May 22, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker Clay Matthews (52) talks to fellow linebacker Nick Perry (53)

The draft is only a little more than one week away, and it’s time to look at some positions the Green Bay Packers could focus on in the draft.

With the loss of Erik Walden to the Indianapolis Colts and Frank Zombo to the Kansas City Chiefs in free agency, the Packers are looking mighty thin at outside linebacker. This only leaves the Packers with Clay Matthews, Nick Perry, and Dezman Moses. Green Bay needs to add more young talent to solidify the most important position in Dom Capers‘ 3-4 defense.

There may be a chance the Packers address this need early in the draft, but with more pressing needs at offensive line, defensive line, safety, and running back, and the potential of Perry returning as the starter, I see the Packers taking an outside linebacker in the mid-to-late rounds. Remember, they don’t necessarily need to find a starter here, but rather a player who will add depth and can rotate in with Matthews and Perry. Here are a few outside linebacker prospects Green Bay could select late in the draft that I believe would fit well with their team.

Auburn Tigers defensive end Corey Lemonier (55)

Corey Lemonier: Auburn, 6-3, 255 pounds, 4.60 40 time, 27 reps bench press

A bit too small to play defensive end in the NFL, Lemonier projects as a 3-4 outside linebacker. Lemonier shows good agility and speed for a player his size. He plays with a high motor and brings a physicality to the field the Packers could use (watch some of his college highlights). Lemonier had a great sophomore season in 2011, recording 13.5 tackles for a loss and 9.5 sacks, but his 2012 season wasn’t as promising, only recording 5.5 tackles for a loss and 5.5 sacks, dropping his draft stock significantly. Mock drafts project Lemonier to go anywhere from the bottom of the second round to the top of the fifth. If the Packers could get Lemonier at the end of the third or fourth round, this would add another edge rusher to rotate in with Perry at left outside linebacker.

Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles defensive lineman Jamie Collins (8)

Jamie Collins: Southern Miss, 6-3’, 250 pounds, 4.64 40 time, 19 reps bench press

Collins converted from safety to linebacker in college and shows good short-area quickness and movement for an outside linebacker of his size. In his last two years at Southern Miss, Collins piled up 16.5 sacks and 39.5 tackles for a loss, proving he can be a very effective stand-up pass rusher. Mock drafts have Collins going anywhere from the top of the third round to the sixth round. Collins struggled against top tier tackles and lacks ideal upper-body strength, which leaves some scouts concerned about his ability to hold up against the run and be an every down player. Collins’ ability to get to the quarterback would make him a great third down pass rusher and situational player for Green Bay.

August 31, 2012; Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal linebacker Chase Thomas (44)

Chase Thomas: Stanford, 6-3’, 244 pounds, 4.91 40 time, 18 reps bench press

Chase Thomas looks like a Ted Thompson-type pick. Thomas is a high-hustle player who played outside linebacker in a 3-4 system at Stanford. Thomas proved to be productive as an edge rusher in the 3-4, posting 27.5 sacks in college, and wouldn’t need a lot of time to adjust playing outside linebacker in the Packers’ defense. Thomas lacks power and flat line speed, pushing him down draft boards despite his playmaking ability in college. Thomas could go as late as the fifth round, making him a great value pick for Green Bay if he falls to them at the bottom of the round.

Oct 6, 2012; Madison, WI, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini defensive end Michael Buchanan (99) 

Michael Buchanan: Illinois, 6-5, 255 pounds, 4.78 40 time, 22 reps bench press

Buchanan has ideal length and size for a 3-4 outside linebacker, but showed inconsistent effort as a senior. He had a great junior season in 2011, recording 13.5 tackles for a loss and 7.5 sacks, but after Whitney Mercilus left Illinois, Buchanan’s numbers dropped off his senior season – only recording 7 tackles for a loss and 4.5 sacks. Buchanan could drop as far as the fifth or sixth round and be a good fit for Green Bay late in the draft. A coach like Kevin Greene could turn a player like Buchanan into a productive player.

Other OLB prospects: John Simon of Ohio St., Sio Moore of Connecticut, David Bass of Missouri Western, and Travis Johnson of San Jose St.

Any of these draft prospects would be great mid- to late-round finds for Ted Thompson and company. They would add some competition to the outside linebacker position and provide important depth needed to have success with a 3-4 system. Keep your eyes open on day three of the draft, and still expect Thompson to do what he does best – finding value late in the draft.

This is one of the lasting images we have of Erik Walden. Today he signed a 4-year free agent contract with the Indianapolis Colts.
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Dear Mr. Jim Irsay,

I know you play a mean guitar and are a kind of unique individual. You also have a pretty good football team over there in Indy, but you haven’t watched the tape of the Green Bay Packers vs. San Francisco 49ers playoff game last year, have you? Especially the tape on the guy you just signed – that OLB by the name of Erik Walden?

No, I didn’t think so.

You see, the lasting image us Packers fans have is of Walden being sucked waaay inside and 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick blowing by him through the hole he once occupied and running for a whole bunch of yards untouched for the touchdown … and it wasn’t the first time it had happened to Walden.

Aside from the fact that Walden also had an incident with his girlfriend and the law, he’s probably a really great guy. But you better be sure about that. Since that incident a couple of years ago, he hasn’t played the same.

But that’s OK … it’s OK that you signed him to a four-year contract for $16 million … but really? You spent that much on a guy who between 2008 and 2010 bounced around between the Miami Dolphins and Kansas City Chiefs and then was out of football before the Packers picked him up off the street? The only reason the did was because they were plumb out of guys to play linebacker.

During that stretch late in 2010 and through the playoffs and Super Bowl Walden played pretty well. But it was all downhill from there. He did have six sacks over the past two years, as well as 68 tackles and 38 assists. Pretty good, but not worth $4 million per year, if you ask me.

But it’s your football team. It’s your money.

I guess all I’ve got to say is good luck. Hope it all works out.

November 24, 2011; Detroit, MI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) looks over offensive line before a play against the Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving at Ford Field. The Packers won 27-15. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-US PRESSWIRE

Most Packers fans feel like this season is on life support and for good reason. They have not looked anything like the team we thought they were. That being said we are not far off from being 4-1 and really should be 3-2.

Maybe with a few tweaks, some added juice and a little luck, we can turn this thing around.

These five things would be a good start.

1. More Nick Perry, Less Eric Walden

Listen, Walden is a solid player, an overachiever. However, he has reached his potential.

If Perry isn’t already a better player than him now, he will be soon. He is improving every game with last Sunday at Indy being his best game yet. His stats are nearly identical with Clay Matthew’s rookie season at this point and Clay played more snaps.

He has always been stout against the run, and is getting better in coverage. He has amazing power, with speed and explosion to match.

Once he figures out how to use his hands better, it’s a wrap!

2. NO MORE DOLLAR!

All of these crazy formations, the dollar, psycho, etc, cut all of them. If the point of these formations is to confuse the opposing offense, why is it that our defense is the one that always seems to be confused? Blown coverages, people not lined up correctly, pre-snap penalties – you name it.

The Packers have 11 rookie or second year players on you D and most are in the secondary. Dom, you need to adjust your strategy to fit your young talent (pretend your job depends on it).

Oct 7, 2012; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Randall Cobb (18) scores a touchdown against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-US PRESSWIRE

3. Spread it out

Our offensive line has come in any variety of awful you could think of. And with only two other linemen on the entire roster, we are stuck with them.

So what do we do?

We need to use the one advantage we still have, our stable of thoroughbreds at wide receiver. Spreading them four or five wide and using three-step drops forces defenses to be less aggressive, and more reactive.

Fire fast, don’t let them breathe –  that’s how the West as won, and it can work for the Pack, too.

4. Get a mid-season boost

Some people have given up on getting any contribution from Greg Jennings this year. Not me. I believe he will be back with a chip on his shoulder and better then ever.

Another is Davon House. I saw enough ability in one preseason game to believe he can start when healthy.

Finally, let’s not forget about James Starks. Talent has never been his issue. If he can get healthy and stay healthy it will only help us.

5. Upset the Texans this week.

Have you ever heard of the saying “it has gotten late, early” well packers fans this is where we are.

This game could literally be the difference between making the playoffs or going 8-8 (or even worse). McCarthy teams have a habit of bouncing back from bad performances, and last Sunday definitely qualifies as such.

It will not be easy, they will have to go through Hell, but if that whistle blows and the Packers are victorious you can throw the first five games out of the window, it’s a whole new season.

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.

Will A.J. Hawk win the starting inside linebacking position this season? Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Since the Packers moved to a 3-4 defensive philosophy, their defense has been about as consistent as the lineup for the Monday Night Football broadcasters.

In 2008, they were twentieth in yards given up per game. In 2009, they jumped to 2nd, in 2010, they were 5th and in 2011 all way down to last.

While some might point to the presence, or lack thereof of a player like Cullen Jenkins (he played in only four games in 2008 and, of course we know by the unsullied jersey of Eli Manning last January, zero games for the Pack in 2012), the play of their linebackers hasn’t been a stellar example of consistency.

In fact, no position on the Packers defense has had to endure as many rotating starters since 2008 as the linebacking corps. For long periods of time, the following have been completely out or at the very least severely encumbered by injury: Matthews (hamstring, shin), Hawk, Barnett, Walden, Zombo, Brad Jones, Brandon Chillar.

Will D.J. Smith get more playing time or even a starting role this season? Raymond T. Rivard photograph

So it should come as no surprise when we, Packers fans to the enth degree, search for spectacular stability. We’ve had it at almost every other position for years, Rodgers, Jennings, Bulaga, Woodson, and until last year, Collins and to some extent Raji. With a breakout performance by Desmond Bishop last year, we know that spectacular play from the inside linebacking position is possible. That could be what’s suddenly driving speculation that Hawk is in a training camp battle to save his starting position (and therein his roster spot).

Since they lost to the Cardinals back in the 2009-10 playoffs, when it became painfully clear that Hawk just did not possess the speed necessary to track down running backs on the sideline, I’ve never been a big fan of the Ohio State product. But Hawk had a productive year in 2010 and the Packers, on a Super Bowl high, invested a multi-year contract in the linebacker and let Nick Barnett go.

Last season, Hawk was consistently blamed for not making enough big plays. When he did have to sit because of injury, Packer fans were treated to some excellent playmaking by his understudy, a rookie, D.J. Smith. He’s 5-11, 239 pounds, and came out of a small school, Appalachian State.

During his unlimited action last year, he had 40-plus tackles and an interception. It will be very interesting to see if Smith gets more snaps than usual during the preseason, especially if it is with the first team. The Packers will likely say it is to give Hawk a rest, but many will view this as a clue that Hawk has a fight on his hands, which is as good a motivator as there is for someone who has already inked his post rookie payday contract.

Packers GM Ted Thompson and head coach Mike McCarthy will have their hands full whittling the Packers roster down to 53. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

He may not be the leader of an entire people as his surname may indicate, but Dezman Moses has the drive to make a difference among his Green Bay Packers teammates.

In fact, the undrafted rookie linebacker has already raised some eyebrows around the Packers’ OTAs and minicamp. Many are saying that he has raised his stock considerably since signing with the team shortly after the NFL Draft in April.

The 6-foot, 2-inch 249-pounder out of Tulane had some legal issues (public drunkenness) during his two-year stint at Iowa as a freshman and sophomore, but it was when he transferred to Tulane that he finally got his life off and on the field in line.

He’s showing early that his style is to push it into fifth gear and keep it there – and he’s hoping his effort is making a difference.

Well, among his teammates and his coaches, it seems he is. With Clay Matthews on the sidelines during the spring workout sessions Moses lined up with the number one defense across from fellow rookie Nick Perry and proceeded to give the offensive tackles he faced fits of frustration. He was even lined up in front of veteran Erik Walden.

“Sometimes, the older guys, the vets, really don’t like the bull (rush) and I understand,” Moses was quoted this past weekend in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. “They’ve been doing this a really long time. But for me, I have to do it. If Coach tells me in a meeting to do it a certain way, I’m definitely going to do it.”

But just where Moses will fit in the Packers plans still remains to be seen. While he was impressive without pads, things could change drastically when they put on the pads. Couple that with the fact that the Packers have a long list of veteran linebackers who are at least on paper penciled in front of Moses on the depth chart and it will be a mild miracle to think that he could crack the 53-man roster.

“Some guys, when they don’t have pads on, try to make excuses (with) whether or not there’s contact,” Moses said. “I just try to play at the same speed, so once the pads do come on I pretty much have the tempo and don’t have to turn it up or turn it down. The worst thing you want to do is have to turn it up and the game feels like it’s going faster.”

Even Clay Matthews’ eyes were opened while watching Moses and when asked about the rookie’s early performance, this is what he had to say:  ”He’s been earning all his playing time. Obviously, this is OTAs, but he has shown some athleticism out there. He’s shown he can get after the quarterback, drop into coverage, be a natural athlete. He’s got good size and strength. We’ll see when the pads come on, but he’s been doing well. I think he’s shown the coaches as well as myself everything he needs to at the outside linebacker position.”

Stranger things have happened. Just because a player is a veteran, it doesn’t guarantee a roster spot. Each and every one of those players understand that it’s the best guy who takes the job in the NFL’s dog eat dog environment.

It will certainly be interesting when camp opens. The competition at many positions is going to be heated this year with many like Moses who will be out to make a name for themselves.

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.

OLB Erik Walden was re-signed Monday by the Packers. Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

In somewhat of a surprise move, the Green Bay Packers announced Monday the re-signing of OLB Erik Walden.

It’s surprising for a couple of reasons: First, Walden’s play on the field started at an even keel the first half of last season and then nosedived after the incident with his girlfriend in their apartment last Thanksgiving eve. He was arrested, spent the weekend in jail and was eventually sentenced to complete a number of community service hours.

While the public perception of Walden sunk after the incident, it was his play on the field that was most disconcerting last year. After showing great promise at the end of 2010 in helping to solidify the position as the Packers made the run to the Super Bowl championship, Walden seemed to plateau and then pretty much disappeared from the landscape as the 2011 season wore on. Clearly, his play on the field was tied to his personal troubles.

But another thing is clear: The Packers like the guy and are willing to give him another chance.

I like that …

Walden now gets his chance to compete for a spot on the team.

Here is the press release issued by the Packers’ PR department announcing Walden’s re-signing:

PACKERS RE-SIGN LB WALDEN

The Green Bay Packers have re-signed LB Erik Walden. The signing was announced Monday by Executive Vice President, General Manager and Director of Football Operations Ted Thompson.

 In 2011, Walden appeared in all 16 contests and made a career-high 15 starts. He finished fifth on the defense with a career-best 86 tackles (50 solo), along with three sacks, two passes defensed and a fumble recovery that he returned for a touchdown. Walden originally signed with the Packers as a free agent in October 2010 and went on to play in nine contests with two starts that season, along with another three starts in the postseason.

Walden was drafted by Dallas in the sixth round (No. 167 overall) of the 2008 NFL Draft out of Middle Tennessee State. After being waived by the Cowboys in the final roster reduction, he was claimed by Kansas City and played in nine contests for the Chiefs in ’08. He also appeared in 19 games for Miami from 2008-10. For his career, Walden has played in 53 games with 17 starts and has recorded 117 tackles (69 solo), six sacks, two passes defensed, a fumble recovery, and 28 tackles on special teams.

Could Brandon Chillar be back with the Green Bay Packers this coming season? Jarrett Bush thinks so. Dennis Wierzbicki-US PRESSWIRE

What do you do when your best blitzing linebacker is also your best cover linebacker?

It’s a big problem, because it means that you are sacrificing pass rush for coverage, or vice versa. It’s a problem the Packers encountered all season last year. So what is your first move in free agency?

You’ve got to find a cover linebacker, fast.

That’s what the Green Bay Packers have done, according to a tweet from Jarrett Bush this morning. Of course, such a process is a lot easier when said cover linebacker is as familiar to you as Brandon Chillar – the guy who was cut before training camp last year seems likely to be back with the Packers this year after tight ends perpetually exploited the cover skills of the Packers’ A.J. Hawk and other linebackers.

This move allows the Packers to make some easier decisions in obvious passing downs. For instance, the coaches can let Desmond Bishop, who has shown a great knack for blitzing, run wild into the backfield, or at the very least be a rushing threat. Last year, opposing offensive coordinators knew that between A.J. Hawk and Bishop, the Packers were more likely to use Bishop in coverage, despite the fact that Bishop is a much better blitzer than coverage guy.

Why?

Because Bishop is much better in coverage than Hawk, who isn’t as fast or as agile as his fellow inside linebacker. Additionally, this move should take some of the coverage burden off Clay Matthews and Erik Walden, who are built to rush the passer and not cover. By signing Chillar, the Packers are acknowledging that their linebacking corps didn’t get the job done in rushing the passer last season.

Oh, and if the Packers did want Chillar to rush the passer from time to time to catch the opponent off guard, I’m sure his speed and agility would be helpful, just take a look at this play from 2009.

A 2004 fourth-round pick by St. Louis, Chillar’s most productive season was his first in Green Bay, during the 2008 campaign, when he had nine passes defended and 59 solo tackles in 14 games. He played reserve roles in each of the next few seasons and played in only eight games during the Packers’ Super Bowl run in 2010-11.

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Clay Matthews was one of the leaders on the Packers' defense this year, but many times was a step away from making the big play. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

It seems like it was just a year ago when the Packers were the #5
pass defense and the #5 total defense in the NFL.

Oh wait, they were…

So what changed so drastically over the course of one year?

Was it because of the NFL Lockout? Possibly, though there were no new players
needing to be implemented into the Dom Caper’s defense.

See more about the defense after the jump and then Like Lombardiave.com on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

(more…)

Green Bay Packers defensive back Jarrett Bush is one of eight Packers free agents. Would you bring him back? Daniel Shirey-US PRESSWIRE

The Packers have eight on the free agent list. We all know one of them will most likely be franchised, some will be allowed to walk and at least a couple of them will be re-signed.

Put yourself in Ted Thompson’s chair and tell who you would like to see back in the Packers fold.

Take the poll and let us know who is most important in your mind:

Wow!

Like this is the complete end of the Packers’ season … well, I can tell you it’s not. The Packers have been playing without several of those for whom thy will be without today and the team has done just fine, thank you.

Here are the players who will most likely not play today:

Chad Clifton – the left tackle has been out of the lineup for more than a month and Marshall Newhouse, while shaky at times, has held his own against some pretty good pass rushers.

James Starks – he has been hobbling for several weeks now and Coach Mike McCarthy is doing the right thing by sitting the second-year player. Starks could probably take at least a couple of weeks off to get healed up for the late season playoff run.

Desmond Bishop and A.J. Hawk – the starting inside linebackers were hurt in the Detroit Thanksgiving Day game and missed last week. It looks like Hawk has an outside shot of playing, but Bishop is out. In their places, Robert Francois and D.J. Smith have played admirably.

See more after the jump and don’t forget to Like Lombardiave.com on Facebook and folow us on Twitter.

(more…)

Erik Walden

Erik Walden, the Green Bay Packers‘ outside linebacker who spent three days in jail over the Thanksgiving Day holiday weekend but then released with no charges, was back in court this morning where he pleaded not guilty to a disorderly conduct charge.

With his not guilty plea, Walden will be back in the Brown County Court Dec. 27.

Walden was arrested the morning after Thanksgiving when his live-in girlfriend went to St. Vincent Hospital with injuries allegedly suffered from a scuffle with Walden.

See more about Walden after the jump …

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(more…)

The question has been posted across the Internet: Should Erik Walden play for the Green Bay Packers Sunday?

My answer: Absolutely.

The Packers’ outside linebacker who sat in jail last weekend after being arrested for suspicion of domestic abuse was released Monday without being charged … And until he’s charged, he has to be presumed innocent.

If he’s charged between now and Sunday, that’s a different situation.

However, until then, he’s still slated as the Packers’ starting outside linebacker and should be allowed to play. Let the system run its course and if he’s innocent … No harm done. If he’s guilty, then you let the courts do its job.

But right now, Packers’ head Coach Mike McCarthy should do what’s right and play the man.

Walden led the team in tackles in their last game against the Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving Day and given that it’s probable that both inside linebackers, Desmond Bishop and AJ Hawk, may not see the field, then it’s even more important that the experienced Walden should play.

At this point, even Brown County police and the district attorney can’t figure out if Walden committed a crime. If he did, they will charge him. If he didn’t, then he should be allowed to move on with his life.

In the meantime, the answer is yes, Erik Walden should play Sunday against the New York Giants.

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Green Bay Packers linebacker Erik Walden, the champions’ player arrested last Friday after an alleged altercation with his girlfriend, apologized today to the organization, coaches, fellow players, and fans as he was questioned by a throng of reporters at his locker.

“I want to apologize to the entire organization, my teammates and the fans,” Walden said. “You know, it’s an ongoing process, I respect that process, and it’s just unfortunate that I brought something negative from so much positive that’s going on with this organization.”

He didn’t say anything about the specifics of the incident and indicated he was accepting of the need to let the process run it’s course.

Walden’s girlfriend had originally told police that as she argued with the Packer player that he struck her.

However, she later changed her story to say she hit him first.

The conflicting story has prompted Brown County District Attorney John Zakowski to initiate a more thorough probe of the incident.

Brown County District Attorney John Zakowski said Monday that Walden’s girlfriend originally told police they were arguing and he pushed her but she has since changed her story to say she hit him first.

It’s unclear as to his playing status for Sunday’s game in New York against the Giants, but he did say he’s ready to move ahead.

“I feel terrible about the situation. Just ready to move on and play football.”

Whether he plays Sunday will be up to Coach Mike McCarthy. He is scheduled to talk to the press about it tomorrow. While the league is still looking into the case, it’s not out of the question that the Packers would sit him.

If he doesn’t play, Frank Zombo, who has had injury problems this season, would be his replacement.

Walden’s teammates have been supportive.

“I think everyone’s just behind him on the team, supporting him,” right tackle Bryan Bulaga said. “I don’t know much of the details of the whole thing.”

“…that’s why this team has been so good getting past adversity, whether it’s injuries or whatnot, being able to move on just because of the great leadership.”

Walden has played well this season and has started all 11 games this year. He had a team-leading 10 tackles against the Lions on Thanksgiving.

No formal charges have been filed against Walden though prosecutors are still investigating. Zakowski said he needs more time to interview others to see if this is a case of miscommunication or if the woman is trying to protect Walden.

Walden is scheduled to return to court Dec. 7.

The recent arrest of Erik Walden for alleged domestic violence may be a black eye for all Packer fans, but it brings to light an issue that is too often swept under the rug.

Domestic violence should not happen to anybody. Domestic violence is intolerable. Law enforcement officers, physicians, nurses, dentists, social workers, and people in many other professions are legally obligated to report suspected domestic violence and child abuse. However, everyone, EVERYONE, is morally obligated to report or intervene in suspected domestic violence.

The United States Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) defines domestic violence as a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner. It may include physical violence, financial control, verbal abuse and emotional abuse

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), domestic violence is a serious, preventable public health problem that affects more than 32 million Americans. This number only reflects the number of cases that are reported; it’s estimated that in the United States, as many as one third of domestic violence cases are never reported.

• Every 9 seconds in the US a woman is assaulted or beaten.
• Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women—more than car accidents, muggings, and rapes combined.
• Nearly 1 in 5 teenage girls who have been in a relationship said a boyfriend threatened violence or self-harm if presented with a breakup.
• Everyday in the US, four women are murdered by their husbands or boyfriends.
• Men who as children witnessed their parents’ domestic violence were twice as likely to abuse their own wives compared to sons of nonviolent parents.

Victims often feel isolated from the outside world. Domestic violence victims often do not report abuse and often return to dangerous relationships out of fear of reprisal.

The best solution to domestic violence is to prevent the abuse before it starts.

It takes great effort and courage to get out of a physically or psychologically abusive relationship.

If you are, or know someone who is the victim of domestic violence, contact your local women’s shelter or call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE (7233).

For more information, an excellent website is the National Institute of Health site on domestic violence: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/domesticviolence.html

Erik Walden

So, Erik Walden spends the weekend in jail, but is released today with no charges filed against him …

Wow, not a glowing illustration of a great system of justice.

Two questions come to mind at this point: Is there enough evidence to charge Walden, the Green Bay Packers linebacker, with battery against his girlfriend? and what do the Packers do at this point as to whether to play him in the next game against the New York Giants?

Walden’s girlfriend, the woman who was treated for injuries at St. Vincent Hospital early last Friday morning, now claims that she started the fight with Walden.

The district attorney has said that until police determine who initiated contact in the conflict, charges are pending.

It will be interesting to see what transpires in the next few days.

Stay tuned.

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Just when all the talk is about what a thug Ndamukong Suh is, we get news that Packers outside linebacker Erik Walden is arrested for battery in an incident with his girlfriend.

Of course we accept that a person is innocent until proven in a court of law to be guilty. However, this doesn’t look good for Walden or the team.

We can only hope there is some sort of misunderstanding here, but even so, it is time for the team to make adjustments on the field.

Early reports were conflicting. It was originally reported across the Internet that Walden was arrested early Friday morning after an altercation around 2:30 a.m. at the couple’s apartment on Scheuring Road in the town of Lawrence, south of Green Bay.

Those first reports indicated that Walden’s girlfriend was the one who called police about 6:10 a.m. That was after police said she was treated at St. Vincent Hospital for a cut and bump on her head and an injured right hand.

Later reports said hospital personnel were the ones who called the police and that the woman said it was a misunderstanding. Later reports have the woman saying that during an argument with Walden she had accidentally fallen and hit her head on the bed.

Well, this is a story we’ve all heard before … from victims after the fact in an attempt to cover the truth and to protect the perpetrator.

But again, we won’t pass judgment … We’ll let the courts do that.

Regardless, Walden will sit the weekend in jail because of the fact that the Brown County Courthouse won’t be open until Monday.

On the field, Walden hasn’t been dominating at his outside linebacking position, but has been steady in his role.

The position has been manned mostly by Walden this season, but Frank Zombo has also played some downs when he has been healthy.

Right now, the hope is that Zombo can play and stay healthy because of the uncertainty raised by this situation with Walden.

The Packers organization issued a brief statement yesterday saying they were doing more investigation before commenting any more about Walden.

We’re sure the Packers will simply let the system run its course, as they should. Unless some other details come forth and Walden is exonerated in this case, it’s most likely that we’ve seen the last of Mr. Walden readying to rush the quarterback.

He’s most likely going to be readying his own defense.

Judging from past history, Ted Thompson and Mike McCarthy won’t stand for this type of behavior and Walden will be packing his bags sooner than later.

For the Green Bay Packers linebacking corps, it’s getting to razor sharp.

That’s because it was announced today that OLB Frank Zombo was diagnosed with a broken scapula after last Friday’s preseason game against Arizona.

This injury comes after the Packers have had several changes in the linebacking corps to date.

His injury leaves Brad Jones (who was also injured in last Friday’s game) and Erik Walden battling for the starting spot at the position. It appeared that Walden had the upper hand in starting, but now that Zombo is out four to six weeks and with Jones not 100 percent, the team will continue to audition undrafted rookies Jamari Lattimore and Vic So’oto at the spot.

Both have been having good camps, but will be asked to step it up a notch with the loss of Zombo and the uncertainty of Jones’s situation.

Zombo was the starter at the position last year, but was injured near the end of the season. That’s when Walden was brought into the Packers camp to take over. However, when Walden went down with a bad ankle in the conference championship game in Chicago, Zombo was again called on, starting and playing a solid Super Bowl.

Walden’s injury was actually suffered in warmups when John Kuhn hit Zombo in the back with his helmet.

“I thought it was a bruise,” Zombo said in published comments today. “It didn’t hurt as bad as I thought it would. But you could see (on film) that some plays my arm was hanging a little bit.”

The tandem of Rodgers and McCarthy will provide leadership and smarts to a team seeking to repeat as league champions. The team's quest continues this weekend when they take on the Arizona Cardinals in the second of four preseason games. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

How much should we take from the Packers first exhibition game Saturday night in Cleveland?

Well other than a 27-17 loss, there were probably more question marks, especially with the play of Packers cornerbacks Pat Lee and Jarrett Bush in the first couple of series, than exclamation points. However, if one is going to point to a positive, it’s got to be the initial look at second round pick Randall Cobb.

When he touched the ball heads turned and he made an immediate impact.

He will make the team, there’s no question about it. The question is how quickly Coach Mike McCarthy will implement him into the game plan when the regular season starts.

Cobb started the game with a kickoff return straight up the middle without hesitation and with courage for 32 yards.

His other return was similar, this time gaining him 26 yards. And while he showed his sure-handedness and his ability to catch the ball under pressure on his lone punt return, he also showed quickness of feet in eluding the initial tackler … that’s something Packers fans haven’t seen on special teams since Travis Williams and Willie Wood, and it’s a sure sign that the team should show improvement in special teams play over their dismal numbers last year.

Green Bay ranked 22nd in punt-return average and 26th in kickoff-return average last season.

On the offensive side of the ball, it wasn’t until the backups behind quarterback Matt Flynn hit the field that Cobb began to shine.

He made an impressive diving catch for 13 yards in tight coverage and then later in the first half caught a pass for 19 yards.

On the next play, Cobb caught another ball on a short route and then turned it impressively into a gain of 28. (more…) ]]> http://lombardiave.com/2011/08/14/cobb-shows-the-burst-of-a-star-in-the-making-for-the-packers/feed/ 0