Thoughts Of A Packer Fan...

[swamp dog 0]

i was wrong about the packers last year. predicted 5-8 wins.

 

so i'm not the person to ask about what they should do this year. but on the surface they need two guards, a couple of linebackers, a defensive tackle, a couple of folks in the secondary, a kicker, and a gm. maybe add qb to the list if favre doesn't come back.

 

doable--but not in one year. about three years if mccarthy pans out, longer if he doesn't and he has to be replaced.

[Timinator 0]

I'm not too concerned just yet. I'd hate to spend so much money on the guys that are being signed now. In general, I've been impressed with what TT is doing. He did set up the Seahawks for a Super Bowl run there. But we'll have to wait and see.

 

My buddy Favre is bugging me. Piss or get off the pot already.

 

The biggest concern for me is that the Packers bad PR with Walker and the unknown commodity of McCarthy and the new DC will scare away potential FAs. Add in a Favre retirement and we're back to the days before Reggie came to town--the Siberia of the NFL.

 

On the flipside: Favre and Green are back, Walker resigns, a few picks and FAs pan out and the Packers are sniffing a division title.

 

Just relax already. Not all the decent FAs are signed and it ain't close to July yet.

[GuidingLight 3]

On the flipside: Favre and Green are back...

 

Dude, its 2006 not 2003. Good luck with that though..

[Vikings4ever 568]

Packers | Pickett leaves without signing contract

Mon, 13 Mar 2006 22:12:48 -0800

 

Bob McGinn, of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, reports free agent DL Ryan Pickett (Rams) left Green Bay Monday, March 13, knowing how much the Packers want him, but without signing a contract.

[ROBOKOP 0]

SHO NUFF and SWAMP DOG!!! My boys are back in town. Really though I am happy that there is some sensible talk back in here about how free agency is going thus far. It takes a lot of work to manage a salrary cap and sign free agents. Some people think we can just blindly wave an inordinate amount of money at free agents that are graded high. You need to manage the cap long term and people seem to forget, you need the desire of the player to want to play for the team.

[Franknbeans 46]

SHO NUFF and SWAMP DOG!!! My boys are back in town. Really though I am happy that there is some sensible talk back in here about how free agency is going thus far. It takes a lot of work to manage a salrary cap and sign free agents. Some people think we can just blindly wave an inordinate amount of money at free agents that are graded high. You need to manage the cap long term and people seem to forget, you need the desire of the player to want to play for the team.

 

tell that to Dan Snyder

[listen2me 23 1,953]

I agree with not throwing money all over and sign the biggest FAs.....but even the Pats went out and signed Harrison Washington and colvin(although he got hurt)....we cannot leave 25 mil left in our pocket...without Favre and how isolated Green Bay is the only way to get some impact players is to burn a little money and get them in with the doe.....and we have it....this doesnt mean go out and give record deals...but if guys like pickett dont even want to come here who hasnt signed yet....we just arnt offering enough....being conservative lkke the carnals were for so long isnt the way to go either ....Id like to see a happy medium not the Vikes or the Skins but teams that spend a little to get some players not teh CArds....a team that finally ralized this year...

[swamp dog 0]

tell that to Dan Snyder

 

*rim shot*

[B.M.F. 0]

am i the only one who thinks gado will outproduce green this year but green will be the starter regardless?

[Timinator 0]

Dude, its 2006 not 2003. Good luck with that though..

 

Isn't anybody checking IDs at the door here?

 

Favre and Green both still have the tools to be in the Pro Bowl next season. Will they? Who knows. That's why they play the games. They are both big-time competitors with a little something to prove. And neither is older than anybody who's done it before.

 

I think Green will start and Gado will push him to have a pretty good year. With a little help on the O line, it wouldn't shock me to see both of them approach 1,000 yards.

[Sho Nuff 720]

Im fed up this is stupid....we obviously dont want the face our orginization and the player who got our team out of a couple decades of hell in Favre....thats obvious....

 

Guys are getting signed left and right.....Robocop and whoever else sticks up for this approuch is crazy....no fan of the team with teh best cap situation would like to see by july 20 million left on their pockets....that just is like packing it in and waiting for next year!!!

 

Is it July? I think you are getting angry a bit prematurely given it has been less than a week of free agency...

 

i was wrong about the packers last year. predicted 5-8 wins.

 

so i'm not the person to ask about what they should do this year. but on the surface they need two guards, a couple of linebackers, a defensive tackle, a couple of folks in the secondary, a kicker, and a gm. maybe add qb to the list if favre doesn't come back.

 

doable--but not in one year. about three years if mccarthy pans out, longer if he doesn't and he has to be replaced.

 

A gm? You really are laughable....how about that BMW vs. Fergie....hahaha!!!!!!!

 

I agree with not throwing money all over and sign the biggest FAs.....but even the Pats went out and signed Harrison Washington and colvin(although he got hurt)....we cannot leave 25 mil left in our pocket...without Favre and how isolated Green Bay is the only way to get some impact players is to burn a little money and get them in with the doe.....and we have it....this doesnt mean go out and give record deals...but if guys like pickett dont even want to come here who hasnt signed yet....we just arnt offering enough....being conservative lkke the carnals were for so long isnt the way to go either ....Id like to see a happy medium not the Vikes or the Skins but teams that spend a little to get some players not teh CArds....a team that finally ralized this year...

 

It is less than a week into Free Agency...calm down....

[hoffdaddy 1]

but if guys like pickett dont even want to come here who hasnt signed yet....we just arnt offering enough...

 

Who says he doesn't want to come here? Just because he wasn't signed on the spot doesn't me he won't be signed.....

 

http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=408005

"He was our first guy in," Packers coach Mike McCarthy said. "We gave him our sales pitch. I thought it went very well today. I had a very good talk with him and his wife."

 

"He said he was talking to a few other teams," McCarthy said. "I think we have a good shot."

 

 

This part surprised me there. Maybe we really are looking at this throug Packer colored glasses?

"There haven't been very many good decisions coming out of there (Green Bay) but that'd be a good decision if they sign him," a personnel director for an NFC team said. "If they sign him they'll think they got the bargain of the year. He'll go to the Pro Bowl. GradyJackson is not even close to him. He's way over Sam Adams."

[listen2me 23 1,953]

Who says he doesn't want to come here? Just because he wasn't signed on the spot doesn't me he won't be signed.....

 

http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=408005

"He was our first guy in," Packers coach Mike McCarthy said. "We gave him our sales pitch. I thought it went very well today. I had a very good talk with him and his wife."

 

"He said he was talking to a few other teams," McCarthy said. "I think we have a good shot."

This part surprised me there. Maybe we really are looking at this throug Packer colored glasses?

"There haven't been very many good decisions coming out of there (Green Bay) but that'd be a good decision if they sign him," a personnel director for an NFC team said. "If they sign him they'll think they got the bargain of the year. He'll go to the Pro Bowl. GradyJackson is not even close to him. He's way over Sam Adams."

 

Im just saying it isnt very appealing for FAs to come here....before Favre there was no intrest....to get guys that we want we need to make better offers then other teams.....

Im sorry I have no source but heard on another board who had a source that the packers have actually had 12 or 14 guys come in for interviews and something like 10 of them just said no thank you...

[hoffdaddy 1]

Im sorry I have no source but heard on another board who had a source that the packers have actually had 12 or 14 guys come in for interviews and something like 10 of them just said no thank you...

 

Well, the link above says Pickett was THE first guy in, so it looks like those rumors are nothing more than rumors. At least according to Green Bay's head coach.

[Jay 0]

The Packers are in full rebuilding mode, and I'm all for it. Here are my thoughts position by position....

 

Quarterback

----------------

 

It is time to start the Aaron Rodgers regime, so while I'm sorry to see the Favre era end, I'm glad that it is ending now. The timing is right. The Packers are in rebuilding mode, so it's appropriate for them to start with their young quarterback. He won't develop any further without real game situations, and the Packers need to know if he is the future of the organization. A veteran backup as a teacher/mentor would be ideal as the #2, along with a developmental QB at #3, which can be drafted late or signed as a rookie FA.

 

Running Back

-----------------

 

Ahman is no more than a stopgap. Signing him to a one year deal to bridge the gap was appropriate. A young running back should be drafted for value (whether that be very early or not as early). Gado can fill the third spot.

 

Fullback

----------------

 

Henderson was an unsung hero, but it's probably appropriate to send him along and find the next fullback to fill his spot. That player is not currently on the roster.

 

Tight End

---------------

Bubba is fine. Lee is OK as a pass-catching #3 tight end, but a more versatile backup is necessary. Draft for value. Get rid of the David Martin experiment.

 

Tackle

---------------

This position is the most settled on the team. Clifton and Tauscher are very good at their respective positions. They anchor the two sides of the line. Depth is paper thin, and depth is needed, either in free agency or the draft.

 

Guard

--------------

An absolute disaster. None of their current players are even average players at their positions. They should draft for this position multiple times in the upcoming draft and seriously consider making one of the picks a first day pick.

 

Center

-------------

Flanigan's skills are deteriorating. It's probably best that he's moving on. He had maybe two or three years left at maximum, so he'll be done by the time the Packers are surging again. Like Center, youth is needed here. Wells might be the future here. He has shown glimpses.

 

Defensive End

---------------

Signing Kampman gives the right impression. He's an all-effort guy and he was an unsung hero of last

year's defensive line resurgence. KGB has always been and will continue to be a one-dimensional player. The sooner that he can become a pass-rush specialist, the better off the Packer defense will be. If Mario Williams is drafted (which would be an excellent decision), KGB should be asked to take a pay cut or be released outright. His pay does not reflect his value as a pass-rush specialist only.

 

Defensive Tackle

-------------------

The Packers should sign Ryan Pickett immediately. Losing Grady Jackson will leave a gaping hole, literally and figuratively in the middle of the Packers defense. Picket would fill those shoes very nicely. There is no one on the Packers roster that can adequately fill the nose tackle position.

 

Inside Linebacker

--------------------

Nick Barnett is emerging as the leader of the defense. He is still getting better, but he is the total package, though somewhat soft taking on blockers directly. Ideally he is covered by the defensive tackles and allowed to use his speed from sideline to sideline making plays and covering and blitzing in the passing game.

 

Outside Linebacker

---------------------

A complete disaster. Linebacker should be drafted early and often, and this draft is loaded with quality talent, so there is some hope. Popinga showed some flashes, but he's very very raw and coming off an injury. Help is needed. It looks like Diggs, who couldn't stay healthy is being shown the door.

 

Corner

-------------

Al Harris is among the best in the league. I didn't think so when they signed him to the big contract a couple of years back, but I think so now. The other side is much more in doubt. Carroll can't get beyond

his huge ego. He made strides last year, but bringing Shottenheimer back is a huge mistake. He couldn't

teach someone to tie a shoe, much less cover a wide receiver.

 

Safety

--------------

Nick Collins is an emerging star. I had my doubts about the kid, but he was excellent in his first year at the position, which usually takes three years to make an impact. The rest of the crew at safety are backups. A top notch partner to team with Collins would be ideal, but I would understand if other needs such as the interior offensive line and linebacker were addressed.

 

 

Overall, I'd like to see the Packers get the off-season going in a positive direction by signing Pickett.

[Sho Nuff 720]

The Packers are in full rebuilding mode, and I'm all for it. Here are my thoughts position by position....

 

Quarterback

----------------

 

It is time to start the Aaron Rodgers regime, so while I'm sorry to see the Favre era end, I'm glad that it is ending now. The timing is right. The Packers are in rebuilding mode, so it's appropriate for them to start with their young quarterback. He won't develop any further without real game situations, and the Packers need to know if he is the future of the organization. A veteran backup as a teacher/mentor would be ideal as the #2, along with a developmental QB at #3, which can be drafted late or signed as a rookie FA.

 

Running Back

-----------------

 

Ahman is no more than a stopgap. Signing him to a one year deal to bridge the gap was appropriate. A young running back should be drafted for value (whether that be very early or not as early). Gado can fill the third spot.

 

Fullback

----------------

 

Henderson was an unsung hero, but it's probably appropriate to send him along and find the next fullback to fill his spot. That player is not currently on the roster.

 

Tight End

---------------

Bubba is fine. Lee is OK as a pass-catching #3 tight end, but a more versatile backup is necessary. Draft for value. Get rid of the David Martin experiment.

 

Tackle

---------------

This position is the most settled on the team. Clifton and Tauscher are very good at their respective positions. They anchor the two sides of the line. Depth is paper thin, and depth is needed, either in free agency or the draft.

 

Guard

--------------

An absolute disaster. None of their current players are even average players at their positions. They should draft for this position multiple times in the upcoming draft and seriously consider making one of the picks a first day pick.

 

Center

-------------

Flanigan's skills are deteriorating. It's probably best that he's moving on. He had maybe two or three years left at maximum, so he'll be done by the time the Packers are surging again. Like Center, youth is needed here. Wells might be the future here. He has shown glimpses.

 

Defensive End

---------------

Signing Kampman gives the right impression. He's an all-effort guy and he was an unsung hero of last

year's defensive line resurgence. KGB has always been and will continue to be a one-dimensional player. The sooner that he can become a pass-rush specialist, the better off the Packer defense will be. If Mario Williams is drafted (which would be an excellent decision), KGB should be asked to take a pay cut or be released outright. His pay does not reflect his value as a pass-rush specialist only.

 

Defensive Tackle

-------------------

The Packers should sign Ryan Pickett immediately. Losing Grady Jackson will leave a gaping hole, literally and figuratively in the middle of the Packers defense. Picket would fill those shoes very nicely. There is no one on the Packers roster that can adequately fill the nose tackle position.

 

Inside Linebacker

--------------------

Nick Barnett is emerging as the leader of the defense. He is still getting better, but he is the total package, though somewhat soft taking on blockers directly. Ideally he is covered by the defensive tackles and allowed to use his speed from sideline to sideline making plays and covering and blitzing in the passing game.

 

Outside Linebacker

---------------------

A complete disaster. Linebacker should be drafted early and often, and this draft is loaded with quality talent, so there is some hope. Popinga showed some flashes, but he's very very raw and coming off an injury. Help is needed. It looks like Diggs, who couldn't stay healthy is being shown the door.

 

Corner

-------------

Al Harris is among the best in the league. I didn't think so when they signed him to the big contract a couple of years back, but I think so now. The other side is much more in doubt. Carroll can't get beyond

his huge ego. He made strides last year, but bringing Shottenheimer back is a huge mistake. He couldn't

teach someone to tie a shoe, much less cover a wide receiver.

 

Safety

--------------

Nick Collins is an emerging star. I had my doubts about the kid, but he was excellent in his first year at the position, which usually takes three years to make an impact. The rest of the crew at safety are backups. A top notch partner to team with Collins would be ideal, but I would understand if other needs such as the interior offensive line and linebacker were addressed.

Overall, I'd like to see the Packers get the off-season going in a positive direction by signing Pickett.

 

 

Some pretty good thoughts...Im iffy on the Favre thing...would like to see another year...but would like to be able to move on.

 

Green...not sure about a stop gap...if he is back to healthy still has some gas left in the tank...agreed we do need a young body in there.

 

Center...looks like Flanagan will be gone...Wells here or Chris White who they brought in to compete.

Guard...agreed to a point. I think Whitticker does have some promise. He was a rookie last year and it showed...but he also showed some skill. Would have liked to have seen if Coston could have gotten some time there...Wells actually did not look bad as a guard last year if they go the White route at Center. I think there will be a FA move for some line positions though.

 

Tackle...agreed. Need depth. Got to keep those two til they fall apart.

 

DT...yes and no. I would like to see them land Pickett...but like the youth of Jenkins, Cole, and Williams up the middle.

 

DE...agreed on KGB...need to see if he will take less given his one dimensional play. I do like the Kampman signing.

 

WR...probably need some help here. Need to resign Gardner...

 

FB...Im still happy with Henderson. They keep trying to find a replacement...and he keeps making plays and being a vocal team leader. One of the best attitudes and work ethics on the team. I think he is worth more for what he does off the field than on even.

 

S...Manuel will be the starter..has youth on his side and looked good once he got the shot last year. Love Collins for years to come.

 

CB...would like to see someone come in to push Carrol or move Carrol to a nickle back for a while. D. Townsend would work well in that or Andre Dyson.

 

LBs. Agreed. Love Hawk via the draft if they do not go Mario. Griesen via Free Agency would not be a bad pickup either.

[Timinator 0]

Couple of good posts there.

 

I love Favre and I'm ready to make a go without him. The best part of the team last year was Bates, Kampman and Harris, but Favre continually gets too much press and pressure.

 

As much cap space as the Packers have, I still cringe at what Sherman the GM did to this club. It's interesting that Thompson bailed both Holmgren and Sherman out a GM job they weren't ready for.

 

I'm hoping for Hawk, but I'd be happy with any pick that wasn't a stretch. I thought Collins was a foolish pick last year, but it seems the Pack knew something I didn't. That makes me a little more confident about this draft.

[Dagger 0]

Wow, I am shocked by the hate for TT.

 

Guys, the guy inherited an aging roster with many holes, and was up against the cap to boot. He made a smart move letting Marco Rivera walk, considering his age and knee injuries (which showed up again in Dallas), and although Wahle is a Pro Bowl guard, he received too much $$$. Thompson cut out the fat and has the Pack in great cap shape. Does that mean they should spend all available money just because they have it? Absolutely not.

 

The Packers should be trageting young free agents entering their prime. I am surprised at Kampman's contract as I expected him to get more on the open market. The two top targets I wanted the team to go after were Will Witherspoon and LeCharles Bentley. The Rams through an absolutely ridiculous amount at Witherspoon, and there was no way Bentley was not going to sign with the BRowns. The Manual deal was very good, he really played well when Hamlin went down. He is signed to a very affordable contract.

 

Who next? Well obviously I would like them to sign Pickett, and would love it if they paired him up with Hloti Ngata with their draft pick. I would also love to see them draft DyQuell JAckson in round 2. I have seen him play many times, and he is a very good, intense, instinctive linebacker.

[football_scooter 0]

Dude, its 2006 not 2003. Good luck with that though..

[swamp dog 0]

Wow, I am shocked by the hate for TT.

 

Guys, the guy inherited an aging roster with many holes, and was up against the cap to boot. He made a smart move letting Marco Rivera walk, considering his age and knee injuries (which showed up again in Dallas), and although Wahle is a Pro Bowl guard, he received too much $$$. Thompson cut out the fat and has the Pack in great cap shape. Does that mean they should spend all available money just because they have it? Absolutely not.

 

The Packers should be trageting young free agents entering their prime. I am surprised at Kampman's contract as I expected him to get more on the open market. The two top targets I wanted the team to go after were Will Witherspoon and LeCharles Bentley. The Rams through an absolutely ridiculous amount at Witherspoon, and there was no way Bentley was not going to sign with the BRowns. The Manual deal was very good, he really played well when Hamlin went down. He is signed to a very affordable contract.

 

Who next? Well obviously I would like them to sign Pickett, and would love it if they paired him up with Hloti Ngata with their draft pick. I would also love to see them draft DyQuell JAckson in round 2. I have seen him play many times, and he is a very good, intense, instinctive linebacker.

 

 

i will preface this by saying i'm not here to irrationally dump on tt. but your first line is the exact same thing--nearly word for word--that lion fans were saying in defense of millen not too long ago.

 

the reality is anyone can whack and hack and watch players leave in order to get under the cap. that philosophy really doesn't require a degree in rocket science.

 

tt's legacy has yet to be fully defined...but most honest and neutral observers would be hardpressed to point to many positive things tt has actually accomplished to this point.

[Mr Anonymous 24]

i will preface this by saying i'm not here to irrationally dump on tt. but your first line is the exact same thing--nearly word for word--that lion fans were saying in defense of millen not too long ago.

 

the reality is anyone can whack and hack and watch players leave in order to get under the cap. that philosophy really doesn't require a degree in rocket science.

 

tt's legacy has yet to be fully defined...but most honest and neutral observers would be hardpressed to point to many positive things tt has actually accomplished to this point.

 

All your comparison means is that Millen has the right idea, he just isn't smart enough to execute it. Go after youth in FA and build through the draft is the smart way to go, but you have to have an eye for talent. TT has a solid track record in the draft with Seattle. Millen, not so much. Perhaps it's because he seems to pick the biggest name out there. It's almost as if detroitlions.com has a poll up on draft day, and Millen selects the player who gets the most fan votes.

 

Detroit fans: Oooh, Boss Bailey is still available here in the second round, I've heard of that guy before, he's gotta be good. Haha, the Packers took some guy named Nick Barnett ahead of him. (Not TT's pick)

 

Matt Millen: Yeah, that name stands out to me too. And if the fans are crying for him...A he must be good and B they won't cry for my head if I keep taking the player with the big name who the fans are crying for. Even if it leads to taking a WR with the first pick for 3 straight years.

[swamp dog 0]

All your comparison means is that Millen has the right idea, he just isn't smart enough to execute it. Go after youth in FA and build through the draft is the smart way to go, but you have to have an eye for talent. TT has a solid track record in the draft with Seattle. Millen, not so much. Perhaps it's because he seems to pick the biggest name out there. It's almost as if detroitlions.com has a poll up on draft day, and Millen selects the player who gets the most fan votes.

 

Detroit fans: Oooh, Boss Bailey is still available here in the second round, I've heard of that guy before, he's gotta be good. Haha, the Packers took some guy named Nick Barnett ahead of him. (Not TT's pick)

 

Matt Millen: Yeah, that name stands out to me too. And if the fans are crying for him...A he must be good and B they won't cry for my head if I keep taking the player with the big name who the fans are crying for. Even if it leads to taking a WR with the first pick for 3 straight years.

 

the packers have nick barnett and...??? again, they need a couple of linebackers. you have not disproven that point.

 

and then you use a non-tt pick (barnett) to show how tt is a great evaluator of talent? lay out all his draft picks here and let's go over them. i'll wait.

 

you have an attitude that's defensive; i wasn't talking smack: those are things the packers need right now. stop killing the messenger and address the issues.

 

thanks in advance.

[hoffdaddy 1]

Pickett is in. Good job TT.

 

the packers have nick barnett and...??? again, they need a couple of linebackers. you have not disproven that point.

 

and then you use a non-tt pick (barnett) to show how tt is a great evaluator of talent? lay out all his draft picks here and let's go over them. i'll wait.

 

you have an attitude that's defensive; i wasn't talking smack: those are things the packers need right now. stop killing the messenger and address the issues.

 

thanks in advance.

 

Allow me.

Aaron Rodgers-Jury is out.

Nick Collins-Pro bowl potential. Started and played well as a rookie, he'll only get better.

Terrence Murphy-Was making strides and contributing before career ending injury.

 

First three picks, I give him a B+

 

Then:

Marviel Underwood-Athlete, but didn't show much at all at safety.

Brady Poppinga-Special teams madman who stepped into a starting LB role late, only to tear his ACL. Jury is out, but he showed promise.

Junius Coston-Didn't play a down, but the staff raved about him after the season. Will likely compete for guard spot this season.

 

These three, I give him a D+. One guy didn't play at all, and one barely played. Poppinga was a nice surprise.

 

Then:

DE Mike Montgomery, Texas A&M. Played and contributed. Will be in the rotation this year at DE.

WR Craig Bragg, UCLA. I don't think he made the team.

LB Kurt Campbell, Albany. Torn ACL, DNP.

Will Whitticker, Michigan State. Started at guard, but didn't play well. He showed flashes, but never consistent.

 

So I'll go with D+ here.

So overall, somehwere in the C- range for me. I think both Murphy and Poppinga were on the verge of contributions before injury. Plus, this is year friggin one? You want to judge Thompson's draft after one season? Doesn't seem reasonable to me.

[Kitrick Taylor 0]

As much as I hate to agree with Swamp, he is correct about TT. TT hasn't really done anything to prove himself as a good GM yet. For as good a pick as Collins was, his FA signings of a year ago were all flops.

 

As for TT's perceived lack of spending in FA, so far he has signed two of Len Pasquerelli's top 10 UFA's this year. Kampmann and Pickett. He also resigned Ahman Green to a very club friendly contract.

 

The packers are truly in a full blown rebuilding mode as Jay stated. They need help all over the place, and it would really be amazing if they were good next season. Just too many holes to fill. TT's approach so far makes sense for a team in that situation. Target young players who are coming into their prime as free agents, not players who are past it. Kampmann and Pickett are both 26 years old. They both should have many years of productive play ahead of them, presumably their best years.

 

The Packers certainly need help at LB. They could use a SSLB, whom I am assuming they will find someone later in FA who's a serviceable guy. He'll get a contract similar to Manuel to carry the position for a while. Its just not an important position. IMO they will draft either a weak side guy or a MLB with one of their first 2-3 picks. (If its' a MLB Barnett gets moved to the weak side.)

 

They also need another CB as Harris is getting old, and Carroll is just decent at this point.

 

On offense, they need a young WR to develop, a guard or two, (one of which I am guessing will be a FA, another a mid to late rd draft choice to compete with Coston, Wells, Ruegemer and Whitticker and Klemm.)

 

And at RB, I don't think they add much more than a late rd guy this year, and maybe a FA like Jonathan Wells. It's an easy position to learn, and next year we'll know if Gado can be the guy or not. If not, take one high in next years draft. (RD 1 or 2.)

 

Don't be surprised either if the Packers take Vernon Davis in Rd 1. If Mario Williams is gone, its a definite possibility.

[Mr Anonymous 24]

swamp pup...I used my post above to illustrate how bad Millen is at executing a solid plan. My post had nothing to do with TT. You were the one trying to make generalizations about TT without any substantial track record in Green Bay to base them on.

[swamp dog 0]

Pickett is in. Good job TT.

Allow me.

Aaron Rodgers-Jury is out.

Nick Collins-Pro bowl potential. Started and played well as a rookie, he'll only get better.

Terrence Murphy-Was making strides and contributing before career ending injury.

 

First three picks, I give him a B+

 

Then:

Marviel Underwood-Athlete, but didn't show much at all at safety.

Brady Poppinga-Special teams madman who stepped into a starting LB role late, only to tear his ACL. Jury is out, but he showed promise.

Junius Coston-Didn't play a down, but the staff raved about him after the season. Will likely compete for guard spot this season.

 

These three, I give him a D+. One guy didn't play at all, and one barely played. Poppinga was a nice surprise.

 

Then:

DE Mike Montgomery, Texas A&M. Played and contributed. Will be in the rotation this year at DE.

WR Craig Bragg, UCLA. I don't think he made the team.

LB Kurt Campbell, Albany. Torn ACL, DNP.

Will Whitticker, Michigan State. Started at guard, but didn't play well. He showed flashes, but never consistent.

 

So I'll go with D+ here.

So overall, somehwere in the C- range for me. I think both Murphy and Poppinga were on the verge of contributions before injury. Plus, this is year friggin one? You want to judge Thompson's draft after one season? Doesn't seem reasonable to me.

 

 

i'm not a tt hater; just pointing out there's no evidence yet he's a good gm for green bay or will be. i will agree that the jury is still out on last year's draft--but if it is there' no way to grade it then (B+). collins *might* end up being good...but he could also have looked good because those around him were so horrible. presuming a future pro bowl on him is a bit much at this early stage.

 

but drafting is only one part of the pie for a gm. free agency, coaches, the overall product on the field. so far there's not much to like about tt.

 

swamp pup...I used my post above to illustrate how bad Millen is at executing a solid plan. My post had nothing to do with TT. You were the one trying to make generalizations about TT without any substantial track record in Green Bay to base them on.

 

well, there's no arguing about millen's track record, either. then again, that's not what this thread is about.

[Mr Anonymous 24]

well, there's no arguing about millen's track record, either. then again, that's not what this thread is about.

 

Agreed, so thanks for bringing Matt Millen's name up. As to the point you tried to make. Millen and TT might both have the right idea. I just believe TT has the smarts that Millen lacks to make it work. TT built a nice squad up in Seattle through the draft. Millen has no such prior history.

[Jay 0]

So far, I think TT has done a reasonable job. His hands were tied going into last year. There is no way I would have given top dollar to Rivera or Wahle. They had to be allowed to leave. Not replacing them left some problems, but there weren't a whole lot of options. Sure a guard instead of Murphy might have been wise, but as it turned out, the Packers were short on WRs. Murphy's injury can't really be held too much against Thompson.

 

I love the Pickett signing. A young guy coming into his prime that will be contributing significantly in 2-3 years when the Packers are back in contention.

 

This draft is critical. Rebuilding is done primarily through the draft. The Packers have a great opportunity with the high picks.

 

All of that said, Thompson will likely be judged (right or wrong) on Aaron Rodgers, because the Packers are going to live or die with that kid in the near future.

[listen2me 23 1,953]

So far, I think TT has done a reasonable job. His hands were tied going into last year. There is no way I would have given top dollar to Rivera or Wahle. They had to be allowed to leave. Not replacing them left some problems, but there weren't a whole lot of options. Sure a guard instead of Murphy might have been wise, but as it turned out, the Packers were short on WRs. Murphy's injury can't really be held too much against Thompson.

 

I love the Pickett signing. A young guy coming into his prime that will be contributing significantly in 2-3 years when the Packers are back in contention.

 

This draft is critical. Rebuilding is done primarily through the draft. The Packers have a great opportunity with the high picks.

 

All of that said, Thompson will likely be judged (right or wrong) on Aaron Rodgers, because the Packers are going to live or die with that kid in the near future.

 

My personal opinion (maybe just a gut feeling) but being a packer fan....i understand the pick with the value at where we got him....but I just dont like the feeling im getting from this kid....It might be from all the QBs comming out of that system Akli Smith for example....but i dont know....something tells me this kid is going to dissapoint....maybe its just the fact that favre has done what he's done for so long and we havnt had to grad a 1st round QB....i guess being a packer fan and learning how to deal with a young QB dont mix well at this point in time...what are all of your guys opinions about Rogers future??

[Arsenal 3]

Maybe its just the fact that favre has done what he's done for so long and we havnt had to grad a 1st round QB....i guess being a packer fan and learning how to deal with a young QB dont mix well at this point in time...what are all of your guys opinions about Rogers future??

 

Sooner or later the Pack is going to have to find out if Rodgers can do the job. The only way to really find that out is to play him. Better sooner than later IMO. But we need Favre to decide what he is going to do - I find it a bit ridiculous that he is sitting in limbo at this point.

[swamp dog 0]

All of that said, Thompson will likely be judged (right or wrong) on Aaron Rodgers, because the Packers are going to live or die with that kid in the near future.

 

again, eerily similar to millen (insert jaws music here).

[Sho Nuff 720]

While we may not know that he will be a good or great GM with Green Bay yet...he has experience doing well in this capacity in Seattle. I think a much better track record there than Millen has ever had.

[hoffdaddy 1]

but drafting is only one part of the pie for a gm. free agency, coaches, the overall product on the field. so far there's not much to like about tt.

well, there's no arguing about millen's track record, either. then again, that's not what this thread is about.

 

 

Well, yes. But you're the one who asked to lay out the draft and go over it. Based on year one, Collins looks like a player. Murphy was coming on before injury, and guys like Poppinga, Montgomery, Whitacker contributed. They weren't all hits, but not bad.

[swamp dog 0]

While we may not know that he will be a good or great GM with Green Bay yet...he has experience doing well in this capacity in Seattle. I think a much better track record there than Millen has ever had.

 

his "success" in seattle is debatable at best. i agree with you that there isn't enough yet to give tt a final grade in green bay. time will tell. on the other hand, i have to believe packer fans have *some* reason to be a *little* concerned up to this point in tt's tenure at green bay.

 

if you are one who believes tt was successful in seattle (and that's an argument to be made by some, so, okay)...mooch had success in san fran, too. didn't translate to detroit at all.

[hoffdaddy 1]

i have to believe packer fans have *some* reason to be a *little* concerned up to this point in tt's tenure at green bay.

 

Honestly, I'm not the least bit concerned. You want to pass judgement on his first year as GM, where as I am a little more patient. Fact is, we don't really know just how good that first draft class really was. As for free agency, his first group wasn't all that good, but most of those guys were nothing more than stop-gaps anyway. Many of us hoped they'd be more than they really were.

 

Bottom line for me is this. Thompson was handed a crappy situation, thanks to Mike Sherman. The talent on this team is seriously depleted, and that has very little to do with Thompson. They are in full blown rebuilding mode now, though some of us didn't want to believe that last year. I think it's clear now though.

 

I'll hold off on judging Thompson until at least year three. He's done nothing so far that makes me concerned.

[Sho Nuff 720]

his "success" in seattle is debatable at best. i agree with you that there isn't enough yet to give tt a final grade in green bay. time will tell. on the other hand, i have to believe packer fans have *some* reason to be a *little* concerned up to this point in tt's tenure at green bay.

 

if you are one who believes tt was successful in seattle (and that's an argument to be made by some, so, okay)...mooch had success in san fran, too. didn't translate to detroit at all.

 

Concerned by TT's tenure? Not really. One year of cap trouble caused by his predecessor, add in a rash of injuries, Favre's worst year....jury is definately still out.

 

He did however gamble and lose on Flanagan and the guards. Hindsight being what it is...cut Flanagan loose, do whatever they can to sign Wahle....but at the beginning of March who was to know Flanagan would just not be right all year long?

[swamp dog 0]

hoff and sho:

 

fair enough. let's see what the future brings.

 

i honestly do want to talk more football this year and avoid some of the senseless smack. you guys have provided some food for thought here that's worth considering.

[kristv 0]

Well, I have to admit that I agree with a lot of what swamp has said. I'm a Packer fan and I am concerned about some of TT's decisions. I do have some patience though, and will give him the benefit of the doubt for another season or two. I have a bad feeling about Aaron Rogers as well, and have had it since they made the pick last year. Seems like a nice enough kid, but my gut tells me he's gonna stink up the joint. It felt like TT caved in last year and grabbed Rogers to not look like an idiot for not taking what was supposed to be the 'obvious' selection at that spot. I didn't completely agree with the pick at the time, and until Rogers has successfully engineered a winning season (or at least a .500) for GB the jury is out as far as I'm concerned.

 

I did like TT's choice with Collins. Reading up on him before the draft, I liked what I was hearing and have been pretty high on him once I saw him at camp last year. I think he is a star in the making. I also like TT's choice of Hawkins. That guy has raw talent, and I can't wait for him to get up to speed and play with the ability I know he has. He has the skills to be an elite corner...just needs to stay off the injury list this year.

 

I can honestly see us trading down this year to get some more draft picks. It was Ron Wolf's style and I believe it's TT's style as well. Better to drop out of the top 5 and get some value for money in the draft, as well as extra picks. We will be fielding a much younger team this year, and I actually look forward to seeing what they can do.