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.

Packers wide receiver James Jones breaks the tackle of Minnesota Vikings cornerback Josh Robinson on an 11-yard reception in the second quarter at the Metrodome. Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports

When there’s talk about the Green Bay Packers, we often hear mentioned the names of their star players, such as Aaron Rodgers or Clay Matthews. Without a doubt, both of these guys are great players, but I would like to take a little time to shine the light on some of the guys that hold this team together but may not always get the praise they deserve.

These are the guys you’ll hear little about – unless it’s fans complaining about their lack of playmaking ability or some nonsense like that – but they bring it each and every week. They may not be doing the discount double-check or putting on their Old Spice any time soon, but they are vital parts to the Packers’ success. Here are my top five unsung heroes on the Green Bay Packers’ roster.

Let me know what you think.

5) Josh Sitton

Josh Sitton Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports photograph

Sitton has been the Packers’ best offensive lineman and one of the top guards in the NFL the past few years.

The only reason Sitton isn’t higher on this list is because he has gotten some notoriety as of late (Pro Bowl nod last year) and isn’t necessarily a player that I would consider flies under the radar.

The league knows how good Sitton is at his position, but sometimes I wonder if fans truly appreciate the level of play this guy demonstrates each and every week. Through all the complaints about the offensive line the past few years, it seems Sitton’s talent has been overlooked by the average fan.

Sitton is a rock solid player for the Packers and his switch to the left side of the line just shows how confident Mike McCarthy is in Sitton’s abilities.

4) Tim Masthay

Packers punter Tim Masthay . Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Yes, I put a punter on the list.

It’s a thankless job, but having a solid punter is vital in tilting field position to a team’s advantage. Masthay has been consistently good – at times great – for the Green Bay special teams. Masthay set a new franchise record with a 45.6-yard gross average in 2011, and put 25 punts inside the 20-yard line during his first season in 2010, the most by any Packer punter since Josh Bidwell in 2002.

Masthay had another stellar year in 2012 with 30 punts inside the 20-yard line and a 43.5 gross average.

OK, so maybe all these punting statistics don’t excite you, but all you need to understand is that Masthay has been putting up some of the top numbers at his position and doing it largely unnoticed. Masthay has been Green Bay’s answer to electric returners like Devin Hester and Percy Harvin.

3) A.J. Hawk

Here is a pick that will cause a reaction. Hawk has been one of the most overly-scrutinized players on the Green Bay roster since he was drafted in 2006. What do people expect of him? To apologize for being drafted fifth overall?

Yes, Hawk isn’t the Urlacher-type playmaker we thought he’d be when Green Bay drafted him, but get over it by now. Hawk is still a really solid player, and has been for the Packers for the past seven seasons. He has either led the team or finished second in tackles six of his seven seasons in Green Bay, and he has only missed two games in that time.

Packers linebacker A.J. Hawk. Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Hawk is dependable and consistent. Hawk provides leadership on the field for a young defense and is responsible for calling plays and making audibles on the field.

He was a defensive captain during the Packers’ Super Bowl run in 2010. The coaches have nothing but good things to say about Hawk, and sometimes I wonder why so many fans criticize him.

He’s coming off his best year as a pro (120 tackles, 3 sacks), and took a major paycut this offseason to stay with the Packers.

He played well against the run last season and looked lighter on his feet than in years past. Hawk isn’t the most athletic linebacker and struggles in coverage at times, but he deserves credit for the many things he does right on the field.

What this guy does each game for Green Bay goes largely unappreciated, and it’s time to give him a little love.

2) James Jones

Packers wide receiver James Jones. Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Why isn’t anyone talking about this guy? He led the league last year in touchdown receptions with 14, and he still goes unnoticed. Jones has been great for the Packers for a while now, but he has always been the guy sandwiched between “Jennings” and “Driver” or “Nelson” and “Cobb” when people talk about the Green Bay wide receivers.

Jones hasn’t complained much. He just goes out on the field and does his thing. He gives each performance his all, and the last few seasons you can tell.

Just watch some of the incredible catches he made last season. Numerous times Rodgers just hung the ball in the air and Jones jumped over the defender and hauled in the catch.

Jones is aggressive and fights for the ball in the air (something Finley could take note of), and since he fixed his issue with drops from a couple of seasons ago, Jones has been one of the most consistent and reliable pass catchers the last couple of seasons.

Jones has the strength and attitude to out-muscle smaller defenders in the passing game and is an effective run-blocker against defensive backs (an underrated skill for a wide receiver).

I like Nelson and am excited about Cobb’s potential, but Jones was Green Bay’s all-around best receiver last year. He showed up each and every week and gave it everything he had, and now it’s time to give the man some credit.

1) Morgan Burnett

Burnett quietly had a very good season last year. He led the team in tackles with 123, recorded 2 sacks, 2 interceptions, and forced 2 fumbles. And more impressively, he was one of only two NFL defensive players last season to play every defensive snap on his team.

Considering the number of injuries Green Bay dealt with last season, this was a miracle. Burnett also showed a lot of improvement in coverage, helping his defense go from the 32^nd-ranked pass defense in 2011 to the 11^th-ranked pass defense in 2012. I would say that is significant.

Packers safety Morgan Burnett (42) intercepts a pass intended for Minnesota Vikings tight end Kyle Rudolph (82) at Lambeau Field. Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

Granted, Burnett’s improved play isn’t the only reason the Packers improved in pass defense, but as the free safety and man responsible for calling coverage audibles, I would say Burnett’s impact should be appreciated.

In fact, the number of big plays Green Bay’s defense gave up in the passing game dropped significantly in 2012. In 2011, the Packers surrendered 71 passing plays of twenty or more yards, and 11 passing plays of 40 or more yards.

Compare that to 2012 where they gave up only 50 passing plays of 20 or more yards and seven of 40 or more. That is a pretty significant difference and it can be attributed to the improved play at the safety position.

Burnett also showed his versatility last season. At times, he moved up in the box to play the run and did well. Burnett is a smart player who has the athletic ability to cover in man and drop back in zone. He is also a solid tackler, and at only age 24, Burnett is still young and should continue to improve in 2013.

Burnett’s contributions to the team may go unnoticed most of the time, but if a safety is doing their job right that is the way it should be.

Honorable Mentions: Ryan Pickett, Brad Jones, T.J. Lang, Bryan Bulaga, Jarrett Bush

Let’s hope Jermichael Finley has this look on his face only when he scores touchdowns next season …
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Jermichael Finley, probably best known to Green Bay Packers fans at this point as the guy with untold potential who keeps dropping the damn ball, has turned the tables a bit.

Finley has pledged to donate $500 for every dropped pass during the 2013 season to One Fund Boston, a charity set up by Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick and Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino to help raise funds to help those most affected by the bombing attacks at the Boston Marathon this week.

Hey, it’s an absolute PR coup for a guy who’s painted himself as a me-first player the last couple of years.  Finley also pledges to donate $500 for every touchdown he scores this year – a number that was woefully low in 2012 at just a pair.

“Now fans can cheer & boo me @ the same time!” Finley tweeted. Nicely played.

Green Bay Packers tight end Jermichael Finley (88) misses a catch while defended by San Francisco 49ers inside linebacker NaVorro Bowman (53). Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports photograph

Jer-Mishandle dropped seven of his 87 targets last year, scoring only two touchdowns after racking up eight scores in 2011. He also made worse his slow start to last season by basically blaming quarterback Aaron Rodgers. He essentially pointed the finger at everyone but himself.

A repeat of last year would net One Fund Boston $4,500. Now it’s going to be tougher to curse him and throw chicken wings at the TV screen when he makes one of his patented bone-headed drops.

But Coach Mike McCarthy praised Finley’s finish to the season, even as fans and NFL prognosticators predicted the Packers would part ways with the freakishly talented tight end.

“I was very pleased with the way Jermichael played there in the second half,” McCarthey said in February at the NFL Scouting Combine, “and he improved a number of different areas of his game.”

The Packers were so pleased with his strong finish that they brought him back at his full $8.25 million salary amidst a flurry of cuts and restructures designed in part to make room for big new contracts for stars such as Rodgers and Clay Matthews.

Perhaps this is Finley’s way of bringing about a better sense of focus on the field. James Jones made a turnaround in 2012 after being drop-prone in his first few seasons with the team, so why not Finley? Speaking as a long-time Packers fan, it’s nice to finally see some maturity and humility in the guy.

Still, it will be fun to see if Rodgers puts a little extra zip on the ball when he passes to Finley this season, just to make him put some of his money where his mouth is. Or at least where his mouth used to be.

Today, the official press release surrounding the particulars of the camp sponsored by Bellin Health Care, was released. In addition to the deadlines for applying to the camp, information about location and the specific dates are also included.

If interested, now is the time to get involved and to apply.

Here is the official press release with all the particulars.

Dates and Location Set for Green Bay Wide Receiver James Jones’ Inaugural Football ProCamp.

Green Bay, WI- Join Wide Receiver James Jones as he hosts the Inaugural  Bellin Health James Jones Football ProCamp.

Jones will be on site to direct the camp, May 18th and 19th from 9:00AM-12:30PM at Ashwaubenon High School. He will be joined by a selection of the top prep and collegiate coaches from the area.

Camp is open to boys and girls in grades 1-8 and focuses on football fundamentals. Groups will be small to ensure each participant gets personalized instruction. Jones will talk about the finer points of the game and beyond.

Campers receive an autographed team photo with Jones, ProCamp T-shirt, goodie bag and the opportunity to win additional prizes. Cost of the camp is $149. Spots are limited, so campers are encouraged to register early.

Premier partners include Sargento and media partners include 107.5 The Fan, The CW 14 and Fox 11.

Additional partners include Born to Compete, Duracell, Everlast, Eyeblack, Gildan, GNC, Hatton, Helmet Nation, Pepsi, Polaroid FotoBar, Pop Chips, Pronto Print, Snikiddy, Spalding and Welch’s Fruit Snacks.

Get complete camp information and register by visiting www.JamesJonesCamp.com

Dec 30, 2012; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Green Bay Packers defensive tackle B.J. Raji (90) against the Minnesota Vikings at the Metrodome. The Vikings defeated the Packers 37-34. Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

If you’ve spent any time at Lombardi Ave, you’re surely aware that the Green Bay Packers are set to negotiate three major contract extensions – B.J. Raji, Clay Matthews, and Aaron Rodgers – over the next 12 months. Those extensions have been treated as a package deal in many ways, as all three players are represented by the same agent, David Dunn.

Because Raji and Matthews were drafted in the first round of the same year, they’re entering the final year of their rookie deals. Rodgers, having signed an extension midway through his first year as a starter, is under contract through 2014. Thus, the expectation for several years has been that Raji and Matthews will receive their new deals first, and then Rodgers’ extension will fall soon thereafter.

Jan 12, 2013; San Francisco, CA, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) passes the ball against the San Francisco 49ers during the first quarter of the NFC divisional round playoff game at Candlestick Park. Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

However, if recent reports are to be believed, a Rodgers extension could be in the works now prior to any extension for Matthews or Raji. This may be very telling, as even though Rodgers is by far the team’s most valuable and indispensable asset, he has two years left on his contract. He’s not the biggest worry the Packers have in terms of contract negotiations. So why would the Packers hammer out an extension with Rodgers ahead of the sooner expiring Matthews and Raji deals?

The answer may very well be that Green Bay doesn’t anticipate room for all three contracts, and thus will let Raji test the open market.

As currently constituted, the Packers have about $20 million in cap space. Part of that figure is already earmarked for the incoming rookie class with some space reserved for free agency and emergencies. However, most of that figure will go toward extensions. Next year’s salary cap doesn’t figure to increase very significantly, and with even more contract negotiations coming into view after 2013 – James Jones, Bryan Bulaga, Jordy Nelson, and Randall Cobb chief among them – the Packers already have an idea of which deals they want to pursue and which ones they’ll pass on.

As we discussed as part of this week’s mock draft analysis, Raji presents all sorts of problems for Green Bay. His dominant 2010 season suggested he’d be one of the league’s best nose tackles for the foreseeable future, but Raji struggled to repeat that performance in 2011. This past year was even more confusing, as Raji returned to a high level of play but did so at the five technique position rather than the nose.

While there is value in a 3-4 end, a nose tackle is considerably more important to Green Bay’s defense. Furthermore, Raji will likely demand to be paid like a fulltime nose tackle rather than an end.

With just as much good tape as bad, no defined position, and limited cap space, how much can the Packers afford to invest in a Raji extension?

Dec 16, 2012; Chicago, IL, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) talk with outside linebacker Clay Matthews (52) before the game against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field. Rob Grabowski-USA TODAY Sports

Reading the tea leafs, it appears that Green Bay is letting their other extensions decide that question for them. Depending on how much it takes to re-sign Rodgers and Matthews, the Packers will know if a lengthy extension with Raji is reasonable.

They don’t want to be caught in a situation where they’ve extended Raji and don’t have enough cap space for either Matthews or Rodgers. Thus, Green Bay has prioritized their negotiations to prevent that scenario.

It’s unclear at this time what the end result will be, but it’s time to start wondering if this is Raji’s last season in the Green and Gold.

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.

James Jones joined the crew at NFL Total Access to talk about the game …

Green Bay Packers wide receiver James Jones appeared yesterday on the NFL Network’s Total Access program Tuesday and sat with former Packer Darren Sharper, former Giant Shaun O’Hara and host Andrew Siciliano to talk about what they would do if they were the commissioner of the day.

Jones not only showed his intelligence, but also demonstrated his honesty and that he’s not afraid to say what he feels.

What would he change about the game of football, here’s what he said:

“I’d say helmet to helmet [rule] … defenders have to hit at a certain target, I think they have to eliminate that … Id rather get hit in the helmet or shoulders than have a defender take my knees out (with Darren Sharper clapping enthusiastically in the background). But I just think that as a safety and a defensive back you make your reputation as being physical which puts fear in receivers eyes like me sometimes when I’m coming across the middle and I can kinda feel the defender … I second guess myself sometimes and other receivers second guess themselves sometimes when you have a physical safety.”

When asked that he would play with less protection, Jones said:

“I wouldn’t say less protection because that’s what my helmet is for …”

Jones was then asked about the Super Bowl and the fact that next year’s Super Bowl will be played in New York, a cold weather city. ??? was asked that if it comes down to a cold weather franchise playing against a warm weather team, whether the cold weather team will have the advantage:

“I don’t think so … I’m a believer that cold is cold … the other team is going to be cold just like we’re going to be cold. You have time to prepare for it. To eliminate all this, I think we just have to keep it to a warm weather site.

In the end, Jones’s appearance was a nice break for him, the player nobody wanted in free agency a couple of years ago. He signed at a reduce rate to get back with the Packers and has made the most of it. No doubt, he will be in for a big payday if he has another big season like last year in 2013.

Check out the broadcast on NFL Network by clicking here. Not only did Jones get in some nice riffs here, but so did Sharper and ??? Pretty entertaining stuff.

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Dec 16, 2012; Chicago, IL, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) drops back to pass against the Chicago Bears during the second quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

Due to a lack of a NFL package, I have not been able to see the Packers-Bears game but watching the three touchdown passes from Aaron Rodgers to James Jones has highlighted the chemistry which has allowed Jones to be much more effective this year than he was in 2011.

The first touchdown pass was perfectly thrown as Aaron Rodgers had that elite touch on his throw which took it out of play for any other defensive back of the Bears. Rodgers also knew how fast Jones can run and the ball fell right into the hands of Jones in the endzone for what seemed like an easy touchdown. This type of touch is only seen from elite quarterbacks like Rodgers and Peyton Manning (who is in the game I’m stuck watching instead) as Rodgers still is showing why he is the NFL’s best players despite not putting up the biggest numbers.

The second touchdown was well-called by the Packers as a slant pass is one of the smartest plays that a coach can possibly call. It works against most coverage schemes. Rodgers put the pass perfectly into the chest of Jones but it was Jones who made the better play. Jones jumped up in front of the Bears’ defender like a basketball player blocking out to get a rebound while catching and securing before making an easy move in for the touchdown. Jones’s strength is what makes him a playmaker as he is the perfect complement to Greg Jennings and Randall Cobb’s speed.

Aaron Rodgers and James Jones both showed how talented they are today and their complementary skills and chemistry has been key to putting the Packers in the lead.

Aug 9, 2012; San Diego, CA, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Donald Driver (80) catches balls on the sideline during the third quarter against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-US PRESSWIRE

Aaron Rodgers whipped back his arm and with pinpoint accuracy fired a pass to his far left. Standing in wait was an uncovered Donald Driver, the Packers’ all-time leader in receiving yards. Driver’s feet were nearly a yard beyond the first down marker. It was a near certainty that the chains were about to move.

An anxious moment later, the football slithered through the receiver’s grasp. A visibly upset Driver paused for reflection and then trotted back to the huddle to prepare for third and ten.

When his receivers make mistakes, Rodgers has historically tried to go back to them quickly to restore their confidence. Third and ten would be no different. Rodgers tossed another beauty towards Driver who again was open right around the first down. The pass made contact with Driver’s chest before bouncing straight into the air, dangling there for seemingly an eternity.

Sep 9, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Donald Driver (80) during the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Lambeau Field. The 49ers defeated the Packers 30-22. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Driver managed to recover the live ball, but was tackled just short of the necessary 10 yards. The nearest referee, however, marked Driver’s progress as a first down. Wisely, Rodgers gathered the offense and quickly ran a play before a challenge flag could be thrown.

The result of that play was a 21-yard touchdown pass to Randall Cobb. Yet, the most significant part of the drive remains the two consecutive plays to Driver.

Outside of Rodgers, Driver is the most popular player on the team. Packers fans give more rope to Driver than any other receiver, refusing to boo any drop or mistake he makes. But there’s been many mistakes by Driver since the beginning of 2011, and the receiver has flashed his former brilliance little if at all this season.

Following Driver’s drop and near second drop, head coach Mike McCarthy removed Driver and played undrafted rookie Jarrett Boykin in his stead. Should this move prove more than just an in-game adjustment, Driver will have descended from starter to sixth string in a matter of a year and a half. His declining abilities, as unfortunate as it may be to acknowledge, are blatantly obvious. That is, perhaps, obvious to almost everyone except the Packers faithful.

In a few weeks the Packers will regain the services of Greg Jennings and Jordy Nelson. With their top two pass catchers back in the lineup, there will be no need for the Packers to play six receivers each week. When that time comes, the Packers should take the unprecedented step of deactivating Donald Driver.

Oct 21, 2012; St. Louis, MO, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Randall Cobb (18) is celebrated in the end zone with wide receiver Donald Driver (80) after scoring a touchdown against the St. Louis Rams during the fourth quarter at Edward Jones Dome. The Packers defeated the Rams 30-20. Mandatory Credit: Scott Kane-US PRESSWIRE

This will be hard for all of us as Driver is a part of so many memories from the past decade. Even today, he remains a positive presence on the team. The play that resulted in Randall Cobb’s first touchdown this past week against the Cardinals was actually supposed to go to Driver. Before the play, Driver gestured for Cobb to take his spot as the outside receiver and told him, “Go get it kid.” Driver traded personal glory for the dirty work of landing a block, allowed the younger and spryer Cobb to dash into the end zone. It was a classy move by a classy player.

But the NFL is a bottom line business, and Driver is hurting his team. At 27.3 percent, he has the highest dropped pass rate of any Packers receiver, and his ability to create yards after the catch has evaporated. The Driver we’re observing today is not the player that went over the 1,000-yard mark seven times in eight years. He’s not even the player we saw last year. Rather, the sad truth is Donald Driver is not a player deserving of activation on game days.

It may be a difficult reality to accept, but it is reality nonetheless.

Aaron Rodgers’ go-to guy was without question the number one receiver on the team.

That was until last season.

Don’t get me wrong, Jennings’ contributions have been immense to this team. He continues to be a very valuable member of the team – but the team showed last week why they kept six receivers when they broke training camp … In order for this team’s potent offense to continue churning out the points they must have the talent in place.

And they do.

Consider the play of Jordy Nelson, James Jones, and Randall Cobb. All three have stepped up as major contributors, a fact that played out on the national stage at Houston last week.

Cobb caught some huge first downs and the combined five touchdowns between Nelson and Jones speak for themselves.

Their play came at just the right time and will only make the Packers that much stronger when Jennings does make it back onto the field.

The Packers are taking it slowly in bring Jennings back – and rightly so.

Coaches know that the position is in good hands in Jennings’ absence and will be in even better shape once he returns.

With 10 regular season games yet to play, the Packers, at 3-3 are in excellent position as they move forward. Given the fact that the Packers still have most of their division games ahead of them, they are in perfect position to gain ground and even overtake both the Vikings and Bears as the season heads into November and December.

And helping to lead the way will be a talented group of receivers who right now have this team flying high.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Green Bay Packers – Fantasy Football Preview 2012

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Diondre Borel

There are many who feel the Green Bay Packers will keep six wide receivers – maybe even seven – but that might seem unlikely unless they shed a tight end or two.

But as the Packers head to training camp in 10 days one of the more interesting battles on the offensive side of the ball will be at wide receiver.

Unless the position is hit by a string of injuries, we all know that the top five on the depth charts are going to be Greg Jennings, Jordy Nelson, James Jones, Randall Cobb and Donald Driver. If the Packers keep six on the 53-man roster, that would mean that final slot will come down to Diondre Borel or Tori Gurley. The Packers seem high on both of them as they were inked to contracts late last season, giving them pay raises and keeping them from bolting to other teams.

But the rubber hits the road at the end of this month as players report to the 2012 training camp and the competition – stiff competition at wide receiver – gets under way.

Aaron Rodgers was uncharacteristically quoted about a month ago in giving a nod of endorsement to Borel, but we’ve also see what Gurley can do based on his playing time in preseason last year. Throw Shaky Smithson into the mix and there’s another layer of competition. Smithson was a special teams standout last year and was kept around for that reason. Who’s to say he won’t come from the shadows to claim a spot because of his abilities with the special teamers.

Tori Gurley

Either way, this will be one of the most interesting competitions and one many will be watching. It could come down to a dropped ball here, a wrong route run there as to who gets cut and who makes the team.

This is what training camp is all about. In addition to the competition that will be occurring on the defensive side of the ball – at just about every position – wide receiver battles are going to be turning heads.

Personally, I can’t wait to watch.

Oct 23, 2011; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Randall Cobb (18) returns a punt against the Minnesota Vikings in the third quarter at the Metrodome. The Packers win 33-27. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-US PRESSWIRE

Every Green Bay Packers fan knew what they had when Ted Thompson drafted Randall Cobb in the second round of the 2011 NFL Draft. They knew he had speed. They knew he had great hands. They knew he could be the X-factor the team had been missing and needed desperately in this 21st century game.

But they also knew he was a character guy – they type of individual who fits in well with the team and will do whatever it takes to make the roster and to make the team better.

That’s why it’s not surprising to hear that Packers special teams coach Shawn Slocum has declared Cobb the return guy again for 2012. While that decision ultimately falls on head coach Mike McCarthy‘s shoulders, there’s no reason in my mind why he would disagree with Slocum.

With the depth the Packers have at wide receiver and talk about the possibility that McCarthy may keep as many as seven – yes, seven – wide receivers on the roster, it would make sense that they would keep Cobb in the position where he excelled last year. It seems they would keep him at return man at least until they can develop another player to take the reins – moving Cobb permanently to the receiver ranks once that happens.

But with Donald Driver and James Jones coming off the bench, too, Cobb’s legs should be plenty fresh by the time the second half of the season rolls around to continue to help the team at both receiver and special teams.

He’s a dynamic player who can take it the distance any time he touches the ball and if he can touch it on every kick-off and punt, it only positions the team better on the field.

Frankly, I can’t wait to see him exploding again up the middle, breaking tackles and outrunning opponents.

If he stays healthy, he could become one of the most improved players in the league – possibly taking the step toward a Pro Bowl nod.

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Yesterday I had the opportunity to sit down with Keith Myers over at The 12th Man Rising, the Seattle Seahawks’ Fansided.com site to answer a few questions about the Green Bay Packers’ offseason and the outlook heading into the 2012 season.

I’ve posted the exchange below, but if you want to see a great site, take a trip over to the 12th Man Rising and see, among other things, what they’re saying about their upcoming season, as well as what they think about former Packers’ quarterback Matt Flynn.

Enjoy.

Home » Seahawks » 2012 NFL Preview: Green Bay Pack

Aaron Rodgers winds up for the Packers. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Another day, and another team previewed. (I’m not sure I can keep this up for 32 straight days, but I will certainly try.) This time we venture to Wisconsin to take a look at the Green Bay Packers. The Seahawks and Packers have a fun history, first with the Holmgren era, and now with John Schneider coming to Seattle from Green Bay. And who can forget the “We want the ball and we’re gonna score” playoff game.

Helping me out with the preview is Ray Rivard from Lombardi Ave.

Biggest Team Need Heading Into Offseason: Defense, defense, and more defense

Key Free Agents Retained: Donald Driver, Jared Bush

Key Player Additions: Jeff Saturday, Anthony Hargrove (despite suspension)

Key Players Leaving: Chad Clifton, Nick Collins

Quick Thoughts on Draft: It was an awesome draft for the Packers. Picking up Nick Perry to complement Clay Matthews was brilliant, but the fact that GM Ted Thompson traded up so much to get defensive players from front to back was a stroke of genius and is going to help the team immensely.

Quick Thoughts on 2012 schedule: The start of the season is brutal with tough competition and a quirky schedule for the first month. Starting on national television with a 3 p.m. game opening weekend at home against the 49ers will be tough. But then the team has to turn around and play the Bears on Thursday night. That’s simply brutal. Overall, however, the Packers’ schedule does settle down later in the year when the games really start to count. While the division schedule is always tough, playing teams from the AFC South should play to their advantage.

Most Interesting Roster Battle: The defensive line, wide receiver and inside linebacker. Thompson went out and picked up some tough players to help improve the defensive line. The competition at those positions will be heated and the cuts that come from there will be interesting. As for inside linebacker, most would say that A.J. Hawk and Desmond Bishop are locks. I don’t thing so – especially for Hawk who had a so-so 2011. He will really have to battle D.J. Smith for that position, as well as others to be deemed the starter. Though most will see the first four positions at wide receiver as locks for Greg Jennings, Jordy Nelson, James Jones and Randall Cobb, the fifth position will be up for grabs between Donald Driver and second-year players Diondre Borel and Tori Gurley. The young guys are up and coming and could result in an interesting cut or even the possibility of a trade. Many feel that Jones is potential trade bait.

Biggest Strength Heading Into 2012: Clearly, the offense should again be the team’s biggest strength. Aaron Rodgers should lead the well-oiled machine to an even higher level in 2012. Is there any defense out there that can slow them down or even stop them? Maybe on a good day. The only way the offense was slowed last year was when the Packers shot themselves in the foot (versus Kansas City and in the playoffs against the Giants).

Biggest Weakness Heading Into 2012: The defense. Finishing dead last in defense last year was an embarrassment.

Biggest Question Still To Be Answered: See above … the defense will have the infusion of many new and young players. How they perform will be crucial to an improved defense. Defensive coordinator Dom Capers has got to come up with more creative schemes to allow the Packers the flexibility to surprise offenses. Will the defense show enough improvement to put this team back into contention for another title? That’s the question.

2012 Prediction: Packers record: 13-3; NFC North Division Title; Super Bowl championship.

The Packers defense was exposed last season. The needed players at all 3 levels of the defense, and I’m not sure they did enough in the offseason to make drastic improvement on the stat sheets this year. They’ll be young in some key areas, but should improve as the year goes on. Luckily for the Pack, it wont matter that much. Aaron Rogers and the offense are good enough win their division even without much of a defense.

Expect the Packers to be pre-season favorites to win the Super Bowl.

Trade talks swirling about James Jones should come to an end. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

The rumors that Green Bay Packers’ wide receiver James Jones is going to be traded just keep on swirling. The latest non-story came Sunday via profootballtalk.com when they reiterated the Cleveland Browns were not interested in trading for Jones, who is in the second year of a three-year pact he signed last just prior to the start of last season’s training camp after nobody showed interest in him during free agency.

So, why would the Browns be any different? Though the bait for Jones would be quarterback Colt McCoy, one must consider the other side of the table in this potential deal. The Packers have no interest in McCoy and a trade of Jones for McCoy would be a lopsided toward Cleveland. They would be getting a receiver who is listed as fourth on the team’s depth chart – a player who caught 38 balls for nearly 635 yards. As a member of the Browns, he would become a star, but the Packers are not in need of another quarterback.

They think they have a pretty good backup quarterback in Graham Harrell and spent a seventh round pick in the most recent draft for B.J. Coleman. If they didn’t have confidence in Harrell’s abilities, they would have made a trade with the Browns during the draft.

So, let the rumors continue to swirl. Jones will continue to contribute as a member of one of the deepest receiving corps in the entire National Football League. There will be no trade anytime soon … and it certainly won’t be to Cleveland for Colt McCoy.

Dec 18, 2011; Kansas City, MO, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Donald Driver (80) is congratulated by wide receiver Randall Cobb (18) after catching a touchdown pass against the Kansas City Chiefs in the second half at Arrowhead Stadium. Kansas City won the game 19-14. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-US PRESSWIRE

A couple of weeks ago, we looked at the defensive position battles for the Packers.

Today, we take a look at the Packers’ offensive position battles.

Number 3 Receiver

After last season, Jordy Nelson earned the number two spot on the depth chart at receiver behind Greg Jennings. Now, Randall Cobb, James Jones, and Donald Driver will battle for the third spot on the depth chart at receiver. Cobb provides the biggest speed threat for the Packers in the slot as he could make great route cuts and blow by slower cornerbacks and safeties. Donald Driver is the reliable veteran who konws how to get the job done while James Jones has been the number three guy in the past but he is going to have to do a lot to avoid falling to fifth on the depth chart. Jones will probably be in the five spot as Driver and Cobb will be the final two battling out for the third spot on the receiver depth chart. Driver’s experience will allow him to beat out Cobb as Driver is still a well-rounded receiver.

Dec 11, 2011; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers running back Brandon Saine (33) rushes with the football as guard T.J. Lang (70) blocks during the first quarter at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Backup Running Back

James Starks is now the full-time starter at running back for the Packers but Starks will need the occassional breather and there will be a battle to be his backup between Brandon Saine, Alex Green, and Marc Tyler.

Green is the longshot in this battle as a disappointing training camp could lead him to being released. Undrafted free agent running back Marc Tyler could be a steal as the former USC tailback has all the basics that any solid NFL running back needs. Saine is the favorite as he was third on the depth chart last year and he is a more polished player.

Saine and Tyler will have a great battle but the veteran Saine will win the spot. Tyler could surprise and impress in camp for the Packers. The one thing that could change this battle is if the Packers sign Cedric Benson as Saine and Tyler could be in a spot where they are battling to make the roster.

Nov 20, 2011; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers tight end Andrew Quarless (81) during the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Lambeau Field. The Packers defeated the Buccaneers 35-26. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Second tight end

Jermichael Finley has the starting spot at tight end but behind him there could be a very long battle between Andrew Quarless and rookie D.J. Williams. This could be a surprising battle to most but I think it is realistic. Williams was a steal in the late rounds of the draft as I think he has the potential to be better than even Jermichael Finley when Finley’s contract runs out. Williams was a very effective tight end at Arkansas when they had a very good quarterback in Tyler Wilson. Williams’ game transfers well to the Packers but Andrew Quarless has done well for the Packers and will stay the tight end for the Packers. Williams’s presence could put Tom Crabtree in danger of being cut.

Is there any player more popular than Donald Driver? Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Jennings, Nelson, Cobb, Jones, Gurley, Borel.

Those are the names most people point to when they talk about the Green Bay Packers wide receiver position.

But one name, Donald Driver’s, keeps getting erased. Nobody feels he has a chance to make the team – if he is even invited back for an opportunity.

But don’t tell Head Coach Mike McCarthy that. “I would anticipate he would be involved in the workouts next week,” McCarthy said when asked about Driver’s role with the team.

After winning Dancing with the Stars, Driver is now focusing on the football field and is hoping, as he has said all along, that his role will be with the Green Bay Packers. Could we bear to see him in any other colors? We all know how we felt when Brett Favre was wearing other colors.

While Driver is an entirely different situation than that of Favre, seeing him move on would be disappointing and disturbing. To me, it is incumbent on the Packers to do all they can to keep the 37-year-old in the fold.

Most will say the NFL is a business with the ultimate goal to win a Super Bowl. To do that, you need the best players on the field.

I agree.

And while most will say the Packers would have a better chance of winning a Super Bowl by keeping their young studs, Borel and Gurley, over Driver. With that, I don’t agree.

I can certainly see the team keeping Gurley as he holds the upper hand over Borel. But to keep Borel over Driver? That would be a mistake.

Remember this catch by Donald Driver last season? That's what he brings to the team - clutch catches and incredible leadership. John O

Yes, Driver had his least productive season last year with 37 catches. But remember back on some of those catches … some of them were huge and clutch. Can the Packers rely on rookies to make the same types of plays? No way. Can they rely on rookies to lead in the locker room like a Donald Driver? No way.

Yes, Driver needs to take a pay cut – he’s already said he would. That end of the situation shouldn’t even play into the Packers’ decision. Get him into camp, let him compete and then make a decision about the roster spot. If the rookies shine so much as to make the decision easy, then keep the rookies. If Driver comes in and does what he’s always done, there’s no reason he shouldn’t be on the field when the Packers play host to the West Division Champions San Francisco 49ers on opening day.

Donald Driver has fast become the face of the franchise … at least he’s right up there with Aaron Rodgers, Clay Matthews and Charles Woodson.

And so, my guess is that the pundits will continue to hammer on the fact that the depth of the Packers’ wide receiver position will leave Driver as the lone man out, I counter by saying all that talk will only provide even more incentive for the veteran.

In fact, I’m going out on a limb here by saying the Packers will not only keep him, but he will help lead this team to another World Championship. When he does so, then he will certainly retire as not only one of the Packers most popular players, but one that has a legitimate shot at the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Not bad for a seventh round draft choice.

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Scott Wells, Daryn Colledge and Chad Clifton anchored the left side of the Packers line for several years. All three may be former Packers by the time free agency ends this offseason. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Twitter, Facebook and just about every other NFL blogging site is lighting up this week with the advent of one of the most enjoyable times of the professional football offseason – the free agency signing period.

I like it even more than the draft, actually … and I’m a Packers fan who hasn’t had anything to shout about during this period since Mike Holmgren and Ron Wolf reeled in Reggie White.

But that doesn’t matter. It’s always so much fun watching the other teams meet with, negotiate and sign big name free agents.

We know it’s not going to happen in Green Bay, so we sit back, watch, listen and enjoy.

There are some who look at the holes that seem be appearing in the Packers roster and have wondered aloud whether this might be the year that Packers General Manager Ted Thompson might step out of his comfort zone and jump into the frenzy starting this week. Even Thompson has hinted that he may be open to the right player if he considers them “useful tool” for his team.

After all, one can do only so much through the draft – Thompson’s favorite mode for building and rebuilding a team. The draft is great for bringing in “projects” and molding those players to fit the system. Thompson’s Super Bowl XLV ring is evidence of that.

However, the Packers showed last season that if they are to fill the holes the team has, especially on the defensive side of the ball, they’ve got to do more than just draft. Thompson has always said he likes to sign his own players and he faces that task this year as the team’s most valued free agents, Jarrett Bush and Scott Wells, are ready to test the waters.

Will he get something done and signed before 3 p.m. Tuesday? That remains to be seen. If he doesn’t, most likely Bush will be gone and depending on the temperature of those waters, Wells might be, too. But if Wells doesn’t sign before the start of the period and finds only tepid waters out there, he may be back, ala James Jones.

That’s a risk that Thompson is more than likely to take.

Other free agents such as Harold Green and Erik Walden most likely won’t be signed to offers, but there is a good chance that, like Wells, if the money is available, Ryan Grant may be back in camp.

The real question is the money. The Packers are $5 million under the $120 million salary cap. Should the team shed offensive lineman Chad Clifton and restructure wide receiver Donald Driver’s contract, the team will gain at least $5 million more in cap room. With that money available, my guess is that the Packers could strike a deal with Wells and possibly Bush, but that doesn’t leave much for signing draft picks and other undrafted free agents to round out the roster.

I’m just glad I’m not an NFL team’s accountant because this must be a stressful time of the year.

Whatever happens will be a surprise for all fans …

In the meantime, get your popcorn, turn on your favorite sports station and see where all the money goes and where the players end up.

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2011 second round draft choice Randall Cobb should contribute more to the Packers receiving game in 2012. Raymond T. Rivard photograph.

Round 2
Randall Cobb, WR, Kentucky

Randall Cobb fulfilled an immediate short-term need for the Packers: A kick and punt returner who actually scared teams with his potential. He performed fairly well, but his real value will be as a wide receiver. At the time the Packers chose Cobb, their wide receiver position, though stacked, was not built for the long-term. It looked like James Jones would depart via free agency, Jordy Nelson was coming off a hot playoff run but wasn’t locked down with a long-term contract, Donald Driver was mostly likely playing in his last season and Greg Jennings’s contract was up after the 2012-13 season.

With that much unknown about his ultra-important receiving corps, Thompson wasn’t about to pass on Cobb. Now that the receiving corps is in a bit of a different state – Driver is most likely not coming back in 2012, Jones is locked-in as the Packers’ No. 3 receiver, Nelson is the No. 2 and Jennings is the No. 1, at least through this year – Cobb will be apprenticing for the slot receiver role which so often goes to Jennings. If Jennings does leave via free agency, the Packers will have come out on top with this draft pick. If Jennings stays, the Pack will devote many more plays to get this guy on the field as much as possible.

Brandon Saine was thrust into the lineup when rookie running back Alex Green went down with a knee injury. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Round 3
Alex Green, RB, Hawaii

Thompson took a look at his running back situation after the 2010-11 season, decided that Brandon Jackson wouldn’t be re-signed (despite this awesome move he put on Urlacher http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6cjyuZQv80U ) and worried that Ryan Grant’s injury won’t allow him to play at the same level as he did in 2010. With James Starks as his only “sure thing,” Thompson went offense again and grabbed a back early in the 2011 draft.

We didn’t learn much about Green and his ability to run in the NFL during his rookie season. An injury early in the season prevented him from taking advantage of late season injuries to Ryan Grant and James Starks. Instead, Brandon Saine, an undrafted free agent known more for his catching ability than running ability, actually graded out better on yards after contact than Grant and Starks and now with Grant expected to depart the Packers, Green and Saine will battle in training camp for the backup running back spot. Still looks like a good pick, especially because it seems like Starks has cold streaks from time to time.

See part III about the 2011 Packers draft tomorrow …

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Matt Flynn threw for 480 yards and 6 touchdowns against the Detroit Lions - franchise records. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Matt Flynn … holy cow.

The Green Bay Packers’ backup quarterback’s name will forever be linked with that latter phrase, not only in Packers Nation, but across the NFL.

In fact, his six touchdown passes today will not only be admired by Packers coaches, players and fans, but it no doubt will lead to a big payday in the coming months. That said, it most likely will not be with the Green Bay Packers.

So, what about the game?

Well, to say the Packers’ 45-41 win over the Detroit Lions on this first day of 2012 was a shootout is a vast understatement. Flynn and Matthew Stafford, quarterback of  the playoff-bound Detroit Lions, went toe-to-toe in this one, punching and counterpunching all day long, matching touchdown for touchdown.

In the end, they combined for 1,000 passing yards and 11 touchdowns – an NFL record.

With those numbers, the impression was there was no defense in this one. You could certainly argue that, but in siding with the Packers, they played without linebacker Clay Matthews and Charles Woodson as coach Mike McCarthy reached deep into his bench on that side of the ball to give his starters time to rest and to give the backups some much-needed game experience.

For more about this incredible game, take the jump and don’t forget to Like Lombardiave.com at Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

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