Dec 23, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers center Evan Dietrich-Smith (62) during the game against the Tennessee Titans at Lambeau Field. The Packers won 55-7. Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

An important morsel of information leaked just as the chaos brought on by the Percy Harvin and Anquan Boldin trades reached its apex yesterday. Evan Dietrich-Smith, restricted free agent and the presumed starting center for the Green Bay Packers, was tendered at the lowest level.

For those unfamiliar with the system, restricted free agents can be tendered by their teams at one of three levels. The highest level, which carries a price tag of $2.879 million, entitles the tendering team to a first round pick if another team signs the player. The middle level, coming in at a slightly cheaper $2.023 figure, returns a second round selection if another franchise signs the tendered player. The lowest tender, coming in at the very reasonable $1.323 million, will net the tendering team a pick in the same round where the player in question was selected. If the player was originally undrafted, as is the case with Dietrich-Smith, there is no draft pick compensation if another team signs the player away. Each tender provides the team with the right to match any contract signed by the player.

Dec 11, 2011; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers guard Evan Dietrich-Smith (62) blocks during the game against the Oakland Raiders at Lambeau Field. The Packers defeated the Raiders 46-16. Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

By tendering Dietrich-Smith at the lowest level, the Packers risk losing the only player on their roster with any game experience at center for nothing. That reveals a lot about how GM Ted Thompson views Dietrich-Smith. While any objective observer favored Dietrich-Smith over the aged Jeff Saturday last season, the 26-year-old Idaho State product is still far from a dominant center. By letting Dietrich-Smith dangle in the wind, Thompson has effectively told the rest of the league what Green Bay thinks of the center’s long-term future. It’s not that Thompson doesn’t think someone will attempt to sign Dietrich-Smith – though it’s possible no team tries – but rather that Thompson sees no reason to give this player a cent more than required. Dietrich-Smith is still the odds-on-favorite to be snapping the ball to Aaron Rodgers this year, but barring an incredible improvement in play, this is probably Dietrich-Smith’s last season in Green Bay.

Oct 27, 2012; Madison, WI, USA; Wisconsin Badgers offensive lineman Travis Frederick (72) during the game against the Michigan State Spartans at Camp Randall Stadium. Michigan State defeated Wisconsin 16-13. Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

This can also be read as strong indication that the Packers will acquire a center in the draft. It’s a two-man race between Alabama’s Barrett Jones and Wisconsin’s Travis Frederick as to who is the first center off the board. The Packers are on the short list of teams that project to make that call.

More tender and free agency news is soon to come. Keep your browser fixed to Lombardi Ave for breaking news and analysis.

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

Apr 26, 2012; New York, NY, USA; A general view of the 2012 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-USA TODAY Sports

The divisional-round edition of the FanSided 2013 NFL Mock Draft has been released.

The fine folks over at FanSided.com do a new mock draft every week right up until the actual draft in April, and while we at LombardiAve.com have the end of the regular season and playoffs to worry about, it’s just about the start of draft season for most teams. We Packer fans have our own opinions about what needs the Packers should try to fill using the 2013 draft. In this article we’ll explore some possibilities for the Packers first pick.

Draft positions will shuffle some the remainder of the season. Unfortunately, following the loss in San Francisco, the Packers are locked into a 26^th pick.

Jan 1, 2013; Pasadena, CA, USA; Stanford Cardinal tight end Zach Ertz (86) catches a pass over Wisconsin Badgers defensive back Dezmen Southward (12) in the first half during the 2013 Rose Bowl game at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports

According to FanSided, with the 26^th overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft, the Green Bay Packers select Zach Ertz, Tight End, Stanford

Analysis: Reports have indicated that the Packers are ready to move on from tight end Jermichael Finley, so they would need to find a replacement. Ertz is one of two tight ends that will grade out as first-round prospects. While Eifert may be the more dynamic passing threat, Ertz is the more well-rounded of the two prospects.

I’ve written for weeks about why the Packers won’t be investing valuable resources into the tight end position this offseason. For starters, it’s my prediction that despite rumors to the contrary, Jermichael Finley will be kept for the 2013 season. Even if Finley is out of the picture, Zach Ertz isn’t likely to end up in the Green and Gold. Ted Thompson has demonstrated time and time again that he will not reach in the draft just to pick a particular player or position. Ertz would indeed be such a reach.

Ertz’s greatest asset is his size. At 6-6 and 252, Ertz is a great red zone target as well as a decently developed blocker. However, he does not have Rob Gronkowski size, nor does he have Jimmy Graham speed. While Ertz is probably already a better blocker than Finley, it’s unlikely he’ll ever become Finley’s equal in the passing game. With Andrew Quarless coming back from the IR in 2013, the blocking Ertz could provide should already be there.

Jan 7, 2013; Miami, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide tackle Barrett Jones (75) in action against Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker Manti Te

As anyone who’s read this column knows, I am a major proponent of Alabama’s Barrett Jones. Neither Evan Dietrich-Smith or Jeff Saturday were ample replacements for the departed Scott Wells, and not even Wells possessed the size and power of Jones. For those clamoring for the Packers to draft a running back, drafting a player like Jones would address the running game as much or more than a new running back, not to mention help Aaron Rodgers stay upright. Jones can also play all five positions on the offensive line, meaning that if he practices well Jones could be fit in anywhere. Fansided had Jones still on the board when the Packers pick at 26.

Nov 23, 2012; Fayetteville, AR, USA; LSU Tigers safety Eric Reid (1) during the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. LSU defeated Arkansas 20-13. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

Another possibility we haven’t discussed is safety. Charles Woodson will be 37 next year, and at $10 million is likely to be asked to take a pay cut. While I suspect he’ll accept, Woodson could refuse and force the Packers’ hand. If that happens, the Packers could consider drafting a safety if the right one falls to them. I want to emphasis that last part again, because with the early success of Jerron McMillian and M.D. Jennings there isn’t a pressing need to draft a safety high. However, Fansided has LSU’s Eric Reid still on the board when the Packers draft. Over the past two years the biggest loss the Packers have endured, whether it be to free agency or injury, was Nick Collins. Collins provided both ball-hawking ability and a linebacker’s mentality as a tackler. Only Charles Woodson has that kind of ability and he won’t play for much longer. Reid could be the long-term answer at the position.

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

Sept 9, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers center Jeff Saturday (63) during the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

Ted Thompson and Mike McCarthy are bold, bold gamblers. While seemingly the whole world questions their decision to keep Mason Crosby as their kicker, the Green Bay Packers’ brain trust has made an even bolder move.

They’ve benched decorated veteran center Jeff Saturday.

Saturday was the only major veteran signing this offseason. Such is a rarity in the Thompson era, where aging veterans are shown the door in favor of younger, cheaper players like undrafted rookie free agents. Saturday’s replacement, Evan Dietrich-Smith, was one such player just a few years back.

As has been addressed before, this season is crucial for Dietrich-Smith. Saturday was only ever considered a one year band-aid for the Packers, and Dietrich-Smith has long been touted as the heir apparent. While his struggles this season at left guard were well documented, he is expected to perform much better at center, his natural position.

Dec 2, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers center Evan Dietrich-Smith (62) during the game against the Minnesota Vikings at Lambeau Field. The Packers defeated the Vikings 23-14. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

There’s reason to be skeptical of such a move, especially when it’s purely voluntary. The center is as integral as the quarterback reading defenses and spotting the Mike linebacker. For all of Saturday’s physical limitations, he possesses a sharp, conditioned football mind. Dietrich-Smith has impressed the coaches, but he’s never had the responsibilities of being the full time center.

Green Bay does have some success in this area, however. Much like Dietrich-Smith, Pro-Bowler Scott Wells was shifted around early in his career between center and guard. At one point, McCarthy even benched Wells for middling journeyman Jason Spitz. Eventually, Wells earned back the trust of the coaching staff and the respect of the league. He signed a lucrative five year deal to anchor the offensive line for St. Louis this offseason.

The coaches obviously believe Dietrich-Smith has that kind of potential. You don’t bench your starter for him otherwise. There are two games left in the regular season, and they both impact where the Packers will be seeded.

This is a big gamble for the Packers, one that’ll likely be dissected over and over the rest of the season.

Nov 25, 2012; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants defensive tackle Chris Canty (99) trips up Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-US PRESSWIRE

The most common mistake we make as football analysts is overreacting to the most recent game or event while ignoring longer trends. A week ago, the Saints were championed as one of the “hottest” teams in the league. Bandwagoners were quick to point out a three-game winning streak and only one loss over their last six. This, of course, ignored the Saints appalling first four games as well as their weak mid-season schedule.

Similarly, many of us (myself included) saw the Giants’ recent struggles and felt the Packers could take them in New York. We focused on the fact Eli Manning hadn’t thrown a touchdown pass in a month. We focused on their last two games, both losses. We focused on the “revenge” factor we assumed would motivate the Packers.

Yet we ignored what really mattered: the Packers’ struggles with physical defenses, the extra week of planning the Giants gained from their bye week, and most importantly, Green Bay’s propensity for allowing pressure on Aaron Rodgers.

After eleven weeks of play, the Packers have given up 37 sacks. Only the Cardinals, who’ve alternated between three subpar quarterbacks, have given up more. Currently the Packers are projected to give up just under 54 sacks for 2012, the second highest one year total in team history.

So, where’s the Band-Aid? What can the team do to solve its historically pathetic pass protection?

Option 1: Call Chad Clifton

Sep, 18, 2011; Charlotte, NC, USA; Green Bay Packers tackle Chad Clifton (76) on the sidelines in the fourth quarter. The Packers defeated the Panthers 30-23 at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-US PRESSWIRE

The most common suggestion from fans is for Ted Thompson to make a call to Chad Clifton and see if he’d like to pick up a few more game checks. As fans are wont to do, this campaign makes the misguided assumption that Chad Clifton can still play. Last year demonstrated beyond any doubt that Clifton’s illustrious playing career is over. Even before Clifton’s injury he struggled with physical pass rushers, the very same ones the Packers struggle with today. Clifton is now 36 years old and hasn’t played a snap since January. This is ultimately not a solution.

Option 2: Derek Sherrod

Unfortunately, Derek Sherrod has contributed little to the Packers since they selected him in the 2011 draft. Worse, he’s not going to contribute again anytime soon. By all accounts, Sherrod will be placed on season-ending injured reserve sometime this week.

Option 3: Play Don Barclay at Tackle or Greg Van Roten at Guard

Much like the axiom, “the most popular player is the backup quarterback,” fans have started to grumble about trying out one of the unknown rookie linemen. In one scenario, Greg Van Roten would take over for Evan Dietrich-Smith. In another, T.J. Lang would shift back to his usual left guard spot with Don Barclay filling in at right tackle. These are novel ideas, but both bad ones. While the Packers have previously found undrafted free agents capable of contributing right away, this is generally a rare occurrence. The reviews of these players during camp were mixed, and neither is considered more than a long term project. Maybe next year one of these two will find a way to contribute, but even that’s a shaky proposition.

Option 4: Give More Snaps to John Kuhn in Single Back Sets

Nov 20, 2011; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers fullback John Kuhn (30) during the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Lambeau Field. The Packers defeated the Buccaneers 35-26. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

John Kuhn has been Green Bay’s best back in pass protection all year. Using Kuhn more often in single back sets – whether Rodgers is under center or in the shotgun – should give an extra second of protection. Kuhn has also demonstrated ability as a pass catcher. However, there’s a reason the coaching staff hasn’t and won’t make this adjustment fulltime. Kuhn is a subpar runner. Because Kuhn does not have much burst, there’s only a limited number of gaps he can run towards. Other teams know this, and have managed their defenses accordingly. Playing Kuhn more in single back sets will give defenses more freedom to clog the middle of the line and drop their safeties back. The Packers will probably use Kuhn more in single back sets, but don’t expect it to become their regular offense.

Option 5: Throw from the Spread

Feb 6, 2011; Arlington, TX, USA; General view of Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) takes a snap from the shotgun formation at midfield during Super Bowl XLV against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Cowboys Stadium. The Packers defeated the Steelers 31-25. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-US PRESSWIRE

Rodgers has maintained that when the Packers put four or five receivers on the field, it gives them an advantage over any defensive backfield in the league. He’s right, but the drawback is the offensive line isn’t giving Rodgers much time to pass. Quick throws out of spread formations give the Packers a chance to get the ball in the hands of their playmakers against subpar defensive backs. In fact, the Packers have gone to this more and more the past two weeks with Cobb serving as the main beneficiary. This is what the Packers used to subsidize the run game in 2010 and 2011 and everyone knows how that worked out. This is another partial solution, but probably the most practical.

It’s important to remember that Mike McCarthy has been able to make major in-season adjustments before, and he’s likely to figure something out again. The last two weeks featured two of the best defensive fronts Green Bay will face all year. The Packers need to produce better protection. They’ve struggled with it all year. However, it’s incredibly premature to discount the Packers because of what’s happened the past few weeks. The Packers have given up 50+ sacks before during the Rodgers-McCarthy era and made the playoffs. They should be able to do that again this year.

Neither Clay Matthews nor Desmond Bishop will play a role in the Packers defense this Sunday as Green Bay throws a much different defense onto the field against the Giants. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Each week the tendency for Green Bay Packers fans is put Aaron Rodgers front and center – easy to do, considering the television producers and directors make that easy for Packers Nation.

But there are other Packers players who have a huge impact on the outcome of every game.

We’ll concede that we will again be watching Rodgers with great interest, but let’s consider some of the other Packers players who could make a big splash Sunday night when the Packers play the New York Giants.

Here are the players I feel will be of importance Sunday:

James Starks. Matthew Emmons-US PRESSWIRE

• James Starks: The Packers running back who made it back on the field in a big way in last weekend’s win at Detroit, Starks will be given the ball in an attempt to soften the Giants’ defensive line and slow the pass rush that has caused Rodgers problems in the past. Whether Starks is the guy Sunday or whether the Packers also try to platoon him with Alex Green, it will be Starks who must be watched. If he can hit the 4-yard-per-carry mark, his job will be done. Not only will that give Rodgers time to throw, but it will also open things up for Green in the open field with quick pitches, screens and checkdowns over the middle.

Packers guard Evan Dietrich-Smith. Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

• Evan Dietrich-Smith and T.J. Lang: Last week these two offensive linemen played for the first full game without right tackle Bryan Bulaga. Going against a Giants’ defensive line that has historically caused Aaron Rodgers problems, these two players have to hold their own. If they don’t and Rodgers takes a beating, it will be difficult for the Packers to win. They struggled at times last week and will have to play at a higher level this week to be effective.

Randall Cobb.
Andrew Weber-US PRESSWIRE

• Randall Cobb: The Packers’s second year rising star has continually caused defenses difficulties and how McCarthy has designed plays specifically for this special talent is impressive. I’m still waiting for the surprise reverse play to Cobb for big yards. That’s just about the only way the Packers haven’t utilized him. Rodgers is relying more on Cobb for the big play and I don’t expect that to change this week.

Davon House.
Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

• Packers defensive backfield versus Giants wide receivers: The youngsters filling the Packers defensive backfield (Hayward, McMillian, House) have been aggressive, intimidating and consistent as they continue to fill in for the likes of Charles Woodson and Sam Shields. Throw in Morgan Burnett and Tramon Williams to that mix and you’ve got a group of defenders who should compete well with the Giants receivers. The Giants will be facing a different defense than they saw back in January, but it’s different to Packers players and coaches, too. How they respond in this big conference game will tell us a lot about their potential to be playing come Playoffs time.

Dezman Moses.
Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

• Dezman Moses and Frank Zombo: Filling in for the injured Clay Matthews isn’t an easy task, but Moses did quite well last week. The undrafted rookie brings outside speed and strength to the field. The coaching staff says they are going to try to work Zombo back into the rotation, too.

How he responds will be important to his future as well as that of the team. Whichever is on the field at any given time has to show a presence for the Packers to have a chance.

Mason Crosby.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

• Mason Crosby: Need I say more? Maybe it’s time to turn the beer labels out for this guy. There’s got to be some kind of invisible force that’s working against him. He’s always been far from perfect, but he’s got the leg strength to hit those 45-yarders in December. It’s a wonder why he’s missing all those kicks indoors and under perfect conditions. December will be very important to his future with the team and the watching will be intense continuing this Sunday night.

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Dec 25, 2011; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers guard Evan Dietrich-Smith (62) during the game against the Chicago Bears at Lambeau Field. The Packers defeated the Bears 35-21. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

With the news that the Green Bay Packers will be without the services of starting right tackle Bryan Bulaga, opportunity has come knocking for a once unknown and unwanted backup lineman.

Evan Dietrich-Smith, an undrafted rookie in 2009 and twice released by NFL teams, has just been handed a seven week window to show the Packers – and perhaps the entire NFL – that he belongs. More importantly, he has the chance to prove he belongs in the starting lineup.

Barring injury, Dietrich-Smith should spend the remainder of the 2012 season stationed at left guard. This, however, may not be where his future lies. While Dietrich-Smith’s greatest asset to the Packers has been his versatility, the team may soon discover that the heir to Jeff Saturday already resides on their roster. If that were to happen, it would be a remarkable story and an even more remarkable surprise.

During the 2010 preseason, Dietrich-Smith was unable to beat out Nick McDonald – himself an undrafted rookie that year – for the final offensive line spot despite a full year on the active roster. The linemen-starved Seahawks picked him up only to release him that October. It appeared that in less than two years, Dietrich-Smith was already on his way out of the league.

Here’s where the story gets interesting. On New Year’s Eve 2010, the Packers were forced to put tackle Marshall Newhouse on injured reserve, opening up a spot for an offensive lineman on their 53 man roster. Dietrich-Smith, being both highly versatile and familiar with the Packers’ zone blocking scheme, was granted one more shot with the club.

While he was merely a ride-along on the Packers miracle Super Bowl run, Dietrich-Smith’s late season signing ensured him the inside track to make the team in 2011. He did just that, starting three games on top of occasional injury substitution duty.

Nov 24, 2011; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh (90) stomps on Green Bay Packers offensive guard Evan Dietrich-Smith (62) after the play. Suh was ejected from the game during the third quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-US PRESSWIRE

While playing for hobbled right guard Josh Sitton during a Thanksgiving matchup with Detroit, Dietrich-Smith unwittingly made headlines when he became the target of Ndamukong Suh’s right cleat. The event overshadowed the progress Dietrich-Smith made since returning to the club. While he still struggled with consistency, the Packers did not have to make major adjustments to account for him.

As we documented last month, the Packers backed themselves into a corner with their lack of depth along the offensive line. While Dietrich-Smith has improved greatly since returning and the play calling hasn’t been substantially altered by his presence, he’s still a largely untested commodity in charge of protecting the league’s most valuable player. Should Dietrich-Smith get knocked back at the point of attack or fail to pick up a blitzing linebacker, Aaron Rodgers could be left immobilized on the turf.

A similarly grim reality comes into view should Dietrich-Smith prove incapable or get hurt. The in-house replacement options are all undrafted rookies, one of which didn’t even make the 53 coming out of preseason.

Consequently, it’s imperative that Dietrich-Smith hold steady at left guard and remain healthy. If he can stabilize the offensive line, he could be looking at a new contract and the starting center position heading into 2013.

Greg Jennings' loss will give others an opportunity.

All the talk yesterday was about the loss of Greg Jennings … certainly a blow to the undefeated Green Bay Packers. It’s difficult to lose the top yards producer from the lineup and not be concerned.

However, there are two bits of information that everyone seems to be overlooking … first, the Packers are built to absorb this type of loss and secondly, the silver lining is that two other players, Chad Clifton and Josh Sitton, are nearing comebacks.

With Jennings’ loss, the Packers have lost a dynamic individual. Not only does he produce on the field, but he’s the soul of the team, the spiritual leader who not only guides by example, but is an inspiration to all.

That’s not replaceable.

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

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Ndamukong Suh is reported to have been suspended for two games, pending possible appeal.

We all knew the punishment for Ndamukong Suh was coming. Some speculated as heavy of a penalty as suspension for the remainder of the season for his stomping of Green Bay Packers right guard Evan Dietrich-Smith in the Thanksgiving Day game won by the Packers.

We suspected, as did many others, that it would be at least a couple of games.

The two-game suspension is what is being reported.

While Suh has three days to file an appeal for the suspension of two games, we certainly hope he doesn’t. The entire world knows what he did and no matter how many attorneys and no matter how much he apologizes, it’s not going to change the perception that he is a bully and a dirty player.

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Desmond Bishop and AJ Hawk both missed the second half of Thursday's game ... but their absence was covered by DJ Smith and Robert Francois.

The Packers have their detractors … i.e., Skip Bayless among them. But screw them – the Green Bay Packers are, despite their glaring foibles,  undefeated for many reasons, one of which is depth.

On Thursday, the Packers and the Lions were hit with injuries … injuries to important players at key positions.

But because of Mike McCarthy’s luxury to plug in players that simply step in and continue to carry out the game plan, the Packers don’t seem to miss a beat.

Consider Evan Dietrich-Smith, who took over at right guard when Josh Sitton went down in the first half with a knee injury. Not only did he have the unenviable task of matching up with Ndamukong Suh, but he had to hold his own in a complex offense in which he has had no snaps with the first team at that position in game situations. Sitton didn’t miss a snap in 2009 or 2010.

Not only did he frustrate Suh enough to cause the all-pro to lose his head and get thrown out of the game, but he played well enough to help the Packers move on to 11-0.

As did D.J. Smith and Robert Francois as the Packers lost both inside linebackers, A.J. Hawk an Desmond Bishop. Both Smith and Francois made contributions on defense – Smith for his bone-jarring hits and Francois for his efforts against the pass and his huge interception of Matthew Stafford where he reached as high as he could to pull down a pass over the middle.

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