Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Green Bay Packers fans are a special breed. We are loyal, ferocious in our appetite for everything related to the team, and generally have a pretty high football IQ.

Being a Packers fan is not a passive endeavor, it is a year-round commitment. Packers fans are known nationally for the Cheesehead, beer and of course brats, cold weather and commitment. The question I have been grappling with lately is how does this come about, this becoming and remaining a Packers fan?

Whether we realize it or not, and most likely we do, there is an esteem that comes with being a Packers fan. After all, the Green Bay Packers are America’s Team. Sorry Dallas, but there is a difference between simply proclaiming to be America’s Team and earning the title. And the Packers did so in a landslide.

It could be the team’s history. Established in 1919 the Packers have been around for 94 years. The fact that an NFL team exists in a town of 105,000 people is a good story, as is it being a community-owned team. Furthermore, if the team were ever sold after all expenses were paid the proceeds would go to the Sullivan Post of the American Legion to build a “proper soldiers memorial.” I mean how much more “down home” can it get?

To top it all off, the Green Bay Packers are a winning organization. Thirteen championships – more than any other NFL team. This “Titletown” thing is no joke. Having amassed four Super Bowl victories and nine championships before the Super Bowl era began in 1967.

Wikipedia, Gonzo fan 2007

The Packers have guys who are Legendary, players and coaches who are household names around the country. When you hear names like Don Hutson, Curly Lambeau, Vince Lombardi, Bart Starr, Paul Horning, Jerry Kramer, Ray Nitchske, Brett Favre, Reggie White, and Leroy Butler you think of the Green and Gld. Despite the gap between the Lombardi era and the Brett Favre teams you also think of winning, and dedicated fans leading the way.

I grew up in Wisconsin in Plymouth, a small town about an hour south of Green Bay. I don’t recall the moment I pledged to become a Packers fan. It seems like that’s just the way it is, kind of like the fact that I am Irish. But I do recall traditions. Things like cheese and crackers, Sunday afternoons and games begin at noon, my parents pouring themselves a cold one, throwing the football at halftime, and since I was reared as a Packers fan in the 1980s a lot of cussing and swearing.

Erin Carroll, independent

Currently I reside in Portland, Ore., a city of 500,000 people in a metro area of 2.2 million. In an area that is by no means a metropolis, there are three bars in which every Sunday during the NFL season become Packers bars. I frequent a bar called Saraveza, a place modeled after a classic Wisconsin tavern. Games start here on the west coast at 10 a.m. By 9:30 a. m. there is a line down the street. For the three hours spent there I am transported back to Wisconsin. It is a dedicated collection of fans and the traditions do not miss a beat. It feels like home.

I am curious, Packers nation – why and how did you become a Packers fan. What are your traditions? And how did we become so rabid for the Green Bay Packers. Please, share your comments. Post to the Lombardiave.com Facebook page, tweet me @phughespdx, if it’s a long story, I’ll give you my email address when you tweet. Let me know, I want to hear your stories about your relationship to America’s Team.

With that said, Go Pack Go!

In addition to blogging about the Green Bay Packers for Lombardiave.com, Patrick Hughes blogs about gardening at wheelandbarrowlandscape.com, running and the Portland Trailblazers at Oregon Sports News, and artisans and the connection economy at phughespdx.com.

We’re pretty sure Aaron Rodgers won’t be disappointed when he doesn’t have to face this situation.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Brian Urlacher retired this week – yes, with the Chicago Bears – and the NFC North may be less another of its aging defensive stars within the year if the Minnesota Vikings don’t find a way to sign defensive end Jared Allen.

Scheduled to make $14.3 million in the final year of his contract, Allen told Dan Wiederer of The Star Tribune recently that he has had no talks with Vikings brass and isn’t interested in talking in public about his “business.”

Just ask Aaron Rodgers about Urlacher – he will tell you he respected the hell out of him, but is smiling behind those words knowing he won’t have to look into his eyes anymore from across the line of scrimmage. We’re sure Rodgers would feel the same of Allen, the defensive end who has caused all sorts of problems over the years for the Green Bay Packers – and the teams in the rest of the league.

So, when Allen said this week that he and the Vikings hadn’t talked, that’s one step in the direction of Allen leaving Minnesota. Would Allen consider restructuring a deal or signing a cap-friendly contract that would keep him in the land of 10,000 Lakes? That remains to be seen, but we’ve also witnessed how defensive players older than 30 have been treated by teams considering their services. Just ask Urlacher. Just ask Charles Woodson. Just ask John Abraham.

Jared Allen likes to talk, but if someone mentions the word “restructure” to him he said he would be the first one out the door.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Here’s what Allen had to say about the future prospects:

“You use the word ‘restructure,’ and that — to me — makes it feel like they’d want me to take a pay cut. And if anybody asked me to take a pay cut, I’d be through the first door out of there. So, no. We haven’t talked one iota. It is what it is.”

“We’re going to go about our business and play good ball and try to win a Super Bowl. And … the business stuff? We take care of that in the offseason. I have people to do that. That’s why I don’t get into it. You’re not going to hear it from me. I won’t complain. I go about my business.”

Sounds to me that Allen is positioning himself for his final professional football contract … one that most likely won’t be signed in Minnesota.

Photo courtesy of sportspickle.com

You may have heard … or maybe you didn’t … but if you didn’t … you should have heard that Brian Urlacher retired … as a member of the Green Bay Packers.

What is that you say?

Did I read that right?

Yes, you did. And if you believe it, you might just want to read more from the Sports Pickle.

Their post yesterday that outlines in great detail Urlacher signing a one-day contract with the Packers so he could “go out a winner” – is a winner. You will smile, you will laugh – heck, you might laugh out loud – and rightfully so.

Of course, none of it is true, but does raise an interesting question about the frustrations a great player who didn’t always play on a good team might face at the end of their career. Would they even consider switching allegiances – well, no – but maybe they should.

Being a Bears fans has been hard enough for those folks south of the Wisconsin border (and for those poor souls who follow the team and live north of the border). This piece only rubs salt into the wounds. They’ve already got to live with the fact that Urlacher’s teams, no matter how great of a career he had – were just kinda crappy.

I could certainly understand just how easily Urlacher could come over from the dark side.

And for one fleeting moment, that happens with this piece.

What’s even better is how this piece concludes and brings Jay Cutler into the equation. Reading from beginning to end is well worth the two minutes.

Click on over and like it.

Yesterday Rodgers appeared on the “Jim Rome Show” and made it known in no uncertain terms that he wanted Brett Favre accepted back into the Green Bay Packers family for good. He showed once again, like any good man would, that he holds no ill will toward Favre. That is despite having the longtime Packers quarterback attempt to get his job back after he retired for the first time. When the Packers stood behind Rodgers and told Favre that they were moving on, Rodgers took the high road. He was blunt at the time, but understood that he, too, had to make it clear he was the guy who would lead the Packers from that day on out.

We all know how it turned out. Favre was traded to the Jets, played a season, retired, and unretired once more to join the Vikings in 2009. His revenge against the team that sent him packing was severe – he beat the Packers twice that year and nearly led the Vikings to the Super Bowl. The tables turned in 2010 when Favre was talked into playing one more year with the Vikings. His demise was significant as the Packers beat the Vikings twice en route to a Super Bowl win.

Through it all, Rodgers tended to business and didn’t show animosity toward his former teammate.

Packers President Mark Murphy came out again Tuesday saying the Packers want Brett Favre back in the “family.”
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Taking the high road once again, Rodgers took us another step toward peace and acceptance with Favre. Packers President Mark Murphy told fans on the Packers Tailgate Tour that he wanted Favre back and Rodgers followed that up yesterday by saying this:

“It’s been too long. I think our country and the state of Wisconsin, these people are people of second, third and fourth chances, and I think it’s time to let the healing process begin for those who are still upset about what went down.

“I was totally OK with being out front of that, and I’m very secure of the things I’ve been able to accomplish with the team and individually here in Green Bay, and excited about the chance to see him again and get his number retired here before he goes into Canton,” Rodgers said.

If that doesn’t give us a clear picture of how he feels, nothing will.

But that’s not all. Rodgers again showed us that when he talks, people listen – and for good reason.

Longtime Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher retired yesterday after 13 years of blowing up running backs and destroying offensive schemes. Though his success against the Green Bay Packers wasn’t the greatest, he had some of his best games against he and his team’s arch-rival.

Rodgers saw many of those games, and understood what the guy meant to the game.

Here’s what he had to say about Urlacher:

Brian Urlacher was a Packer killer for 13 seasons. We’re happy he had such a great career and yes, we will miss him – especially all those wins the Packers had over him and his Chicago Bears teams.
Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports photograph

“I want to congratulate Brian on a tremendous career. We have had our share of battles amid what is in my opinion the league’s greatest rivalry, but I’ll always have the utmost respect for his professionalism and the way he played the game. He was a complete player on the field and a really good guy off of it. And while I won’t miss him making plays against us, I will miss the interaction with him during games and the challenges he presented to us in our preparation that forced us to raise our level of play. You think about the lineage of players who have played that position for that team: Butkus, Singletary, Urlacher. It’s an incredible list and is truly beyond any comparison. Brian was the ultimate competitor, leader, and a no-doubt Hall of Famer, and I want to wish him the absolute best in whatever he chooses to go on and do.”

Again, Rodgers knows a leader when he sees one … because he is one.

When he talks, people listen. They follow.

Is there any wonder the guy has won a Super Bowl, was a Super Bowl MVP and continues to direct the Green Bay Packers as the highest paid player in the NFL?

Aaron Rodgers. Leader. Listen. Follow.

The start of Green Bay Packers OTAs seemed very upbeat this year. Mary Langenfeld-USA TODAY Sports photograph

The start of Green Bay Packers OTA practice seemed quite upbeat and light hearted this week. The overall impression that I got from the team  was that everyone was genuinely having a good time.

Here are a few observations on my part.

I know it’s only May and by no means am I saying this is a sure thing but having attended the Packers first public practice Wednesday I couldn’t help but notice Mike Neal taking reps at outside linebacker.  At this point, I can all but assure readers this is merely an experimental move but it does at least have me thinking, what if?

First things first: Neal is still a monster of a man. To be effective at outside backer in a 3-4 I’m certian he would have to shed some weight and become quicker off the edge. After watching a few snaps, you can tell playing without a hand in the ground is somewhat foreign to him at this point. Once again probably more of an experiment but an intriguing “what if” if nothing else.

I liked what i saw from David Bakhtiari. Rookies are really easy to find especially this early in the season. They seem to always line up slightly off or aren’t quite where they need to be but while he was becoming acquainted as practice proceeded, Bakhtiari showed he could at least hang in there with the rest. His agility was impressive during lateral movement drills and his first step was very quick. He does look somewhat “dwarfed” by the likes of T.J. Lang, Josh Sitton and Marshall Newhouse lined up beside him, but don’t forget he’s still a young kid and will certainly add more size and strength the next few years. Derek Sherrod was at least on the field, but still not taking part in drills.

Then there was the special teams session that still featured Randall Cobb returning punts. As last season wore on, many fans were starting to realize how important Cobb was to the offense and questioning whether or not it was necessary to have him return punts also. He certainly took a few good licks. Jordy Nelson and Tramon Williams were also returning. It would be nice if punt returners didn’t play such a vital roles on both sides of the ball. Personally, I wouldn’t mind seeing a Loyce Means as a returner to help keep more pertinent players healthy.

Finally, autographs from players included A.J. Hawk, Datone Jones, and Desmond Bishop, to name a few. I just want to give these guys a big shout-out and thank you for stopping by to sign a few after practice. By no means do they have to sign a thing, but when they do, it’s something truly special. As fans, sometimes we forget these players are as much of a human being as we are and also have lives off the field very similar to ours – kids to pick up from school, wives to go home to, and are tired after a day at work, they just want to go home and relax the same way we all do.

SO what say you Packers Nation? Any thoughts on these early season observations? Lets hear it!

Aaron Rodgers Rocking the mullet.

Recent memory and success has had our favorite Green Bay Packers players spread across anything dealing with contemporary culture.

However, these select players featured below have kept these appearances and interests under the radar and break from the norm.

Shall we begin?

Aaron Rodgers has obviously been the most prominent face in modern football iconography, gracing multiple publications and commercials. Seldom mentioned is the involvement in his own record company, Suspended Sunrise. An avid music lover, Rodgers has used the same passion on the gridiron to the studio, by producing music videos for his acts.

Released in 2011, Aaron Rodgers appeared in, “Get It,” by his label’s band, The Make. With a “Big Lebowski” bowling theme, Rodgers makes an appearance true to the MVP’s patented humor. Jared Allen must be jealous from the exquisite execution of the mullet.

Keep an eye out for QB from 3:08 to 3:10.

Looking at Center Evan Dietrich-Smith, and the initial impression may bring shutters when exposed to the vast array of skeleton tattoos adoring both arms. Yet if Smith lifts his right arm, a little personality flows through with one particular tattoo on his bicep.

Scribed in his skin is a film-buff’s Easter egg, with a skull and two eyes peering from the cryptic skeleton. This logo comes form the cult classic , “Evil Dead 2″, which details a man’s horrific and comical adventure against demons in a secluded cabin.

Still intimidating? I think so.

Marshall Newhouse may be known as the TCU standout, who filled in for the Packers at the left tackle position. What many people may not know is that while Newhouse pummels opponents into the turf, he would rather let them, “live long and prosper.”

A Trekker (correct term for the Star Trek fan community), Newhouse has kept his over 27,000 followers on Twitter, in on his love of the final frontier.

[drops intensely made sandwich] …”KHAAAAAANNNNNN!!”

— Marshall Newhouse (@MNewhouse74) May 17, 2013

For anyone who has not seen the seminal 80s classic, “Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan” the reference to a line humorously delivered by William Shatner’s, Captain Kirk. In Newhouse’s case, his sandwich was the receiver of his rage, and hopefully the new competition of this season will, “bury them alive.”

Though he might never get the chance to play his idol, Batman, Ahman Green has kept busy since his last season in 2011. Expanding his horizon, Green was able to use his work ethic on the field and translate it to the Adam Sandler produced, “Big Stan.”

Green’s talents may have been better suited in a film like “The Longest yard” where he took the role as a prison inmate alongside “Grown Ups” star Rob Schneider. Though the film was released straight to video, Green can stiff-arm some of these early roles into big runs in the future.

What is some of your favorite Packers player appearance/interests in media?

Send your findings to our Twitter and Facebook pages!

Brian Urlacher was a Packer killer for 13 seasons. We’re happy he had such a great career and yes, we will miss him – especially all those wins the Packers had over him and his Chicago Bears teams.
Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports photograph

After 13 seasons of manning the middle of the field and blowing up backfields across the National Football League, Chicago Bears linebacker extraordinaire Brian Urlacher has called it quits.

Like longtime Green Bay Packer Charles Woodson, Urlacher has been waiting for a team to call for his services this offseason. Woodson signed with the Oakland Raiders yesterday, but after his prolonged wait, Urlacher decided today it was time.

Here’s the statement Urlacher released this morning:

“After spending a lot of time this spring thinking about my NFL future, I have made the decision to retire. Although I could continue playing, I’m not sure I would bring a level of performance or passion that’s up to my standards. When considering this, along with the fact that I could retire after 13-year career wearing only one jersey for such a storied franchise, my decision became pretty clear.

“I want to thank all the people in my life that have help me along the way,” Urlacher continued. “I will miss my teammates, my coaches, and the great Bears fans. I’m proud to say that I gave all of you everything I had every time I took the field. I will miss the great game, but I leave with no regrets.”

So, as Packers fans, we here at Lombardiave.com congratulate Urlacher on an incredible career and oddly enough, we will miss him. For every single of those 13 years, Urlacher has been a Packer killer. Some of the biggest plays in his career have come against the Bears’ arch-rival Green Bay.

In addition to the interception Urlacher returned a bazillion yards against Brett Favre in 2007, there are two other plays that stand out … the first was on Sept. 17, 2004, when he stripped Ahman Green in the backfield on the 3-yard line and then leveled Brett Favre with a block that led to a touchdown return by Mike Browns; the second was when he intercepted Aaron Rodgers at the goal line in the 2010 NFC Championship Game that he returned to midfield before being tripped up by Rodger in a touchdown-saving and possibly game-saving tackle.

Yes, we will miss Urlacher, but wish him the best in the years to come. He was a great competitor and represented Chicago well.

Here’s Urlacher’s interception of Aaron Rodgers … just for old-time’s sake:

Former Green Bay Packers strong safety Charles Woodson is all smiles today. Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

With the announcement that Charles Woodson signed with the Oakland Raiders today, the outpouring of sentiments was strong, both good and bad – especially on Twitter tonight.

With that in mind, we’ve put together some of the tweets to and about Woodson for your review.

We hope for the best, Sir Charles. Others, but not all, do too.

Here’s a sampling:

Nicely done! #broncos Report: Raiders Sign Charles Woodson to 1-Year Deal (via ble.ac/teamstream) bleacherreport.com/articles/15577…

— Randy Dissler (@ThaDizz09) May 22, 2013

Lol Charles Woodson is a dumbass. Lets sign with probably the worst team in the nfl.

— Brandon S. (@xPAYDIRTx) May 22, 2013

“@sportsnation: Charles Woodson is BACK in the Raider silver and black! twitter.com/SportsNation/s…” should’ve won a SB but no, tuck rule…

— Faiza Abdi (@thefaiza25) May 22, 2013

“@saucebossjosh: RAIDERS GOT CHARLES WOODSON BACK OMG IM SO HAPPY” really?!

— Jacob Outland (@Jacob_Outland_) May 22, 2013

Nooooo! Chuck! say it ain’t so! RT: @raiders: The Oakland Raiders have signed free agent defensive back Charles Woodson.

— Vince Vitrano (@vincevitrano) May 22, 2013

RT @raiders: The Raiders fans still at headquarters for the Charles Woodson announcement. #RaiderNation #dedication twitter.com/RAIDERS/status…

— ANTHONY DORSETT, JR. (@DORSETTJR) May 22, 2013

Peyton Manning is gonna have a field day making Charles Woodson look like a bum this season

— Kevin Brown (@PlayaKB) May 22, 2013

HAHAHAHA at Broncos fans thought they were getting Charles Woodson! Y’all know where his heart be!

— Mr. Frankie P. (@frankiep2096) May 22, 2013

I’m gon cryyyyyy RT @sportsnation: Charles Woodson is BACK in the Raider silver and black! twitter.com/SportsNation/s…

— Young Savage (@Rogue2Riches) May 22, 2013

I like Charles Woodson, I wanted to see him make one more run at a ring. Too bad he signed with the #Raiders.

— steveparkhurst (@SteveParkhurst) May 22, 2013

I like Charles Woodson with the Raiders both from storybook perspective as a viewer. For him, though, why not a contender? Broncos?

— Megan Armstrong (@meganKarmstrong) May 22, 2013

There it is RT @raiders: The Oakland Raiders have signed free agent defensive back Charles Woodson. twitter.com/RAIDERS/status…

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 22, 2013

Congrats Wood! RT @jayglazer: Charles Woodson is returning to the Raiders. He’s agreed to a one-year deal

— Donald Driver (@Donald_Driver80) May 22, 2013

Charles Woodson greets fans at fence, holding up a #Raiders jersey. Does that mean anything? (photo: @kevinprofit_c ) twitter.com/goldenbaysport…

— Golden Gate Sports (@goldenbaysports) May 21, 2013

Madness. RT @victafur: Charles Woodson arrived at #Raiders HQ with a big smile. twitter.com/VicTafur/statu…

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 21, 2013

After three months of inaction, frustration and sitting around waiting for the phone to ring, former Green Bay Packers CB/S Charles Woodson is heading back to the team with which he started his pro career – the Oakland Raiders.

NFL.com’s Ian Rappaport reported the details of the deal:

On Charles Woodson’s new deal with #Raiders: I’m told it’s for one year. $4.3M max. $1M base. A win-win.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 22, 2013

Woodson, who was selected in the first round of the 1998 NFL Draft by the Raiders, spent the first eight years of his career with the team and appeared in one Super Bowl. However, it wasn’t until he arrived in Green Bay in 2006 that he found real success. He was named the defensive player of the year in 2009 and followed that up with a championship with Green Bay in 2010.

However, Woodson’s career in Titletown started to slide when he broke his collarbone in Super Bowl XLV and then broke it again last season, causing him to miss nine games.

When the Packers had to decide on whether to pay him $9 million to keep him around in 2013, the team waived Woodson and his contract. Woodson received little interest between February and last week. Though he visited the San Francisco 49ers last month, that was about the only interest he received until last week. That’s when he was invited to visit the Denver Broncos, but left that visit without a contract. His agent said before that visit that the Raiders already had a contract offer on the table. When Woodson visited the Raiders today, he signed, ending his search.

Woodson insisted earlier that he wanted to go to a contender. Maybe he feels the Raiders are that team. We’re not so sure, but we’re glad that a great player like Woodson doesn’t have to sit around waiting for someone to call.

As Packers fans who appreciate all he has given the franchise, we wish him the best.

Brian invited me onto his show yesterday and we had a great time for a little more than 10 minutes talking about the Packers just before the team started their OTAs.

On the agenda for discussion were the topics of James Starks and Mason Crosby and what their futures with the Packers looked like; which training camp position battles should be the most compelling to watch; which rookie will be the most fun to watch; and just for good measure because his name alway comes up in discussion, we talked a bit about Brett Favre and when the Packers will look at bringing him back to retire his number and honor him as a member of the Packers family.

Frankly, I’ll talk Packers with just about anyone who will listen, so when Brian invited me onto his show, I was not only honored, but really excited to talk with a live person about the team we all know and love.

And you can probably tell through the podcast that this was a great opportunity not only to plug this website, but to hang out and talk Packers.

Click on over and check it out. I thank you for doing so …

Bryan Bulaga is ready …

One day into the Green Bay Packers Organized Team Activities – a session that was open to the public today – was successful head coach Mike McCarthy said, but like every season and every team, injury has already taken a toll.

McCarthy reported in a post-practice interview this afternoon that rookie J.C. Tretter, a rookie offensive linemen drafted this spring, was hurt yesterday and will miss all of the OTAs. However, as per the team’s policy, he said, that’s the only information he provided. He did say that Tretter was “going through the medical process,” but didn’t elaborate on his status or when he would be ready to play again or even if he would be ready at all to play this season.

In all, McCarthy spoke for about 10-15 minutes about topics ranging from the offensive line, defensive linemen, the situation at safety and even about the tragedy in Oklahoma.

But the focus was football.

“It was a whole different level of practice,” McCarthy said about the first time on the field with his team this spring. “It was a little disjointed … the energy level was great …  feel real good on where we are,” he added.

In addition to talking about the flip-flop of players on the offensive line, McCarthy was also upbeat about OT Bryan Bulaga, saying, “Bryan Bulaga looks good. He would tell you that he felt he could have played sometime later in the season, but there was path of rehab that was the best for him.” That said, McCarthy also reiterated his reasons for making the personnel moves on the O-line – the biggest being that he wants to better protect quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

For the beat writers who attended the practices and press conference, here are some of their tweets they left along the way:

McCarthy: Today 2nd day of phase 3 of offseason program, 2nd practice. 1st day able to do team drills. Yesterday worked on fundamentals.

— Mike Vandermause (@MikeVandermause) May 21, 2013

J.C. Tretter was injured yesterday. Will not be available for OTAs at all. #Packers

— Paul Imig (@Paulimig) May 21, 2013

MM on rookies: I thought today was typical of the first time the team takes the field. A little disjointed but tempo was great.

— Brian Carriveau (@BrianCarriveau) May 21, 2013

McCarthy: said the rookie orientation camp was one of the best. Switch with Bulaga and Sitton, they’re excited about the challenge

— Lori Nickel (@LoriNickel) May 21, 2013

McCarthy: Bryan Bulaga has been here the whole offseason rehabbing his hip injury. He looks great. BB is our best tackle.

— Lori Nickel (@LoriNickel) May 21, 2013

MM: I’m going to expand Mike Neal’s role.

— Zach Kruse (@zachkruse2) May 21, 2013

McCarthy: on finding the best RT, he would love to settle that now but not realistic. “But we have to get them all ready.”

— Lori Nickel (@LoriNickel) May 21, 2013

MM: Bishop, Sherrod, House would like to see those guys out there. To rank them, Bishop, House, Sherrod in terms of when coming back.

— Mike Vandermause (@MikeVandermause) May 21, 2013

MM: Shields is young player. Wish Sam was here. He’s not here, he can answer specific reasons. So it’s about opp to compete.

— Mike Vandermause (@MikeVandermause) May 21, 2013

MM on safeties: You look at how much M.D. and McMillian played last year, you’re looking for them to make a jump.

— Brian Carriveau (@BrianCarriveau) May 21, 2013

McCarthy on Johnny Jolly: When his process is completed, I will talk about him.

— Lori Nickel (@LoriNickel) May 21, 2013

MM: Oklahoma tornados hit home, having lived in KC. Living in that part of country, you have to be aware. My heart goes out to families.

— Mike Vandermause (@MikeVandermause) May 21, 2013

M.D. Jennings … will he be the Packers’ starting safety opposite Morgan Burnett? Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports photograph

The NFL offseason can feel like the barren desert following the peak of free agency and the conclusion of the NFL draft.

Many dedicated fans try to appease their NFL cravings with Major League ballparks or even the NBA playoffs, but nothing can quite satisfy the football cravings.

Green Bay Packers fans should be careful that the middle of the offseason does not lull them to sleep. It is in these weeks of OTAs and the coming training camps that some of the best roster stories are born. The Lombardiave.com staff is committed to keeping you posted as these stories emerge and as the 2013 Green Bay Packers roster takes shape.

So, Packers fans, here is the first of many developing stories to keep your eye on.

Who will emerge at safety?
Obviously, Morgan Burnett is a lock to start in the secondary. Who will start opposite him is a another matter. Many were surprised that Ted Thompson did not select a safety in this year’s draft. I was not one of those people. If you take a careful look at the Packers’ pre-draft scouting, it showed that they were not aggressively pursuing the safety position. In fact, none of the players that the Packers met with at the Combine, personal workouts, and pro days played the safety position exclusively.

Green Bay has Jerron McMillian and M.D. Jennings already in-house and it seems that they will spend the coming weeks competing for the other starting safety position. These two both showed potential last season and must have done enough to gain the confidence of the coaching staff. It will be interesting to see which of these two flashes enough to earn a starting gig on a Packers’ defense – a unit that is attempting to rebrand itself with toughness and physicality.

It is difficult to predict which of these two comes out on top. Both are adequate in pass coverage, while McMillian seems to have more upside against the run. However, the Packers gave more playing time to Jennings in crunch time – specifically, in the playoffs.

Jerron McMillian will fight for the Packers strong safety position.Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports photograph

Other players who could factor into the competition are Sean Richardson, an undrafted player with good size and speed out of Vanderbilt. He has shown promise, but spent last year battling a neck injury. Green Bay did not draft a safety in 2013, but they did draft one who has experience at the position.

Micah Hyde
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Micah Hyde spent time at safety during his collegiate career at Iowa. While it sounds like the Packers plan to keep him at corner, some believe he could be a natural fit at safety. Given the unexpected in camp (and we usually do experience the unexpected) Hyde could be called on to add to the safety competition. This is certainly a long shot, but heck, it could happen.

Every good drama requires tension that requires resolution. The Packers offseason will be filled with such stories. The competition at the safety spot will be just one that draws attention. Let’s hope we see the best in those few players and that one will rise to the occasion.

Who do you think will be “the one?”

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith (89) catches a pass while being defended by Green Bay Packers cornerback Charles Woodson (21) during the fourth quarter at Bank of America Stadium. The Packers defeated the Panthers 30-23. Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports photograph

Charles Woodson’s second venture in free agency is not as glamourous as many predicted, and with the tunnel of time collapsing on another chance, desperation has set in the form of the Detroit Lions.

Woodson told the Detriot news about the possible location change.

“Here’s the thing about the Lions, the Lions have players. What the Lions haven’t been able to do is put it together. That winning attitude and to be able to start those winning ways, it has to start somewhere. So, would I be open? Sure.”

Now everyone knows Woodson’s sentimentality for the stage of Michigan. Accruing a Heisman trophy and National Championship were the ultimate gifts bestowed to a state hoping for skates and hockey sticks to create national attention.

The Detroit Lions do not deserve a player like Charles Woodson. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

The Lions in my personal opinion have not progressed and do not deserve the talent of a Charles Woodson near the end of his career.

Now don’t go, “8 Mile”, on me Detriot. You have gone through enough considering the financial meltdown and General Motors fiascos. However, your team is not the New Orleans Saints, and Ford Field is not the Super Dome.

Quite simply, the Lions cannot compete with the elite and do not have the coaching to accommodate a defensive playmaker the caliber of Woodson.

Why is that? Well look at the team’s makeup. Wayward receiver Titus Young created his own routes during the Thanksgiving game, for starters. Multiple substance abuse violations by Nick Fairley as well as demonstrating his lack of awareness with a Super Bowl prediction.

The difference between today’s championship teams to that of the 80s and 90s, is quite clearly the coaching and attitude of the team.

No longer are the “rah-rah” cheering teams to wins, but execution and preparation combined with calm character create those titles.

Wait, you may say the Baltimore Ravens are the exception to that rule, but if you look closely, the team had Ray Lewis as the Trojan Horse, but Joe Flacco was the true leader. Calm, calculated and prepared under pressure.

The Lions are not any of these.

Stomping opponents, DUI’s, and predictions based on roster strength are all red flags to any free agent in my opinion, but with Coach Jim Schwartz, this attitude is bred and free to roam.

Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz suffers from the “little man” disease. Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports photograph

Schwartz’s obvious “little-man” syndrome is the slighted attitude that gets coaches fired. Visibly sparring with San Francisco coach Jim Harbaugh was the appetizer, and now his players have delivered the entree of bad behavior.

Todd Haley administered a similar attitude with the Chiefs with an unrelenting bark, and look how quickly a team with a stellar defensive and a potent running game cowered under his leadership.

There are incredible bright spots and potential for the team, but what are record-breaking players like Calvin Johnson supposed to do with a team constantly in flux with “me-first” attitudes? Furthermore, what will happen for QB Matt Stafford behind a crumpling line?

Obviously Woodson covets competition and who can blame him? He undoubtably helped tangle Vikings Adrian Peterson in the Wildcard game last year, and can still deliver heavy hits to the opposition.

Woodson has earned his rings, claimed his legacy and created a hall of fame career. Please, save the time and effort for the vast podiums of the future.

Well, the winner has been announced … and one can’t argue with the decision.

Below, you will find the release from Packerseverywhere … 

After over 8,000 photos were submitted and 16,000 votes counted, the Packers Everywhere community has spoken. Eight-year-old Emily Sperduto of Oxford, N.J., is the winner of the Ticket Takeover Contest. She will serve as the face of the Packers for a week, with her photo featured on over 80,000 tickets for the 2013 Fan Appreciation Game vs. Pittsburgh, Dec. 22, at Lambeau Field. 

Her father, Tom Sperduto, who entered Emily and took the photo, is waiting until just the right time to surprise her with the news. He wants her mother, Jen, to film it when he gets back in town. In addition to Emily being on the tickets, they get a pair of tickets for that game. They’ve also won round-trip flights to Green Bay and hotel lodging for the weekend.

“She is going to go crazy,” he said. “I get emotional thinking about the memories that will come from this trip. Doing something we love together, for me it’s overwhelming. I already think about the future and what it will be like when we look back at the experience.

“I feel like we will be part of the team by having her face represent the Packers on that ticket. It’s a pretty awesome feeling. I can’t express what it will be like.”

Prior to watching Packers games on TV, for years Sperduto and Emily have had quick daddy-daughter photo shoots to warm up. In a neighborhood full of Giants and Jets fans, they’re known as the lone “Packers family,” and Emily will pose in her jersey, oversized cheesehead or with her Packers toys and show off while the shutter clicks.

The Packers green background in the photo is the color of his family room. She is standing below a Packers stock certificate, as Sperduto became a shareholder in the last stock offering.

While Emily has been on “pins and needles” during the Ticket Takeover voting, all of that posing practice made perfect. Though a lifetime fan of the Packers, Tom has never been able to make the trek from New Jersey to Green Bay, so the trip in December will be even more special. Sperduto’s work schedule has made coming to Lambeau Field nearly impossible in the past.

Tom has spent the last 20-plus years in the military. He’s now in the Coast Guard after previously serving in the Marine Corps as an infantryman. He was in Operation Iraqi Freedom and has also had his boots on the ground in 29 countries.

Before the contest and Emily’s winning flex – where she mixed her two favorite players by teaming a Clay Matthews pose with an Aaron Rodgers jersey – Sperduto had been formulating a plan to come to Lambeau. He’s in his final year of service with the Coast Guard, and he was transferred to Boston.

“I own my home in New Jersey, so for this year in Boston I bought an RV to live in since it is just one year before I retire. I thought it might be a good way to come to Green Bay one day and see a game. Now, Emily and I will be able to fly there. It’s been on my ‘bucket list’ forever.”

When they arrive, Emily will be the “Face of the Packers” when the team takes on the Steelers.

“She is a die-hard fan for an eight-year-old,” he said. “She has been asking about the contest every day. I thought all of the photos were great, and we had some friends and family vote. For her to be on a ticket is like a dream come true.”

We will never see this again, but we thought it would be a good way to help us pass the time of spring and summer waiting for the start to the Packers Training Camp.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

One of my favorite sayings is, “Diamonds are forever. And so are the NBA playoffs.”

It just never seems to end. Really? The Grizzlies are still alive?

Thankfully, as a Green Bay Packers fan, I can earmark the end of the NBA championship as sort of a milestone toward getting to NFL training camp. Ditto with the so-called “Summer Classic,” the Major League Baseball All-Star Game, which takes place this year on July 16.

Don’t get me wrong; I like baseball, but a 162-game season drastically diminishes the importance of, say, a Tuesday afternoon game between the Cubs and Mets. Yawn. (And I’m a Cubs fan!)

This is a welcome sight annually, signaling that after a long summer, training camp is finally here. Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Unfortunately, this is the time of the season that, for a Green Bay Packers fan (or any rabid NFL fan), seems the longest. Packers training camp officially starts July 26, more than two months from now, and the first pre-season game isn’t until Thursday, Aug. 9.

What to do until then? Heck, I’m having trouble even finding things to blog about. Sigh.

Anyway, with that in mind, I’ve come up with some pastimes that will not only make the wait seem a bit shorter, but also help deter you from watching the Miami Heat win another NBA title. Because no one needs to do that to themselves.

As such, here are the Top 10 Green Bay Packers Fans’ Pastimes for Summer 2013:

10. Go back and look through seven seasons’ worth of Aaron Rodgers photo bombs.

9. Watch your 2010 Super Bowl highlights over and over while wearing your Nick Collins jersey and cheesehead hat.

8. Snicker and smirk while watching tape of Brett Favre’s final season with the Vikings.

7. Hire a voodoo doctor to do some crazy dance that will help you cast a spell to compel the Bears to sign Terrell Owens.

6. Spend quality time with your significant other. (This was going to be No. 10, but I’m afraid my girlfriend might see it. Figured 6 was a good compromise.)

5. Read LombardiAve.com for daily updates on the latest Packers news and goofy blog posts like this one. (That one should make my editor happy.)

“You’ve got to be kidding me.” Raymond T. Rivard photograph

4. Sit and aggressively fume about the fact that Jermichael Finley is going to make more money than Jordy Nelson, James Jones and Randall Cobb … COMBINED.

3. Eat grilled bratwurst, drink lots and lots of Blatz beer, and talk about Mason Crosby’s certain demise with your buddies. Hey, it’s summer. You’d be doing that anyway, right?

2. Desperately look online for a brand new Eddie Lacy jersey in your size.

And the No. 1 Packers Fans’ Pastime for Summer 2013 is: Grit your teeth, rock back and forth on your couch and pray to the heavens above that somehow, some way, Dom Capers can figure out a way to get that #$%& defensive fixed already. Because, c’mon!

Happy summer, everybody.

May it pass quickly.

Green Bay Packers wide receiver Randall Cobb (18) catches a touchdown pass against Arizona Cardinals cornerback William Gay at Lambeau Field. Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports photograph

As we inch closer to the start of OTAs, we will continue to take a closer look at the Green Bay Packers’ roster. Last week we began the series by breaking down the Packer quarterbacks. We will continue analyzing the offense by taking a look at arguably Green Bay’s deepest position on the roster — wide receiver.

For the past several seasons the Packer receiving corps has been lauded as one of the deepest and most talented groups in the league, and now with Donald Driver retiring and Greg Jennings packing his bags and finding real estate across the border, the group will be looking for young, ascending players to step up and fill the void the departing veterans left behind. A position that was overcrowded last year now has some spots open for competition heading into the 2013 season.

With Ted Thompson drafting two intriguing wide receiver prospects in the seventh round and signing a handful of others in unrestricted free agency, the Packers are retooling the position with young players who possess both size and speed. It seems Green Bay is in good hands with Aaron Rodgers throwing to Cobb, Jones, and Nelson, but the important thing to watch this offseason is to see if any of the young wide receivers step up and add another dynamic to the passing game.

Wide Receiver (10)

 Safe – Randall Cobb, 5-10, 192 pounds; James Jones, 6-1, 208 pounds; Jordy Nelson, 6-3, 217 pounds

The Packers seem to be pretty set for playmakers at wide receiver with Cobb, Jones, and Nelson manning the top three spots at the position. However, I am really interested to see which of these three players will emerge as Rodgers’ top target in 2013. They each bring a unique skill set to the position and have the potential to be the go-to-guy.

James Jones is congratulated by wide receiver Randall Cobb for scoring a touchdown against the Chicago Bears during the second quarter at Soldier Field in 2012. Rob Grabowski-USA TODAY Sports

Cobb seems to be the rising star of the group. After making his presence known as a returner his rookie season, Cobb was utilized frequently in the offense as a multi-dimensional weapon who could line up in the slot, on the outside, and even in the backfield. Recording a team-high 80 catches and 954 yards receiving and eight touchdown receptions last season, it seems Cobb has only scratched the surface of his potential. Expect Cobb’s role to continue to expand as Coach McCarthy continues to find creative ways to utilize Cobb’s unique skill set.

With Driver and Jennings’ departure, Jones is now the veteran of the group, but Jones provides much more than just leadership for the younger players. Simply put, Jones was a beast last season. He hauled in a league-leading 14 touchdowns and was Green Bay’s most consistent wide receiver. Jones has always been good, but he raised his game to another level last season and showed his coaches that he could be a reliable number one, if needed. Rodgers seemed to build chemistry with Jones last year as the season progressed, and I expect that chemistry to carry over into the 2013 season.

Nelson is the group’s big play threat who has the size and speed to go deep and outman smaller defensive backs. However, Nelson dealt with injuries off and on last season and his receiving numbers (745 yds, 7 TDs) and big plays decreased compared to his stellar 2011 performance (1,263 yds, 15 TDs). His receiving average also dropped from 18.6 yards per reception in 2011 to 15.2 yards per in 2012. I expect this had more to do with all the Cover 2 Green Bay faced last season, and less to do with Nelson’s ability to win his one-on-one matchups and get open down field. Maybe Nelson’s 2011 big play production will return if Green Bay gets a running game going this season.

On the Fence – Jarrett Boykin, 6-2, 218 pounds; Jeremy Ross, 6-0, 215 pounds; Charles Johnson, 6-2, 215 pounds; Kevin Dorsey, 6-1, 207 pounds

After the top three receiving spots, this position is wide open and filled with young, but unproven, talent. Boykin and Ross return from last season. Boykin saw limited action during the regular season (5 rec, 27 yds) and was at the bottom of the depth chart in a crowded position. However, Boykin had an impressive 2012 camp and preseason, winning his coaches’ attention and a final roster spot. This is no small task for a guy who was signed as a tryout player last spring and a long shot to make the roster heading into OTAs. Maybe Boykin will have another excellent camp.

Ross spent some time on the practice squad last season before he was activated as a returner toward the end of the year. Ross showed potential returning kicks and punts, but he’ll have to show the coaches he can also be a factor in the passing game to win a roster spot this season.

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

Seventh round picks Johnson and Dorsey are intriguing prospects. They are both big receivers with blazing speed (ranging 4.35 – 4.42 40 time). It is rare to find receivers their size who can ran that fast, so it makes me wonder what the catch is here. Johnson played at a Division II school and wasn’t even invited to this year’s Combine, so hats off to Green Bay’s scouting department for finding this guy. He recorded nearly 1,200 yards receiving and 16 touchdown receptions his senior season at Grand Valley State, but the level of competition he faced in college hurt his draft stock.

Dorsey played at a Division I school (Maryland) but was overlooked by many scouts because of his subpar receiving numbers last year—311 yds and 4 TDs. However, Thompson explained that Dorsey is a much better player than these numbers suggest.

Last year, Maryland had some injuries at quarterback, which greatly affected their offensive production and severely limited Dorsey’s opportunities. Dorsey is almost the exact same size as James Jones and has top end speed. Maybe Dorsey is a diamond in the rough and will prove to be a surprise player at the position.

After Cobb, Jones, and Nelson, I expect Green Bay to keep at least two more receivers on their final 53-man roster. Boykin has a leg up on the competition because he has played a year in this offense, but Boykin lacks the speed Ross, Johnson, and Dorsey bring to the table.

If Johnson and Dorsey show serious potential they may challenge Boykin and Ross for roster spots, and in the very least, the two seventh round picks will spend the season on the practice squad.

Long Shot – Myles White, 6-0, 182 pounds; Sederrik Cunningham, 5-11, 192 pounds; Tyrone Walker, 5-10, 191 pounds

White, Walker, and Cunningham are all undrafted free agents brought in to add competition during camp. Maybe one of these players surprises everyone and wins a roster spot, like Boykin last year. But as of now, with Green Bay selecting two young promising receivers in the seventh round and Boykin and Ross returning, there seems to be very little room left for White, Walker, and Cunningham to even get a fair shot at making the roster.

Both White and Cunningham are average-sized receivers with good speed (4.40 – 4.45 40 time), but were inconsistent in college. Walker is a small receiver who lacks top end speed (4.54 – 4.62), but was highly productive in college, leading the All Missouri Valley Conference in receptions (90), receiving yards (1,319), and touchdown catches (9). White, Cunningham, and Walker have their work cut out for them to earn a spot on the team, but it has been done before so don’t count them out just yet. Expect at least one these prospects to land on the practice squad as a developmental player.

Jordy Nelson is defended by Chicago Bears cornerback Tim Jennings at Soldier Field. Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports photograph

It will be interesting to see how many receivers Green Bay retains on the final 53-man roster this year. Last season the Packers kept six receivers on their final roster. With Driver seeing a limited number of snaps and other positions like offensive line left very thin, was this a mistake? Will the Packers keep six receivers again this year?

It’s difficult to predict how the final depth chart at wide receiver will play out. The only thing we know for certain at this point is to expect plenty of competition and maybe some surprises at wide receiver this offseason.

Paul Coffman was one of the best tight ends in Packers history.

Paul Coffman was an after-thought and rated only single sentence in a three-paragraph story in the Milwaukee Sentinel back on May 18, 1978, when he was announced as a free agent signing by the Green Bay Packers.

That’s according to the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame’s posting yesterday about the player who would go on to great things in the NFL. In fact, he would play eight years for the Packers. He played in 119 games (starting 102 of them), caught 322 passes for 4,223 yards (13.1 yard average) and scored 39 touchdowns. His longest touchdown went for 78 yards.

As an undrafted tight end out of Kansas State, Coffman’s years in Green Bay were nothing short of remarkable. He helped revolutionize the tight end position and was one of the players who paved the way for today’s athletic, pass-catching skill players who can also block. Coffman did it all during his 11-year career.

Coffman was cut by coach Forrest Gregg in 1986 after eight years in Green Bay. The cut of Coffman came as a surprise and was one from which Gregg’s teams would never recover.

Paul Coffman is a Packers hall of famer.

Coffman averaged 46 catches per year and it was his route running, incredible hands and his ability to catch passes in traffic that made him one the of the great ones.

He was a three-time Pro Bowler and in 1994 was inducted into the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame.

After his career was all said and done, he is listed among the best. He ranks 12th among all pass-catchers in Packers history – just behind Robert Brooks and just ahead on James Jones. He’s the top tight end on the list.

Here’s the top 20 list:

Here’s Coffman’s career statistics with the Packers:

James Starks during the first quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at Lambeau Field last Dec. 2. The Packers defeated the Vikings 23-14.
Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports photograph

Mike McCarthy and Ted Thompson sent their message loud and clear to Alex Green, DuJuan Harris and especially James Starks on draft weekend by selecting not one, but two running backs and also picking up another – Angelo Pease – as an undrafted free agent.

Clearly, the Green Bay Packers brass have not been pleased with the past performance, or lack thereof, of their in-house running backs. Many feel that Harris and probably Green will be the two running backs who should have the best shot at remaining on the Packers roster once it’s all said and done, while the oft-injured and inconsistent James Starks is the odd man out.

In fact, rumors swirled draft weekend that Starks was on the trading block, but nothing happened.

Alex Green
Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports photograph

Rookies Eddie Lacy and Johnathan Franklin, barring any unforeseen circumstances, will be on the the roster, while Green and Harris, depending on what they do in training camp, will also be there

That leaves Starks and Pease as the players who will most likely be fighting for a job. We don’t know much about Pease other than the fact that McCarthy seems to really like him – calling him out not once, but twice in his press conferences held during and after the rookie orientation sessions.

I think everyone really likes Starks – when he’s healthy. But those times have been far and few between. We all know how he ignited the Packers offense late in 2010, helping the franchise to its fourth Super Bowl Championship. Then it seemed every time we turned around the guy was hurt. He was on the shelf for most of last season, came back against Minnesota in December and had a solid game.

In that Minnesota game, Starks carried the ball 16 times for 66 yards, and pulled off a 22-yard touchdown run where he looked like his old self.

And then got hurt once more.

Though he could have played in the playoffs, we never saw him. His spot had been taken by Harris and to a certain extent Ryan Grant.

In all, he played in only six games last season, carrying the ball 71 times for 255 yards – a 3.6 yard per-carry average.

James Starks scores on a 22-yard touchdown run in the 3rd quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at Lambeau Field.
Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports photograph

Do the Packers take a chance on the guy once more if he comes back and has a strong training camp? Or do they just cut their losses, continue to try to trade him and if they can’t, then cut him? It’s not like the team doesn’t have a crowded backfield already.We know that Starks can hit holes and pick up yards after being hit. He seems like a tough runner, but his injury history tells us otherwise.

He’s been productive when he’s healthy, but in my mind I just can’t see the team taking any more chances on the guy. Yes, they should try to trade him and if nobody wants the damaged goods, then the Packers should let him walk.

What do you think, Packers fans? Leave a comment below, Like us on Facebook, and/or follow us on Twitter.

Kansas State Wildcats running back Angelo Pease could be one of the value players that Ted Thompson is so known for finding. Jim Cowsert-USA TODAY Sports

A couple of weekends ago when Green Bay Packers‘ head coach Mike McCarthy stood at the podium in the media center at Lambeau Field talking about what he had seen from his rookies, one name was brought up a couple of times as having stood out among the bunch – running back Angelo Pease.

McCarthy called the Kansas State player out for having what he believed to be an outstanding couple of days of practice.

Eddie Lacy is expected to make the Packers, but will be pushed. Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

Sure, he talked about Datone Jones bringing a new presence to the defense and he talked about running backs Eddie Lacy as being “smooth” and Johnathan Franklin as looking good in all phases of the game, including fielding kicks and punts.

That was expected.

But when the name of Angelo Pease came out of the coach’s mouth – well, that was a bit unexpected. Not only was Pease undrafted, but the Cairo, Ga., native didn’t see the field a whole lot in his two seasons with the Wildcats. In 2011, he played in 10 games, carrying the ball 36 times for 144 yards, and two touchdowns. Last season, he got a few more carries. In 11 games, he carried 60 times for 333 yards. During his college career, he carried the ball 96 times for 477 yards.

Pease is described on the K-State football page as “a powerful and shifty back.” At 5-11, 215 pounds, he has the body type and quickness that could make him a nice fit in the Packers’s system.

Obviously, he wasn’t overused and comes to Green Bay with fresh legs. Maybe that’s something that McCarthy likes.

Either way, should Pease continue to impress the coaching staff and somehow make the roster – heck, even if he slips through and lands on the practice squad, he will be an added value to the team.

Oklahoma State Cowboys guard Lane Taylor signed a $7,000 bonus with the Packer – the most of any undrafted free agent brought into Green Bay. Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

What makes him even a better value is the fact that he was brought in without a signing bonus, unlike some of the other undrafted players who were added to the roster after the NFL Draft. Other undrafted players did receive signing bonuses, led by Oklahoma State offensive lineman Lane Taylor who got a whopping $7,000 bonus to sign on the dotted line. Illinois State quarterback Matt Brown, Mississippi defensive tackle Gilbert Pena, Ohio State tight end Jake Stoneburner and Eastern Michigan outside linebacker Andy Mulumba all received $5,000 signing bonuses.

So what’s the chance that Pease even makes the team? Not high. However, the Packers are known for finding diamonds in the rough – undrafted free agents who do make the team.

For instance, last year alone the Packers had four on their roster: guard/tackle Don Barclay,  receiver Jarrett Boykin, safety Sean Richardson and linebacker Dezman Moses. Of the four, three of them – Barclay, Boykin, and Moses – saw action last year. Barclay was forced into action at right tackle and played the final quarter of the season at that spot – gaining valuable experience as he competes for spot again this season. Moses also saw significant playing time when Clay Matthews went down with an injury for four games. He also played in spot situations throughout the season. Boykin saw action mostly at the end of the season, but he’s a player the Packers really like. Richardson was injured last year but was kept around because of his potential.

Could Pease be one of those players who sticks? It will be fun to watch as the running back position is wide open. If he does make the roster or practice squad, he will be one of those value-packed contributors that Ted Thompson has become famous for finding.

Stay tuned …

Packers vs. Bears – it’s the best rivalry in all of football, bar none.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Green Bay Packers vs. Chicago Bears, in my opinion, is still the number one rivalry in all of the National Football League – that’s despite the recent number three ranking by Russell S. Baxter over at The Bleacher Report.

Number three?

Really?

And the Pittsburgh Steelers vs. the Baltimore Ravens and Tom Brady vs. Peyton Manning rank above the most storied rivalry in all of football?

Really?

Players come, players go, but the Packers vs. Bears continues to be a huge rivalry.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

No offense to Mr. Baxter, who admits in his ranking that the Packers vs. Bears certainly deserve to be top 3, but says that because the Packers have dominated the Bears of late that it slips the rivalry out of the top two spots.

Well, if you’re taking the “what have you done for me lately” perspective, I can see Mr. Baxter’s ranking. But if you’re looking at a more broad spectrum – like the past 90-plus years – there isn’t a rivalry that holds a candle to Packers vs. Bears. And that’s considering not just the NFL, but all of sports. Yes, you can argue Yankees vs. Red Sox all you want, but Packers vs. Bears has got to be number one.

I can’t begin to list the great games, the great matchups and the general hatred between the two franchises – the fact that it’s big city versus small town, big money versus blue collar, or Mike Ditka versus Forrest Gregg – those are only a minuscule number of the factors that have made this the greatest rivalry of all time.

The two franchises have been meeting since 1921, and it’s been since 1925 that they have met at least twice each season. That’s a hell of a long stretch of games – providing generations with the taste of blood. Once it’s there, the fans are hooked. Like Mr. Baxter says, all you have to do is take a seat at Lambeau Field or Soldier Field when the two teams take the field to get a feel for what it’s all about.

Yes, there have been many winning streaks by both teams over the years that have given one team or the other the immediate advantage, but that matters not. In the wash, it all comes down to each individual Sunday that these two teams have collided on the gridiron. Every single game has its cast of characters; each indivdidual season has its drama.

They may gather for prayer at the end, but when they’re on the field it’s all about the rivalry.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

When the season schedule is released each spring, you can bet that every Packers or Bears fan worth their salt looks at where those two games fall and make plans to be ready to watch or attend.

What do Packers and Bears fans look forward to most when the season starts – you got it – when they will meet. In fact, even if their team finishes 2-14, it’s a successful season it is if those two wins comes against the other team.

Overall, Mr. Baxter’s list of rivalries is a fun look at the NFL, but I feel there’s no way that the blip on the screen that is Brady vs. Manning or the Steelers vs. Ravens should rank above Packers vs. Bears.

What do you think, Packers and Bears fans?

Let us know by leaving a comment below, or by clicking over to our Facebook and Twitter accounts.