happy 4th of July everyone! What day could be better than to talk about the future of the Packers’ running game?

Last season featured the running back tandem of Ryan Grant and James Starks. Both players played effectively and were enough to keep opposing defenses at least on their feet.

Now with Grant being a free agent, how will the Packers’ running game look this year? Since no major moves were made to add another running back, most can assume it will have James Starks being the featured back and Alex Green, who is coming off injured reserve, to be his back-up. Playing time for these two backs may depend on training camp, though. Alex Green, last year, never really got to show what he was made of because of his injury so this could be his break-out season.

One player I would like to see more of is 2nd year veteran Brandon Saine out of Ohio State. He was undrafted last season and did not even play a snap for the Green Bay Packers until week 12. Although his touches were limited, he made the most out of his opportunities and may play a larger role then most may think for the Pack this coming season. Saine’s main attribute and where he will probably see the most playing time this year, will not be running the ball but catching it out of the backfield. In his limited touches last season, Saine caught 10 catches for 69 yards. It’s not staggering but it shows that he has the potential to become a threat as a receiver coming out of the backfield. Do not be surprised if he becomes a primary third down back for the Packers in 2012.

It’s hard to say how the backfield will exactly look with training camp still to come, but it’s never too early to start thinking about. Although the Packers are known for their prolific passing game, do not be surprised if the Pack can assemble a better running game then last year which could add just another dimension to the Packer offense.

Focusing specifically on the Packers, it comes as no surprise that their main focus point will be to determine which 11 guys on defense will give the Packers the best chance to win. If we are just focusing on winning, then the Packers’ defense brought in a record of 15-1.

Unfortunately, this was because the offense carried the defense to victories last season and is how, ultimately, the Packers would fall in the first round of the playoffs against the New York Giants.

So as training camp approaches, nearly every position on defense will have a battle of some sort. Considering how the Packers, this offseason, drafted mainly defensive players and even dipped into free agency for defensive players, there will be a lot of competitors fighting for a job. With that said, let’s break down the key battles Packer fans should keep an eye on for this training camp.

Packers defensive lineman Ryan Picket does a good job at stopping the run, but is limited in the pass rush. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Defensive End: Ever since the Packers lost Cullen Jenkins in free agency last year, the Packers have been struggling to find a replacement. Ryan Pickett on the other side has been doing an adequate job stopping the run but he cannot generate pressure on the quarterback which was severely lacking last season.

Raji in the middle, after the Super Bowl season, was thought to have a breakout year with the Packers but never quite reached the level that most thought he could. Then we had the right defensive end which was a huge question mark all of last season. Players from Mike Neal, C.J.Wilson, and Jarius Wynn all took turns at the position last year but none really stood out from the rest of the pack. Some brought Packers fans a spark of hope for a little while but none of the three had complete consistency. This forced the Packers to make moves by drafting Jerel Worthy in the second round, bringing in Anthony Hargrove from free agency, and bringing in Phillip Merling also from free agency. These are three players who seem to be right in the mix to contend for the starting position in training camp. Players from last year like C.J.Wilson and Mike Neal also have been working hard and should get a fair shot to fight for the position.

Who will take over the outside linebacking position opposite Clay Matthews for linebackers coach Kevin Greene. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Outside Linebacker: Similar to the defensive end position of last season, players on the opposite side of Clay Matthews generated nearly no production and the Packers had to flop starters from week to week in order to find someone who could separate from the rest of the pack. Unfortunately, nobody ever truly stepped from the pack and the Packers’ defense suffered tremendously.

Players who took turns starting last season included Eric Walden, Frank Zombo, and Brad Jones. Also, we must keep in mind that injuries at this position plagued the Packers all season with all three having injuries at different points during the season. The Packers’ management responded by drafting Nick Perry from USC in the first round of this year’s draft. \ Perry has major athleticism and the Packers hope that he could be the missing piece to the defense.

Other players to have a shot in training camp include another rookie in Terrell Manning, second-year veteran in Jarmari Lattimore, and another second year veteran in Vic So’oto who had his moments in his short playing time last year. This will be arguably the most intriguing position battle this camp.

Safety: It’s a lock that Morgan Burnett will hold his starting position this season but losing Nick Collins on the other side threw up another question mark in the Packers’ defense. I have to say that many, including me, believed that Nick Collins was a big part of the defense but never really thought of him as being the leader on defense. Once he went down with his injury, I and many others were stunned at how important Collins truly was for the Packer defense.

With perennial Pro-Bowler Nick Collins no longer with the team, the question about who will replace him is one of the biggest heading into training camp. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

With Collins once being the player who made sure everyone was lined up right on defense being gone, the Packers’ defense seemed lost at times. Many big plays occurred and could have been avoided if everyone was lined up correctly. The player who took over for Collins was Charlie Peprah, who played very well, but the lack of communication hurt the Packers severely last season.

With that said, training camp is approaching and so is a successor to Nick Collins.

But who will it be?

Names that come to mind will be Charlie Peprah, second-year player M.D. Jennings, practice squad standout Anthony Levine, and maybe even rookie Jerron McMillian. Regardless of who it is, it is going to be a very difficult task to replace Nick Collins.

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Will the no huddle help players like Greg Jennings? Well, it probably won't hurt. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Adding the no huddle to the Packers offense was a stroke of brilliance by Coach Mike McCarthy.

Look back at the teams who have used it in the past … it’s always made them more potent, more unpredictable. It’s an option that simply makes a good team great.

So, that’s why it is something that will help elevate the Packers offense to new heights this season.

My only worry is this … hasn’t it been put in place a bit early? Where’s the surprise element that is part of the no huddle’s success factor.

My only surprise was that it was introduced, not only in the first preseason game, but the first quarter of the first preseason game. (more…)

In a press release from the Packers PR department this afternoon, the team said that Executive Vice President, General Manager and Director of Football Operations Ted Thompson (yes, that’s his official title) made the announcement.
  
Briggs (first name pronounced DIE-rell), wasn’t the biggest contributor for the Packers last season.

He appeared in five regular-season contests and all four playoff games for the Packers in 2010 and registered eight tackles on special teams during the regular season. He was claimed off waivers by Green Bay from Denver on Oct. 26, 2010.