Tramon Williams is one of the highest paid Packers on the roster. Will he be worth keeping around?
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

By now it’s not news that Green Bay Packers‘ cornerback Tramon Williams has struggled with inconsistent play for the past two seasons. It would appear that the soon-to-be 31-year-old cornerback has lost a step. Along with Williams’ age, he has also been hampered by the lingering shoulder injury he suffered two seasons ago in the first game of the 2011 NFL season.

Tramon returns an interception against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2011 at Lambeau Field.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

As an undrafted free agent out of Louisiana Tech

Tramon Williams is one of the highest paid Packers on the roster. Will he be worth keeping around?
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

, Williams may have already hit his ceiling in the NFL so his declining play may only get worse in the coming years. Personally, I think Williams still can be an elite corner in the NFL. Like I previously stated he has been hampered by the shoulder injury, which has impacted his play significantly, if he can come back healthy this season he will be fine.

The Packers have a very difficult decision to make with Williams, however, for a number of reasons.

First, can the defense continue to survive Williams’ poor performances as cornerback #1? Again, I think Williams will come back 100 percent healthy this season, which is huge for him since he hasn’t been healthy for two seasons. However, even if Williams comes back healthy stating that he can return to his 2010 form, may be a reach, but he has to become effective again.

Second, and most importantly, the money Williams is set to make. Williams and the Packers agreed to a 4-year, $41.25 million extension in 2010 that has paid Williams a boat load of money. In 2013, Williams is set to earn $6 million in base salary with a roster bonus of $1.2 million and miscellaneous earnings of $1.4 million. Add all that up and Williams’ 2013 salary cap hit against the Packers is a whopping $8.5 million with $4 million considered “dead money.”

2014 is also a big money year for Williams, if the Packers keep him around. In 2014, Williams will make $7 million in base salary with a $1.2 million signing bonus and another $1.4 million in miscellaneous earnings. Add all that up and Williams could make $9.5 million in 2014.

Tramon Williams is just short of the end zone at the end of an interception return against the Chicago Bears in 2009.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Third, is Williams hampering the development of the younger corners on the roster? Davon House, Casey Hayward and Sam Shields are the future of the secondary at the cornerback position for the Packers. Hayward has already been quoted this offseason as saying he would love to be a starter on the outside.

This begs the question, should the Packers and Williams part ways? It’s an interesting argument at the very least. The money the Packers would save by letting Williams walk either this year in training camp or next offseason would be significant.

However, on the flip side, losing Williams could be a bad thing for the young corners who count on Williams for helpful veteran tips and an example of how to conduct oneself on and off the field. Williams will take on the Charles Woodson role as veteran leader in the secondary for the Packers in 2013, releasing him might put too much pressure on the young guys in the secondary.

All in all, arguments can be seen on both sides. The Packers will have to ask themselves, is veteran leadership and solid play enough to keep an aging player on the roster  - one who makes a significant amount of money”

The release of Charles Woodson, Cullen Jenkins, Nick Barnett and Corey Williams (traded to Browns) in recent years might be a clue as to what the Packers might be thinking for Williams’ future with the team.

Where has the 2009 and 2010 lockdown, ballhawking cornerback Tramon Williams gone?

The answer: He is gone and will never return. Williams is set to make just under $6 million in 2013 and just under $7 million in 2014, those numbers make him the third highest paid Packer on the roster. This is the point where the Packers should be asking themselves, ‘is Tramon Williams really worth $13 million over the next two seasons?’

If the answer isn’t obvious then there is a problem in Titletown.

For the past two seasons Tramon Williams has been a liability for a Packers defense that has been tough to watch, especially in the playoffs. During the 2008-09 and 2009-10 seasons, Williams was one of the best corners in the NFL. In those two seasons Williams had 10 interceptions, 35 pass deflections and 96 tackles, even though he only started 26 of the possible 32 games during that span.

The last two seasons Williams has just six interceptions, including only two this past season. Williams’ tackling ability has also taken a hit over the past two seasons, especially this season. In particular the two regular season games against the Minnesota Vikings, Williams appeared scared to tackle Adrian Peterson (I know it’s not easy).

His poor tackling (at best) paired with his diminishing coverage skills Williams just isn’t worth the money anymore. In a division that has receivers such as Brandon Marshall and Calvin Johnson, the Packers need a corner they can count on to limit these players, and Tramon cannot do that anymore.

 It’s no secret that guys like Clay Matthews, BJ Raji and Aaron Rodgers will need their contracts extended in the near future and the ability to free up $13 million from a declining player makes sense.

All one has to do is look at the Packers’ roster and see that the secondary is in good hands without Williams. Sam Shields had his best season as a Packer in just 10 games this season. Shields intercepted three passes and defended 10 passes. He also had a huge pick-six of Colin Kaepernick in the eventual playoff loss to the 49ers.

Rookie Casey Hayward also had a huge year for the Packers in his rookie campaign and could even be named defensive rookie of the year (most likely not). Also, don’t forget about Davon House, who was actually penciled in as the starter for the 2012-13 season before he went down with a shoulder injury in the preseason. House, Hayward and Shields give the Packers a solid secondary crew that are all very young and will continue to get better.

I’m in favor of the Packers and Williams agreeing on a new contract in which Williams takes a significant pay cut, but if a deal cannot be reached then the Packers should either trade or release the veteran cornerback.

I’ve been a Williams supporter for years and I think he still has some good football left in him. However, the past two seasons have made me feel otherwise. The Packers need the money he makes to extend better players and because of that reason he has played his last down in Green Bay.

Dec 23, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Tennessee Titans running back Jamie Harper (23) (left) rushes with the football as Green Bay Packers defensive end Mike Daniels (76) defends during the second quarter at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

The most reported Packer stories of recent vintage have been Jeff Saturday’s benching, Donald Driver and Greg Jennings’ post-2012 prospects, and, of course, Mason Crosby’s kicking. Yet none of these will have the greatest impact on the Green Bay Packers in the playoffs.

Though little to no attention is being paid, the Green Bay defense is playing as well as – perhaps even better than – its 2010 incarnation.

That defense, as you might recall, won a Super Bowl. While the 2012 defense will not match the full season production of its 2010 counterpart, 2012 is finishing off the regular season in a very similar fashion. Since the massacre in the Meadowlands, Green Bay has given up more than two touchdowns only once, and for the stretch have averaged 13.5 points allowed. Over the final four games of 2010, the Packers allowed only a slightly superior 12.5 points.

Oct 14, 2012; Houston, TX, USA; Green Bay Packers cornerback Casey Hayward (29) returns an interception against the Houston Texans in the fourth quarter at Reliant Stadium. The Packers defeated the Texans 42-24. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Yet, this year’s defense is perhaps finishing stronger. During this stretch, all but the Titans game were largely decided by the defense. Specifically, Morgan Burnett’s redzone interception of Christian Ponder and Casey Hayward’s interception return setting up a short field and lead changing score were the turning points in their respective games. More frightening still, Clay Matthews has only just returned from injury and Charles Woodson is still awaiting return. Accordingly, this defense still has some room to grow.

But what about the offense?

Dec 9, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers running back DuJuan Harris (26) scores a touchdown past Detroit Lions safety Ricardo Silva (39) the 4th quarter at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

There’s good news here as well with Aaron Rodgers playing as well as he has all year (107.7 passer rating over the past four games) and the running game finally showing life (130.5 yards per game and 4.1 yards per carry). The aerial assault isn’t what it was last year, but with Randall Cobb’s development into a number one receiver in the Wes Welker mold, the offense is capable of keeping up with anyone in the playoff field.

With the offense now consistently producing and the defense peaking, there is considerable reason for optimism that this year’s playoffs will play out a little differently than last year.

How the Packers adjust to the changes they have endured this year will make a difference in Sunday’s game.

The Green Bay Packers are riding a five-game win streak into New York where they will take on the Giants Sunday night. But you know what? Though the Packers sit at 7-3, it feels to me like this team could very easily be sitting at 3-7.

Maybe I’m spoiled, having seen this team run through its schedule last year like a hot knife through butter. Maybe I’m spoiled having watched Aaron Rodgers toss perfectly placed back shoulder throws; watching receivers make catches in traffic that were beyond belief.

Last year was clearly unbelievable.

Then this year comes along. The Packers lose their opener with a lackluster performance after so much buildup and anticipation; they dispatch the Bears and then fall apart at Indianapolis, giving up an 18-point lead to fall below .500. Somebody then turns on a switch in Texas and it seems the Pack is Back.

Jordy Nelson and the Packers had a tough time against the 49ers. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

But are they really? Ok, so they’ve beaten the Jags, the Cardinals and the Lions most recently, but could we really consider them the cream of the crop, the elite of the league?

Hardly.

Now comes the most interesting portion of the team’s schedule, with the bulk of their games over the next six weeks against NFC North Division foes. It’s time to put up or shut up.

But back to the Giants. Here is a game that may come down to whichever team has final possession of the football. My guess is it will be close, it will be hard fought, it will be heart-wrenching.

So, with that in mind we take a look at a few things that could turn the game for various reasons. I’ve broken it down here:

Three reasons the Packers will win …

Randall Cobb is a rising star for the Packers. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

• Aaron Rodgers to Randall Cobb. This combination has been heating up of late and should no doubt continue to blossom. With the loss of Greg Jennings and Jordy Nelson, Rodgers turned to Cobb and the connection has brought some memorable moments for the Packers over the past five weeks.

• Casey Hayward and Davon House. The two young cornerbacks are not only living up to their expectations, they are exceeding them. They are aggressive, they intimidate and they make plays.

They are just the types of players who the team needs on the defensive side of the ball at this point in the season. They have been a godsend given the loss of Woodson and Matthews and have proven they are more than just adequate fill-ins. They are potential stars.

• Tim Masthay. The consistent punter has thrown a touchdown pass, missed on one and continuously uses his foot to tilt the field in favor of the Packers. His value to the team has flown well under the radar, but it’s clear that his is one of the most impactful players on this year’s team

Three reasons why the Packers will lose …

• Receiver drops. Like the Playoff game where the Packers receivers seemed to have greased their hands with Crisco, this unit, as good as they are, still have plenty of drops this season. Put together another handful of those against the Giants and it could add up to a loss. The Packers need to take care of the ball in this one in order to have a chance.

• Offensive line. Protection of quarterback Aaron Rodgers will be key in this game. We all know the Giants’ defensive line is made up of studs. Keeping them off Rodgers’ back is important, as is opening holes for the Packers run game. The makeshift offensive line will have its plate full come Sunday. How the line performs will be an indication of how the Packers will fare in this one.

Our hope is that Mason Crosby starts a new string of made field goals. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

• Mason Crosby. We all know what this is about. The veteran kicker must make his kicks.

Yes, the 50-plus-yarders might be excused, but Crosby has got to start nailing the 40-yarders on a consistent basis.

If he misses another couple in this one and it could be the difference. He simply can’t miss or he may find himself watching not from the Packers sidelines, but from his family room. Make ‘em, Mason.

Aaron Rodgers showed he again is the leader of the Pack. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

The Packers offense and defense are well represented among the NFL Players of the Month as Aaron Rodgers and  rookie Casey Hayward were honored today.

Rodgers was named as offensive player of the month, while Hayward joined Tampa Bay’s Doug Martin as the defensive and offensive rookies of the month for October.

The Packers were 3-1 during the month and it much of it had to do with the play of Rodgers. He completed 68. 1 percent of his passes during the month and had a passer rating of 121.5.

His play led the Packers to wins over the Texans, Rams and Jacksonville.

While Rodgers was leading the Packers offense, rookie Casey Hayward was intercepting four passes over a three game stretch while spending a limited time on the field.

Rodgers’ and Hayward’s recognition come during a stretch of games when the Packers have suffered through a series of injuries to a long list of important players.

The Green Bay Packers public relations department released the following information highlighting the accomplishment of both of these players.

Aaron Rodgers led the Packers to three wins in October. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

OFFENSE: QB AARON RODGERS, GREEN BAY PACKERS

• Rodgers completed 96 of 141 passes (68.1 percent) for 1,101 yards with 14 touchdowns and one interception for a 121.5 passer rating during the month as the Packers went 3-1.
• For the month, Rodgers led the NFL in touchdown passes and was second in passer rating. He ranked second in the NFC in passing yards and completion percentage.
• He threw multiple touchdown passes in all four October games, including six in Week 6 when he was named the NFC Offensive Player of the Week.
• Through the first eight games of the season, Rodgers has 21 touchdown passes. He is the first player in NFL history to pass for at least 20 touchdowns through his team’s first eight games in consecutive seasons.
• In his eighth season from California, this is Rodgers’ sixth career Player of the Month Award.
• Rodgers’ six Player of the Month Awards are tied for the most since the award was created in 1986. He is tied with TOM BRADY (Offense), BRETT FAVRE(Offense), BARRY SANDERS (Offense), BRUCE SMITH (Defense) and STEVE YOUNG (Offense).

Casey Hayward picked off four passes over a three game stretch. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

DEFENSE: CB CASEY HAYWARD, GREEN BAY PACKERS

• Hayward tied for the NFL lead among all players in October with four interceptions (New York Giants’ STEVIE BROWN).
• All four of Hayward’s interceptions occurred in three consecutive games and he became the first Packers rookie to intercept four passes in a three-game span since 1984 (TOM FLYNN).
• He recorded his first career interception in Week 5 at Indianapolis. The next week at Houston, he had a career-best two interceptions. In Week 7 at St. Louis, he made his first career start and had his fourth interception.
• Hayward’s four interceptions are tied for the third-most in the NFL this season and the most among rookies. He is the only player in the league with four interceptions on the road.
• In addition to his four interceptions, he recorded 13 tackles and five passes defensed in October.

·        Hayward is the third Packer to be named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month and the first since 2003. He joins VONNIE HOLLIDAY (September 1998) andNICK BARNETT (October 2003).

·        He is the fourth Packer to be named NFL Rookie of the Month. He joins Holliday, Barnett and SAMKON GADO (Offense, November 2005).

Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers may have been relaxed at last week's Family Night, but tonight the Packers get down to business against the Chargers. Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

To preview today’s preseason game, Ernie Padaon of Fansided.com’s Boltbeat queried Lombardi Ave, the FanSided Packers site, to get a little more info on what is going on out in cheese land. Here is what I had to say:

1. What Packers veterans are on the bubble? 
There are a few Packer veterans who might see reduced playing time or may end up being cut. CB Sam Shields has had a rough start to his camp. He’s been beaten consistently and doesn’t seem to be playing like the third-year player that he is. He’s in a battle with Jarrett Bush and second-year player Davon House, among others. It will be interesting to see if he sticks. Though A.J. Hawk signed a long-term contract after the 2010-11 Super Bowl season, there are many who feel he could be beaten out by second-year player D.J. Smith. Smith started for Hawk when he was injured last year and made impressive play after play. Smith has a nose for the ball and always seems to be around it. The Packers already cut Charlie Peprah because they want to go with younger players and also play Charles Woodson on the back end of the defense. The next couple of weeks should be interesting as the competition for spots continues.

2. A lot of Chargers fans wanted to draft Nick Perry before we got a chance at Melvin Ingram, how is Perry doing in camp so far? 
Glad you asked that. He’s been kind of the Invisible Man as he makes the transition from a down defensive lineman to a stand-up outside linebacker in the 3-4 defense. Nobody’s panicking yet because he is a beast of an athlete and most feel that when he learns the system and gets more playing time that he will come around and be the perfect complement to Clay Matthews.

3. What Packers youngsters are looking to steal a roster spot coming into the game? 
It looks like Marcus Tyler, the FA running back from Southern Cal is going to get some playing time and if he plays well, could make a move for at least a practice squad spot. On defense, the Packers are really high on Casey Hayward. He’s looked like a player during the first week or two of training camp, but his value won’t be known until he gets some playing time. With Davon House, the Packers may be seeing a real resurgence of young players at the cornerback position.

4. What is your favorite cheese? 
ahahahahahaha – I always come back to sharp cheddar!

5. Predict the Packers season
After a 15-1 season and then getting knocked out in the first round of the playoffs by the Giants, the Packers are coming into this season with a chip on their shoulders. The team is looking for redemption. Though I doubt they will go through the majority of the season unbeaten again like they did last year, I see this team winning at least 12 games and possibly 13. They will need that many to win the division. In the end, I can honestly say that if they don’t make the playoffs, it will be a huge disappointment. I think the team won’t disappoint and will compete for a Super Bowl berth. Anything less would be very disappointing.

Ernie Padaon’s Comments
Nick Perry as the invisible man? Could you imagine if we took him with the first pick and he was an invisible man? People would be calling him a bust immediately and calling for AJs head for another failed draft pick.

The sharp cheddar is always a good go-to cheese also. Even in the land of cheese, cheddar can always be counted on for deliciousness.

What is your favorite cheese?

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.

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.

Jordy Nelson is just one player who will be looking to take his game one step higher after his breakout season in 2011.

Zachary Thompson of FantasyCPR and I sat down for a Q&A this past week – talking about the Green Bay Packers and what things look like for the coming season.

Geared toward the fantasy fans out there, FantasyCPR has been talking with all 32 NFL Fansided.com blog editors about their teams to get a feel for the best players and how to rank teams and players for the coming season.

The goal of this website is to deliver consistent fantasy analysis to help fantasy players win.

If you have comments or suggestions about the site, contact Fantasy CPR at fantasyCPR@yahoo.com, and follow them on twitter @fantasyCPR.

So, take a trip over to the site for all your fantasy needs and while you’re at it, check out the Packers preview here or scroll down for the full Q&A.

Green Bay Packers – Fantasy Football Preview 2012

Fantasy football leagues are activating across the country and draft dates are being set and obsessed over. Last season, one offense everybody loved owning and a defense they loved playing against was the Green Bay Packers. The Pack are looking to bring back the offense and overhaul the defense. Ray Rivard of Lombardi Ave. was willing to join us and help us get some insider information on the cheeseheads’ outlook for this season.

Zach Thompson, FantasyCPR: The Packers offense was awesome last year. Aaron Rogers emerged as one of the top QB’s in the league to be sure. Is there any reason to think he won’t reduplicate that statistical performance this year?

Ray Rivard, Lombardi Ave.: If Aaron Rodgers doesn’t match or exceed hisperformance of 2011, it will be a huge disappointment. Rodgers has the same weapons coming back with him in 2012 and there isn’t any reason why this team can’t continue to produce huge numbers on the field. In fact, without injuries, you can be sure to see Greg Jennings and Jordy Nelson continue to put up 1,000 yard-plus seasons. When those two players have backups like James Jones and Donald Driver behind them – players who could be starters on most other teams - this is one high-powered offense. And it’s all led by Rodgers. His skill and uncanny ability to avoid pressure has made Rodgers a step above the best QBs in the league. I can only see him improve in 2012.

Z: Last year, virtually any Green Bay WR was worth owning just because he was on the same field with Aaron Rodgers? Jordy Nelson made the leap to a top 20 WR. Do you see Randall Cobb or any other receiver emerging this year as a every-week go-to guy?

Ray Rivard, Lombardi Ave.: Many, including myself, see this as a breakout year for Randall Cobb. I believe the league has only seen a scratching of the surface with this receiver. His work on special teams is known, but he will bring much more to the field this year. You will see him on the field more often this season and his touches rise significantly. If the Packers can’t get the ball into his hands at least 5-10 time per game, it will be disappointing. And depending on how much Donald Driver contributes, you might see either Diondre Borel or Tori Gurley make the 53-man roster and make contributions. They are young guys with huge upsides. I would also like to say that tight end Jermichael Finley will work to improve his play this year and will continue to stretch the field for a
Packers offense that will be difficult to stop.

Z: While we’re on receivers, was Jordy Nelson’s breakout a fluke or do you think he’ll match or exceed those numbers this year?

Ray Rivard, Lombardi Ave.: Jordy Nelson is no fluke. His teammates like to joke that he’s the white guy on the team who actually has speed and jumping ability. Nelson gets open and his ability to accelerate past defensive backs is fast becoming his biggest strength. Simply put – he’s a stud who can beat anyone matched up against him.

Couple that with the fact that he can catch the ball over the middle when needed and you’ve got the complete package. His only knock is that he drops too many passes. However, his success overshadows that. If you have a chance to take Jordy Nelson in your fantasy draft, don’t pass him up. He will score lots of points for you.

Z: What about the running game? Do you see one back emerging as a feature-back or will it continue to be a time-share? If you think it’sa time-share, what Packer running back would you draft to be on your fantasy team?

Ray Rivard, Lombardi Ave.: The Packers running game is the wild card for any fantasy team. The Packers are a pass-first team, that’s not a secret. However, the Packers have not been totally incompetent on the ground either. Ryan Grant is gone, and the Packers will have two backs, James Starks and Alex Green, coming back from significant knee injuries. That is a concern. However, Starks is being looked to as the featured back heading into his third year. Green had a huge upside before his injury, so how he comes back is a huge question mark. He could be one of those players who comes out of nowhere to make a big mark, but I wouldn’t count on it.

Z: Is there a player on the Packers offense you think will have a breakout year?

Ray Rivard, Lombardi Ave.: Randall Cobb, hands down. I feel the Packers will call his number more this year and give him the opportunity to show his skills. He was limited last year on offense because of the team’s depth, but with an aging Donald Driver still on the team I see Cobb being more of a factor.

Z: Green Bay’s focus this offseason appears to have been on rebuilding and strengthening their defense, specifically pass defense. Do you think they did enough? And who do you think makes the biggest impact among the new additions?

Ray Rivard, Lombardi Ave.: Defense was the focus in both free agency and the draft – and rightly so. Ted Thompson did a great job in bringing in players who should contribute immediately – namely Nick Perry, Jerel Worthy, and Casey Hayward. I see all three of these players fitting in immediately with the defense, but I see Worthy as the player who will bring the most to the team in the early going. The Packers’ biggest hole last season was their defensive front. They couldn’t stop teams because they couldn’t pressure the QB.

The loss of Cullen Jenkins was bigger than most thought. With the addition of Worthy, the Packers will add to a line that already includes BJ Raji and Ryan Pickett. Though suspended for eight games, Anthony Hargrove will also help the team the second half of the season – if he makes the roster.

Z: Last one, give me your realistic expectation for the Packers this season, and then your perfect scenario. What is the one key for them taking home the Lombardi Trophy again this year?

Ray Rivard, Lombardi Ave.: Realistically the team wins at least 12 games -they will need that many wins to take the division. Ideally, they win 14 or 15 again this year and destroy the competition in the Playoffs
en route to another Super Bowl championship.

However, to do that, the team has got to make large improvements on the defensive side of the football. I think management has put the pieces in place for that to happen. Now it’s up to the coaching staff to put these players in the right schemes to make it happen. It’s funny talking about defense being the difference for a team like the
Packers. While the offense will continue to do what it does best, it will be the defense that will be the difference in the fight for a championship. If the defense doesn’t come through, the team will be left watching like they did last year.

May 22, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers defensive tackle Ryan Pickett (79) waits his turn during drills at the Green Bay Packers organized team activities at Ray Nitschke Field. Mandatory Credit: Mary Langenfeld-US PRESSWIRE

Offseason workouts are well under way now as teams try to figure out who will start and who will make the team. Some will be cut, some will lose starting spots, and some will become starters.

So, what position battles do the Packers have?

Defensive End

Both defensive end spots on the line are filled with competitors such as as veterans Ryan Pickett, Mike Neal, Anthony Hargrove, and rookie Jerel Worth. They are all looking to claim a starting spot. Hargrove is a candidate to be cut due to his suspension but he could also be a rested lineman for later in the season. Rookie Jerel Worthy has tons of skills that can make him a starter as he and Mike Neal are the two favorites. Ryan Pickett could be in danger of being cut if he doesn’t win a spot in the starting line. Rookie Mike Daniels can force him to be cut if he performs well over the summer and if Pickett does not win a starting spot. This will be a very interesting battle.

May 22, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker Clay Matthews (52) talks to fellow linebacker Nick Perry (53) during organized team activities at Ray Nitschke Field. Mandatory Credit: Mary Langenfeld-US PRESSWIRE

Outside Linebacker opposite Clay Matthews

Erik Walden and rookie Nick Perry will definitely be the two players battling for this starting spot as the Packers will have to decide who can make more of an impact as a playmaker. Walden has proven an ability to get into the offensive backfield and has shown he’s a sure tackler. The Packers must have thought this, too, as they decided to bring him back for this season thinking he could be a starter. Nick Perry was very good at sacking the opposing quarterbacks at USC. I think this will be Perry’s job to lose as Perry has a track record in college of being a dominant pass rusher. Perry should make a great partnership with Clay Matthews. The one thing that could help Walden is that Perry is moving from a 4-3 defensive end to a 3-4 outside linebacker, but that transition should not cause any problems.

Jan 1, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers cornerback Jarrett Bush (24) during the game against the Detroit Lions at Lambeau Field. The Packers defeated the Lions 45-41. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Nickel Cornerback

With a move to safety imminent for Charles Woodson, Tramon Williams and Sam Shields will become the two starting cornerbacks. This means that Jarrett Bush and rookie Casey Hayward will battle to be the nickel cornerback as Bush’s experience gives him the early lead in this race. However, Hayward has some very good ball hawking skills and definitely will get a shot to beat out Bush. However, Bush seems like the favorite and will probably at least start the season as the nickel cornerback though Hayward could take his job during the season.

Green Bay Packers GM Ted Thompson announced the signing of seven rookie draft choices. Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

The Packers have officially announced the signing of seven of their draft choices and several of their undrafted rookie free agents, staying on task with all other 31 National Football League teams that have made quick work in signing rookies because of the changes is the CBA and the rookie salary cap.

Those changes made holdouts and long negotiations with rookies a thing of the past.

Below you will find the official press release sent out by the Packers with the announcement of all signings to date …

PACKERS SIGN SEVEN DRAFT CHOICES

The Green Bay Packers signed seven of their draft choices. The signings were announced Friday by Executive Vice President, General Manager and Director of Football Operations Ted Thompson.

Packers cornerback Charles Woodson could be moved to safety in 2012. Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

The Packers have had to move on from the Nick Collins days … he has been cut due to the major question about whether he will ever play again in the NFL.

So, who will replace Nick Collins?

Charles Woodson is the first candidate to replace Collins as Woodson no longer has the speed to be effective at cornerback but still has the ball-hawking abilities to be an effective safety. Woodson’s skills will allow him to be a very effective safety that quarterbacks will have to watch. This move is a realistic possibility due to the fact that the Packers added Casey Hayward to the group of cornerbacks they already have in the fold as Tramon Williams and Sam Shields can both be NFL starters. Woodson seems like the best fit to move from cornerback to safety for the Packers.

Packers safety Charlie Peprah could be tapped to replace Nick Collins. Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Veteran safety Charlie Peprah replaced Collins this past season and seems like another realistic candidate to be the starter to replace Nick Collins. Peprah already knows how to play safety and has the ball-hawking skills that would make him a good replacement for Collins. However, Woodson has the potential to be a really good safety and Peprah might not be able to beat out Woodson in training camp as Woodson will start somewhere in the secondary next season.

Jerron McMillian is a long but has the upside to be really good. McMillian is very agreesive and knows how to shut down the running game from his time at Maine. However, McMillian is a raw prospect and needs some time to develop before the Packers think about putting him into the starting lineup.

Nick Collins will be difficult to replace but the Packers will find someone who can be at least as good as Collins.

Oct 8, 2011; Lincoln, NE, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers defender Jared Crick (94) lines up against Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Mike Adams (75) during the first half at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Thorson-US PRESSWIRE

The Packers are putting together a really good NFL Draft with Nick Perry, Jerel Worthy, and Casey Hayward. So, how will the Packers finish off their 2012 draft class?

The Packers have two fourth rond picks and plenty of sixth- and seventh-rounders so the Packers have some flexibility if they want to make a trade for a player like Ole Miss’s Bobby Massie to provide more depth on the offensive line after Chad Clifton was cut. If they stay where they are in the fourth round, they should look at running back and another defensive lineman.

Feb 26, 2012; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Utah State running back Robert Turbin runs the 40 yard dash during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-US PRESSWIRE

The first thing the Packers should do in the fourth round is pick up a running back. Miami’s Lamar Miller is a definite possibility if he continues to fall but a more realistic option is Utah State’s Robert Turbin.

Turbin was productive and college and has shown a great combo of size and speed. I think Turbin has the tools to be a really good NFL running back.

Despite picking up Jerel Worthy, the Packers still need some help at defensive end and the two players that are now steals are Boise State’s Billy Wynn and Nebraska’s Jared Crick.

Wynn will probably be off the board by the time the Packers pick, but Crick will probably still be there and he would be a great pick as he could start at defensive end.

A defensive line of Crick, B.J. Raji, and Worthy would be able to dominate in the trenches.

In the sixth round, the Packers will probably look at taking a young quarterback like Ryan Lindley out of San Diego State.

Lindley has an impressive arm but he lacks in the areas of consistency and accuracy. However, I think Lindley will be at least as good as Rex Grossman with the potential to be similar to Brett Favre.

Lindley can be a backup that the Packers can develop which is eactly what they want.

December 17, 2011; New Orleans, LA, USA; San Diego State Aztecs quarterback Ryan Lindley (14) against the Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin Cajuns during the first quarter of the New Orleans Bowl at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-US PRESSWIRE

In the seventh round, the Packers have four picks and plenty of possibilities.

The Packers could take some chances on some players like Arizona State’s Vontaxe Burfict as he is a high ceiling guy that would not be much of a loss if he does not pan out.

Notre Dame safety Robert Blanton could be another possibility if he is still on the board.  Colorado offensive guard Ryan Miller is a player that has a high ceiling and could be very effective.

A player that is off the radar but a very good talent that would be worth taking in the seventh round is Utah cornerback Conroy Black.

Black has all the skills to develop into a starting cornerback in the NFL as he could be a dime cornerback next season even.

Casey Hayward is a playmaking defensive back taken at the back end of the second round, trading up with New England to take him with the 62nd pick.Don McPeak-US PRESSWIRE

The Green Bay Packers traded up to snare Vanderbilt defensive back Casey Hayward, a player that NFL.com’s Mike Mayock called “instinctive” and said he “loved” this pick. He was the 62nd pick overall and came through a trade with the New England Patriots.

That makes the Packers’ third pick and second of the second round, was for a defensive player.

Here is some film on the new Packer.