Cory's Corner: Still bright spots on this team
There aren’t supposed to be such things as moral victories but playing nip and tuck to a home team that was a 14-point favorite is pretty close.
There aren’t supposed to be such things as moral victories but playing nip and tuck to a home team that was a 14-point favorite is pretty close.
Brett Hundley looked inherently better than his Ravens debacle with a 134.3 passer rating against a defense that was one of the best against the pass with an excellent pass rush. To put that 134.3 number in perspective, Tom Brady could only muster a 124.2 and 127.5 in two meetings with Pittsburgh last year — and the Steelers defense is arguably much better this year with the addition of linebacker T.J. Watt flying all over the place.
But after all that, it’s time to take a bite of a reality sandwich. The Packers won’t run the table and won’t make the playoffs. After the Bears game, I thought the Packers had a good chance at finishing the season 5-2 and getting into the postseason.
That’s just not happening anymore. The Packers have turned into the Redskins. Good, but not good enough to matter.
The Packers have five games left to figure out who they are. I realize that everyone got their heart aflutter when they saw Aaron Rodgers dropping 50-yard pregame dimes into the Heinz Field twilight, but he shouldn’t take a snap this year. The Packers need him 100 percent heading into camp and perhaps coach Mike McCarthy will allow him to actually take more than 10 preseason snaps.
This team has problems at offensive tackle, edge rusher and ever since Sam Shields was lost for a career it has been starved for a No. 1 cover corner that can stick with the cream of the NFL wideouts.
Antonio Brown is an excellent receiver, I think the best, and he dominated the Packers on Sunday night. The closest the Packers got to stopping him was when Davon House got away with being overly physical on third down.
Offensively, this team is shaping up to be pretty darn good. The featured back race between Aaron Jones and Jamaal Williams could be interesting. The more Davante Adams produces, the more money will be flowing into his bank account. The Packers should lock him up soon because he is staring at $13 million per season money, which will make Green Bay tell Jordy Nelson and Randall Cobb to take a pay cut. The Packers cannot pay three wideouts over $36 million a season.
And speaking of running backs and receivers, the Packers look to have a problem forming with Ty Montgomery. If Jones and Williams are the top two backs, where does that leave Montgomery? He is suddenly a man without a country. Maybe, just maybe, he would be willing to play…tight end?
But the most glaring thing the Packers need is speed, especially on defense. Ryan Shazier and Watt are two of the quickest linebackers in the game, which is why the Steelers’ defense is one of the best in the league.
The Packers’ season has been forgettable, but there have been plenty of bright spots to highlight. And those bright spots will need to shine even more next year.
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__________________________
Cory Jennerjohn is a graduate from UW-Oshkosh and has been in sports media for over 15 years. He was a co-host on "Clubhouse Live" and has also done various radio and TV work as well. He has written for newspapers, magazines and websites. He currently is a columnist for CHTV and also does various podcasts. He recently earned his Masters degree from the University of Iowa. He can be found on Twitter: @Coryjennerjohn
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Comments (65)
Houndog
November 28, 2017 at 06:55 am
Ty Montgomery at Tight End, not a bad idea from a receiver standpoint, but is he big enough? Can he be the blocker needed on certain plays?
My guess would be that Montgomery would be willing to do it, he seems like the ultimate Team guy and that's a big deal.
But........................
Bearmeat
November 28, 2017 at 11:18 am
No. Not even close to big enough. He'd get destroyed at to point of attack and would get hurt even more.
TKWorldWide
November 28, 2017 at 05:45 pm
And that would hurt my feelings.
Doug Niemczynski
December 01, 2017 at 03:32 pm
Can't even block for Aaron Rodgers as a running back and he's only 220lbs you have to be 230 lb minimum maybe even 240 pounds we're going to have to draft a tight end probably in the second round they need to draft all offensive players the first four rounds again wide receiver tight end they need a right tackle not sure if they are hundred percent sure on their running back situation they may even need two wide receivers they have to replenish their offense spend way too much time getting players for Dom Capers all the time are defensive
Doug Niemczynski
December 01, 2017 at 03:34 pm
Jordy Nelson only has one to two years left where his numbert in half and Randall Cobb probably will be gone
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2017 at 06:56 am
Looking to the future, I really like parts of the team.
I think the RB duo of Jones and Williams is going to be a really good pair. I still like Montgomery as a RB, but they should use him in special ways. Maybe a RB/Slot WR combo.
Assuming they bring Adams back he will likely be the new number 1 WR. I haven't been looking into the draft a lot, but I would like to see them bring in another WR fairly high in the draft. Though, I would like to see what Clark could do in the remaining games.
I really like McCray being the top backup OL. While he maybe in line to start at RG, I really like having a versatile backup like McCray. Players like that are invaluable.
On defense, the core of the defense is Daniels, Clark and now Martinez. Next year Jones should be much better, and hopefully King can get his shoulder fixed in the offseason.
I would like to see them add more pass rushers and CB's. Can never have to many of either. They always need OL depth. A faster WR that can help put stress on defenses would help a lot. They need to fix the TE position again. Bennett really screwed us. If the right RB was there to be picked I would be ok picking up another RB. Jones and Williams are good, but Mays hasn't shown anything.
I don't think this team is that far away. Just need to add a few key players.
croatpackfan
November 28, 2017 at 08:55 am
Well, I still think Devante Mays can be special. I understand that he himself ruined his chances a lot, but, still... If not this season, he can use another TC and maybe find his place on the Packers roster...
Also, as it looks like there is not much hope for the postseason, craziest things happened, even this season. I made some maths and I think we should cheer for Saints and Atlanta, Vikings, Rams and Cowboys. Strongly against Carolina and Seattle (which shoould not be problem!). We need Seattle and Carolina to lose 2 games on their schedule, and Packers to beat Carolina. In that case Seahawks and Carolina would have 10-6 and that is the target Packers are trying to achieve. I do not think thare is a math where Packers can go to postseason with 9-7.
With that scenario Packers are NFC 6th seed. All games away...
Scenario were Packers can be winner of the division is unbelieveable. It is possible. There is 2 possibilities. Vikings and Packers are 10-6, Lions 9-7 and all have 4-2 divisional record. Packers need to beat Carolina for that and Vikings have to lose to Carlonia, Atlanta (away games!), Bengals and Packers (which is possible, but not likely) and to win over Bears. Second option is that Vikings, Packers and LIons are 9-7 and Packers and Lions have better (4-2) divisional record than Vikings (3-3). Packers have tie breaker if they win Carolina game, as Lions lost to all 3 NFC South opponents...
Very thin hopes. Almost none.
That is how it is.
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2017 at 09:56 am
I'm indifferent about Mays. I just don't know. I want to see him, but 2 fumbles in 3 carries is really bad. Is he JAG or is he a guy that could develop into a really good player?
There is always hope. I saw a stat that if the packers finish 5-0 the rest of the year, they have a 90% chance of making the playoffs. (it was on twitter) I brought it up yesterday, that in the 2010 season it took a near miracle to make the playoffs. We did and look what happened. If I remember right it took a Desean Jackson punt return to make it.
Then 2013 Rodgers out with a collar bone, it took some luck to get in.
Last year they were 4-6 and ran the table.
Not saying it will happen, but we aren't ruled out yet.
I will trust your math. I haven't looked at what must happen.
Hopes are thin. But not lost... Not as of today.
Thegreatreynoldo
November 28, 2017 at 09:24 am
I agree. However, CB, OLB, WR are premium positions. Also need a TE which perhaps can wait a few rounds.
Murphy might be serviceable at RT and McCray at RG or as a back up if Evans returns. I don't see the need for a RB unless the value is outstanding of course.
I haven't looked at the draft. I've read that it is thin for WR featured and speed. I usually let RC tell me about the draft prospects if I don't get around to looking myself, and sometimes even when I do make some effort.
I've been way too nice to RC lately. I need to get back to contradicting and/or disagreeing with him
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2017 at 09:59 am
TGR -
I'm curious to see what happens with Bulaga. If they bring him back I doubt he would be ready until the start of the year. So now they are getting an extended look at Spriggs. Maybe he can develop with experience?
I do wonder if they will bring Evans back. He has played well, and will be cheap.
I honestly haven't been looking much into prospects so far. I have fallen behind this year.
Yeah, you have been way to nice. Are you feeling ok? Just making sure. :)
Thegreatreynoldo
November 29, 2017 at 03:30 am
Here is a nice article on Bulaga and his surgery. It is upbeat but I see some ominous phrases in it, like knee reconstruction. Too many factors to predict Bulaga's future in GB. Would we have to PUP him? Sounds like it but no timetable is suggested in the article. In 2013, he had the ACL on the other knee in TC but was ready opening day in 2014.
Will Spriggs/Murphy (if he returns from IR) impress or McCray (if we re-sign Evans with a raise but still inexpensively) improve at RT? Perhaps there is an OT in the draft too good to pass on, say in round 2 or 3.
If I had to guess right now, I'd figure he won't be ready to return until week 8 or perhaps not until 2019, so GB cuts him and takes the $5.15M cap savings. I doubt they take the post June cut to get $6.75M in cap savings and pushing dead money into 2019 unless they're just waiting to see his rehab progress. IDK, Bulaga seems like a guy who battles back, though.
http://host.madison.com/wsj/sports/football/professional/packers-injured...
Tundraboy
November 28, 2017 at 12:42 pm
Like Mays. Of course he is buried now, and even without the fumble MM typically refuses to play rookies and then only as a last resort. If Ty was not hurt I assure you we would never have known what we have in Jones and Williams. In a 16 game season MM takes far too long to develop talents.
Roadrunner23
November 28, 2017 at 07:11 am
The Packers off-season should be interesting
They have a boatload of draft picks and about 30-35 veteran locks to be on the team next year., They have big decisions to make monetarily as they need to lock up Davante Adams, Corey Linsley and possibly Morgan Burnett. The players they are going to possibly cut bait with or restructure are as follows:
*Clay Mathews
*Randall Cobb
*Brian Bulaga
also; I know this will not be popular but will Jordy Nelson decide to retire or maybe play one more season with his amigo Rodgers?
Players that may warrant resigning to one year deals:
*Jahri Evans
*Davon House
*Brett Goode
*Ahmad Brooks
This team is going to undergo a major makeover in 2018 (not a re-build). The Packers really have needs at every position group other than Quarterback and Fullback.
The need for speedy playmakers on Offense and Defense is painfully evident.
also in know this is redundant but: FIRE DOM CAPERS!
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2017 at 07:24 am
You really laid it out nicely.
The one player I am curious to see what happens is Jordy. With Rodgers Jordy is clearly his number 1 target. With Hundley Adams is.
They will have a lot of tough decisions to make in the offseason for sure.
My guess is they will resign Adams and Linsley, and let Burnett go. Typically Thompson drafts a players replacement a year in advance. Just like previous years they drafted Cobb to replace Jennings, Rollins to replace Hayward. This time they drafted Jones to replace Burnett.
IMO, they have more then enough core pieces that they don't have to rebuild. But need to add a couple of playmakers, upgrade and build stronger depth.
EdsLaces
November 28, 2017 at 07:41 am
Are we so sure it's Jones instead of Brice that replaces Morgan?
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2017 at 07:45 am
I would say the combination of the 2.
I personally hope they bring Burnett back. Just looking at the track record of Thompson.
HankScorpio
November 28, 2017 at 08:11 am
If the Packers commitment to making their defense faster last for more than last offseason, It's Jones. He's very speedy. Brice is not.
Thegreatreynoldo
November 28, 2017 at 09:11 am
Brice's pro day #s
4.44 forty (Excellent for a safety)
133" broad (Excellent period)
42" vertical (Excellent period)
7.66 3 cone (Lousy).
Bench: 21 reps (Excellent for a DB)
flackcatcher
November 28, 2017 at 03:06 pm
And yet to date he has been clueless on the field. Evans has been a upgrade when he replaced Brice. So far Brice reminds me of another current player who can't translate his measurable's to the field. (JANIS! 0:)
HankScorpio
November 28, 2017 at 06:49 pm
I stand corrected on Brice's speed. Thanks for the info, TGR.
Thegreatreynoldo
November 29, 2017 at 03:51 am
Flak, if you read my posts, I've been pulling for Marwin Evans for a long time, and have noted Brice's coverage deficiencies last year and this year. I was really pulling for Evans or Brice for that matter, in part so we don't have to re-sign Burnett to big money. Haven't made up my mind on Burnett yet. We don't have so many talented players that we can afford to casually let an above average guy walk. Right now I'd be okay with paying Burnett fairly large bucks if there is a decent 2-year out for GB cap-wise.
Hank, I enjoy your posts and never skip them. As you know, GB has been trying to get faster on Defense, but Flak as usual is right: there are lots of players with wonderful measurables who never make it. Might be too early to dump Brice, who is still cheap.
Doug Niemczynski
December 01, 2017 at 03:36 pm
The Packers will have to cut Randall Cobb he's making 12 million dollars a year that money is going to have to go to Davante Adams or Randall Cobb have to take a huge pay cut also Clay Matthews he makes about 15 million dollars he's going to have to come way down and that money is going to have to go to Morgan Burnett I will have to cut Clay Matthews also Beluga he'll have to be gone to he makes about seven or eight million dollars and he's hurt all the time and Richard Rodgers is worthless he's making about 2 million dollars so you probably have to cut him as well that Ahmad Brooks I don't even know if it's worth even keeping him and he was hurt all year paying him $3000000 a year Lance Kendricks I have no idea if he's doing anything at all
HankScorpio
November 28, 2017 at 07:46 am
" The Packers really have needs at every position group other than Quarterback and Fullback."
I think they are ok at RB, too. Monty, Jones and Williams are a nice set of three. Even if they decide to shift Monty in to the Cobb role after potentially moving on from him, they still can look to develop Mays more or find a UDFA for the 3rd RB.
Maybe they are ok at OT, too. The next 5 weeks will help fill in the picture. Bakh is ok at LT. He's not All-Pro but good enough. Spriggs has been up and down, like many young players. He most recent look is "up" on Sunday night vs Pitts. We'll see where it goes with him. Murphy was serviceable at RT before going on IR. This is all assuming Bulaga moves on. Which is not a given.
I think the next 5 weeks are also quite important at QB,too. Obviously there are no concerns about a healthy Rodgers. But the jury is still out on Hundley as the backup. If he plays great, he's trade bait. If he plays awful, he's fish bait. If he plays so-so, you might want to look for someone better.
NickPerry
November 28, 2017 at 07:30 am
" The Packers need him 100 percent heading into camp and perhaps coach Mike McCarthy will allow him to actually take more than 10 preseason snaps."
Well crap Cory. If McCarthy is still "Allowing" Rodgers more than 10 preseason snaps that would mean he's still the HC. If that's true then Thompson is still the GM, and quite possibly Capers is still the DC.
Do I need to mention how this has worked out the last 7 seasons? It's time for CHANGE!!!
BTW...Do you know you actually only listed 3 "bright spots"? Adams, Jones, and Williams. You might want to consider the number of games Jones might lose because of his affection for weed too.
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2017 at 08:00 am
"Do I need to mention how this has worked out the last 7 seasons? "
yeah, I'm sorry making it to the playoffs each of the 7 years and NFC Championship game 2 times is just PATHETIC...
Trust me I know, the goal is to make it to the Super Bowl. I want it as bad as everyone.
But can we stop acting like we are owed or entitled to something? You do know it is hard to make it to the Super Bowl right?
I personally believe the Packers would have made it in 2011 had it not been for Philbin's son passing away the week before their first playoff game. They came out completely flat. They ran through just about everyone until that point.
The Packers had their chance in 2014 and blew it.
2016 I really wish we could have seen what the game would have been like if we would have had our weapons healthy. Nelson with broken ribs, Adams with a severe ankle sprain and Allison with pulled hamstring. All of which were huge factors late in the year. Then during the game Montgomery went out early. They simply ran out of their top players to compete.
I agree that we need to make some changes, but be careful what you wish for. Firing everyone doesn't mean we will be better then what we are.
Thegreatreynoldo
November 28, 2017 at 09:27 am
Nah. Fire everybody. TT, MM, DC, and the unspeakable Zook need to go. Now. [I feel better already.]
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2017 at 09:59 am
There it is. lol.
NickPerry
November 28, 2017 at 02:35 pm
Look at the TEAM around Rodgers. and that IS pathetic!!! If these last 5 games haven't proven that to you then the Homer Shades aren't shades, their Blinders to what is really happening with this team.
I'm effing tired of watching ONE MAN of 53 CARRY the rest of the others until they play an actual TEAM and get their asses royally kicked. I'm also tired of taking about what might have been 3, 4, or 5 years ago. The defense has BLEW since 2011 and plenty has been spent to fix it. I didn't know just how BAD they were until this year. I mean I knew Ted was no draft wizard, but I didn't believe they'd be this poor without Rodgers.
So far the Mighty Packers have beat Chicago twice, Seattle, Dallas, and the Bengals. They ALL have LOSING records. WOW!!
RCPackerFan
November 29, 2017 at 07:21 am
The truth is if the Packers had better QB play they probably win 1-2 more of the games they lost during the stretch that Rodgers has been out. I think they probably win the Saints game, and Ravens game. I have nothing to base it off of, other then Hundley was not great in either game.
I look at it differently. Rodgers is the guy that the team runs through. The offense is built for him. Its like going to a custom golf shop to build custom made golf clubs to fit your body and swing. While those clubs work great for you, they may not work well for me. Similar to the Packers offense. Its custom made to be built around Rodgers.
Him and McCarthy have built the offense together to fit what he likes.
Do I wish the defense was better to carry the team. Yes. But honestly, they haven't been that bad either. They actually have kept the team in most games. They kept them in the Saints game until 5 minutes left in the 4th Quarter. They kept them in the Ravens game even though they were put in horrible spots all game. They created 3 turnovers against the Steelers but the offense couldn't do anything with 2 of those possessions.
Packers just scored a TD to go up 21-14. The defense intercepts a pass at the 45 yard line. They get one first down, and on the next first down play Hundley takes a sack. 2nd and 15 now he throws incomplete to Nelson. 3rd and 15 he takes a 3 yard sack making it 4th and 18 at the 47. This is when McCarthy goes for the FG. If Hundley doesn't take a sack perhaps Crosby has a better kick on a 54 yard FG vs 57.
Steelers then go and score, Packers go 3 and out. Steelers get the ball back and the Packers then force the fumble. The next drive the Packers have 3 pass plays all incomplete.
Hundley played his best game against the Steelers. But even in that game he wasn't consistent enough. On the final drive he took the sack. He has to learn you can't lose 6 yards, and needs to get rid of the ball.
Better QB play and the Packers have probably 1-2 more wins, maybe more.
HankScorpio
November 28, 2017 at 08:26 am
"Do I need to mention how this has worked out the last 7 seasons? It's time for CHANGE!!!"
The Pats "suffered" through a 9 year Lombardi drought and remained the envy of the league the entire time.
Their patience was rewarded with 2 more SBs after Brady was "past his prime"
Change for change's sake is the Cleveland Brown way. Accepting a high level that falls just short of the ultimate is the Patriot way. Which of these two teams do you want the Packers to be?
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2017 at 08:38 am
Lets be honest about the Patriots also. They were damn lucky to win each of those 2 super bowls.
The Seahawks made probably the stupidest play call in the history of football, and in all honesty there is no way the Falcons should have blown that lead. Falcons had first and 10 at around the 20. If they kick a FG there they win the game. Instead they end up losing like 20-25 yards on the next 3 plays and have to punt.
To get to and win the Super Bowl doesn't only take skill it takes luck too. Sometimes the ball has to bounce your way.
Razer
November 28, 2017 at 09:08 am
...The Seahawks made probably the stupidest play call in the history of football, and in all honesty there is no way the Falcons should have blown that lead. Falcons had first and 10 at around the 20. If they kick a FG there they win the game. Instead they end up losing like 20-25 yards on the next 3 plays and have to punt...
Thanks for reminding me of those plays - they brought a smile to my face.
I almost forgot about how we squandered the lead in Seattle in 2014. They serve as a reminder that any team can fall victim to arrogance and incompetence.
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2017 at 10:00 am
They still bring a smile to mine. :)
No team is flawless, that is for sure.
rdent
November 28, 2017 at 10:32 am
RC, there was an element of luck involved in GB winning the SB in 2011. They came in under the radar as a wildcard and got hot at the right time.Even after the Bears lost Cutler in the NFC Championship Game GB squeaked by 21-14, a little too close for a backup QB thrown into a game of that magnitude.
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2017 at 10:29 am
They were lucky to get in the playoffs. But after that there was no luck.
croatpackfan
November 28, 2017 at 09:05 am
I agree with you. It is so rare that complete change bring results fast. Do not look at Philly, they are not model, they are exception...
Complete change in football operations and coaching staff means at least 3 years of rebuilding - who is talking now about wasting Aaron Rodgers years...
And do any of you really believe that Aaron will not follow Mike McCarthy? McCarthy will have new job before he will be fired. And Aaron Rodgers will follow him.
Tundraboy
November 29, 2017 at 08:11 am
Following MM. That's a good one. More like he would leave because he's still around.
flackcatcher
November 28, 2017 at 11:38 am
Can I laugh now?
dobber
November 28, 2017 at 12:41 pm
Wait for it....
...OK, now.
carusotrap
November 28, 2017 at 07:31 am
None of this matters if we roll out yet another year of The Dom Capers Squishy Over the Middle Too Complicated for Normal Humans Hey We Only Gave Up 400 Yards This Week Just Got To Execute Who The Hell Was He Supposed To Be Covering™ defensive scheme.
Seriously, the single most impactful change for next season would be to allow Dom Capers to retire with the grateful thanks of a relieved Packers team and fanbase.
Razer
November 28, 2017 at 07:59 am
...The Dom Capers Squishy Over the Middle Too Complicated for Normal Humans Hey We Only Gave Up 400 Yards This Week Just Got To Execute Who The Hell Was He Supposed To Be Covering™ defensive scheme...
Too funny!
HankScorpio
November 28, 2017 at 08:21 am
Yesterday while reading some posts about Micah Hyde, I went back to look at the team in 2013, Hyde's rookie year. Among the DBs on the roster were: Tramon Williams, Sam Shields, Davon House, Micah Hyde, Casey Hayward (ir'ed in week 3) and Morgan Burnett.
So Dom Capers takes a look at that bunch in TC and says to himself "I've got to have me some MD Jennings starting at Safety and leave a few of those CBs on the bench to do it"
The result was a team that was 8th in sacks and 25th in pass defense. I know the debate on defensive talent level is raging. For this look back into the recent past, there is no doubt at all that Capers misused the talent he was given. Even the 6th CB, Jarrett Bush, was preferable to MD Jennings. But not according to Capers.
flackcatcher
November 28, 2017 at 11:57 am
Like this year, that group was pretty racked up with major injuries. Hyde was playing CB and only during the play offs did he play the slot. (Dropped IT would have scored against Kapp. Gone o to NFC title game that year. UGH!) Ironically MD Jennings had his finest game as a Packer, and was a big reason why Green Bays defense had shut down SF for most of the game. Green Bay had no healthy CB and was down to one OLB playing on one leg. An gritty performance by a injured group that carried the Packers into the play offs that year.
HankScorpio
November 28, 2017 at 06:48 pm
The preferred starters, Williams and Shields, combined for 30 starts. House got 5 starts in 16 games. Hyde got 3 starts in 16 games.
As for the playoff game (a WC game, not a divisional round game, BTW), I think it was more about a frigid day (-10 wind chill) at Lambeau not being to conducive to much offense. When it gets that cold, it's almost always a defense-dominated game.
One thing I know is that MD Jennings was not the reason for anything good. He was an awful player that had no business in the NFL. And that playoff game was the last one he played in the NFL.
EdsLaces
November 28, 2017 at 07:38 am
I bet Cobb is gone and Monty takes his place next year...
stockholder
November 28, 2017 at 08:20 am
I'll take that bet. Cobb stays 1 more year. Monty stays, and I believe they won't resign either. Now for you guys wanting Adams. Yes he's come on. It's for the money only! He's had to many off games to pay him. You want dominance ! You will get a player that splashes only, if you sign him. Look who dominates the headlines in the NFL. Every Week! Adams will never be that player. YOU PAY THE ALL_PRO!!!!!!! You wanted Perry to be that guy too. But truthfully he can never do what Clay Mathews did. Strike fear into offenses. They will be both over paid by the time their done.
rdent
November 28, 2017 at 08:22 am
EdsLaces, I feel bad for Ty Montgomery, he looked like he had a promising career in the slot and is effective out of the backfield. Then last season after injuries to Lacy and Starks, the inept Ted Thompson could not bring himself to sign any serviceable RB. Instead the coaching staff decided to turn a WR into a RB which has had mixed results. Now with the apparent emergence of Jones and Williams where does that leave Ty Montgomery? Now GB has a former WR bulked up to play RB who can't stay on the field. What a waste and all because of the total ineptness of TT. The next big move he should make is to retire.
Handsback
November 28, 2017 at 07:38 am
This year I had hopes that the Packers would sign Connor Barwin. It didn't happen and I have come to the conclusion that some, not all, players don't want to play in Green Bay. I've read it from potential FAs that the Packers wanted but couldn't sign (DT-Brian Robison) to hearing from families that their brother didn't want to play in Green Bay because of the cold. So except for those few key guys they can get the Packers are going to be a draft and develop team.
Green Bay has also had some terrible luck (misfortune) in that All-Pro players from the defense have left the team because of injury, Collins and Shields. It took a long time to get a marginal replacement for Collins and so far no replacement for Shields. So the defense is still lagging in the most important aspect of the game-shut down the pass. Add in CMIII isn't adding the pass rush he did and you have a very average defense.
So this year in the draft with TT holding maybe the best draft position he's had in some time I expect to see him grab some CBs and FS that can make a difference. King might become really good, but he needs that one guy who can cover the Julio Jones and Antonio Brown and I'm not sure he's on the roster. Adding more pass rush capability is also going to be important, but not sure it trumps the need at CB.
rdent
November 28, 2017 at 08:30 am
GB does need help at CB but imo it starts up front. The best pass defense is a good pass rush. You can't expect CB's to cover down field when the QB has all day to throw.
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2017 at 08:34 am
I agree. They need at least 1 explosive pass rusher. Mathews used to be that guy but has lost a 1/2 a step and is no longer that Explosive pass rusher. Perry isn't that type of rusher either.
Unfortunately those types of guys are hard to find.
rdent
November 28, 2017 at 11:02 am
Julius Peppers has 8 1/2 sacks so far this season. I would have rather paid him for 1 more year than over pay an over rated and oft injured Clay Mathews. I like the Bill Belichick philosophy, better to trade or dump a player a year early rather than a year too late and in the case of CMIII it has been 2 years too late.
Tundraboy
November 29, 2017 at 08:32 am
"GB does need help at CB but imo it starts up front. The best pass defense is a good pass rush. You can't expect CB's to cover down field when the QB has all day to throw."
So so true. I think that exact same statement has got to be the single most repeated thing said on this site.
Starting in 2011,when Jenkins left. Perhaps we are even going backwards. In that time Perry struggled, Bishop got hurt they misused Raji , added Peppers, all while Clay declined and missed way too many games.
We have no pass rush, only blitzes and odd named packages.
stockholder
November 28, 2017 at 01:15 pm
The only thing TT will add is another safety. Because Burnett won't be re-signed, and will get more money like hyde did elsewhere. When you bring up Shields, the packers did not want to pay him either. Adams is in the same boat as shields was. And I wouldn't give him the money Perry got. I believe burnett is more valuable. Especially if Capers is replaced. And I'll bet they go back to the 4-3-4. Most say Mathews is over-paid. Mathews makes this team better. If TT stays, his first pick should be another DL. Like Clark!!! The ILB has three players that I would use. Martinez,Ryan and Mathews. STAY !!! You can't give up on Adams, Biegal,Rollins or Randall. A new DC will do wonders. Most will say draft a OL. Not happening unless it's with a comp pick. TT will draft at least 2 WRs in this years draft again.
Razer
November 28, 2017 at 07:47 am
...But the most glaring thing the Packers need is speed, especially on defense...
How many years have we been trumpeting the "need for speed"? Having fast guys and playing fast are not related on this team.
I have thoughts on what we are missing but I am not going to bother itemizing the gaps on this team. We are not going to draft all our needs nor are we going to FA them away. TT will need to step back from his role or method of operating and MM will need to make changes to how this team is coached and the schemes that it uses.
I thought, going into this season that we had a chance to addressed the weaknesses and set ourselves up for a good run. This team is further away from a championship than any time in the last 10 years. We are going the wrong way.
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2017 at 08:32 am
To be fair, if Rodgers doesn't get hurt we are likely 10-1, 9-2, 8-3 at worse.
Almost all of us would be talking about the possibility of them going on a huge run. The only ones that would be disagreeing would be the Cows of the world.
Razer
November 28, 2017 at 09:23 am
I want to agree because I was hopeful going into the season - particularly on offense. Rodgers getting hurt took the glasses off. Just look at the list of deficiencies on this team and our efforts to improve them over the last years:
Secondary - both the cornerback and safety positions are in need of talent.
Linebackers - the strength of a 3-4 system, but not on this team. No pass rush in a throwing league
O-Line - this line is noticeably weaker than 2 years ago. Oh look, our QB got crushed.
TE - what
Special teams - what
Team speed - the only fast guys that we drafted are playing ST and they are invisible.
Sorry RCPackerFan but we are moving backwards.
RCPackerFan
November 28, 2017 at 10:28 am
I'm just being honest. The truth is if Rodgers doesn't get hurt, our season looks completely different. People would be talking about us as one of the top Super Bowl Contenders.
Yes, after Rodgers got hurt its much easier to look at the flaws of the team. Rodgers covers up a lot of flaws. But the team has been built around Rodgers. Opposing offenses change what they do because they fear Rodgers.
The secondary has yet to replace Shields. I think King will be the guy but he is battling the shoulder injury. Randall has actually played really well.
The OL outside of being very injured earlier this year, has actually played well. There isn't a big drop off from a few years ago.
I disagree that we are moving backwards. I think the young talent is going to start taking over. They have a good nucleus of young players to build around. Kenny Clark, Blake Martinez, Kevin King, Josh Jones. We have yet to see what we have in Biegel and Adams. Fackrell is starting to play better (though doing anything would be an improvement for him).
rdent
November 28, 2017 at 11:18 am
"Young talent taking over."? I wouldn't hold my breath. After six years of waiting for that the only glimpse I have seen is Martinez and Clark. Lets hope King and Josh Jones make a jump next year, even if that happens GB is still seriously lacking a pass rush from their OLB's and they still need an upgrade at the other ILB spot.
flackcatcher
November 28, 2017 at 12:24 pm
RC's right. If you look at how the Packers transition their players, you will see that the Packers coaching staff will play their second and third year players heavy and by their third year, most of these guys are core players or starters. This year injuries and some stupid off field decisions by players have hurt this team. TT decision making on how the Packers shape their roster has been proving successful over his tenure. So much so, now the bulk of the NFL is following TT methods in one form or another. (Expect for Jerry Jones. And we now know how that's turning out for him. {insert evil laughter} Did I tel you how much I hate Jerry Jones....... :)
dobber
November 28, 2017 at 09:44 am
"And speaking of running backs and receivers, the Packers look to have a problem forming with Ty Montgomery. If Jones and Williams are the top two backs, where does that leave Montgomery?"
I don't know why we assume that--with all hands on deck--Williams has usurped Montgomery as the #2 back on this team. While Williams has run with heart since injuries forced him into the #1 back role the last couple weeks, it's not like he's torn the world up. He's a 3.2 ypc grinder. I would argue that the offense is more diverse and likely more effective with Jones and Montgomery on the field. I expect that if Montgomery returns to relatively good health, Williams will go back to backup duties.
Thegreatreynoldo
November 28, 2017 at 09:52 am
Concur. Monty is easily the #2 RB, though of course Williams and Monty are different types of backs. Still, Williams should not be our featured back. No harm having 3 nice RBs. I'd like to give Mays another chance as well. Might as well see what he's got.
Razer
November 28, 2017 at 10:40 am
...I'd like to give Mays another chance as well...
It is unfortunate that he crapped the bed in his first game. I doubt we see him until the season is lost. MM obviously doesn't trust him. Mays also doesn't appear to have the offense straight in his head. He may have a touch of Michael Christine in him.
rdent
November 28, 2017 at 11:27 am
Keep in mind all 3 of these backs are rookies. It is too soon to say. Although I believe if these young backs develop next year Montgomery would be better suited to get back into WR shape and be used in the slot and out of the back field.
Tundraboy
November 29, 2017 at 08:43 am
That's a bit unfair. He has had what? 4 carries. Give him a chance. I really do not get MM's overly stoic, hard ass approach. We drafted him, so why punish him for making a mistake. Throw him back in there. If not just cut him rather than make him wait til next year.
Doug Niemczynski
December 01, 2017 at 03:47 pm
It's a shame the Packers aren't going to make the playoffs this year it looked so hopeful it looked like we had the tight end situation covered with Martellus Bennett and Lance Kendricks we were looking forward to Davante Adams picking it up which he did getting Jahri Evans another hoping for another great year from Aaron Rodgers as well as picking up a few running backs we also picked up a couple people on defense and now the whole Seasons gone to hell. I really thought we also had a chance for home field advantage dang it another year lost once again we have to say maybe next year....this sucks