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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy summer, everybody.

May it pass quickly.

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

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

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

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

Wide Receiver (10)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Randall Cobb should be one the Packers’ top threats this season.
Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

The 2012 Packers offense was not abysmal by any means, finishing as the thirteenth ranked offense in the NFL, averaging 359.4 yards per game.One thing that is certain, the Green Bay Packers 2013 offense will be different.

Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

But this was clearly a fall-off from the 2011 season in which the Aaron Rodgers-led offense finished third in the NFL at 405 yards per game. But at the end of the day the Packers were not Super Bowl champs in either season and in both of the previous years they had a bad showing in the playoffs.

In the ever-evolving NFL, change is constant and Coach Mike McCarthy understood adjustments needed to be made.

To some degree the Packers offensive attack over the past three years has been boom or bust. Most of the boom came from the passing game. It’s hard to fault McCarthy for building around Aaron Rodgers, arguably the best quarterback in the game with an arsenal of receivers at his dispense. As a whole, the receiving corps was deep and talented. The problem was the offense’s predictability and the offensive line’s woeful showing.

Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

In 2011, the Packers clearly benefited from the talent at wide receiver and Rodgers’ ability to get them the ball. But other teams caught up to their scheme in 2012. They defended the pass and came after Rodgers fast and furious, sacking him 51 times on the year. The running game was irrelevant and the offensive line was clearly not functioning as a well-oiled machine.

The offseason moves and the draft indicated the Packers are working to bring balance to their offense in 2013. From a financial perspective it was not a big surprise that wide receiver Greg Jennings was not signed. But the talent of the receiving unit does take a hit. With that said, most teams in the NFL, and especially teams in the NFC North, would be happy to have Randall Cobb, James Jones, Jordy Nelson and tight end Jermichael Finley at their disposal.

The subtraction of Jennings was balanced by the addition of second round draft pick Eddie Lacy and fourth round selection Johnathan Franklin at running back. The logic here is undoubtedly to create a more balanced attack. In theory, by upgrading the running game, defenses will no longer be able to disregard the Packers rushing attack and key in on the passing game.

Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Taking things one step further, Coach McCarthy recently announced that the offensive line would be getting a bit of a make-over, same faces really, just in different places. Right tackle Bryan Bulaga will flip-flop to left tackle and the same for right guard Josh Sitton, who will move to left guard. Last season’s left guard T.J. Lang, of course, is set to move to right guard. It seems the Packers are comfortable with Evan Dietrich-Smith at center. Right tackle, on the other hand, is an open competition between last year’s left tackle Marshall Newhouse, second year man Don Barclay, 2011 first round pick Derek Sherrod, and rookie David Bakhtiari from the University of Colorado.

The moves on the offensive line indicate the Packers are wisely looking to protect the blind side of franchise quarterback Aaron Rodgers and look to run behind a mauler of a guard in T.J. Lang on the strong side. The competition at right tackle will be interesting to watch develop.

On paper, which of course is not where the games are played, the Packers looked to be improved from an offensive perspective. If injuries hit the receivers, depth could be an issue. If the rookie running backs flop, then it’s back to square one in that department. And if the offensive linemen can’t make the adjustments, then that could be disastrous. But all of it is speculation and that is why the games are played.

In the end, the 2013 Packers season should be a fun one to watch unfold.

Of the changes made, which do you think will have the largest positive or negative effect?

However, a safety that nobody seems to be talking about is Georgia Southern safety J.J. Wilcox.

Wilcox is a freak of an athlete that has changed positions in college not once, but twice. Wilcox started out as a wide receiver at GSU and then moved to slot receiver. However, this past season, his senior year, Wilcox again switched positions, this time to safety.

Usually when a player only plays one year at a position he intends to play at the professional level it raises red flags. However, with Wilcox the transition has been flawless. If you don’t believe me take a look at his Youtube highlights, they don’t disappoint.

Wilcox measures at 6-1, he ran a 4.51 40-yard-dash at the NFL Combine, and though that isn’t the fastest 40-time for a safety, Wilcox has deceptive speed. Wilcox also was a returner at GSU, which would add to his value with the Packers as they’re trying to fade Randall Cobb out of the return game.

In his senior season, Wilcox started 13 of 14 games and tallied 88 tackles, three passes defensed and two interceptions. Wilcox is very reliable in man-to-man coverage, which would free up Dom Capers to use more of his exotic blitz packages with a safety who has the ability to cover a slot receiver one-on-one.

Arguably Wilcox’s best attribute is his ability to attack the line of scrimmage and ball carriers. Wilcox has a tremendous nose for the football and packs a punch when he tackles.

Wilcox does have a few weaknesses besides his inexperience. He gets tied up with blockers too often allowing some big run plays to occur. Wilcox would be a work in progress, but it all depends on where the Packers could potentially snatch him up in the draft.

ESPN’s Mel Kiper has the Packers taking Wilcox in the second round (No. 55 overall) which is the highest I have personally seen him go. He is projected as a 2-4 round pick by NFL.com, which would be a perfect place for him to go.

I can see Wilcox in Green and Gold, but unlike Kiper, I would rather see him in the third round rather than the second.

Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

The 2011 Green Bay Packers draft class is peculiar one. Of the 10 players chosen, only one, Randall Cobb, has really made an impact. Other than Cobb, for the six players remaining from this draft, the 2013 off season and training camp is going to be an important time for these guys. For many of them have the potential to play good football for the Packers.  The question is in 2013 is will they take off or flame out?

Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

The Packers first round selection, the 32nd overall, offensive tackle Derek Sherrod, is the most intriguing prospect of this class. Sherrod, if you recall, suffered a gruesome leg fracture against the Chiefs in December of 2011, when Tamba Hali rolled into him in the fourth quarter of the game. Sherrod at that point in the season was just starting to get a feel for the NFL.

It was hoped that the 2012 offseason would give Sherrod the edge at the left tackle position needed to challenge for the starting spot against Marshall Newhouse. Those dreams were dashed, as Sherrod was forced to sit out the entire 2012 season rehabbing his leg. The Packers are hopeful Sherrod can return in 2013 and compete this season for a spot on the offensive line.

Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

In the second round the Packers selected a player that has quickly become a go to guy on offense. A versatile wide receiver from Kentucky, named Randall Cobb. The 2012 season was a break out year for Cobb, as quarterback Aaron Rodgers targeted him 104 times and connected 80 of those times for 954 yards and 8 touchdowns. Cobb lines up all over the field in the Packer offense and is also an effective return man. Although in 2013 it is likely Cobb’s return duties will dissipate, as his real value in on offense.

With their third round pick the Packer chose a running back from Hawaii, Alex Green. His rookie season was shortened after suffering an ACL injury early in the year. In 2012, his first full season, Green rushed for 464 yards averaging 3.4 yards per carry and no touchdowns. I don’t think the Packers have thrown in the towel on Green just yet, but 2012 certainly was underwhelming. Green will need to fight and scrap during the 2013 offseason to secure a place on this coming year’s roster.

Jim O

Ted Thompson selected a big corner back from New Mexico, Davon House, with their fourth round pick. The Packers like House, but he has had some difficulty staying healthy. 2011 he was hampered by ankle and hamstring injuries and in 2012 he suffered a shoulder injury that limited him to nine games. He did, however, show some flashes of the big physical corner that Packers thought they drafted. The highlight of his career thus far was in week 8 of 2012 when he blocked a punt against the Jacksonville Jaguars and teammate Dezman Moses returned it for a touchdown to secure the Packers 24-15 victory. As a result House was named NFC Special Teams Player of the Week.

With a pick obtained from San Francisco via Denver the Packers selected D.J. Williams in the fifth round. A 6-2, 245-pound tight end from Arkansas some thought had the athletic ability to challenge Jermichael Finley for the tight end position. Thus far this has not been the case. Williams has collected just nine catches for 70 yards in the past two seasons. 2013 is almost sure to be a make or break season for Williams.

In the sixth round Ted Thompson had amassed three selections. Of those three, only D.J. Smith has stuck. With linebacker Desmond Bishop going down in the first preseason game of the 2012 season, Smith was almost assured a starting job. He ultimately won the starting inside linebacker position, but he too was injured.  In week six at the Houston Texans, he tore an ACL and reportedly more. Prior to the injury, Smith had 2 sacks and 39 tackles. If he can recover in time for training camp, which has been rumored to be doubtful, he will compete for playing time at the crowded inside linebacker position.

The other two picks in the sixth round, offensive lineman Caleb Schlauderaff and defensive end Ricky Elmore never made the Packers final roster. Schlauderaff was traded to the Jets on Sept. 3, 2011, for an undisclosed draft pick. Elmore is currently on the Redskins roster.

Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Green Bay also had multiple picks in the seventh round. With their first pick in the seventh round they selected a Ryan Taylor from North Carolina. A tight end; a guy who plays with a mean streak, has proven to be a very good special team player. With the recent departure of Tom Crabtree, if Taylor continues to progress on special teams, it is a safe bet he’ll be returning in 2013.

With the other pick in the seventh round the Packers selected defensive end Lawrence Guy from Arizona State. Guy spent the 2011 season on injured reserve. In 2012, he was one of the last players released in training camp and landed on the Packers practice squad. The Indianapolis Colts signed Guy in October 2012.

As I said in the beginning this was an interesting draft class. Every player selected is still in the league, a reflection of Ted Thompson’s eye for talent. However, outside of Randall Cobb, none of these players have really identified themselves as solid contributors. With the exception of Cobb, Taylor, and Williams, all of these guys have suffered significant injuries at some point. This does of course factor into their lack performance.

In 2013, I would look for Davon House to take the next step towards becoming a valued player in the Packer secondary. If Sherrod can return healthy, at the very least he can add needed depth to the offensive line. The same can be said for D.J. Smith at the inside linebacker position. I would also expect Ryan Taylor to be a leader on special teams. For the others this offseason will probably determine if they return to the Packers regular season roster.

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.

Feb 3, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell in attendance before Super Bowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

The NFL Combine edition of the FanSided 2013 NFL Mock Draft has been released.

The fine folks over at FanSided.com do a new mock draft every week right up until the actual draft in April, and we at LombardiAve.com have plenty of offseason information to pass along to our readers. Many of the players we’ve mentioned in previous mock draft posts will be working out and we’ll get a good opportunity to eyeball them and see how they’ll perform.

Draft positions are set save for the Super Bowl participants. Barring a trade, the Green Bay Packers will make their first selection with the 26^th pick.

Nov 3, 2012; Manhattan, KS, USA; Kansas State Wildcats linebacker Arthur Brown (4) during a 44-30 win over the Oklahoma State Cowboys at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Sewell-USA TODAY Sports

According to FanSided, with the 26^th overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft, the Green Bay Packers select Arthur Brown, Linebacker, Kansas State

Analysis: The Packers linebacker depth chart leaves a lot to be desired and it can immediately be improved if Green Bay decides to bring in a player like Brown, who has been turning heads during the draft process.

Here’s where things get interesting. Arthur Brown is a name we haven’t spent much time discussing, but he’s one of the more intriguing players in the draft. Measuring in at 6-0 and 241 pounds, most teams will look at Brown and determine he’s too small to spend a first round pick on. That’s not a very good reason, but he does lack an obvious position at the next level.

His speed and playmaking ability most naturally lend themselves to weakside linebacker in a 4-3 scheme, which obviously doesn’t do much for Green Bay. For the Packers, he’d probably shift to the inside where his skills balance out those of Desmond Bishop. It’s not a great fit, but Brown is much more talented than he’s given credit. His athleticism makes this a legitimate option should the Packers decide to address inside linebacker early.

Nov 3, 2012; Athens, GA, USA; Mississippi Rebels quarterback Bo Wallace (14) is tackled by Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Alec Ogletree (9) and linebacker Christian Robinson (45) in the game at Sanford Stadium. Georgia won 37-10. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports

However, if that’s where Ted Thompson wants to go, he will have to consider Alec Ogletree. His DUI arrest is certainly going to be a red flag for the Packers, who don’t want to spend a first round pick on a player who might end up suspended. However, chances to take a top 10 talent at the back end of the first round are few and far between. Without his character concerns, Ogletree does not make it this far. With the Packers in a win-now mode, this is the type of pick that merits consideration. As we’ve seen from players like Johnny Jolly, bad personal habits can be controlled during the season. It’s a calculated risk, but if it works out Green Bay would have its second All-Pro linebacker.

Nov 12, 2011; San Francisco CA, USA; California Golden Bears wide receiver Keenan Allen (21) tries to catch the ball in the end zone but is unable to remain control during the second quarter against the Oregon State Beavers at AT

More and more, we’re hearing that teams in search of a wide receiver are valuing Cordarrelle Patterson and DeAndre Hopkins as the best wide receivers in the draft. The benefit of this is Keenan Allen – the most complete receiver in the draft – might be available when the Packers are on the clock. Wide receiver isn’t Green Bay’s biggest need, but Allen is the type of receiver the Packers haven’t had since Javon Walker’s one great season. He’s a big target with great hands, understands the complexities of route running, and will fight for the ball better than any wideout in this class. For Green Bay, he’d provide another receiver to line up wide thus opening up opportunities for slot receiver Randall Cobb.

September 29, 2012; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs defensive lineman John Jenkins (6) hits Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Tyler Bray (8) as he throws in the second half at Sanford Stadium. The Bulldogs won 51-44. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports

Another option we haven’t spent much time discussing is mammoth Georgia defensive tackle John Jenkins. At 6-4 and 346 pounds, Jenkins has the look of a true 3-4 nose tackle. A few years ago, it was all but assumed the Packers had the nose tackle position locked up, but B.J. Raji has proven much better at end. At the very least, Green Bay needs another player who can provide Raji some rest. With Ryan Pickett now the graybeard of the team, it’s time to find a replacement.

Jenkins could be that player.

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.

Randall Cobb could be looking up at a much bigger contract in the next couple of years … or he might be one of those could hold out for more.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

The Minnesota Vikings‘ Percy Harvin could be a trend-setter, but not the type of trend any of us really like to see and a trend that could in 2014 absorb the Green Bay Packers‘ Randall Cobb, among many other NFL veterans whose rookie contracts will be coming to an end.

The issue that will be rearing its head this year coming to a boiling point within the next couple of years centers around the salary cap. You see, it is increasing, but not enough to stay abreast of the increases that players are wanting in their salaries.

And I thought the collective bargaining contract would keep the peace for the next decade. Apparently not.

Mike Florio of Profootballtalk.com said in his post yesterday on the topic that “something has to give.” He’s right, but there will most likely be conflict between employers and employees before some kind of middle ground is worked out. In other words, players will most likely hold out until they get their employers to understand their place or to at least meet them in the middle.

So, here’s what many are saying will occur in 2014 – those who signed rookie contracts in 2011, including Randall Cobb, will be coming due for their first big pay day.

Here’s the list of some of the players who might be ready at the time to sign a new contract and could be affected: Cam Newton, Von Miller, A.J. Green, Patrick Peterson, Julio Jones, Aldon Smith, J.J. Watt, Muhammad Wilkerson, Andy Dalton, Colin Kaepernick, Torrey Smith, DeMarco Murray, Cecil Shorts, Jacquizz Rodgers, and Randall Cobb.

But because the amount of money available to teams from the slow-growing salary cap could hamstring teams, these players, who will most likely be looking for big dollars, will use the only tool they have available to them – the holdout.

However, Florio points out that the league has at its disposal the tool of a $30,000 per day fine for each day missed of training camp, but it seems the penalty has lacked any teeth – at least to-date. Florio said that in the case of Maurice Jones-Drews’s holdout last year the two sides came together and agreed on a reduced rate instead of applying the full penalty of $30,000. His fines amounted to more than $1 million, but he ended up paying much less.

The big question will center on how willing employers will be in compensating these high-performing players, especially if they continue to play at the level they have in their first two seasons. There’s no question that Cobb has earned every dime of his $729,414 salary. He sits at number 27 among the 53-man Packers roster and will surely be looking to move up toward the top of that list.

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Dec 9, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Randall Cobb (18) makes a one handed catch during the third quarter against the Detroit Lions at Lambeau Field. The Packers won 27-20. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Randall Cobb Sunday again demonstrated his value as a receiver and special teams player for the Green Bay Packers – catching three passes for 62 yards and a touchdown and 3 punts for 13 yards – and though he left the game with an ankle injury in the third quarter, he played enough to garner an impressive team record.

Early in the game, Cobb set the franchise record for most combined net yards in a season with 2,342 yards receiving, rushing and returning kicks. Cobb eclipsed the previous record set by Ahman Green with 2,250 all-purpose yards.

Here’s what Cobb had to say about the team record:

There have been so many great players, it’s definitely an honor to be mentioned with those names. But I’m a championship guy. Records can be broken, but you can’t take championships away.

While outdoing Green, Cobb is coming close to the NFL record set by Darren Sproles, but it appears he will fall short of that record.

Sproles’ record of 2,696 yards set just last year seems out of reach for Cobb, but doesn’t diminish what he has done for the Packers this season. His consistency and ability to become a big time player can’t be underestimated. While the Packers stars, Jordy Nelson and Greg Jennings, went down with injuries for several games this season, Cobb’s production increased dramatically. When coupled with the play of James Jones, Cobb has become a major star in a short period of time and has become a weekly, reliable target for Aaron Rodgers.

The injury he suffered Sunday against the Titans didn’t seem serious, according to sources.

X-rays completed after the game were negative and he was scheduled to have an MRI on Monday. The early prognostication was that he might be ready to play this coming weekend against the Vikings. If he isn’t ready for this coming weekend, he would definitely be ready for the playoffs.

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Aaron Rodgers celebrates a touchdown pass against the Houston Texans in the fourth quarter at Reliant Stadium. Brett Davis-US PRESSWIRE

After the thrashing the Green Bay Packers took on Sunday in New York by the Giants one has to wonder if the Packers are a victim of their own success.

Is the culture within the Packers locker room one in which they believe they can simply show up and win? That’s hard to say, a player, or a coach for that matter would never admit to that. However, it does seem that this Packers team is a little low on intensity.

Clay Matthews (52) during the game against the Chicago Bears at Lambeau Field against the Bears 23-10. Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Of the 11 games this season, there are only two games in which they took the field with an unmatched level of fire and passion. The first being the game versus the Bears at Lambeau, and the second being the Sunday night game in Houston against the Texans. The Bears, well, they are the historic rival, every Packers team is up for those games. On national television against Houston the Packers had their backs against the wall coming off a humbling loss to the Colts. They had good reason to be hungry and it showed, easily defeating a good Houston team 42-24.

Following the victory in Houston the Packers went on to win their next four games. But none of the teams they beat are contenders, and they did not thoroughly handle any of them. In fact, against the worst team in the league, the Jacksonville Jaguars, they squeaked out a victory.

The Packers are a good team. They have a lot of talent on both sides of the football. It is true they have been hit pretty hard by the injury bug. But they are regarded as one of the deepest teams in the league, and quite frankly injuries are a part the game.

Think back to 2010, the Packers went on a “magic carpet ride” run to win the Super Bowl against the Pittsburgh Steelers. It was magic because this, too, was a team that was made thin by injuries. They played inspired and that was the difference-maker.

New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw is downed short of the goal line during the second half against the Green Bay Packers at MetLife Stadium. Jim O

To follow up the Super Bowl season they began the 2011 campaign 13-0 and went on to finish 15-1. It all seemed too easy until the Packers met the Giants at Lambeau in the first round divisional playoff game. The Packers, like they did this past Sunday, came out flat. On the contrary, in both games the Giants came out hungry and whooped the Packers handedly.

The Packers, as a team, do not come off as arrogant. Actually quite the opposite. They seem humble and very disciplined. However, they have been successful, and it seems they know they have talent. James Jones told Bill Michaels of Bill Michael’s Sports in the week following the Colts loss, “There’s a lot of talent on this team. We won a Super Bowl and not many guys have changed.” He went on to say, “I don’t want to take away from our opponents but we’ve got too many things to point to that we’ve done to ourselves, to get us beat. Dropped balls, missed blocks, missed tackles, bad passes, kicks I mean all of it, we’re all to blame. If we all do our jobs, we win those games.”

On one hand, Jones gives the impression that the Packers need to be accountable for their failings. But on the other, he does seem to dismiss the capabilities of their opponents and think highly of their own abilities. Not to undervalue confidence, but Jones’ comments have a hint of superiority to them.

Following the loss to the Giants there was a lot of chatter in the Packers locker room concerning their flat start to the game and lack of energy. Randall Cobb was adamant in stating, “I think the biggest thing is that we have to come out and play with some emotion.I feel like our care-level just wasn’t there tonight. I don’t know how else to put it.”

Aaron Rodgers reflected on last year’s loss to the Chiefs which ended their hopes of an undefeated season. He said, “You win five in a row and everybody’s happy, but there’s often things, like I said last year during the run, there’s things that kind of go under the radar that need to be handled. Sometimes it takes a loss to handle those things.”

Rodgers was vague in what he said.

Randall Cobb runs back a kickoff during the second quarter of an NFL game against the New York Giants. Brad Penner-US PRESSWIRE

But Cobb was not.

Given their overall play this season and highlighted by the loss to the Giants the Packers seem to be on coast and caught in a comfort zone.

They are a good team; most would agree one of the best. But in the NFL there is no room for a superiority complex. The Packers are without a number of top-notch players due to injuries. With that there is a drop in talent.

That gap needs to be bridged with intensity and hunger.

Those intangibles seem to be under the radar – a fact to which Rodgers alluded.

Nov 18, 2012; Detroit, MI, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Randall Cobb (18) celebrates with running back James Starks (44) and Charles Woodson (white jacket) against the Detroit Lions during the fourth quarter at Ford Field. Packers beat the Lions 24-20. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-US PRESSWIRE

The 7-3* Green Bay Packers take on the 6-4 New York Giants Sunday night in New York.

This game was circled as a showdown when the schedule for this season first came out. I expected it to be a game between Division leaders. It is. I expected it to be important for both teams. It is. What I didn’t expect was to be so flummoxed about which team will win.

Allow me to explain.

The New York Football Giants are a superb football team. They’ve had their way with the Packers in the playoffs, while the Packers have found ways to beat them in the regular season. Hopefully that doesn’t happen exactly that way again this year, but that’s a different piece for sometime in January.

The Green Bay Packers are an equally superb football team. They have weathered their storm of injuries remarkably well. I can’t think of a single team in the NFL that could possibly absorb the kind of injury issues that the Packers have absorbed this year and continue to be expected to win, then go out and win. After a rocky start they’re playing better, more consistent ball. Even after all the injuries.

Statistically the teams are so close offensively that it’s meaningless to try and pick the better team. Twenty yards per game separate the two teams in average total yards, passing, and rushing. Their points per game are less than a full point apart. Green Bay holds a 5 percentage point edge in third down conversions and about 11 minutes more time of possession … for the season!

Defensively the situation is much the same. The Packers give up 28 fewer average yards per game. None of the other per-game defensive averages differ by more than 15 yards. Average points per game allowed? Nothing to hang your hat on there; there is less than a full point difference. Third down conversion percentage allowed? They differ by less than 3 percentage points, but the Packers have the edge.

Without meaningful differences between the teams statistically, I could point at the injuries. But so far, the Packers have not been able to point at any of the players who have replaced injured starters and find a glaring hole. Sure, it would be great to have Bulaga, Jennings, Woodson, Shields, and Matthews back.

Oct 28, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers cornerback Casey Hayward (29) during the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Lambeau Field. The Packers defeated the Jaguars 24-15. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

But Lang, Cobb, Hayward/House/Jennings and Moses/Zombo/Walden have done more than serviceable work as their replacements. I don’t include the players on IR in the discussion simply because they can’t come back at all, so their availability is moot. But it sure would be nice to have Benson back, too!

The Giants injury list is nowhere as long as the Packers list. QB Eli Manning has complained about “fatigue” in his throwing arm, but the G Men are coming off their bye and any fatigue might well be more than just fatigue if it affects Manning’s performance in this game. Otherwise the Giants injury picture is inconsequential.

Quarterback matchup? Eli Manning is up against reigning league MVP Aaron Rodgers. Both quarterbacks are examples of the best at their position and Manning does have two Super Bowl wins.

I’ll still pick Rodgers for three reasons. He’s better at escaping the pass rush and improvising while on the move, he’s leading the league (again) in passer rating, and he’s thrown 27 touchdowns against 6 picks.

Manning doesn’t move as well, ranks 22^nd in passer rating, and he’s thrown 12 touchdowns against 11 picks.

Manning has developed a reputation as a comeback quarterback, but if the Packers can take advantage of his tendency to give the ball away early in games, he’ll have a tough time pulling off his fourth-quarter heroics against an improved Packers defense on Sunday night.

So when this game starts, two very evenly-matched teams will do their best to win a game that both teams need to win. I don’t think we’ll see a blowout in favor of either team Sunday night. Rather, this one looks to me like a high-scoring slugfest that either team can win, but only one team will win. The last possession might determine the outcome, but somehow I don’t think it will this time around.

Here are some of the things I’ll be watching during the game:

Nov 4, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) during the game against the Arizona Cardinals at Lambeau Field. The Packers defeated the Cardinals 31-17. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

• The Packers offensive line, along with all NFL offensive lines, has had trouble with the Giants defensive line. The re-shuffled line, with Lang now in at RT for Bulaga and Evan Dietrich-Smith in at LG for Lang, will just have to find a way to deal with the likes of Pierre-Paul, Umenyiora, and Tuck. It’s been done by other teams this season. The Packers O line won’t need to dominate the Giants DL … just beat them more than they get beaten themselves.

• There has been some disharmony of late among the Giants’ DL. I’ll be watching for signs that the Pack O line is handling their business – usually starting with a solid run game on consistent carries by Starks and Green … and Rodgers not running for his life.

• The Packers receiving corps is missing only Greg Jennings as of now, and I think it would be better to let him take another week for him to get his legs under him rather than put him back in before he’s ready. He was complaining about being out of football shape, so let him get back in shape.

• That the Packers can have the top quarterback in the league, even when missing so many key receiver weapons for so many games this season, continually proves to me that the Packers have the best top-to-bottom group of catchers in the league. I’ll be watching for the Packers receivers, especially Nelson and Cobb, to carve up the Giants defense. And to catch the ball!

Nov 4, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers running back James Starks (44) during the game against the Arizona Cardinals at Lambeau Field. The Packers defeated the Cardinals 31-17. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

• Running the ball against the Giants will be up to RBs Starks and Green. They’ll need to be successful to keep the Giants defensive line honest and prevent their all-out assault on Rodgers. Both are good enough to get that done. They’ll need to be decisive in their cuts, protect the rock, and be assignment-sure when they’re called on to block – all of which they have proven they can do. I’ll be watching for them both to have some big plays in this game.

• The improved run defense, especially the big guys up front and the inside LBs, will need every bit of their ability to stop and contain Bradshaw, Wilson and Brown, but their real battle will be keeping Manning and his dancing receivers in check. I think the Giants will move the ball on the Packers defense, but when it matters the Pack D will get the job done.

• Eli Manning can and does put a few throws up for grabs each game. If he does the same against the Packers secondary, expect picks and passes defensed. The young guns in the Packers secondary have gone from a liability early in the season to a one of the team’s strengths now. I’ll be watching Manning try to figure out which CB he wants to risk throwing at.

• On special teams, Packers punter Tim Masthay has been having another steady season and I expect him to be effective again Sunday night in NYC.

• PK Mason Crosby has struggled of late. That’s not news. Crosby has a history of being streaky. The team has expressed confidence in him. The coach has expressed confidence in him. Crosby can do himself a huge favor by going out and having a solid performance in this game. I think he will.

Fearsome Predictions:

• This one’s getting to be a weekly thing, but expect the Packers to again mix the run and the pass close to 50/50 in this game. It still works. And it still looks awesome when it works.

• The Packers will be penalized fewer times and for fewer yards than the Giants. After their performance in Detroit, they need to make things easier on themselves by playing cleaner this week.

Oct 21, 2012; St. Louis, MO, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) throws a pass to running back Alex Green (20) during a the second half against the St. Louis Rams at Edward Jones Dome. The Packers defeated the Rams 30-20. Mandatory Credit: Scott Kane-US PRESSWIRE

• The Packers run game will be complementary to the passing game and I expect Green to have a couple of nice runs after the catch. Starks will contribute most of the yards on the ground, however.

• Eli Manning will be picked off twice and fumble once, leading to 17 Packers points. Hayward is tied for second in the league in interceptions with five. Watch his total rise by at least one in this game.

• Rodgers will throw for more than 300 yards against the Giants. He’ll also have a higher passer rating than Manning.

• The Pack D will notch at least four sacks of Manning. Keep your heads up when you hit number 10 in blue though guys!

• There will be a big play on special teams in this game for the Packers.  I could see a blocked punt, fake FG for a first down, or a big return. Cobb is due.

• If Crosby is called upon to kick a game-winning FG, he’ll make it.

We’ll be watching the game from the comfort of our own couch this week. No competition for sound boxes or putting up with Bears fans who show up just to root against the Packers. But we’ll be making plenty of noise and Tweeting like crazy. Follow me at @PackersTX.

Bring it Giants! Go Pack GO!

Nov 19, 2012; Detroit, MI, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Randall Cobb (18) catches a pass to score a touchdown as Detroit Lions free safety Ricardo Silva (39) and cornerback Jacob Lacey (21) defend in the fourth quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-US PRESSWIRE

The Green Bay Packers win over the Detroit Lions last week earned the team the GMC “Never Say Never Moment” Award.

In a game when all seemed lost, the Packers’ touchdown pass reception by Randall Cobb, followed by kicker Mason Crosby’s field goal secured the Packers 24020 win over NFC North rival Detroit Lions.

The win gave the Packers their second division win in as many tries. They defeated the Chicago Bears in September. The Packers, like the rest of the teams in the division, have the bulk of their NFC North games between now and the end of the season.

In addition, with the Bears’ loss to the San Francisco 49ers put the Packers and Bears atop the division with 7-3 records. However, the Packers hold the tie-breaker with their win over the Bears.

The following is the official press release about the Packers’ award was distributed by the Packers’ public relations department:

GREEN BAY PACKERS FIND WAY TO WIN VOTED WEEK 11

GMC NEVER SAY NEVER MOMENT OF THE WEEK

Winner Selected By Fan Vote on NFL.com

Green Bay Packers QB AARON RODGERS found WR RANDALL COBB for a late game score to put the Packers ahead for good against the Detroit Lions. Their effort earned them the GMC NEVER SAY NEVER MOMENT OF THE WEEK for games played on November 15-19, the NFL announced today. The GMC NEVER SAY NEVER MOMENT OF THE WEEK is the best moment or play of the week that represents determination and perseverance.

With a number of key players sidelined due to injuries, the GREEN BAY PACKERS faced a DETROIT LIONS team desperate to keep playoff hopes alive.  For much of Sunday’s game, the Packers struggled offensively, yet, down 20-14 with 4:25 remaining, they mounted their best drive of the afternoon, going 82 yards in six plays on a drive capped by a WR Randall Cobb score from QB Aaron Rodgers. The win helps the Packers remain in the NFC North title chase.

Packers find a way to win was selected from among three moments by voters on NFL.com/gmc.  The other two moments were COWBOYS win thriller vs. Browns and TEXANS survive OT scare vs. Jaguars.

After the regular season, fans will have a chance to determine the GMC Never Say Never Moment of the Year, from among the 17 weekly winners.  Fans can vote for the winner and enter for a chance to win a trip to Super Bowl XLVII on NFL.com/gmc throughout the month of January.

2012 GMC NEVER SAY NEVER MOMENT OF THE WEEK

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

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

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

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

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

James Starks. Matthew Emmons-US PRESSWIRE

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

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

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

Randall Cobb.
Andrew Weber-US PRESSWIRE

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

Davon House.
Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

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

Dezman Moses.
Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

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

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

Mason Crosby.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

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

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Nov 19, 2012; Detroit, MI, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Randall Cobb (18) celebrates after catching a pass for a touchdown as Detroit Lions cornerback Jacob Lacey (21) reacts during the fourth quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-US PRESSWIRE

After 10 games, 574 receiving yards, 54 catches, and 7 touchdowns, it’s apparent to even the most passive observer that receiver Randall Cobb has become the Packers most dangerous weapon. On its face alone that’s impressive, let alone after Cobb’s impact on the return and running game is factored in.

The second year receiver has been such a revelation that Greg Jennings’ pending free agency, a major preseason storyline, has become a complete afterthought.

And it was so close to not being that way.

Nov 27, 2010; Knoxville, TN, USA; Kentucky Wildcats wide receiver Randall Cobb (18) is tackled from behind by Tennessee Volunteers linebacker LaMarcus Thompson (42) at Neyland Stadium. Tennessee defeated Kentucky 24-14. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-US PRESSWIRE

Randall Cobb wasn’t an unknown commodity heading into the 2011 draft. Not only had Cobb made an All-SEC first team, but he had done so for the lowly Kentucky Wildcats. His return skills and overall versatility were also widely celebrated. Most draft experts had Cobb projected to go as high as the first round.

Yet Cobb fell, and six receivers were taken before he landed to Green Bay on the final pick of the second round. All but A.J. Green and Julio Jones, both top 10 selections, have been irrefutably inferior to Cobb. While it isn’t news to anyone that players often outperform those drafted ahead of them, or vice versa, it seemed odd at the time that Cobb fell so far. Nowhere is this more apparent than pick 44.

The Detroit Lions, wanting a speedy receiver to take pressure off Calvin Johnson, selected Boise State’s Titus Young. Young’s profile was very similar to Cobb: A somewhat diminutive pass catcher with fantastic speed and quickness who was highly productive in college.

Detroit will be left questioning this decision for quite some time.

While their career numbers are nearly identical at this point – Cobb has 79 catches for 949 yards and 8 TDs while Young has 80 catches for 990 yards and 10 TDs – these are two players moving in opposite directions.

Young hasn’t progressed as a playmaker despite increased opportunities. His production is basically the same as last year, and he hasn’t done anything to make defenses think twice about double-teaming Calvin Johnson.

Cobb on the other hand has been thrust into the role of lead receiver. And he has flourished. In the last six games alone, Cobb has 412 receiving yards and 7 TDs on 36 receptions. That’s more catches, yards, and touchdowns than Young’s entire 2012 season to date.

Now imagine what the Packers offense would look like this year without Cobb. Jennings and Nelson have missed a lot of time, and while James Jones has played great and deserves even more praise than he’s receiving, this team is two or more games worse without Cobb’s play.

It’s early, but the preliminary returns indicate Cobb could go down with Aaron Rodgers as the greatest draft robberies of the Ted Thompson era.

Aaron Rodgers is the NFL’s reigning MVP and is on course for another shot at that title. The Packers have to keep him healthy. Dean Hall photograph

The Green Bay Packers have weathered an early storm of controversy, bad luck, and injuries to post a 6-3 record. The bye week could not have come at a better time for the Packers – even though we only have 7 games left, it’s a tough road ahead.

That road ends at New Orleans on the third of February 2013 for Super Bowl XLVII.

In order for the Packers to complete that journey they are going to need these 10 players to stay healthy and productive. They are ranked below in order of value.

A.J. Hawk.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

10. A.J Hawk

I used to think A.J Hawk was overpaid, overrated, and on his way out of Green Bay. Now I view him as the most valuable linebacker not named Clay Matthews. Why the change? Because he’s played better. His tackling is better, he’s more impactful, and he’s reliable. Coach McCarthy has said Hawk is always the same guy every day. In the past that has usually been a bad thing, not this year.

T.J. Lange
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

9. T.J Lang

Lang has always been pretty solid. He is willing to battle with anyone, and is among the most efficient statistically of all the Packers lineman. However his true value lies in his versitility to move around the offensive line. The news coming out of Green Bay is that Bulaga’s injury is more serious than expected. This does nothing but make Lang even more valuable

Jordy Nelson
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

8. Jordy Nelson

Jordy had taken the place of Greg Jennings in the offense. It took a little time but he has definitely hit his stride.  He now looks like a legitimate go-to receiver. Also, as we have witnessed lately there is a noticeable drop off in the offense when he is not playing.

Tramon Williams
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

7. Tramon Williams

Tramon has been a little up and down this year. That being said, he is still our best cover corner. He is very effective at times and has a knack for the big play. He is by no means a shutdown corner the likes of “Revis Isle,” but he is a former Pro Bowler cornerback and they do not grow on trees.

Charles Woodson
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

6. Charles Woodson

He is no longer playing at the elite level that he once was, but make no mistake, he is still very valuable. He is effective in so many different ways and is on the field more than any other player.  He is also the leader of the defense, and a great communicator to the other young members of the secondary.

B.J. Raji
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

5. B.J Raji

B.J Raji is our best defensive lineman. He gets a great push in the pocket and is great against the run. He is the perfect 3-4 tackle and is exactly what Thompson thought he was when he drafted him in the first round. The Packers defense played well without him for a two-game period, over the long haul I am not so sure the results would be as inspiring

Randall Cobb
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

4. Randall Cobb

Randall is our most explosive receiver, who can do it all and is only going to get better. He leads the Packers in receptions (45), yards after the catch (250) and plays over 20 yards (9). Combine this with the fact he is a great returner and that makes him a very valuable weapon in the Packers offense and special teams.

Marshall Newhouse
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

3. Marshall Newhouse

Marshall has shown steady improvement since he has been a starter. That being said, he is still probably just a slightly-above-average tackle in the NFL. However he protects “the blindside” and the options behind him are far worse… If he goes down (and with Bulaga already out) they would have to turn to undrafted rookie Don Barclay. This, at best, is not ideal, and at worst … catastrophic

Clay Matthews
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

2. Clay Matthews

He is the best overall defensive player in the NFL. He is great in coverage, against the run and rushing the passer. The only thing that exceeds his talent is his motor. He never quits and leaves everything on the field.  A long-term injury to the Claymaker would result in a huge drop-off to an already inconsistent defense.

Aaron Rodgers
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

1. Aaron Rodgers

He is former Super Bowl MVP, reigning NFL MVP, near the top of the NFL in every major statistical category and could still possibly get better. If that doesn’t sell you, how about the fact that his backup is Graham Harrell? It’s safe to say the 2012 Green Bay Packers will only go as far as #12 takes them.

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.

Clay Matthews Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

It has been a rough start for the Packers as they prepare for a huge game tomorrow against the undefeated Texans. However, there have been three players this year that have gotten the job done for the Packers.

OLB Clay Matthews

Clay Matthews has once again been arguably the NFL’s best pass rusher as he has terrorized offensive lines once again this season. Matthews already has 8 sacks and is staying right up with JJ Watt as he tries to get the most sacks in the NFL this season. Matthews has been playing well in making his presence known. Matthews is one of the most scouted players in the NFL and  is once again the star pass rusher and part of the reason the Packers’ record is not worse.

WR Randall Cobb

Randall Cobb has gotten the chance to be more involved in the offense and he has done a great job being an effective receiver in the quick passing game.

Cobb has been targeted 25 times by Aaron Rodgers this season and he has 22 receptions out of those 25 targets. Cobb has been a big play machine for the Packers while still getting the job done as a return man. Cobb is averaging 27.3 yards per kick return and 11.5 yards per punt return with a touchdown. Cobb has been another bright spot in this disappointing start for the Packers this year.

D.J. Smith has played well for the Packers. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

ILB DJ Smith

DJ Smith has been a pleasant surprise on defense for the Packers as he has made a very solid pair in the middle of the Packers’ linebacking corps with AJ Hawk who has been the tackling machine.

DJ Smith has shut down the run and has also had a couple sacks on the season. DJ Smith also has gotten the job covering opposing receivers and  has 4 pass deflections and doing exactly what is necessary.

Aug 16, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Cleveland Browns running back Adonis Thomas (35) loses his helmet after getting tackled by Green Bay Packers cornerback Brandian Ross (39) in the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-US PRESSWIRE

Remember, it’s only preseason … Remember, it’s only preseason … Remember, it’s only preseason … Remember, it’s only preseason … 

That’s what we have to keep repeating.

It doesn’t count in the record books and thank God that’s the reality. But we still have to look at the 35-10 shellacking the Packers took from the Cleveland Browns Thursday night as disconcerting.

It is only the second time the Packers have started 0-2 in preseason during the Mike McCarthy regime … it’s very uncharacteristic for a McCarthy-coached team to look this bad.

Yeah, you can point to the injuries; you can point to the fact that most of the game was played by second-, third- and fourth-stringers; you can point to the fact that everyone made a mistake in this one – even McCarthy who was flagged 15 yards for throwing the challenge flag at the wrong time.

Packers wide receiver Jordy Nelson (87) celebrates. Benny Sieu-US PRESSWIRE

Aside from the Aaron Rodgers-to-Jordy-Nelson connection for a touchdown in the first quarter, there wasn’t a whole lot to shout about. Though it’s a loss, again, it doesn’t count.

What we should be worried about is that it was a loss to the Cleveland Browns – yes, that same Browns team that has stunk up the league for the past decade. The question we must ask this morning is this: Are the Browns that good or are the Packers sinking to Cleveland’s level of badness?

What’s going to happen when the Packers play a really good team, like next week against the Bengals? Or when they open the season against the 49ers and then have to host the Bears?

Well, here are a few initial thoughts I’ve had this morning as I feel bad:

• Graham Harrell isn’t an NFL quarterback and Ted Thompson should have Mike Holmgren and Colt McCoy on speed dial;

• The running game, especially Alex Green, didn’t look all that bad last night;

• D.J. Smith is going to be an unsung hero for the Packers this year;

• Jordy Nelson is going to again lead the Packers in receiving this year;

• The second string offensive line is just that – offensive;

• The young players the Packers have in the secondary are energetic, talented and getting ready for prime time. However, they are very green;

• I can’t wait to see what Cedric Benson can do in this offense;

Green Bay Packers wide receiver Randall Cobb had a rough night.Benny Sieu-US PRESSWIRE

• Randall Cobb isn’t standing out like everyone said he would be and his fumble in the first quarter was inexcusable;

• Charles Woodson is again going to be a huge factor for the defense;

• Where was Nick Perry?; and

Remember, it’s only preseason … Remember, it’s only preseason … Remember, it’s only preseason … Remember, it’s only preseason …

August 9, 2012, San Diego, CA: Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rogers (12) calls an audible in the first quarter against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jody Gomez-US PRESSWIRE

Turnovers, Injuries, dropped passes, a poor running game and just general inconsistency plagued the Packers in their preseason opener against the San Diego Chargers Thursday night on national television.

It’s not an uncommon scene and certainly not something that should concern Packers fans too much. There is never much one can take away from that first game of the year – other than the fact that, thankfully, it doesn’t count.

But there are some things for certain – the Packers have to get healthy and they have to show vast improvement in consistency next time out.

When Nick Perry opened the game with a sack on Philip Rivers, Packers fans cheered. But when the flag came out for unsportsmanlike conduct because of his post-sack enthusiasm, Packers Nation could only grow. I guess it was the harbinger of the the night.

The Packers gave up a 23-yard touchdown to Antonio Gates after fumbling the ball away on their first drive of the night. Another fumble on the ensuing kickoff only spelled out what type of night it would be. Though the defense held its own throughout the game and Graham Harrell finally led the Packers to a score just before halftime and another touchdown at the beginning of the fourth quarter, it wasn’t enough.

Aug 9, 2012; San Diego, CA, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker Desmond Bishop (55) is tended to by members of the Packers

But Donald Driver said patience is required, especially at this time of year. “That was the whole thing,” Driver said. “You have to get the rust off, and then you start playing ball. You see exactly what he can do. Right before half, he drives the ball right down there and scores. That was big for us. He has the confidence that he can play on this level, and he’s proven it.”

To his credit, Harrell didn’t get down. He kept working and the coaching staff showed their confidence and stuck with him.

“That’s kind of the attitude and mentality I try to bring in every day,” Harrell said. He who finished 15 of 27 passing for 135 yards and a TD. His passer rating was 81.6. “Whatever just happened, whether it was great or whether it was really bad, let’s play the next one and see what happens.”

The game ended after the Chargers had scored a late touchdown to give them a 21-13 lead. Rookie B.J. Coleman was then thrust into the lineup to lead the Packers on a last ditch attempt to try to score. On the last play of the game, Coleman completed a pass to rookie RB Marc Tyler who was stripped of the ball by former Packer Ricky Elmore.

It was a fitting end to a game where inconsistence ruled the day.

Aug 9, 2012; San Diego, CA, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker A.J. Hawk (50) yells out defensive calls before the snap against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-US PRESSWIRE

Positives that came out of the game? Randall Cobb, Tim Masthay, D.J. Smith, Davon House, Tramon Williams, and even Harrell once he got his legs under him. One could also include the play of Tyler, but his fumble to end the game put a damper on that.

Negatives: Injuries to House and Desmond Bishop. Bishop’s could be serious and would be an extreme blow to the Packers middle defense. House is to have X-rays to see the extent of the damage.

The Packers have a week of practice ahead of them where one hopes the coaching staff stresses ball security. They are in action again Thursday, Aug. 16, when they host the Cleveland Browns at Lambeau Field.