The current predicament the Green Bay Packers find themselves in with regards to Aaron Rodgers’ concussion (his second [...]]]> If you’re anything like me – sorry if you are – you sometimes have trouble viewing things at surface value. You’re more interested in digging through multiple layers in order to get a bigger picture of an issue.

The current predicament the Green Bay Packers find themselves in with regards to Aaron Rodgers’ concussion (his second of the year) is one such issue.

It’s obviously been the topic of the moment amongst Packers fans and rightfully so. Rodgers’ health, or lack thereof, will decide the future of the team, not just this year but for years to come. And one of the quickest ways in which a player’s health can de-rail is via concussions. With two under his belt, the clock is already ticking for Rodgers.

The first question on everyone’s mind is whether or not Rodgers should play this week. We’ll know a great deal more Wednesday from Mike McCarthy’s presser (Rodgers may be available to the media, as well). Rodgers will also undergo mental tests to determine his condition. The brutally honest fact of the matter, however, is that regardless of how he tests out, he really shouldn’t play Sunday. His absence leaves Green Bay with a less-than-zero percent chance of winning against the mighty New England Patriots, of course, but this shouldn’t be about that. Again, he’s the cornerstone. Protecting that at all costs is what this needs to be about.

Look, let’s be honest – this team has about a five percent chance of winning even if he plays. To beat New England on the road, you have to be perfect AND lucky. The Packers have been neither this season. If they have any shot at the postseason – and, again, I’d put the percentage on that as being low right now – their last two games, home contests with New York and Chicago, will hold the key.

He must be 100 percent for those games. Sorry, I don’t care what the men who test him may say, there is just no way he could bounce back to full force less than seven days after having his brain scrambled for the second time in two months. And, really, it’s about more than just those two concussions. Rodgers hasn’t been sacked in 2010 as much as he was last year, but doesn’t it seem like he’s been absorbing more violent hits this time around? More blatant helmet-to-helmet collisions that have gone largely uncalled? If you have little chance of winning, anyways, why not give your future a week off to prepare for your two biggest games of the year?

It’s there that we can begin to move to the second level of this issue. This one has little to do with Rodgers. No, this one’s about the men who are paid to protect him. In short, the Packers’ offensive line has regressed this season from its late-2009 brilliance.

There have been moments of solid play, but for the most part, the group just hasn’t done enough to protect its elite quarterback. Enough to protect Derek Anderson? Sure. But not Rodgers. People, myself included, wonder why Rodgers still gets a case of “happy feet” at times and why, on certain plays, he seems to break the pocket quicker than is necessary. If you think about it, though, it’s simple: He likely has little trust in the front five, despite what he may say publicly. After watching such average front sevens as the ones in Detroit and Washington get to him over-and-over, I can’t say I blame him.

If you’ve been harassed consistently, as he has in numerous games, you’re always looking for that escape, particularly if you have the athleticism that Rodgers has. That’s why Rodgers fails to recognize wide-open receivers on plays where he takes off. It has little to do with lack of awareness, but rather a keen sense of self-preservation.

As much as I love the work he’s done overall, in five years as general manager, Ted Thompson has yet to get really, truly serious about putting together an elite o-line. Brett Favre had the veteran know-how to make it work towards the end of his time in Green Bay; Rodgers hasn’t gained that yet. And until guys like Daryn Colledge and Scott Wells (a solid player who will always struggle at times because of his limited size) are no longer charged with covering him, the pressure will always be there. If that’s the case, Rodgers may not even make it long enough to gain Favre’s veteran savvy. The road from where he’s at to where Steve Young and Troy Aikman ended up is shorter than you think.

Of course, Rodgers is not without blame on this issue. He still hangs on to the ball longer than he should at times, which has led to hits he need not take. And we’ve known for a long time that Rodgers ran too recklessly (quick – how many times have you yelled, “SLIDE AARON!” at the television? I bet it’s a lot). Every time he went for that extra yard – and took an unnecessary hit as a result – you always worried as to whether or not he’d get up right away. At some point, we all knew there’d come a time when he didn’t pop right back up. That time came Sunday.

It’s unfortunate that it happened at the time it did – the Packers in a frantic playoff chase – but, again, make no mistake, this was going to happen. The hope now is that it can serve as a lesson to Rodgers. Fighting for that extra yard is valliant, especially when your line and playmakers aren’t doing their jobs (see: Sunday), but it’s more important to keep yourself intact.

Again, that’s the over-arching theme of the whole issue: keeping Rodgers intact. Playing him Sunday night won’t help that. The Daryn Colledges of the world won’t help that. And Rodgers himself won’t help that. Hopefully, the men who make the decisions for the Packers see this, as well.

-Chris Lempesis

I decided to pass on cooking up a batch of training camp stew for Tuesday, even though the Green Bay Packers practiced twice. The Stew will return Thursday night, [...]]]> Folks, I got to the line of scrimmage, saw the look of the defense and decided I didn’t like the play. That’s right – I’m calling an audible.

I decided to pass on cooking up a batch of training camp stew for Tuesday, even though the Green Bay Packers practiced twice. The Stew will return Thursday night, though, so fear not.

Instead, we’ll be using this space to answer – or, at least, attempt to answer – some early training camp questions. The Packers are only 10 days into camp, so obviously there are many questions left unanswered.

Here are some of the bigger ones, at the moment:

• What does a potential Bryan Bulaga shift to left guard mean for the rest of the line?

It could shake things up considerably. Again, it is early, but if Bulaga is to make the switch to left guard, that only furthers my thinking that either Daryn Colledge or Jason Spitz – players who were both looked at as future building blocks, once upon a time – won’t be on the roster come opening day.

Since Spitz can play both guard spots and center, you have to think Colledge is gone if Bulaga moves over (even more so if he ends up being the starter). A guard on some team will suffer a significant injury before the preseason ends because, well, that always happens. Colledge brings value, as he’s started a significant amount of games, and could bring back decent value in a trade (a fourth or fifth rounder or a player at a spot of need, like d-line or corner).

Who, then, would be the offensive linemen for the 2010 Packers? The starters, from left to right, would be Chad Clifton, Bulaga, Scott Wells, Josh Sitton and Mark Tauscher. Marshall Newhouse, Spitz, T.J. Lang and Breno Giacomini would then be locks to serve as backups, with the team possibly keeping Evan Dietrich-Smith if it wants 10 linemen (not a necessity when you consider the versatility of players like Spitz and Lang).

All I know for certain is this: Allen Barbre is gone, baby, gone.

• What’s going on in the backfield?

Sure, Ryan Grant and Brandon Jackson are safe. But outside of those two, the situation is fairly clouded.

First, the running backs. The field would be set if rookie James Starks’ hamstring wasn’t a somewhat significant concern. As of now, though, it is. Starks is currently on the PUP list and it doesn’t really sound like he’ll be ready in the near future. Quinn Porter has been one of the big stories in camp so far and Kregg Lumpkin hasn’t been bad.

If those two continue to do well, I could see a scenario in which the team places Starks on I.R. at some point soon if the injury continues to bother him. Is it premature to end Starks’ season so soon? Maybe, but remember the Packers have done this before with young players even if the injury isn’t necessarily something that would keep them out the entire year (see: Pat Lee last season). At that point, it would be a two-man battle, with the early edge going to Porter. But Lumpkin’s resiliency – he’s been with the team in some form or another for over two years now – would definitely give him a shot.

Now, the fullbacks. Everyone’s just assumed (myself included) that Quinn Johnson would be assured of a spot on this team and that Korey Hall and John Kuhn would be left to fight for the other. I’m beginning to re-examine that. Johnson seems to have some potential, yes, but I wonder how good a fit he is for this team. He’s not a great pass catcher; rather, he’s more of a pure, bruising fullback, well-suited for a power running game.

Um…but the Packers aren’t really a power running team, as much as they may claim they want to be. The fullbacks have to be multi-dimensional in this offense. Kuhn and Hall have both shown to be that type of player. If Johnson isn’t, maybe the team would be better off letting him go. Either way, this thing is a three-way battle – not two.

• What should we make of Brandon Chillar no longer being listed at ILB on the depth chart?

There are two potentially major ramifications from this. The first is that Desmond Bishop finally appears to be in the mix at inside linebacker. He no longer needs to complain to the press, because he just might get his shot, finally.

The second is that the Packers appear to be coming around on the idea of using a Chillar/Brad Jones platoon at ROLB (as of now, it appears Clay Matthews will stick at LOLB once his hamstring heals). I have to admit, I love that idea, as well. The two compliment each other so well, on the surface. Chillar is more of a pure athlete, which can be utilized in both rushing the passer and pass coverage. Jones is a bit bulkier, which is great for playing the run. Jones has some ability as a pass rusher, as well. Plus, both will stay fresh if the reps are being split.

And I wouldn’t count Chillar out at ILB totally, either. He knows the position and, again, he’s such a good athlete, he could play some downs there, too.

(Now, we move to the lightening round…)

• Does the placement of Josh Bell on I.R. mean Sam Shields is guaranteed a spot on the roster?

No. But he’s dangerously close to getting one (a good thing, if you ask me).

• Still think there’s no chance the team keeps four tight ends?

I wouldn’t say there’s “no chance” anymore, as Tom Crabtree seems to have some potential. But I’d still be awfully surprised.

• Why are some people still suggesting Jordy Nelson and James Jones are battling for the third receiver spot?

Because they are idiots. It’s Nelson’s job. Lock that up.

-Chris Lempesis

Some guys battle for spots on the depth chart. Others battle for spots on the roster. Either way, the battles are often friendly, yet extremely intense.

The 2010 Green Bay Packers will have a handful of such battles in training camp this year. [...]]]> One of the best parts of training camp involves the battles waged between teammates.

Some guys battle for spots on the depth chart. Others battle for spots on the roster. Either way, the battles are often friendly, yet extremely intense.

The 2010 Green Bay Packers will have a handful of such battles in training camp this year. And over the next couple of days, we’ll be highlighting those battles (and giving our thoughts as to who has the pre-camp edge).

Since the offense will be the driving force for this year’s team, it seems best to start there.

Quarterback and running back have been crossed off the list, however, as those positions seem to be fairly set (sorry, Kraig Lumpkin lovers, it’s true).

So, that said, let’s begin with the hogs up front on the offensive line where there are a couple of battles to be waged:

Left guard

Type of battle: Starting spot

Combatants: Daryn Colledge (28 years old, 6-feet, 4-inches, 308 pounds, fifth year) and Jason Spitz (27 years old, 6-feet, 3-inches, 318 pounds, fifth year)

Thoughts: Of all the battles in camp, this is one of the tops to keep an eye on. Colledge and Spitz, good friends off the field, are both at a crossroads, career-wise. Each has gone through numerous ups-and-downs over the past four years and it’s time for both to step up and prove they can be consistent NFL players.

Colledge’s ups-and-downs have been quite literal. In 2006 and 2008, he was definitely one of the team’s best o-linemen. In 2007 and 2009, however, he was flat-out terrible. It’s an even-numbered year – does that mean he’s going to experience another upswing? For Colledge, it’s less an issue of talent than it is an issue of techique and confidence. He’s still far sloppy at times, which leads to far too many penalties (or worse, him getting flat-out overpowered). His confidence seems to wane easily, as well. His disastrous time at left tackle in ‘09 seemed to ruin him for the year, even after he moved back to his more familiar left guard spot. In every area, he needs to be more sure of himself.

For Spitz, it’s an issue of staying healthy. His back injury, while apparently cleared up now, still causes concern (back injuries are never, ever, ever good and can linger for an entire career). Spitz is clearly a talent, though; remember, many were predicting him to be one of the breakout players on last year’s team. While the team seems intent on having five backups for five starters (i.e., no more shifting and sliding in the event of an injury), Spitz is still capable of playing both guard and center, which is always a plus. And he’s got that nasty demeanor, something the line still needs more of.

Early edge: Spitz. There are just too many issues with Colledge. Spitz’s back is, for now, healthy, and that – combined with an advantage in talent – gives him the nod. Colledge may be playing somewhere else before the season starts. T.J. Lang would then likely serve double duty as backup left guard/backup right tackle should that happen (he’s going to be the “sixth man” for the o-line this season).

Overall roster spot

Type of battle: Um…roster spot

Combatants: Allen Barbre (26 years old, 6-feet, 4-inches, 300 pounds, fourth year), Breno Giacomini (24 years old, 6-feet, 7-inches, 318 pounds, third year) and Evan Dietrich-Smith (24 years old, 6-feet, 2-inches, 308 pounds, second year)

Thoughts: In my mind, eight spots are already locked up on the o-line (Chad Clifton, Mark Tauscher, Scott Wells, Josh Sitton, Bryan Bulaga, Lang, the winner of the Spitz/Colledge battle and Marshall Newhouse). I really believe the loser of the Spitz/Colledge battle could be traded, leaving three players to battle for two spots on the roster (no way this team keeps more than 10 o-linemen this year).

A season that began with so much promise ended with so much disappointment for Barbre. Handed the starting right tackle job in camp, Barbre had a very good preseason. Turns out, he wasn’t so good when the opposing d-linemen actually gave a you-know-what. Barbre was repeatedly wrecked in pass protection and, despite some promise as a run blocker, was benched when Tauscher returned mid-season. The team’s confidence in him appears to be as low as it’s ever been.

Giacomini is entering a crucial season. Blessed with tremendous size, he’s spent the past two seasons redshirting in order to get stronger and learn the right tackle position (remember, he converted from tight end to right tackle midway through his collegiate career). Allegedly, Giacomini has had a very good offseason and just might be coming into his own. If the light turns on, Lang will have competition for the “right tackle of the future” title.

We really don’t know that much about Dietrich-Smith, other than the fact that the coaches seem to like him. We do know that he can play center, though, and if the coaches really are intent on this “five backups for five players” philosophy – fingers crossed that they are – it makes sense to keep Dietrich-Smith around in the event Wells gets hurt.

Early edge: Giacomini and Dietrich-Smith. Giacomini’s intriguing upside, and the fact that he’s only in year three as opposed to year four, gives him an edge over Barbre. Dietrich-Smith can provide depth at two spots – center and guard – and fits in with the new philosophy. In the end, it just feels like the team’s ready to move on from Barbre.

I’ll be back Wednesday to close out the offensive battles.

-Chris Lempesis

At this time last week, there was almost nothing going on with the Green Bay Packers. I mean, I was writing 1,100-word posts on the “Lombardi” movie to pass the time, for God’s sake - and that movie won’t even come out until roughly two years from now!

All [...]]]> Funny how things can change in a week, isn’t it?

At this time last week, there was almost nothing going on with the Green Bay Packers. I mean, I was writing 1,100-word posts on the “Lombardi” movie to pass the time, for God’s sake - and that movie won’t even come out until roughly two years from now!

All of a sudden, though, there’s a ton of Packers-related news to discuss. And a Tuesday trip to the question department is the best way to get to it all, especially since we haven’t done one of these in awhile.

Question: What does the picture at offensive line look like now that Mark Tauscher is back in the fold?

Answer: As of now, the starters are basically set, but it’s up in the air as to who the backups will be. From left to right, the starters will be Chad Clifton, Jason Spitz (yes, I’m predicting he wins the battle with Daryn “Crybaby” Colledge), Scott Wells, Josh Sitton and Tauscher. While some fans/media members have talked of the possibility of an open competition between Tauscher and T.J. Lang, it’s pretty clear – at least as of now – that the job will be handed to Tauscher (especially if the “starter money” thing is true).

The backups that are locks to return are Colledge, Lang and Evan Dietrich-Smith (the team is high on him and he can play multiple spots). That makes eight spots that are definitely filled for next year. The ninth will be either Allen Barbre or Breno Giacomini as I do not expect both to be on the opening day roster. Both were taken as developmental players (Barbre in 2007, Giacomini in 2008). Since it’s now, you know, 2010, the team has to cut the cord on one of these guys. If I had to guess now, I’d say Giacomini sticks based on his rare size alone (6-feet, 7-inches).

The Packers kept nine o-linemen last year and my best guess is that they’ll keep 10 this season, particularly since Clifton and Tauscher are both well over 30, with the 10th spot going to whichever lineman they take high.

Question: What should we make of tight end Spencer Havner’s DUI arrest?

Answer: For those of you who might not know, Havner – according to a story in the Grass Valley Daily Union – was allegedly under the influence when he crashed his motorcycle while driving around a cul-de-sac early Saturday morning in his home state of California. He fractured his scalpula (fancy medical term for shoulder blade), suffered some lacerations on the back of his head and his left arm and has several abrasions. The story says he was not wearing a helmet - ARE YOU SERIOUS?! – and was later arrested at the hospital. Those injuries could slow down his work in the offseason program, but that is unknown as of now.

First, let me just say this: Driving drunk – be it a car, motorcycle, bicycle or even unicycle – is one of the dumbest things a person can do. It shows a complete lack of responsibility and causes countless deaths every year. Don’t. Do. It.

Now, on to Havner…

If this is true, it is STUPID, STUPID, STUPID, Spencer. Are you NUTS? You’re coming off a nice season, your quarterback clearly looks your way at times (especially in the red zone), you have a chance to increase your role in the offense this season and you go an do THIS? Not good enough at all, man. You were riding a “crotch rocket” Kawasaki. Sounds like you need to pull your head out of the same general region.

As for whether or not this puts his roster spot in jeopardy, the answer is it does not. While he is a moron for doing this, this is the NFL. If you can play, which he can, there’s a spot for you, DUI arrest or not. If this all ends up being true, I’m sure he’ll face a sizeable fine and get an incredibly unpleasant talking-to from head coach Mike McCarthy. I doubt he’ll see a suspension, but you never know.

Question: What, if anything, should we make of the Packers scouting a college basketball player?

Answer: Probably not much. If you don’t know, Green Bay is apparently taking a close look at Niagara University’s Tyrone Lewis, a 5-feet, 10-inch, 180-pound guard. He hasn’t played football in college, but was a corner/wide receiver/kick returner in high school and the Pack will be giving him a pre-draft workout. This isn’t the first time they’ve done this, either, as they had some interest in Greg Paulus last offseason. Paulus, a former Duke University basketball player, chose to play QB for Syracuse instead.

Ted Thompson is known for turning over every leaf this time of year, so I’m not surprised the team is looking at Lewis. And the Packers do have a glaring need for a kick returner. But I think – or, maybe, I hope – they will opt for a more proven player in the draft than Lewis. Still, if the Packers chose to bring him in as an undrafted free agent, I guess I wouldn’t mind.

Question: What do you think of the new throwback uniforms?

Answer: As excited as I was about the idea of an alternate jersey for 2010 that would focus on the team’s long history, I became something less than excited once I actually saw them.

While it is cool that the team is deciding to honor the 1929 world championship squad (that’s what your team is called when you win it all, Vikings fans), the blue-and-gold jerseys just aren’t that appealing, especially the giant gold circle on the front that contains the player’s number.

I’m hoping these things will grow on me as time passes. But for now, I am doubting that. Let’s hope these things are only worn once.

(And we’re moving on to the lightening round!)

Question: Did the Vikings drop the ball (copyright Adrian Peterson) by missing out on LT?

Answer: Sadly, not really. LaDainian Tomlinson is pretty much out of gas, anyways, and his massive ego would have been hard to keep in check. As I’ve said before, his presence on that team would not have scared me one bit.   

Question: Do we know any more of the particulars on the Nick Collins/Ryan Pickett/Tauscher contracts?

Answer: No, we don’t. But once we do, we at OBOD will, as usual, break them all down. Hopefully they are made public soon.

Final question: When can we expect a new OBOD mock draft? We’re dying here!

Final answer: Wednesday. Should be interesting, so make sure to look for it.

-Chris Lempesis

For pretty much the entire afternoon today, it was sort of looking grim if you are a fan of the Green Bay Packers.

Green Bay’s starting left tackle, Chad Clifton, was visiting with the Washington Redskins. The ‘Skins need a left tackle and have an owner (Daniel Snyder) who loves to overpay for aging [...]]]> Friday, 11:50 p.m.

For pretty much the entire afternoon today, it was sort of looking grim if you are a fan of the Green Bay Packers.

Green Bay’s starting left tackle, Chad Clifton, was visiting with the Washington Redskins. The ‘Skins need a left tackle and have an owner (Daniel Snyder) who loves to overpay for aging veterans on the open market. Add to that the fact that Clifton and agent Jimmy Sexton had already balked at the Packers’ offer of $5 million a year and you had a scenario where Green Bay was surely set to lose the man who had owned the left tackle spot for more than a decade.

Plus, the Chicago Bears had just landed prized defensive end Julius Peppers (six years, $91 million with $42 million in guaranteed dough) and the Detroit Lions snagged end Kyle Vanden Bosch (four years, $26 million). Combine that with Jared Allen’s irritating presence in Minnesota and Green Bay was staring down the barrel at the following scenario: Six divisional games in 2010 against solid-to-All Pro-level pass rushers with, as of earlier today, no real left tackle to speak of.

My how quickly things change.

Clifton will indeed be returning to Green Bay, signing a three-year, $20 million contract ($7.5 million guaranteed) tonight. There are a few different layers to this story and I’ll attempt to cover them all now.

First: Did the Packers overpay for Clifton?

Yes and no. They did in the sense that three years is a lot for a soon-to-be 34 year old player who is likely breaking down physically. That $20 million overall figure is also a bit hard to swallow. They did not overpay in the sense that, well, they kind of needed him. T.J. Lang is just not a left tackle. They could draft a rookie in the first round (I still think they will, by the way), but sending a rookie out there right away against those guys – plus any other top-notch pass rushers they may face – could spell disaster. They could have handed over first-and-third round picks, plus a contract in the neighborhood of $60 million, to someone like San Diego’s Marcus McNeill. Personally, I’d have gone for this last option, but handing over picks like that just isn’t Ted Thompson’s style. Instead, Thompson saw the lay of the land brought on by the Peppers/Vanden Bosch signings and decided to go with the devil he knew. He showed some flexibility – not normally his strong suit – with this move and you have to credit him for that.

As for the money, don’t panic too much. I’m sure Thompson, as usual, front loaded the hell out of the deal, meaning it’s likely closer to a one-or-two year contract. Everyone, Clifton included, knows Clifton will not see the third year of this contract.

Secondly: What does this mean for Mark Tauscher?

As beloved as the homegrown Tauscher is by us Packers fans, this move likely brings his time in Green Bay to an end. I’ve always been of the belief that Thompson would bring back just one of the two tackles. I believe that even more now, given the amount of money paid to Clifton. I just don’t see a scenario in which Thompson pays starter money to two players in the same position group who are over the age of 32.

Yes, Tauscher was nothing short of outstanding and, as I’ve said before, you can make the case that he was the savior for the offense last season. I’m not against his return, personally. But, from Thompson’s perspective, the team already has a young player (Lang) whom they are clearly in love with and whom they feel can play that position next season. They’ve also spent a lot of time on Allen Barbre and Breno Giacomini. Barbre is likely nothing, but Giacomini could have some potential, meaning that there are at least two possible options at RT going forward. My guess is that Thompson wants to find out – much sooner rather than later – if any of these three can be the longterm option there.

That brings us to this: What kind of impact does Clifton’s re-signing have on the team’s draft plans?

It doesn’t have one - or, at least, it shouldn’t. Even with Clifton coming back, and the stability it provides, you can pretty much bank on him suffering an injury or two and missing anywhere between two and five games next season. And, as I said before, he is breaking down physically so there’s always that chance that he misses even more games than that. The team needs a suitable backup option, one who would also be ready to take over the reigns in the not-too-distant future.

The best way to find a left tackle like that? Take one in the first round. In the latest OBOD mock draft, for example, we have the Packers taking USC tackle Charles Brown. At under 300 pounds, Brown needs time to put weight on and get acclimated to the pro game. But he doesn’t need THAT much time. He’d be ready by 2011, if not sometime during this upcoming season. And if Clifton, as expected, has to miss time this season, a player like Brown would likely be able to hold down the fort for a stretch or two on pure talent alone (hey, anyone’s better than Daryn Colledge at LT, right?).

People accuse Thompson of not setting up the o-line for the long term and, for the most part, they’re right to do so. He can start amending that now. He’s got the first part right; now he just needs to finish it.

Okay, final question: What should we expect the o-line to look like next season?

The starters, from left to right, will likely be Clifton, the winner of the Jason Spitz/Colledge battle, Scott Wells, Josh Sitton and Lang. The backups are likely the loser of the Spitz/Colledge battle, Evan Dietritch-Smith, Barbre, Giacomini and (hopefully) the player Green Bay takes in the first round.

How much better is that line than the one that allowed the most sacks in the league last season? If Clifton holds up (or the rookie does well if forced into duty) and Lang is a player (like I think he will be), the line should be better overall. We won’t know the answer to that for some time, obviously.

But for now we can all breathe a little easier as Clifton’s return provides some definite insurance at a position that suddenly became a hell of a lot more important for the Packers on Friday than it was on Thursday.

-Chris Lempesis

This week, Green Bay Press Gazette assistant sports editor Tom Pelissero kicked off his 10-part daily series of chats on “The State of the Packers.”  [...]]]> (After taking an ever-so-brief post-Super Bowl sabbatical, I’m back, baby! Also, was anyone else seriously bumming for a minute there that the season was over? Tell me it was not just me!)

This week, Green Bay Press Gazette assistant sports editor Tom Pelissero kicked off his 10-part daily series of chats on “The State of the Packers.”  Every day, Pelissero has touched on a different position on the team. Thursday, it was a doozy as Pelissero and the chatters talked about Green Bay’s offensive line.

Just over an hour was alotted for the chat. In all honesty, that might not be enough time to cover such a quagmire.

Obviously, everyone has their own opinions on what should happen regarding the Packers’ o-line heading into next season, but no one can argue with the fact that it’s a situation that must be addressed and cleared up, not just for next season but for the immediate future.

Another fact that’s hard to debate is this: For all the good general manager Ted Thompson has done, he has failed at properly setting up an offensive line for the future. It’s true that he’s only really used one high draft pick on a lineman (Daryn Colledge in the second round in 2006) and has never seriously targeted the position in free agency. But given the coaching staff’s inability to develop any of the mid-to-late round linemen taken – outside of right guard Josh Sitton – Thompson should have put further resources into the position, either through trades, free agency or higher draft picks.

It must be the position of focus for the Packers this offseason; they can afford to wait no longer. As Cheesehead TV’s Aaron Nagler said, while asking Pelissero a question: “You’re close – very close to contending for a Super Bowl.”

Well, a powerhouse offensive line can go a long way to making that a reality.

So, what should the Packers do? Also, what are some of the options they already have? That’s what we’ll be looking at here as we go position-by-position on the o-line, left-to-right:

Left tackle

I’ve said before on this blog that Chad Clifton should not be brought back and I’m sticking to that. Clifton has been a very solid blindside protector for nearly a decade. But he’s also old (about to turn 34) and is breaking down, physically. You could try to bring him back on a one-year deal (the absolute most I’d offer, in terms of years) but I don’t think he’d take it. Pelissero is right when he says someone could very well overpay Clifton, especially if there’s no cap (all but a lock at this point). And Clifton’s mindset will likely be to get as much as he can, since this is probably his last contract. I don’t fault him for that at all, but that means it’s time to find someone new.

If you stay in-house, you only have one option: T.J. Lang. It’s not a bad option, either, as Lang showed some flashes in his brief time at the position last season. Given a full offseason at the position, Lang could grow even more.

The first round of the draft is always good for finding a left tackle (plus, as Adam likes to say, first-round linemen almost never bust). At pick No. 23, Green Bay won’t be able to get a player like Oklahoma State’s Russell Okung or Iowa’s Bryan Bulaga. But it could land someone like USC’s Charles Brown (Charlie Brown!), Maryland’s Bruce Campbell (think of the “Evil Dead” jokes!) or Rutgers’ Anthony Davis (no jokes come to mind here). All are looked at as projects of sorts, but all could play right away, as well.

Some players, like San Diego’s Marcus McNeill or Tampa Bay’s Donald Penn, might become restricted free agents. To land one of them, you’d have to surrender a first and third round pick, plus a massive new deal (think six or seven years for $65-plus million). For a position as valuable as left tackle, though, that might not be too much to give up.

If it were me (which it’s not), I’d get the best lineman available at 23 and sign a cheap veteran backup who could provide a decent amount of stability if the rookie struggles (someone like Tra Thomas, recently released by Jacksonville).

Left guard

Colledge was, in a word, terrible last season. Some think his disastrous time at left tackle, in place of an injured Clifton, wrecked his confidence and he never got it back. The problem with that theory is that Colledge had an up-and-down history even before that. I’ve said before I wouldn’t even place a tender on him and I’ll stick to that.

If you stay in-house, you’ve got a few options. Jason Spitz could be the guy, provided his back is healed up. It’s a position Spitz knows well as most of his starts have come there. Plus, as a restricted free agent, he’ll likely come back cheap as no team will give up a third-round pick for a guy coming off what some said was a fairly serious back injury.

Evan Dietrich-Smith is a guy that the team appears to be high on. He provides added value in that he can play center, as well.

Then there’s that Lang guy again. To me, this is the spot he should be playing. He’s got the physical build and nasty streak that are perfect for the position. Plus, his short arms won’t hurt him here as much as they might at a tackle spot.

Yes, yes, I know I said before that I think the Packers should make a serious run at New England’s Logan Mankins, provided he hits restricted free agency. I still think they should. A first and third round pick (plus a new deal in the range of six years, $40 million) is a lot, but again, he could be to Green Bay what Steve Hutchinson was to Minnesota. That said, Thompson will never do it and I know it.

The Packers could draft a guard high, but rookie guards can take a year or two to develop (as opposed to first round tackles who tend to be ready to go right away). Plus, in my plan, you’re already going with one rookie. You can’t go with two.

If it were me (which it’s not), I’d sign Mankins (wait – nevermind). I’d give Lang the job and keep Spitz and Dietrich-Smith as valuable backups.

Center

This one’s a bit easier. After starting the year frustrated because he lost the job to Spitz – he was right to be mad, as he was never given a fair shot to actually win the gig - all Scott Wells did was wait. Then, when Spitz got hurt, Wells took his job back and was fantastic. He’s still fairly young (just turned 29) and should be the guy there for the immediate future.

If it were me (which it’s not), I’d give Wells the job again, continue to apologize to him for screwing him over in the training camp “competition” and keep Spitz and Dietrich-Smith as valuable backups.

Right guard

This one’s really easy. Sitton is the guy. He was great last season and will only get better.

If it were me (which it’s not), I’d make sure Sitton was enjoying his time in Green Bay. Depth-wise, again, there’s Spitz and Dietrich-Smith.

Right tackle

Okay, this one isn’t as easy. It’s not unfair to say Mark Tauscher was one of the saviors of the offense last season. As soon as he fully returned from his knee injury, the offense took off. He’s an unrestricted free agent, though, and if someone will overpay Clifton, you have to think someone would overpay Tauscher. A one-year deal might not be enough; if that’s the case, offer him a two-year deal. He’s worth it.

If you stay in-house, you have Breno Giacomini, whom the Packers are high on. Taken in the fifth round of the 2008 draft out of Louisville, Giacomini is a massive 6-feet, 7-inches. But he’s still somewhat small at just 311 pounds (pro football is ridiculous, isn’t it?). Plus, he didn’t start playing o-line until his junior year of college (formerly a tight end) so he’s still learning. When he was taken, it was said he’d be a two-to-three year project. Well, this year is year three. The clock is ticking as the team needs to find out if he’s more Jon Runyan or Allen Barbre (i.e., a project who the team developed, only to find out he sucked).

Speaking of Barbre, I’m not as down on him as some (who want him run out of town on a rail). But, I’m also not high on him, either. He’s got some tools and was solid in his run-blocking. He’s just a terrible pass protector, though. That said, he only got about a half season’s worth of a shot at right tackle and could still improve (yes, Barbre haters, it is possible).

Again, I don’t think you can draft a right tackle high (say, in the second round) if you’re already using one high pick on a left tackle. For a team with Super Bowl aspirations – which Green Bay should absolutely have next season – you can’t start over with rookies at both tackle spots.

Sort of the same thing with regards to free agency. It seems silly to spend a bunch of money on a free agent if you’ve already got two guys – Tauscher and Giacomini – who could potentially play the position.

If it were me (which it’s not), I’d make sure Tauscher was back as a Packer. But I’d also give Giacomini a legitimate shot to win the job. Barbre sticks around for one more year for depth.

Conclusion

So, to recap, my offensive line would look something like this:

• Left tackle: First round pick (starter), veteran backup (depth)
• Left guard: Lang (starter), Spitz and Dietrich-Smith (depth)
• Center: Wells (starter), Spitz and Dietrich-Smith (depth)
• Right guard: Sitton (starter), Spitz and Dietrich-Smith (depth)
• Right tackle: Tauscher (starter), Giacomini (depth, but a legit contender to win the job) and Barbre (depth)

By going with this line, I’ve gotten younger while still maintaining a good degree of stability and keeping things financially responsible. The group would still be talented and I’d also have better depth than last year.

Whew – that was a long post.

What say you, Packers fans? What do you think the line should look like? Comment, baby, comment!

-Chris Lempesis

No long-ass intros needed for this one.

Again, enjoy.

Now, let’s take a look at how they stack up, defensively, with their 3-4 scheme.

Defensive line

The key cog in the Cards’ defensive line – maybe their entire defense – is defensive end Darnell Dockett (42 tackles, tied for team-high in sacks with seven). The sixth-year pro out of Florida [...]]]> Alright, we’ve covered the Arizona Cardinals’ offense.

Now, let’s take a look at how they stack up, defensively, with their 3-4 scheme.

Defensive line

The key cog in the Cards’ defensive line – maybe their entire defense – is defensive end Darnell Dockett (42 tackles, tied for team-high in sacks with seven). The sixth-year pro out of Florida State is an absolute monster, despite his somewhat underwhelming listing of 6-feet, 4-inches and 285 pounds (ends in a 3-4 scheme are usually closer to 300 pounds). He possesses everything you want at the position and then some. He’s quick off the ball, strong as a bull and able to take over games. He was great for Arizona in the playoffs last season and was voted to the Pro Bowl this year. He must be the focal point of Green Bay’s offensive line.

Nose tackle Bryan Robinson (28 tackles, one sack) is a solid, cagey 13-year veteran. At just 304 pounds (oh, the ridiculous nature of pro football), he’s also a bit undersized for his position. With Scott Wells playing so strongly this season, this could be a matchup Green Bay tries to exploit in the run game.

Defensive end Calais Campbell (47 tackles, tied for team-high in sacks with seven) has really come on in his second season and has an explosiveness that can be diffcult to contain. He just underwent surgery on his injured thumb and will be wearing a cast Sunday, however. That will effect his ability to break off blocks and should provide a sizeable edge to Green Bay’s offensive line.

Linebackers

Inside linebacker Karlos Dansby (a team-high 109 tackles, one sack, one interception, one forced fumble) is the leader of this group. Despite a slight drop-off, stats-wise, from last season, Dansby is a very good 3-4 inside ‘backer, possessing the complete package of skills needed at the position. Neutralizing him will be crucial in achieving a successful ground game Sunday, as the other inside linebacker, Gerald Hayes (63 tackles, no playmaking stats), is really nothing special.

Left outside linebacker Clark Haggans (74 tackles, five sacks, two forced fumbles) is a former Pittsburgh Steeler brought over by head coach Ken Whisenhunt after the 2007 season. In his ninth year, Haggans is a smart veteran who is still very effective off the ball and can generate solid pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Mark Tauscher will need to be ready.

Truth be told, when I saw the name “Chike Okeafor” listed as Arizona’s starting right outside linebacker, I thought it was maybe Chike Okeafor’s son. Nope. Okeafor (47 tackles, 4.5 sacks), now playing for his third team in 10 years, is still getting it done. Never what you would call a great player, Okeafor (love typing that name, if you didn’t notice) is a tireless worker who truly gets the most out of what he has. He’ll go until the final buzzer and Chad Clifton will have his hands full.

Secondary

Perhaps the strength of the Cardinals’ defense, led by strong safety Adrian Wilson (75 tackles, five interceptions, two sacks, 13 passes defended). Wilson has been, in my mind, one of the game’s most overlooked players of the past few seasons. Certainly he’s one of the game’s best safeties, capable of doing it all. He can play the run, rush the passer and cover with the best of them. He very much reminds me of Green Bay legend LeRoy Butler in that sense. Like the Packers used to do with Butler, Arizona lines Wilson up all over the place to ensure his skills are fully utilized. Green Bay must account for Wilson before every snap.

Second-year cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (50 tackles, six interceptions, 25 passes defended) is well on his way to becoming a top-flight player, as well. Fearless, aggressive and quick, Rodgers-Cromartie can take on anyone. His fearlessness will be needed as his injured kneecap will likely hamper him Sunday and make him a target for Green Bay’s offense.

Antrel Rolle (72 tackles, four interceptions, eight passes defended, one and a half sacks), originally drafted as a corner, is now in his second full season at free safety and has made a nice transition. He still has a corner’s mind set somewhat, so look for him to be aggressive Sunday. He’s also battling an injury (thigh) so Green Bay could be targeting him.

The other starting corner, Bryant McFadden (another Pittsburgh transplant), is in his first full season with Arizona. McFadden (69 tackles, 15 passes defended, no interceptions) is not great, but he’s also not terrible – in other words, the definition of a solid NFL starter.

-Chris Lempesis