Nick Collins celebrates an interception touchdown return.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Sept. 18, 2011, was a day when the Green Bay Packers were drastically changed.

Pro Bowl safety Nick Collins lay on the turf at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, N.C., after helping to make a tackle and having his head freakishly snapped back.

He would never play another football game and the Packers would never be the same on the field.

Packers head coach Mike McCarthy, while talking about his defense today, brought up Collins to Jason Wilde of ESPN Radio, who documented his response. McCarthy, who has a great understanding of his players and their roles on his team said,

Nick Collins was the heart and soul of the Packers defense.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

“Nick’s a great player. That’s one (where), I don’t think Ted will ever get over that one. That’s one we talk about quite often, but hey, you have to move on. You’re talking about a guy that was probably in the middle of a Hall of Fame career.”

Was McCarthy right about the Hall of Fame? Well, Collins had just helped his team to a Super Bowl and had been named to three straight Pro Bowls. He had just finished his sixth season, had 21 interceptions, four of which had been returned for touchdowns. He had 329 tackles and 75 assists. He forced six fumbles and recovered four others. He also had an interception that he returned for a touchdown in Super Bowl XLV.

So, had he been able to continue to play 10-12-14 season, sure, he could have been considered a hall of famer. He easily would have been considered for induction into the Packers Hall of Fame.

But that’s speculation. Collins’ loss two seasons ago certainly had an impact. In 2011, the season when the Packers lost Collins, the team’s defense went to hell. In fact, it got as bad as it could have gotten as the team’s unit finished dead last in the the league without Collins. They still haven’t recovered. Though the unit improved in 2012 because Ted Thompson went out and expended an entire draft to make it so, but it still has some work to do to get back to performing like it did with Collins in the lineup.

The team continues its recovery from its post-Collins hangover.

” I really like Morgan Burnett,” McCarthy said as he talked about the team he now has on the field. “I feel like he’s going to take a big step this year. I look for his leadership to improve. Morgan does everything that you ask, he’s got to start cashing in on the opportunities he has around the ball. I thought he did an excellent job when Charles [Woodson] went down with his injury playing down around the line of scrimmage. I thought Morgan was extremely disciplined and productive down there. I feel very good about Morgan back there, and I like our young guys.”

McCarthy has to say those things because those are the players he has in-house. Those are the players who remain post-Collins. This is a team still in recovery – a team that has to develop its own identity and make its own history.

Hopefully the recovery continues … and of course we are thankful for what Collins brought to the team while he played and we hope for his continued recovery to life after football.

Here are Collins’ career statistics …

Dec 25, 2011; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers safety Charlie Peprah (26) returns an interception during the game against the Chicago Bears at Lambeau Field. The Packers defeated the Bears 35-21. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

It came as somewhat of a surprising move by the Green Bay Packers, but the team announced today that they have released Charlie Peprah.

The starting safety for the Packers the past couple of seasons wasn’t considered a star, and probably wouldn’t be a starter on many teams, but he was in the right place at the right time in 2010 when he took over for Morgan Burnett and played beside Nick Collins on the Packers’ run to a Super Bowl Championship.

However, last season when Nick Collins went down with an eventual career-ending neck injury, Peprah was again turned to … he had some moments last year, but the Packers didn’t think he fit into their future plans and will go with Burnett,  M.D. Jennings and Jerron McMillian, the rookie from Maine – and let it shake out from there. The team must think enough of McMillian for them to say goodbye to Peprah.

Anyway, I was forwarded this link from Melinda Banks. I didn’t know there were any highlight films about Charlie Peprah out there, but I guess you can find anything on YouTube.

Enjoy …

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Focusing specifically on the Packers, it comes as no surprise that their main focus point will be to determine which 11 guys on defense will give the Packers the best chance to win. If we are just focusing on winning, then the Packers’ defense brought in a record of 15-1.

Unfortunately, this was because the offense carried the defense to victories last season and is how, ultimately, the Packers would fall in the first round of the playoffs against the New York Giants.

So as training camp approaches, nearly every position on defense will have a battle of some sort. Considering how the Packers, this offseason, drafted mainly defensive players and even dipped into free agency for defensive players, there will be a lot of competitors fighting for a job. With that said, let’s break down the key battles Packer fans should keep an eye on for this training camp.

Packers defensive lineman Ryan Picket does a good job at stopping the run, but is limited in the pass rush. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Defensive End: Ever since the Packers lost Cullen Jenkins in free agency last year, the Packers have been struggling to find a replacement. Ryan Pickett on the other side has been doing an adequate job stopping the run but he cannot generate pressure on the quarterback which was severely lacking last season.

Raji in the middle, after the Super Bowl season, was thought to have a breakout year with the Packers but never quite reached the level that most thought he could. Then we had the right defensive end which was a huge question mark all of last season. Players from Mike Neal, C.J.Wilson, and Jarius Wynn all took turns at the position last year but none really stood out from the rest of the pack. Some brought Packers fans a spark of hope for a little while but none of the three had complete consistency. This forced the Packers to make moves by drafting Jerel Worthy in the second round, bringing in Anthony Hargrove from free agency, and bringing in Phillip Merling also from free agency. These are three players who seem to be right in the mix to contend for the starting position in training camp. Players from last year like C.J.Wilson and Mike Neal also have been working hard and should get a fair shot to fight for the position.

Who will take over the outside linebacking position opposite Clay Matthews for linebackers coach Kevin Greene. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Outside Linebacker: Similar to the defensive end position of last season, players on the opposite side of Clay Matthews generated nearly no production and the Packers had to flop starters from week to week in order to find someone who could separate from the rest of the pack. Unfortunately, nobody ever truly stepped from the pack and the Packers’ defense suffered tremendously.

Players who took turns starting last season included Eric Walden, Frank Zombo, and Brad Jones. Also, we must keep in mind that injuries at this position plagued the Packers all season with all three having injuries at different points during the season. The Packers’ management responded by drafting Nick Perry from USC in the first round of this year’s draft. \ Perry has major athleticism and the Packers hope that he could be the missing piece to the defense.

Other players to have a shot in training camp include another rookie in Terrell Manning, second-year veteran in Jarmari Lattimore, and another second year veteran in Vic So’oto who had his moments in his short playing time last year. This will be arguably the most intriguing position battle this camp.

Safety: It’s a lock that Morgan Burnett will hold his starting position this season but losing Nick Collins on the other side threw up another question mark in the Packers’ defense. I have to say that many, including me, believed that Nick Collins was a big part of the defense but never really thought of him as being the leader on defense. Once he went down with his injury, I and many others were stunned at how important Collins truly was for the Packer defense.

With perennial Pro-Bowler Nick Collins no longer with the team, the question about who will replace him is one of the biggest heading into training camp. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

With Collins once being the player who made sure everyone was lined up right on defense being gone, the Packers’ defense seemed lost at times. Many big plays occurred and could have been avoided if everyone was lined up correctly. The player who took over for Collins was Charlie Peprah, who played very well, but the lack of communication hurt the Packers severely last season.

With that said, training camp is approaching and so is a successor to Nick Collins.

But who will it be?

Names that come to mind will be Charlie Peprah, second-year player M.D. Jennings, practice squad standout Anthony Levine, and maybe even rookie Jerron McMillian. Regardless of who it is, it is going to be a very difficult task to replace Nick Collins.

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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.

Donald Driver has always been a fan favorite and will be for the rest of his playing career.. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

“Tweeps: when I said I will be a Packer for life. It is now true. Packer for life” – Donald Driver

That was the tweet from the Green Bay Packers’ all-time leading receiver earlier tonight … fifty-seven characters that packed a punch in Packers Nation.

According to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Driver’s agent, Jordan Woy,  said the two sides have agreed to terms and will finalize a deal tomorrow.

JSOnline best described the situation and how it has come to this point:

The drama all began in mid-January, the morning after Green Bay’s playoff loss to the New York Giants. Back then, Driver made it clear he wanted to keep playing – be it in Green Bay or elsewhere. With all four other wide receivers returning and Tori Gurley and Diondre Borel maturing, Driver’s future was certainly in doubt. Green Bay gave pay raises to both Gurley and Borel when other teams tried to sign them off its practice squad.

And it might be awfully difficult for coaches to keep the promising Randall Cobb on the sideline in his second season. Driver’ caught 37 passes for 445 yards, his lowest output since 2001. But his presence in the locker room is valued. Those younger receivers on Green Bay’s roster vying for a roster spot have lauded Driver’s leadership and former teammate Antonio Freeman said Driver’s going to fight to keep playing.

So many, myself included, have opined about the fact that the Packers would never sign Driver. They had too many young legs in the fold and the roster didn’t have room for a 37-year-old receiver in decline.

To a certain extent, that’s still true. But the Packers appear to be doing what everyone thought they should – because it was the right thing to do.

Ted Thompson and Mike McCarthy have batted nearly perfect this offseason – striking rich on a few free agent signings (but not all), making uncharacteristic, but important moves to shore up a solid draft, inking a gob of undrafted free agents and have now capped those moves with the impending signing of Driver.

This news comes off the news earlier this spring when veteran offensive lineman Chad Clifton was released, and Pro-Bowler Nick Collins was also let go because of his neck injury.

It also comes off Driver’s winning of Dancing with the Stars, thus gaining nationwide attention.

So, come tomorrow morning, Driver will make good on his statement that he will indeed be a Packer for life.

Packers Nation is beaming as wide as a Donald Driver toothy smile.

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

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

So, who will replace Nick Collins?

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

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

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

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

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

Feb 28, 2012; Indianapolis, IN, USA; North Alabama defensive back Janoris Jenkins participates in pass interception drills during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-US PRESSWIRE

The Packers made a big splash last night with the addition of USC DE/OLB Nick Perry.

Now, what will the Packers do tonight to make this draft class excellent.

The Packers will have the option to make some trades as they could look to climb up the second round to get North Alabama CB Janoris Jenkins. Jenkins has some red flags but is a great talent and could allow the Packers to move Charles Woodson to safety to replace the recently released Nick Collins.

Jenkins also could compete for a starting spot immediately with Sam Shields and Tramon Williams. Jenkins is an elite cornerback prospect that would not be on the board if he did not have the red flags.

However, I think Jenkins will be able to stay out of trouble and be a successful NFL cornerback.

If they stay where they are, the Packers have a few options that they can do. Conerback is a need and both Montana’s Trumaine Johnson and UCF’s Josh Robinson are possibilities.

Johnson will likely not be on the board at that point as he is the next best cornerback after Jenkins on the board. Robinson, however, could be still on the board as he has a lot of potential.

Robinson has great speed but needs to develop some cover abilities. Robinson would be more of a developmental pick and not an immediate impact player.

A lot of people have linked Miami RB Lamar Miller to the Packers in the second round but I do not think he will still be on the board at that point as he is the best running back left on the board.

Even if Miller is on the board when the Packers pick, Green Bay can wait to get a running back prospect that is just as good later on – such as Temple’s Bernard Pierce in the third round or Utah State’s Robert Turbin in the fourth round.

NOV 25, 2011; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes running back Lamar Miller (6) runs for a touchdown past Boston College Eagles defensive back Spenser Rositano (47) and Boston College Eagles defensive end Kasim Edebali (91) in the first quarter at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-US PRESSWIRE

In the third round, the Packers should look at a defensive lineman like Boise State’s Billy Wynn or Nebraska’s Jared Crick. Both can be 3-4 defensive ends but Crick could end up being available in the fourth round and that would be a steal.

Wynn and Crick are two very capable defensive ends who will be successful NFL players. I am a huge fan of Jared Crick as I think he will be a steal in this year’s draft no matter where he goes.

Hopefully, Mike McCarthy will be smiling after the draft.

It’s finally here. NFL. Draft. Day.

After all gnashing of teeth, indigestion and heated arguments, it’s time to throw all the mocks away and get ready for the reality check that is the actual naming of names.

When Commissioner Roger Goodell heads to the podium tonight to announce the first pick of the much ballyhooed first round, we can all start with a tabula rasa – a blank slate.

Frankly, I’m looking forward to it. I don’t know about you, but I’m sick of the bazillion mocks, the upsides, downsides, 40-yard dash times, the vertical leaps and the best player available. I feel all those things should kept to those in the war rooms and to let them do their jobs.

Now, as journalists, our job is to take a look at what transpires and then use our worldly knowledge to pick apart team drafts and start assigning grades and opinions about the winners and losers.

As for the Green Bay Packers, it’s time to Trust in Ted. Though we know the general manager is probably in control in the Packers’ draft room, we also know that he is getting information and birds tweeting in his ear right up until the time the phone call is made and the trigger pulled … but you also know that head coach Mike McCarthy is getting his two cents worth in as well. We wonder just how influential he is in the final decision. He’s got to have some say. After all, he is the guy who has to work with these players.

Anyway, get excited. I, for one, am looking forward to this draft. While I feel the team has got to draft defensive players up front, I am really excited to see if the team goes away from what all the experts are saying and pulls players that might not be at the top of everyone’s list. Thompson has been known to do that before. Let’s just forget about Justin Harrell and Mike Neal and move on.

So, without further adieu, here is a look at the Packers potentials for tonight. Take a look.

However, a bit of advice – you might want to ignore it once the teams are on the clock. Just like all the mocks that have been developed over the past few months, this piece will probably be null and void once the action starts tonight. But we’ll see.

You can also see this posting at NFL Mocks.

Q. What are the team needs for the Green Bay Packers heading into the draft?

The loss of Nick Collins could play a major role in how the Packers draft this weekend. Jason O. Watson-US PRESSWIRE

A. Defense. Defense. Defense. The Packers ranked dead last among the 32 teams in 2011 and it was no accident. The Dom Capers-led unit was clearly hurt by the losses of defensive lineman Cullen Jenkins and the injury to Nick Collins. They were a unit without leadership and purpose.

Ted Thompson’s first goal will be to restock the defensive line and linebacker positions. If he can also throw in a solid defensive back, he will be even further ahead. With 12 total picks, Thompson might just do some wheeling and dealing, especially in the first couple of rounds, but he could also surprise everyone and deal down to accumulate even more picks. But given the fact that 12 drafted rookies would have a very difficult time cracking the lineup of a team that went 15-2 last season, I highly doubt Thompson would look to add quantity over quality.

Look for the Packers to draft either a defensive lineman or outside linebacker with the first couple of picks; and then follow those picks up with an offensive lineman, a defensive back, a running back and a quarterback in the later rounds. The rest will be simply players to pad the roster and add competitive depth.

Q. Who are some prospects you’d like to see end up with the Green Bay Packers?

USC's Nick Perry could be a great pick if he's still on the board. Gary A. Vasquez-US PRESSWIRE

A. I would love to see the Packers add a defensive lineman such as a Melvin Ingram, Quinton Coples or a Courtney Upshaw, but we all know they most likely will be quickly nabbed in the early picks of the first round. However, if a Nick Perry or Whitney Mercilus is still on the board when the Packers pick at 28, Thompson should pull the Trigger. However, we wouldn’t kick a Vin Curry, Andre Branch or a Chandler Jones out of bed either. Peter King says the Packers will pick Michigan State’s defensive tackle Jerel Worthy, which could be a coup for the longterm and a solid pick for the Packers. Another intriguing prospect who might be an interesting defensive pick and who would be a great pick for the Green Bay Packers is Boise State’s Shea McClellin – I wouldn’t be surprised at all to see Thompson go after him.

On the offensive side of the ball, the Packers’ need for depth and longterm effect on the line is evident. Left tackle and center are the two most glaring needs, but quality is always most important when considering drafting for the line. Of course, Peter Konz’s name always comes to the forefront, but Thompson’s effort to grab center Jeff Saturday has softened the need for the team to go after a top-rated center right away. Thompson’s ability to pick solid linemen in the later rounds is well-known and he may even be able to land an undrafted free agent who could help the team.

Picking a running back and even a quarterback, in my estimation, is just as important. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if the Packers put a premium on a running back who could add to its already somewhat solid stable. Ryan Grant is probably gone, and with injuries to James Starks and last year’s rookie Alex Green, the Packers are left with second year man Brandon Saine. You might see the team try to draft Chris Polk out of Washington, or a Doug Martin out of Boise State.

Would Kirk Cousins be a good pickup for the Packers? Brian Spurlock-US PRESSWIRE

At quarterback, the Packers have more of a need than Thompson has admitted. The loss of Matt Flynn moves untested Graham Harrell to number two. The need is evident, but Thompson most likely will draft to develop at the position. A Kirk Cousins from Michigan State is an intriguing prospect, and might be available to the team around the fourth round. But don’t count out a Ryan Lindley of San Diego State or even Russell Wilson from right here in Wisconsin.

Q. What would represent a successful draft in your opinion?

A. If the Packers can nab a solid defensive lineman (defensive end or tackle), an outside linebacker that can be a bookend for Clay Matthews to draw some attention away from him, an offensive lineman, a running back and a quarterback, the Packers will have had a successful draft. I don’t see Ted Thompson moving too far away from the team’s obvious needs, though he says he doesn’t draft that way. According to him, it’s always the best player on the board. Well, in my estimation, that’s fine, but at some point the team has to address the team needs as well. Last year, Thompson decided to go with who he had at defensive lineman and outside linebacker and it came back to bite the team in the long run. Hopefully, Thompson learned a lesson with that tactic and will look at the overall picture more intently this time around.

Q. Give us a bold prediction for your team.

A. My bold prediction is that Thompson will trade up at least five picks to select USC’s Nick Perry in the first round, giving up a couple of later round picks to do so. Much like he did when the team selected Clay Matthews, I feel that if the Packers can hang on to their 28th pick and nab another in the early to mid-20s, they will have two solid first round selections that will have an immediate impact. The team can afford to give up a couple of later round picks to make that happen.

Green Bay Packers safety Nick Collins (36) greets fans as he rides a bike to training camp practice outside Lambeau Field. He will not have the opportunity again to ride a bike to practice because the Packers have released him. Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

The writing was on the wall and everyone knew that the Green Bay Packers were not going to move forward with their star safety Nick Collins.

The Packers have told Collins that he will be released.

“From the beginning of this process, we have taken our time and sought numerous medical opinions while maintaining consistent dialogue with Nick,” Packers general manager Ted Thompson said. “In the end, we were not comfortable clearing him to play again. As with all of our players, Nick is a member of our family and we thought of him that way as we came to this conclusion.”

The eight-year veteran, one of the most popular and productive players on the Packers defense, suffered a neck injury in the second game last year at Carolina, missed the remainder of the season and had neck surgery.

Since that time, the question about whether Collins would ever play again has been a hot topic. Both Packers head coach Mike McCarthy and Thompson didn’t get behind the “let Nick Collins play again” banner and, in fact, had come out with comments that suggested they wanted him to retire rather than risk another injury.

To date, Collins hasn’t come out and said he would come back in play, whether it would have been for the Packers or for another team. That issue is still to be determined. However, even his agent, Alan Herman, had hinted that he didn’t want Collins to continue with his career.

Collins was due to make $4.05 million in salary and bonuses this season. The Packers will gain $3.05 million under their salary cap, giving them roughly $12 million of cap space heading into the draft. The Packers also gained $5.5 million when they released tackle Chad Clifton earlier this week.

The eight-year veteran was elected to three straight Pro Bowls from 2008-’10. He recorded 419 tackles, 21 interceptions for 507 return yards and four touchdowns in his career.

Once released, should Collins want to continue his career he will be open to signing with any team that wants to take a risk.

Did the Packers err on the side of caution on this one? There have been other players who suffered the same type of injury who came back and played. None of them suffered any serious injuries afterward.

However, for the Packers, I feel this was probably the right move.

As good as Collins was for the team, it’s time to move on.

And we wish the best of luck to Nick Collins in all his future endeavors – just don’t make those endeavors with the Vikings, Bears or Lions, please!

The official press release from the Green Bay Packers’ public relations department follows:

PACKERS RELEASE S COLLINS

The Green Bay Packers have released S Nick Collins. The transaction was announced Wednesday by Executive Vice President, General Manager and Director of Football Operations Ted Thompson.

Collins, who was selected by the Packers with the first of two second-round selections (No. 51 overall) in the 2005 NFL Draft, went on to appear in 95 games (all starts) at free safety during his seven-year career in Green Bay. During that time, he amassed 498 tackles (388 solo), 21 interceptions, including four returned for touchdowns, 83 passes defensed, five forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.

From 2008-10, Collins ranked second among all NFL players with 439 interception return yards and was tied for second among safeties with 17 INTs over that span. In 2008, he set a franchise record with 295 INT return yards and became the first NFL safety since 1986 to return three INTs for TDs in a season.

In 2010, Collins became the first Packers safety since LeRoy Butler to earn a bid to three consecutive Pro Bowls, and capped his season with a 37-yard INT return for a touchdown in Super Bowl XLV. He missed just three games in his first six seasons in the league, but was sidelined for the final 14 contests of 2011 after suffering a season-ending neck injury at Carolina in Week 2.

“From the beginning of this process, we have taken our time and sought numerous medical opinions while maintaining consistent dialogue with Nick,” Thompson said. “In the end, we were not comfortable clearing him to play again. As with all of our players, Nick is a member of our family and we thought of him that way as we came to this conclusion.

“Nick is a part of our core, and this is a very difficult day for all Packers. Making this kind of decision is never easy, especially when it involves someone like Nick Collins. He has meant so much to the community, his teammates and the organization. He is a good man and will always be part of the Packers family.”

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Ted Thompson will give a press conference today.

Ted Thompson, the Green Bay Packers’ poster child for the mystery man, might reveal a few nuggets of insight today when he holds a live press conference at 12:30 p.m. today, Thursday, April 19, to talk about the status of the team, the schedule and of course the draft.

But don’t bet on walking away knowing anything more about the Packers draft plans than you already knew going into the press conference. The conference will be streamed live on the Packers official website.

In addition to the topics mentioned above, we’re hoping Thompson will also tip his hand with answers to questions about free agents still not signed – the likes of Ryan Grant, et al, as well as the status of Nick Collins, Donald Driver and Chad Clifton.

But however he decides to answer this most likely will be a press conference where Thompson continues to hone his skills of dodging and weaving questions. The true football politician will be at work today.

So why bother watching if he’s not going to relay any pertinent information?

Because it’s Ted Thompson, that’s why.

Yeah, I’ll be watching. You should, too.

And while you’re at it, head over and Like Lombardiave.com on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

Will Green Bay Packers safety Nick Collins have more opportunities to greet fans on his way to training camp practice? Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Tell me if I’m wrong, but it seems to me about one week ago Green Bay Packers safety Nick Collins’ agent came out publicly saying that his player client was to be meeting with coach Mike McCarthy and general manager Ted Thompson.

Did I miss something?

The week has come and gone and not a word about Collins on any news site, nor the Packers official site … not an inkling, not a sighting, not a single letter has been typed about his whereabouts or whether he has even met with the Packers.

I believe that Collins said he would be sure to let the Packers know his intent by the time the NFL Draft rolls around. Well, it’s rolling ever-closer, so something should be coming soon …

The initial comments from his agent a week ago was that Collins was feeling physically well and indicated he wanted to come back to the team. The real question at this point is whether the Packers will allow him back. Both McCarthy and Thompson have indicated that Collins would have to do a significant song and dance to get him back on the Lambeau Field turf.

McCarthy and Thompson were both reticent in coming out in support of Collins’ return to the field.

In fact, most are more concerned about Collins’ health, given that he just had surgery on his neck six months ago. Though the medical field has grown in treatments of all neck-related injuries (see Peyton Manning here), it’s still a sticky situation for the Packers.

Even the fans who answered the poll questions on this site voted in the majority that Collins skip his attempt to come back and stay away from football.

No doubt Collins would have to take time to get back into playing condition. That won’t happen overnight. He hasn’t played the game in many months. Would he come back at the same level he left? Probably not. Do the Packers have the wherewithal and patience to work with a player who may or may not be the same? That’s the question MM and TT must answer.

But before all those questions can be answered there must be a meeting between all parties involved with the cards placed on the table.

My guess is that something will break this week and by the time Nick Collins leaves 1265 Lombardi Ave. a decision on which direction the team – and Collins – will be headed should be wrapped up.

Whatever the decision, we only hope it’s made with all factors considered. We would love to see Nick Collins roaming the Packers defensive backfield once again, but we also want what’s best for his health and family.

Stay tuned …

The defining moment for Green Bay Packers safety Nick Collins came when he scored a touchdown on an intercepted pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl XLV. Will he have the opportunity for more moments like this? Jason O. Watson-US PRESSWIRE

It’s going to take a lot to convince Green Bay Packers head coach Mike McCarthy and general manager Ted Thompson that they should allow safety Nick Collins a place back on the roster he was forced off of last year when he injured his neck in week 2.

But according to a story by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, that’s what Nick Collins is going to attempt.

Here’s what Collins is quoted was saying, ”If everything’s good, then we’re going. If (doctors) say there’s a slight chance of something, then that’s it.”

However, there are many factors that could keep him from making an attempt.

The biggest could be the two longtime football men at the top of the Packers organization. Both McCarthy and Thompson have stopped short of saying Collins should retire, but everyone within the franchise would probably agree that the two will be difficult to pursued.

And that’s after coming off a season in which the Packers’ defense clearly missed the All-Pro safety. Though the team defense wasn’t stellar through the first two games, after Collins was lost the team literally imploded on that side of the ball.

As for the positives on Collins’ side are the advances made in medical science in how neck injuries are treated. Many feel Collins could come back and play and play at a high level.

So many questions will need to be answered if Collins is allowed to come back and only time will bring those answers.

Collins is scheduled to meet with the Packers sometime this week. Nobody is really sure when that will take place, but a decision about whether Collins will come back will be made at that time.

In the meantime, it would be a good idea to read this story by the Journal Sentinel.

No matter where you stand on the issue, the decision will have a profound impact on the direction of the team.

Stay tuned.

Clipped from: www.jsonline.com (share this clip)

Nick Collins in congratulated by former Packers safety LeRoy Butler following an interception Collins returned for a touchdown. Will Collins make the decision to wear #36? Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Next week, the future will be determined for one Nick Collins.

My hope is that he has played his final game with the Green Bay Packers.

Here’s why I hope Collins is done.

The Packers safety who took a header in the second game at Carolina last year, followed that with surgery that left him sidelined for the season and could potentially end his career.

When Collins meets with the Packers, a decision about whether he will play football again will be made. His agent, Alan Herman, sent a text message to ESPN today, saying, “(co-agent) Dave Butz and I will travel next week to meet with the Packers. That is the plan. Decision will be made after that.”

The exact date and time of Collins’ meeting was not released.

Collins is not interested in making this decision a public spectacle … and I’m glad. This is going to be a difficult decision and a personal one at that. While our interest is strong, we’ve got to respect his decision – period.

If it’s up to head coach Mike McCarthy and Herman, Collins would go home. The coach came out last week questioning a comeback by his three-time All Pro and his agent also wondered.

The results of Collins’ medical exams conducted last week are not available, so one can only guess about his final decision.

Here’s what Herman thinks:

“You can feel great, but when you take a look at these MRIs there are things that (could) pop up and that are sometimes cause for concern. You may be able to do what everybody else does, but can you go out and play football based on what the MRI looks like in terms of the residual damage with these injuries? That’s what it comes down to. If you ask him how he feels, he’ll tell you he can go out and play football, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that his body can withstand the tackling.”

If Collins decides to return, will he be anywhere near where he was prior to his injury? How tentative will he be? Might he be in danger of not being an automatic starter? In fact, would he indeed be challenged to even make the team?

All questions that won’t be answered until next week.

It’s a win-win should Collins not come back. The Packers can move on and utilize the draft to bolster the defensive backfield. However, be sure that the loss of Collins last season was a major blow to the Packers defense. He was the glue that held that D together and his loss was sorely felt.

Filling the gap will be one of the team’s major challenges. They have done some work in free agency to add depth to the defensive line, making linebacker, corner and safety important defensive positions to address.

Whatever Collins’ decision, the Packers face interesting problems. GM Ted Thompson and head coach Mike McCarthy have guided this organization to continued excellence. I highly doubt they are working to fail.

If Collins hangs ‘em up, he can move on to life after football and the Packers can get back to doing what they do best – drafting and developing.

That’s why I hope Nick Collins has played his last game with the Green Bay Packers.

Check out Collins’ career statistics below, but before you do, you might want to check out Lombardiave.com on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.

Green Bay Packers cornerback Davon House (31) tackles Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28). Bruce Kluckhohn-US PRESSWIRE

Round 4
Davon House, CB, New Mexico St.

After going offense three times to start the draft, Ted Thompson used the fourth round pick on a cornerback. No doubt worried about Charles Woodson’s ability to continue to play cornerback (notice I didn’t just say “play”) at a high-level for the next couple years, Thompson chose a tall cornerback with speed to put into the Packers’ draft and develop pipeline.

Most probably thought Thompson’s first defensive pick should have been at OLB or DE, since it looked like the defensive backfield was well-stocked. House didn’t even play until the meaningless regular season finale. Fast-forward one year and this pick looks pretty prescient. Why? Because a year after Tramon Williams and Sam Shields played almost lights-out football, they both visibly regressed. Shields was even pulled from the playoff game in favor of special-teamer Jarrett Bush. This pick also looks smart now because Charles Woodson may be forced to play safety to fill-in for the injured Nick Collins. Let’s just hope that House can actually play.

Green Bay Packers tight end D.J. Williams (84) during the game against the Oakland Raiders at Lambeau Field. Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Round 5
D.J. Williams, TE, Arkansas

With his fifth selection, Thompson picked a replacement for Jermichael Finley. With Finley coming into this last contractual season, Thompson needed to hedge against the possibility of Finley leaving the Packers for a humongous contract elsewhere. With the labor strife, no one knew whether or not franchise tags would exist for the Packers to use on Finley, or if they would be prohibitive. It turns out though that the Packers were able to sign Finley to a compromise contract, much like they did with Greg Jennings, that allows Finley the opportunity to hit the free agent market when he is still in the prime of this career.

Meanwhile, that means that Williams, who was an occasional contributor for the Packers in 2011, can take two more years to get up to speed (much like Finely took 1-2 years) with the offense before he’s expected to play a big role, assuming that Finey does leave for more green. In the meantime, Williams should compete with fellow tight end Andrew Quarless for the backup TE spot.

Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Ryan Braun was defended today by his good friend, Aaron Rodgers. Mark J. Rebilas-US PRESSWIRE

It’s been an interesting couple of days in the world of Green Bay Packers news – and sports news in general.

With apologies to that guy Jeremy Lin in the overrated, oversaturated and overblown world of New York sports, there’s much more going on in sports than the Knicks’ phenom’s exploits.

Let’s take a closer look at what’s going on in our own backyard.

Bear with me … the following are random thoughts on a few happenings. There isn’t any  connections intended … these are just items that I felt needed addressing

Yesterday the team re-signed mercurial tight end Jermichael Finley to a two-year contract that will pay him $13 million; and Aaron Rodgers came out today with a stinging bashing of Major League Baseball and the sports media industry in the aftermath of the ruling by an arbitration board in favor of Milwaukee Brewers slugger and 2011 Most Valuable Player Ryan Braun.

Add to that, the notion that Packers safety Nick Collins inches closer toward his meeting with doctors about his progress following neck surgery and his football future and you’ve got enough of a mix of news that should keep one interested.

So let’s start with Finley.

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

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One of the major needs the Packers need to address this offseason is finding a complement to Clay Matthews on the defensive side of the football. Matthew Emmons-US PRESSWIRE

The Super Bowl on Sunday was a tremendous game that will definitely take its place as one of the more memorable games – ever. Watching the game as a Packers fan, however, got me to thinking about what we should expect for the Packers future and how we will get back to the big game next year.

Unlike last year, where we really did not need to make any immediate changes to the starting line-up, we will need to make changes on all sides of the ball. Of course, the main focus will be on the defensive side, but there will be some changes on the offensive side as well.

Let’s start on the easier side – the offense.

The Packers offensively last year was one of the most efficient offenses in NFL history. Aaron Rodgers won MVP and the Packers receiving corps was on top of its game. The running game was subpar but it could have been worse. Then finally, the o-line, despite the many injuries, was fairly consistent throughout the season giving Rodgers enough time to find the open receivers.

So what changes do we need?

The running game could be improved so adding another running back in the draft would never be a bad thing. Ryan Grant’s contract is expired and will most likely be gone, so adding depth could be a benefit to the Pack when considering James Starks’ injury history.

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

The receiving group is deeper than ever but this could result in a departure of Packer’s all-time leading receiver in Donald Driver. Randall Cobb showed his potential this year in many different games and now it seems more likely than ever that Driver could be heading out.

Matt Flynn showed tremendous potential in his one game vs. the Detroit Lions where he broke single-game records in yards and touchdowns. With his contract up this year, it guarantees his departure to a team like Miami or Washington – teams in desperate need of a franchise quarterback. This could mean the Packers going after another late round quarterback or even an undrafted one like they did with Graham Harrell. If the Packers do add another quarterback, it will probably just be a practice squad addition until the Packers groom him to where they feel comfortable to add him to the active roster.

The tight end situation is a little iffy as to what the Packers may do with Jermichael Finley. Finley was expected to be thrown the franchise tag during this offseason because of how big of an asset he is to the Packers organization. The thing is though, this year was quite disappointing. This was supposed to be the year Finley broke out and had a season over a thousand yards and became one of the NFL’s elite player at the position. Finley could have done this but he had a major case of the drops this season and put the Packers into a much tougher situation than they were in before. Should they pay a player that has the potential to be great the money of a great? Or should they just do the unthinkable and let him walk?

Then finally, the o-line for the Pack. Scott Wells is a free agent and needs to be a primary target for the Packer organization to get this guy back on the roster as he probably outperformed everyone else on the Packer o-line this season. Chad Clifton seems to be nearing the end of his career and could be another axe by the Packers this off-season. This would put T.J.Lang and Derek Sherrod in a position to battle for the left tackle position this training camp. Adding o-linemen in the draft is never a bad pick-up but I would not expect the Pack to use an early pick on one as they have much bigger issues to worry about…

Like the defense.

When the NFL Draft comes around in April, the Packers will surely be looking at prospects to help fill needs on the defense. I expect the Pack to use their first round pick on a linebacker to play opposite of Clay Matthews. With the end of Erik Walden’s time in Green Bay nearing, this issue becomes an even more of a priority. This will solve some problems but surely not all of them.

When we look at AJ Hawk and Desmond Bishop commanding the middle, we think we are pretty set at that position. Some would think so, but others would argue that one of the big reasons why the Packer’s defense took a turn for the worse this year was because of the lack of a true leader like we once had in Nick Barnett. Desmond Bishop had a great year but AJ Hawk seemed, almost at times, non-existent. What I mean by that is how it seemed he just did not make enough plays this year. I give him credit for being a sure tackler but it just seemed he was not around the ball-carrier to make the tackles. I don’t expect the Packers to make any significant changes at this position but I think something has to be at least considered involving this position. Maybe give the next guy up some more playing time in DJ Smith who actually played very well when he filled in at times this year.

Besides the Packers #1 priority in the linebacker unit, the Packers will surely be focused on the defensive line as well. It became well known early in the season, that the Packers were greatly missing Cullen Jenkins and his ability to not only stop the run but get some needed pressure on the quarterback. Many players tried to fill this role but none were truly successful in doing so and, therefore, should be a position the Packers will look to upgrade on in the coming off-season.

When the draft and free agency rolls around this year, if there was one position the Packers should try and stock up on it would be the defensive back unit. There is no immediate need for an upgrade in this unit except for the issue with Nick Collins and the possibility of his career actually being over. Hopefully the Packers will be able to know the status of Collins before the beginning of the off-season so they can plan accordingly.

Regardless, we still have Morgan Burnett and Charlie Peprah that can help preserve the depth at safety. Woodson is getting up in age so adding depth at cornerback is always a smart pick for the Packers. The future seems to be Tramon Williams and Sam Shields but there really is no third guy that can be counted on. Although it may not be the first round or two, the Packers will surely be looking to adding depth at the defensive back position to prepare for the future.

Many changes are expected this off-season but Ted Thompson can surely be counted on to help bring the Packers back to where they should have been on Sunday.

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

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

Oh wait, they were…

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

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

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

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The loss of Nick Collins this season has caused all kinds of problems in the defensive backfield. Some say Charles Woodson should be moved to safety. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

There’s been a lot of speculation lately, especially today, that there may be a groundswell of enthusiasm about the idea of moving cornerback Charles Woodson to safety.

I’m not so sure about the move, but given the fact that Charlie Peprah was not the answer this past season, coupled with the fact that Nick Collins is probably done playing football for life, it is an option that may be considered.

Is he big and durable enough to move into the position? He would be counted on to move to the line of scrimmage to help stop the run, in addition to having to cover a lot of ground in the defensive backfield … is he too old for a move like that?

Only the Packers coaching staff have the answer and will have the final say, but at least we can sound off on it.

Take the poll and let’s see how the numbers stack up.

Getting a player that complements Clay Matthews will be key to improving the Packers' defense. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Anyone who follows the Green Bay Packers and the history of GM Ted Thompson knows how he operates – build through the draft. It’s a simple philosophy that has worked and produced one Super Bowl championship. In fact, Thompson has built a team so deep in talent that the Packers have won an ungodly number of games the past year.

But there are chinks in the armor – namely the defense.

One would think that the answer for Thompson is through the draft and we all expect that he will draft defense this coming April.

However, John Limbach, a contributing writer over at Bleacher Report, has penned an interesting scenario – bringing all-world lineman Mario Williams to Green Bay. The injured player might be franchised and brought back to the Texans, but the price would be steep – $10 million. Considering that his replacement, Brooks Reed, has played well in Williams’ stead, the Texans have a heavy decision to make.

Given that the Packers may lose safety Nick Collins for good due to his injured neck, and seems to have lost any semblance of a pass rush when Cullen Jenkins went to the Eagles in free agency, the Packers have to do something if their defense is going to improve – though that unit can’t get any worse as they finished dead last in yards allowed last season.

Williams would bring an intimidating presence to the Packers and would offer a balance to Clay Matthews – something the Packers desperately need.

So, is it completely off the wall to think that Thompson would do anything so rash as to go after Williams should he hit the free agent market?

If it means it will improve the Packers and get them back to being an elite defensive team, then our hope is that something like this might play out. Maybe it’s a pipe dream, but this is the NFL where anything is possible.

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