Greed off the field is what makes me into a grumpy old man.

It appears that the latest player that does not want to stop at “Go” and collect his $2.023 million is Sam Shields. Wow, 2.023 million dollars.  Greed is what I call it.  Greg Jennings was the last player who got a bad case of it  - and between him and his sister’s tweets he managed to annoy a fair amount of fans because he wanted to be the man with the money.  He got what he wanted and we got rid of his diva attitude and his sister!

Now Shields has stepped up to take Jenning’s place.  He had a breakout season last year for a defense that was much improved but still torched. We had the overall feeling that it felt like a wet noodle in a washing machine.  Shields was arguably one of the best defensive players the latter part of  the season.  He tallied 11 pass breakups and had four interceptions in the last six games – a great way to end the year, but six games does not make a full schedule.

So when the season ended, the restricted free agent was offered a one year tender offer that would pay him $2.023 million.  Yet Shields has balked at that and has failed to sign it.  Why? One may ask. Well he wants more money. Yes, the Packers had attempted a long-term extension with him but the obstacle preventing him from reaching that agreement came down to money.

The greed factor due to an inflated ego.

The “show me the money attitude” has now increased his cranial pressure, which has resulted in poor decision-making abilities.  The first is that he is holding out and is skipping Organized Team Activities.  Geez, Sam, I feel so bad for you.  You have a job that pays you millions of dollars, there is the likelihood that a long-term contract is in the works for more money but you want it all now so you decided to not go to work.  In the real world, that attitude will get you one thing, a quick trip to the unemployment line.

You, Mr. Shields, are just another disappointment in the world of sports.  We all understand that you play a violent game, but when we don’t go to work we have bosses who give us an option, work or you are fired.  Personally, if I was your boss (which technically I am as an owner) your bags would be packed and you would be flipping burgers for a living.  Instead you will sit there and pout because you are not being paid what you think you are worth.  In the end you will probably get a new contract and then your response to the holdout will be, “I did what I had to for my family.”

Well let me jump to the front of the line and just say, “WHATEVER!”  $2.023 million dollars has nothing to do with your family, it has everything to do with your attitude.  Most normal working people would be grateful to take a raise with the knowledge that a bigger payout is waiting, but not you.  You want to throw a tantrum and put yourself ahead of the team.  Well sir, with that attitude I will gladly box up your locker and put you on the next bus to reality.

Sam Shields picks off a pass intended for Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Devin Aromashodu during the NFC Wild Card playoff game at Lambeau Field. Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

Here is what I hope happens:  The Packers stand their ground and treat you like a regular employee (like those of us in the real world).  I hope they tell you that you have a choice, come to work or you do not have a job.  Then, because of your attitude younger guys like Casey Hayward, Davon House and Micah Hyde get the opportunity that you passed up.  They then take your spot and you end up realizing just how greedy and self-centered you were.  I am guessing that there are other players who are happy to be on the field earning their paycheck.

The Green Bay Packers have and always will be an organization built on teamwork.  We, as fans, look up to those players who put the team ahead of themselves.  We tend to turn on those who put themselves above the team.  Just ask Brett Favre and Greg Jennings – attitude earned them a trip out of Titletown.

My advice to you, Mr. Shields, is get back to work and earn your money like the rest of us in the working world.  I hardly doubt with the money you made on your previous contract you are going to the local food pantry or worried about how to fill your gas tank to get to work.  Reality stinks, too bad you don’t have a good shot of it right now to make you realize how lucky you truly are to have a gift that allows you to play a game and make enough money to pay the average salary of roughly 40 people.  Then again greed blinds, I just hope it does not affect your ability to play defense!

GO PACK GO!!

Green Bay Packers cornerback Sam Shields (37) intercepts a pass in a playoff game against the Minnesota Vikings. Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports photograph

Unless something dramatic occurs in the next five hours, it looks as if Green Bay Packers cornerback Sam Shields will be back with the team.

That’s because he has until 10:59 p.m. CDT to sign an offer sheet with any of the other 31 teams in the National Football League and it doesn’t look like he’s had an offer from anybody.

That’s good news for the Packers who will pay him just more than $2 million to rejoin the team for at least one more season. If Shields were to sign another offer sheet, the Packers would have the right to match the offer to keep his services. If the Packers didn’t match the offer, they would receive a second round compensatory pick in next year’s draft for his loss.

According to a report in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel today, Shields must sign his tender by June 15 – if he doesn’t, the Packers could limit his salary by 10 percent of the year prior. Of course, the team and Shields could also come to an agreement to extend his contract for multiple years prior to June 15. It was reported a couple of days ago that the two sides were close to an extension.

Shields, though injured for a stretch of about five games last season, started the season strong, got hurt, and then came back and played strong in the final quarter of the season – a fact that helped his cause and upped his status in the eyes of the team’s coaches and management.

So, without any kind of late night surprise, it looks like Shields will once again be competing for a job in the Packers’ defensive backfield – an area of strength on the team.

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Green Bay Packers cornerback Sam Shields and the Packers may be working on a new long-term contract. Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

The “imminent” signings of quarterback Aaron Rodgers and Clay Matthews is an important step for the Green Bay Packers franchise, but there are those who feel that if the big money goes to those two players it’s going to be difficult for the Packers to sign other players – guys like Sam Shields.

But that might not be so – at least that’s not what we’re hearing tonight.

A report on profootballtalk.com published tonight indicates that the Packers and Shields’ agents may actually be talking about a long-term deal.

Shields, who was a restricted free agent this offseason, was offered a tender by the Packers and other teams had the opportunity to sign him, but we are aware of no other team that have shown an interest.

The Packers feel that Shields is an important spoke in their defensive wheel. Though Shields was a question mark heading into the 2012 campaign, he came on strong at the end of training camp, won a spot on the roster and played well for the first quarter of the season before suffering a foot injury in a win at Texas. He was out several weeks, but when he came back, he picked up where he had left off.

In fact, one of the bright spots in the Packers drubbing against San Francisco at the end of last season came when Shields picked off Colin Kaepernick early in the game and returned it for a touchdown.

Though reports say that the two sides are not close to reaching a deal, other teams have just two more days to offer contracts to restricted free agents. Should nobody offer Shields a contract, expect his negotiations with the Packers to heat up.

Tramon Williams is one of the highest paid Packers on the roster. Will he be worth keeping around?
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

By now it’s not news that Green Bay Packers‘ cornerback Tramon Williams has struggled with inconsistent play for the past two seasons. It would appear that the soon-to-be 31-year-old cornerback has lost a step. Along with Williams’ age, he has also been hampered by the lingering shoulder injury he suffered two seasons ago in the first game of the 2011 NFL season.

Tramon returns an interception against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2011 at Lambeau Field.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

As an undrafted free agent out of Louisiana Tech

Tramon Williams is one of the highest paid Packers on the roster. Will he be worth keeping around?
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

, Williams may have already hit his ceiling in the NFL so his declining play may only get worse in the coming years. Personally, I think Williams still can be an elite corner in the NFL. Like I previously stated he has been hampered by the shoulder injury, which has impacted his play significantly, if he can come back healthy this season he will be fine.

The Packers have a very difficult decision to make with Williams, however, for a number of reasons.

First, can the defense continue to survive Williams’ poor performances as cornerback #1? Again, I think Williams will come back 100 percent healthy this season, which is huge for him since he hasn’t been healthy for two seasons. However, even if Williams comes back healthy stating that he can return to his 2010 form, may be a reach, but he has to become effective again.

Second, and most importantly, the money Williams is set to make. Williams and the Packers agreed to a 4-year, $41.25 million extension in 2010 that has paid Williams a boat load of money. In 2013, Williams is set to earn $6 million in base salary with a roster bonus of $1.2 million and miscellaneous earnings of $1.4 million. Add all that up and Williams’ 2013 salary cap hit against the Packers is a whopping $8.5 million with $4 million considered “dead money.”

2014 is also a big money year for Williams, if the Packers keep him around. In 2014, Williams will make $7 million in base salary with a $1.2 million signing bonus and another $1.4 million in miscellaneous earnings. Add all that up and Williams could make $9.5 million in 2014.

Tramon Williams is just short of the end zone at the end of an interception return against the Chicago Bears in 2009.
Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Third, is Williams hampering the development of the younger corners on the roster? Davon House, Casey Hayward and Sam Shields are the future of the secondary at the cornerback position for the Packers. Hayward has already been quoted this offseason as saying he would love to be a starter on the outside.

This begs the question, should the Packers and Williams part ways? It’s an interesting argument at the very least. The money the Packers would save by letting Williams walk either this year in training camp or next offseason would be significant.

However, on the flip side, losing Williams could be a bad thing for the young corners who count on Williams for helpful veteran tips and an example of how to conduct oneself on and off the field. Williams will take on the Charles Woodson role as veteran leader in the secondary for the Packers in 2013, releasing him might put too much pressure on the young guys in the secondary.

All in all, arguments can be seen on both sides. The Packers will have to ask themselves, is veteran leadership and solid play enough to keep an aging player on the roster  - one who makes a significant amount of money”

The release of Charles Woodson, Cullen Jenkins, Nick Barnett and Corey Williams (traded to Browns) in recent years might be a clue as to what the Packers might be thinking for Williams’ future with the team.

Jan 5, 2013; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers cornerback Sam Shields (37) intercepts a pass intended for Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Devin Aromashodu (19) in the fourth quarter of the NFC Wild Card playoff game at Lambeau Field. Green Bay Packers defeated the Minnesota Vikings 24-10. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Sam Shields is the second of the Green Bay Packers‘ restricted free agents to receive the attention of team brass in the past 12 hours as they officially applied the second round tender on the cornerback.

Late yesterday the Packers placed the lowest tender on center Evan Dietrich-Smith, a move where the team risks losing the only player with experience at the center position currently on the roster. Because Dietrich-Smith was undrafted, the Packers would get no draft compensation if he decides to sign with another team.

For Shields, who was applied the middle level tender at $2.023 million, he would return a second round selection to the Packers if the much-improved cornerback signs with another team. It was actually expected that the Packers would apply the highest level tender on Shields because of his play during the second half of last season when he locked down the cornerback position opposite Tramon Williams.

Had the Packers offered the highest level tender, it would have meant a salary of $2.879 million, and would provide the team with a first round pick if another team signed him.

It seems the Packers are taking some risks with their restricted free agents so far, especially Shields, who is bound to garner some interest among the other 31 teams.

With the application of the tender to Shields, the Packers still have more decisions to make as they either apply a tender or let Robert Francois, Tom Crabtree and Frank Zombo walk.

Jan 5, 2013; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers safety Charles Woodson (21) celebrates a play during the fourth quarter of the NFC Wild Card playoff game against the Minnesota Vikings at Lambeau Field. The Packers won 24-10. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Jermichael Finley seemed likely to be the big name to be cut by the Packers if they cut anyone, but instead it is starting safety Charles Woodson who is gone. Woodson was Defensive Player of the Year in 2009 but had to move from corner to safety due to his loss of speed. Woodson still has solid ball-hawking skills but Morgan Burnett has proven he has the skills to lead the Green Bay secondary.

Cutting Charles Woodson is a surprising but smart move by Ted Thompson for a few reasons. Firstly, Jerron McMillian has shown the talent to start in the near future and Green Bay can go with McMillian and Burnett. The Packers also now have the cap space to go after one of the many big name free agent safeties that could be available. Houston’s Glover Quin is a possibility as Morgan Burnett could slide back to free safety with Quin at strong safety.

Secondly, Woodson’s release opens up some cap space for future long-term contracts for big names like Aaron Rodgers, Clay Matthews, and BJ Raji. Woodson also opens up some cap room for re-signing Sam Shields who has become one of the NFL’s most underrated cornerbacks. This move could also be a sign that the Packers are going to try to re-sign Greg Jennings or franchise tag him.

So, will Charles Woodson be the only big name Packer to be cut? Jermichael Finley shouldn’t be breathing a huge sigh of relief just yet while A.J. Hawk might also have reason to be a tad nervous with his deal.

It will be very interesting to see what moves Ted Thompson makes over the next couple of weeks before free agency.

Where has the 2009 and 2010 lockdown, ballhawking cornerback Tramon Williams gone?

The answer: He is gone and will never return. Williams is set to make just under $6 million in 2013 and just under $7 million in 2014, those numbers make him the third highest paid Packer on the roster. This is the point where the Packers should be asking themselves, ‘is Tramon Williams really worth $13 million over the next two seasons?’

If the answer isn’t obvious then there is a problem in Titletown.

For the past two seasons Tramon Williams has been a liability for a Packers defense that has been tough to watch, especially in the playoffs. During the 2008-09 and 2009-10 seasons, Williams was one of the best corners in the NFL. In those two seasons Williams had 10 interceptions, 35 pass deflections and 96 tackles, even though he only started 26 of the possible 32 games during that span.

The last two seasons Williams has just six interceptions, including only two this past season. Williams’ tackling ability has also taken a hit over the past two seasons, especially this season. In particular the two regular season games against the Minnesota Vikings, Williams appeared scared to tackle Adrian Peterson (I know it’s not easy).

His poor tackling (at best) paired with his diminishing coverage skills Williams just isn’t worth the money anymore. In a division that has receivers such as Brandon Marshall and Calvin Johnson, the Packers need a corner they can count on to limit these players, and Tramon cannot do that anymore.

 It’s no secret that guys like Clay Matthews, BJ Raji and Aaron Rodgers will need their contracts extended in the near future and the ability to free up $13 million from a declining player makes sense.

All one has to do is look at the Packers’ roster and see that the secondary is in good hands without Williams. Sam Shields had his best season as a Packer in just 10 games this season. Shields intercepted three passes and defended 10 passes. He also had a huge pick-six of Colin Kaepernick in the eventual playoff loss to the 49ers.

Rookie Casey Hayward also had a huge year for the Packers in his rookie campaign and could even be named defensive rookie of the year (most likely not). Also, don’t forget about Davon House, who was actually penciled in as the starter for the 2012-13 season before he went down with a shoulder injury in the preseason. House, Hayward and Shields give the Packers a solid secondary crew that are all very young and will continue to get better.

I’m in favor of the Packers and Williams agreeing on a new contract in which Williams takes a significant pay cut, but if a deal cannot be reached then the Packers should either trade or release the veteran cornerback.

I’ve been a Williams supporter for years and I think he still has some good football left in him. However, the past two seasons have made me feel otherwise. The Packers need the money he makes to extend better players and because of that reason he has played his last down in Green Bay.

Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers may have been relaxed at last week's Family Night, but tonight the Packers get down to business against the Chargers. Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

To preview today’s preseason game, Ernie Padaon of Fansided.com’s Boltbeat queried Lombardi Ave, the FanSided Packers site, to get a little more info on what is going on out in cheese land. Here is what I had to say:

1. What Packers veterans are on the bubble? 
There are a few Packer veterans who might see reduced playing time or may end up being cut. CB Sam Shields has had a rough start to his camp. He’s been beaten consistently and doesn’t seem to be playing like the third-year player that he is. He’s in a battle with Jarrett Bush and second-year player Davon House, among others. It will be interesting to see if he sticks. Though A.J. Hawk signed a long-term contract after the 2010-11 Super Bowl season, there are many who feel he could be beaten out by second-year player D.J. Smith. Smith started for Hawk when he was injured last year and made impressive play after play. Smith has a nose for the ball and always seems to be around it. The Packers already cut Charlie Peprah because they want to go with younger players and also play Charles Woodson on the back end of the defense. The next couple of weeks should be interesting as the competition for spots continues.

2. A lot of Chargers fans wanted to draft Nick Perry before we got a chance at Melvin Ingram, how is Perry doing in camp so far? 
Glad you asked that. He’s been kind of the Invisible Man as he makes the transition from a down defensive lineman to a stand-up outside linebacker in the 3-4 defense. Nobody’s panicking yet because he is a beast of an athlete and most feel that when he learns the system and gets more playing time that he will come around and be the perfect complement to Clay Matthews.

3. What Packers youngsters are looking to steal a roster spot coming into the game? 
It looks like Marcus Tyler, the FA running back from Southern Cal is going to get some playing time and if he plays well, could make a move for at least a practice squad spot. On defense, the Packers are really high on Casey Hayward. He’s looked like a player during the first week or two of training camp, but his value won’t be known until he gets some playing time. With Davon House, the Packers may be seeing a real resurgence of young players at the cornerback position.

4. What is your favorite cheese? 
ahahahahahaha – I always come back to sharp cheddar!

5. Predict the Packers season
After a 15-1 season and then getting knocked out in the first round of the playoffs by the Giants, the Packers are coming into this season with a chip on their shoulders. The team is looking for redemption. Though I doubt they will go through the majority of the season unbeaten again like they did last year, I see this team winning at least 12 games and possibly 13. They will need that many to win the division. In the end, I can honestly say that if they don’t make the playoffs, it will be a huge disappointment. I think the team won’t disappoint and will compete for a Super Bowl berth. Anything less would be very disappointing.

Ernie Padaon’s Comments
Nick Perry as the invisible man? Could you imagine if we took him with the first pick and he was an invisible man? People would be calling him a bust immediately and calling for AJs head for another failed draft pick.

The sharp cheddar is always a good go-to cheese also. Even in the land of cheese, cheddar can always be counted on for deliciousness.

What is your favorite cheese?

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.

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.

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

Matt Flynn … holy cow.

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

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

So, what about the game?

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

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

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

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

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Over at Arrowhead Addict, Patrick Allen posted the Q&A we conducted this weekend about today’s match-up between the unbeaten Green Bay Packers and the (we won’t mention their record) Kansas City Chiefs.

I was as brutally honest with my answers, which didn’t sit well with those who at least took the time to post comments.

In addition to reading this post below, you might want to go to the site and read the comments, too. I’ve been called an idiot before, so that really doesn’t bother me. What does bother me is that they really think the Chiefs are going to win today.

Call me an idiot, but I would be really stupid to put money on the Chiefs today … but like they say, ” On any given Sunday …”

Well, we all know it won’t be this Sunday.

Chiefs vs. Packers: Inside The Enemy Camp

The Kansas City Chiefs will try to do what no team has done in some time by beating the Green Bay Packers tomorrow afternoon.

In an effort to gather some intel on how to beat an unbeatable team, I sat down with Ray Rivard of Lombardi Ave, FanSided’s Green Bay Packers site.

Let’s go Inside The Enemy Camp with Lombardi Ave.

Do you ever get bored after watching blowout wins every week?

It’s not been boring watching the Green Bay Packers this season. Though they have dominated teams with their offensive prowess, you just never know what the defense is going to bring.

That’s what’s made this team entertaining to watch … At least for me. The defense has allowed teams to move up and down the field, but always seems to come up with the huge defensive stop when they need it … The interception, fumble recovery, the fourth down stop … This opportunistic group just seems to know when to turn it up a notch.

And blowout wins are never boring … Especially when the team is 13-0.

Check out the rest of the post after the jump and don’t forget to Like Lombardiave.com on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

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The good news is defensive end Mike Neal saying he is expecting to play yet this season, but he just doesn’t know when that will be. He said for sure it wouldn’t be the game after the bye (at San Diego), but that it would be at some point.

“I feel good. I’m optimistic. I hope it works out,” Neal told JSonline Friday. “I can only take it in stride.”

“I can only do as much as I’m able to, as much as they let me do,” Neal said. “I’ll just go from there. I’m still optimistic. I still hope to play this year but when? I just don’t know.”

The not-so-good news was that Ryan Pickett suffered a mild concussion yesterday and was being listed as questionable on the Packers injury report.

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Mike McCarthy likes the way his team is playing, but admits there's much more work to do. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Mike McCarthy just finished his Monday afternoon presser.

Here are some of the highlights from the session with the press:

On the injury front, Sam Shields suffered a concussion when he took a hit while trying to run an interception out of the end zone; outside linebacker Frank Zombo, who played in his first game back after a broken scapula, hyper-extended his knee … McCarthy didn’t know the severity of his injury. He did say that Shields will go through the series of tests that go along with concussion recovery. It is unclear whether Shields will play this week vs. the Vikings.

When asked about the wind and the role it played in Sunday’s game, McCarthy said, “the wind factored in the game … you could see ball moving … It’s something talk about in the pre-game … you have to focus on ball … it was a challenge.”

When asked about the possibility that the Vikings may play rookie Christian Ponder, McCarthy said that the team will prepare for both quarterbacks … they may have to go back to preseason tape to watch Ponder, but that didn’t seem to bother the head coach. “That’s all part of the preparation. We’ll be prepared either way.”

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Remember five years ago when The Packers signed then-free agent cornerback Charles Woodson to a big, fat contract? Most of Packer Nation, including myself, said, “Um, what the hell is wrong with Ted Thompson?”

Yeah, sorry about that, Ted. Good call, man.

Guess what? Now there are a few rumblings that free agent, all-world corner Nnamdi Asomugha may be Green Bay bound, following in the footsteps of his former Raiders teammate Woodson. Word is that Asomugha himself has hinted that he would like to play along side Woodson again, and Woodson has in turn expressed an interest in moving to free safety.

As wonderful as it sounds, Packers fans, it ain’t gonna happen.

Wouldn't this guy look good in green and gold? Yeah, it's not gonna happen.

Imagine a defensive backfield of Woodson, Nick Collins, Tramon Williams and Asomugha — with upstart Sam Shields playing the role of nickel back. Are you kidding me? There would be NO passing allowed. Period.

But — oops! — have we forgotten about promising youngster Morgan Burnett? And what if we end up with a salary cap after the highly-dramatized Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations finally play out? Um, a guy like Asomugha, a perennial all-pro the last three or four seasons, won’t come cheap.  And the truth is, the Packers need help at outside linebacker in the form of a bookend pass rusher to help complement a fellow named Clay Matthews.

Yes, we may have doubted Thompson in the past (Justin Harrell, anyone?), but I think it’s time we let the man do what he does: Find good talent in the draft. Asomugha and Woodson won’t be reuniting until they do so in Canton, Ohio.

Sam Shields' Interception

By: Scott Poynting

Let me start by stating a little about myself. I live in Australia, I am 27 years old and I have been a die hard packers fan for ten years now. I first saw the Packers play when I was 13 in Super Bowl 31, it was the first game of American Football I ever watched.

The Packers were Green and Gold (Australian colours) so naturally I started cheering for them. I had no idea what was going on, but I knew I loved it! From then on I was a Packers “fan”. Every year I watched the Super Bowl as it was the only game we got in Australia, but apart from Super Bowl 32 I never saw the Packers play again.

Once I graduated from school I started following the Packers scores on the Internet, then I started downloading games and now between digital TV and NFL Gamepass I am able to watch every Packers game. For the past five or so years I have watched every Packers snap… usually getting up at 4am for the privilege. I have struggled through losing seasons, sat in confusion and dismay at moments like “4th and 26”, watched Favre throw away an NFC title, watch in dismay as my favourite Packer publicly fought with the organisation I love so much – then go out of his way to try and beat us and I have held my breath as the offense put up nearly half a century of points, only to lose… in the playoffs!

But this morning I did something I have never done, I cried during a Packers game… and not for a reason I ever thought I would. (more…)