Post Preseason Packers Ramblings
The preseason is in the books and the regular season is nearing; here are some ramblings on anything and everything about the Green Bay Packers.
By Paul_Bretl
Prior to training camp beginning, I did a pair of articles where I shared pretty much any and every thought that I had about this Green Bay Packers team at that point. I enjoy putting together these types of articles where I can cover a variety of topics.
I also greatly appreciated the positive feedback that came with those articles, so I thought with training camp and the preseason now in the rearview mirror, and the regular season on the horizon, I would do something similar.
Without further ado, here is just about everything Packer-related rattling around in my head at this time.
- Credit where credit is due, Yosh Nijman rebounded incredibly well after a rough showing against Houston. Over the final two games, which spanned 56 pass-blocking snaps for Nijman, according to PFF, he allowed only one pressure, and we rarely even noticed that he was on the field--which is a good thing for an offensive lineman. He absolutely played his way onto the roster those last two weeks, and once again, the Green Bay Packers' patience with a player appears to be paying off.
- You can't help but be encouraged by what we saw from Jordan Love. Yes, there were moments of poor decision-making which plagued him during his years at Utah State, but that should have been expected to some degree--I mean, he hadn't played in a year and a half. But overall, he commanded the huddle well, looked calm in the pocket, was accurate, and it was nice to see Love go through his progressions, something that was an area of emphasis this summer.
- In some surprising news, the Packers didn't put Reggie Begelton on the practice squad after he outperformed Equanimeous St. Brown and Chris Blair. My best guess as to why is that this came down to age. Begelton is 28, while St. Brown is 24 and Blair is 23. Begelton is more steady, but the other two have more upside, and when putting together a practice squad, you choose upside every time.
- It was also surprising to see Christian Uphoff not on the practice squad. When it comes to this one, I'm not as sure what the reasons were. He flashed on special teams, took some lumps on defense, and also disappeared at times as well--but I guess I assumed that was to be expected from a rookie UDFA who hadn't played since 2019. Obviously, the Packers weren't very high on him, or who knows, maybe Uphoff wanted to explore other options elsewhere.
- Speaking of surprises, Jake Hanson on the final roster is as big of a surprise as we will see. I mean, he was rarely talked about by reporters or the coaching staff this summer, and the lasting memory that many of us will have is the botched snap and delay of game against Buffalo. With that said, the numbers look a lot better as he allowed only one pressure this preseason and was PFF's fifth highest-graded offensive lineman on this Packers team.
- I'm not sure what to make of the cornerback unit overall. We, of course, know what Alexander can do, and if King stays healthy while Stokes continues to ascend and Sullivan takes a step forward, this group can be pretty good. On the other hand, if King is injured, Stokes takes his rookie lumps, and Sullivan doesn't improve, then those not named Alexander could certainly be picked on. Jean-Charles would allow ten receptions on 12 targets this preseason, while Yiadom has struggled in coverage over his career.
- After just mentioning that Yiadom has struggled in coverage, which he has, allowing a passer rating of 113.2 over his career, he made the roster because of his special teams abilities and the help that he can provide against the run.
- I'm excited to see Campbell and Barnes in action at the linebacker position. This Joe Barry defense should make life easier on the linebackers with his five-man fronts, and I think we saw that during the preseason with the added playmaking ability from Burks, Wilborn, and McDuffie.
- Innis Gaines and Kabion Ento impressed during the month of August, but both likely ended up on the practice squad because of their tackling issues. The two led the team in missed tackles this preseason, which is not good for two players who would have been primary special teams players.
- New punter Corey Bojorquez averaged 50.8 yards per punt last season, which was the best in football, and he did so in Buffalo, which has several games a year in the cold. This is a good sign for the Packers--as we all know, once the weather turned poor, that's when we would really begin to see JK Scott struggle.
- Something not to be overlooked with Scott's departure is that he was the holder on field goal and extra-point attempts. Matt LaFleur mentioned that Bojorquez is one option, but there are others on the roster who could fill that role. This is something worth keeping our eyes on.
- I'm trying not to be a prisoner of the moment, but top to bottom, this feels like a very good practice squad that the Packers have put together. A number of these players were competing for roster spots right up until the end of camp.
- David Bakhtiari is on the PUP list, meaning he has to miss the first six games, but odds are he may miss more. Assuming he's on track to return at that point, he may need a week or so to get back into football shape. So if I'm guessing, I'll say he's back Week 8.
- What a win it was getting Ben Braden back on the practice squad. While many were concerned about Kurt Benkert getting claimed, I thought that there was a real possibility that Braden would. He absolutely could be on a 53-man roster.
- The good news, Dennis Kelly is back at practice this week. Meanwhile, Vernon Scott, Za'Darius Smith, and Tyler Lancaster are still out, but they haven't been placed on IR, which hopefully means that they don't have long-term injuries.
- Andy Herman of Packer Report brought this up, but the more I think about it, the more realistic it seems. He said that this could be Mason Crosby's final season. Next season he will be 38, and the Packers can save about $2.4 million in cap space by moving on from him. It's also clear that they like what they have in JJ Molson.
- Sticking with special teams, Hunter Bradley is absolutely on the hot seat. Brian Gutekunst said that he would be the Packers long-snapper, but with the practice squad addition of Steven Wirtel, Bradley's margin for error has greatly decreased.
- I know it was frustrating watching the Packers special teams unit continue to struggle this preseason, but I still wouldn't read much into it just yet. Each week Green Bay had 30 or more players inactive, many of which will contribute on special teams--they were out there with quite a few backups.
- I didn't predict that the Packers would keep both Lancaster and Heflin, but I'm a big fan that they did. Having both players deepens the rotation, allowing Clark the opportunity to move around more but also more opportunities for rest throughout the game.
- I'm not sure how opposing defenses will stop this offense. The Packers, of course, have the reigning MVP, but they are also deep at receiver, tight end, and running back, not to mention that they are extremely versatile. LaFleur can dial up any number of plays and utilize a wide variety of personnel. All I have to say is, good luck.
- For much of the offseason, I was confident that Sternberger would be on this roster after serving his suspension. However, I don't feel that way anymore. He struggled this preseason, and TE coach Justin Outten's comments -- where he mentioned that Sternberger was still struggling with the playbook -- don't exactly give me that vote of confidence.
- There's no doubt about it, Kylin Hill was uber-impressive this preseason, and I hope to see him get some touches this season. With that said, I still expect Jones and Dillon to take a bulk of the carries and pass-catching opportunities. As a second-round pick, Dillon was still used sparingly for much of the season. I expect a similar treatment with Hill.
- I also think that Kevin King will be CB2 to begin the year. Stokes will still see his fair share of playing time, and hopefully, he can overtake King for that role, but he will have to earn it. Looking back at Alexander's rookie season, he wasn't CB2 right away, either.
- With all this talk about the 'star' position, Alexander will still primarily be the boundary cornerback this season. Now, he will certainly see more reps inside just as Jalen Ramsey did, and there may even be weeks where he takes more snaps from the slot than out wide, but it's going to be completely dependent upon the opponent, the scheme, and who the receivers are.
- I'm still surprised that the Packers cut Kamal Martin. I don't doubt that he was struggling, but giving up on a draft pick with only one year of NFL experience seems premature. If anything, that just shows us how truly all-in this 2021 Green Bay team is. This is not a move that they would have made in the past.
- How good is Elgton Jenkins? The Green Bay Packers are going to be without the top left tackle in the game for a third of the season, but there is little concern. What a draft pick by Gutey.
- Was it just me, or did Amari Rodgers look tentative at times returning punts? I found this odd considering all the experience that he has from his time at Clemson.
- MVS is going to have a big season, folks. I've been saying this since February. His performance on the big stage of the NFC Championship Game can be the type of showing that can vault a player to new heights. And I think that is exactly what has taken place this summer.
- Getting Kurt Benkert back on the practice squad doesn't just give the Green Bay Packers an emergency quarterback, but he very well could be the team's backup in 2022 if Rodgers leaves.
- OLB coach Mike Smith had some very high praise for Tipa Galeai a few weeks ago, saying that he can become a "damn good football player." The two big keys for him, according to Smith, will be improving on special teams and adding 10 pounds to his frame.
- This is a talented Packers offensive line, but a young one as well, with two rookies starting along the interior. At least early on, we may not see the same cohesiveness that we are accustomed to. Now, I still believe that they can and will be very good, but be prepared for some ups and downs.
- Malik Taylor's primary responsibilities will be as a special teams player, but goodness did he earn that roster spot. Taylor caught 14 of 16 passes for 185 yards in three preseason games.
- We aren't going to see three safeties on the field as often as we did under Mike Pettine, but I am excited to see Henry Black. He's versatile and flies around the football field. He led the defense in tackles this preseason.
- When it comes to the Barry defense, as Ross Uglem pointed out in the CHTV Draft Guide, expect more movement upfront; hopefully, more playmaking from the linebackers, lighter boxes, a two-high safety look, and the safeties being active against the run.
- And while we are talking about the defense, understand that it's a new system, and it is going to take some time for things to jell.
- Lastly, with the regular season about to start, there is only one thing left to do; win the whole thing.
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__________________________
Born and raised in Green Bay, WI and I still call it home. After my family, watching the Packers, sharing my opinions on the team through my writing and interacting with other fans is my greatest passion. You can find me on Twitter at @Paul_Bretl.
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Comments (72)
croatpackfan
September 03, 2021 at 07:05 am
Nice thoughts. I tend to agree with the most you said.
I do not believe Packers will cut Mason. I believe he will retire and they already have that agreed between Mason and FO.
I understands that they decide to keep Yiadom on the 53 because of ST, but to me, Stephen Denmark looks similarly good at tackling, and better in coverage if they will need 6 CB to come to the game. On the other hand, Jean-Charles played boundary corner through his college years and he is new at star position. So, if they will need CB for the side he may fill. I believe he could do job much better than Yiadom. Maybe they are counting on that. I would like your opinion on Stephen Denmark, as I may miss something important.
I read someone suggested that holder for Mason can be Jordan, which will let Packers with the opportunity to mix some tricky plays if needed.
Thanks for your insight!
Roadrunner23
September 03, 2021 at 08:04 am
I believe Randall Cobb has done some holding in the past as well.
Coldworld
September 03, 2021 at 08:12 am
You don’t typically have a number 2 hold because he might become number 1 very quickly. The new punter has been a regular holder, so maybe he’s a good one.
Since'61
September 03, 2021 at 03:38 pm
Coldworld clearly you don't remember that Bart Starr was the Packers holder for most of the Lombardi era and he was our #1.
Thanks, Since '61
Coldworld
September 03, 2021 at 04:56 pm
Most does not equate to The One. The world has changed somewhat since then also.
Leatherhead
September 03, 2021 at 04:50 pm
The punter and the kicker practice together, and that’s why punters are the holders. If you use a position player, you’re cutting into their practice time. I remember when teams used the #2 QB, but that stopped when a couple got hurt and the collective thinking was “use the punter. “
Since'61
September 03, 2021 at 03:37 pm
ND you are correct, Cobb has been a holder in the past. I'm confident that the Packers are working on it continually since Wednesday until Game day on 9/12. Thanks, Since '61
TarynsEyes
September 03, 2021 at 07:13 am
" I'm not sure how opposing defenses will stop this offense."
I'm not worried about the defenses stopping the Packer Offense, but I am worried that the Packer Offense will stop itself, again, especially when it needs to be the Packer Offense.
croatpackfan
September 03, 2021 at 07:33 am
I was worried about you. I'm glad you are OK.
TarynsEyes
September 03, 2021 at 07:44 am
Thanks for the worry, however, I can't return the sentiment, as I couldn't care less about you, and you apparently still deny that the Packer offense simply chokes or shuts down in the big games.
Coldworld
September 03, 2021 at 08:13 am
That comment is pure narcissism.
TarynsEyes
September 03, 2021 at 08:51 am
BS. It was exactly what was called for by his comment. You know it, he knows it. My original comment in no way makes his OK. I stated a fact. Has the Packer offense not choked or shut down in big games?
Coldworld
September 03, 2021 at 09:12 am
If you think that it just proves my point.
croatpackfan
September 03, 2021 at 04:31 pm
OK. But this church, where you are pray is wrong. Only, I do not think offense in general chokes in big moments. That's characteristic of only one man. Aaron Rodgers. Last season was the best as model. He choked few times, the best examples are game against Colts, when he forced ball to Davante while there was Big Bob compltely open in the end zone,on the other side of the field, alone and the second was NFCCG.
I wrote that several times.
Leatherhead
September 03, 2021 at 05:01 pm
I agree 100%, Taryn. The only thing that stops this offense is itself. It is plain as day. When we don’t have multiple turnovers we score 30+ points and we win.
NickPerry
September 03, 2021 at 07:17 am
Lots of things rattling around in the ole brain Paul? I'm there right with you buddy and I think you did an excellent job.
I'm excited about MVS and as a matter of fact have been drafting him in just about every Fantasy Football League I'm in so far this year. The amazing thing is I'm getting him with my final pick in the draft or on waivers once the actual draft is over. It seems most fans still think of MVS as JAG who drops the ball. HOPEFULLY opposing defenses are thinking the same thing so he can BURN the hell out of them.
I'd expect defenses to try to really attack Meyers and Newman with looks they've never seen, stunts, anything to really confuse them. Can't think of a better O-Line coach, HC, OC, and QB combo to help them hold up in the storm.
Rodgers and everybody else in the THIRD year of this offense. Personally I don't think MVS and Lazard get nearly enough credit for what they do. Especially Lazard. I LOVE that dude. Everything he does for this offense to help EVERYONE else make plays, I think goes mostly unnoticed by many Packers fans and just about every other fan.
Everywhere I look it seems everybody is still in love with Kyle Shanahan, thinking of him as the master of all things on offense. The dude landed a job with a roster loaded with Top 5 and Top 10 picks yet is only 29-35 in the regular season and made the playoffs once! MLF is 26-6 and has made the NFCCG both seasons as the Packers HC yet we RARELY hear about what a great Head Coach MLF is. What a great offensive mind MLF has. I think this is the season we start hearing about "The MLF Offense" as a thing, and he starts getting the respect he deserves.
croatpackfan
September 03, 2021 at 07:38 am
"What a great offensive mind MLF has. I think this is the season we start hearing about "The MLF Offense" as a thing, and he starts getting the respect he deserves."
I agree NickPerry about that fact. And "MLF Offense" is more versatile than Kyle Shanahan is by 2 facts - one important addition is Nathaniel Hackett, another one is Aaron Rodgers. They are also important in building "MLF Offense" schemes what make Packers offense more versatile than Kyle Shanahan offense.
Since'61
September 03, 2021 at 03:50 pm
Except for when Rodgers chokes as you are so quick to point out. Bottom lines is that it is about the OL. If the OL doesn't execute their assignments and they didn't in the NFCCG based on giving up 5 sacks and 8 QB hits, no QB, whether it's Rodgers, Love, Brady, Unitas, Starr or Montana are going to be effective and no offensive scheme is going to work.
The scheme is important, yes, but it's the execution that matters. If the 5 guys up front don't get the job done the offense doesn't go anywhere. Thanks, Since '61
Thegravedigger
September 03, 2021 at 04:39 pm
Damn straight. Look how the ol looked in both nfcc games. Wasnt good enough for those animals.
croatpackfan
September 03, 2021 at 04:45 pm
Since, I made my homework. Seattle 2014. What the offense did (and Aaron Rodgers) in the 4th Q? They had the ball about 50 yards. How that finish?
Aaron has one problem. When game is on the line, Aaron suddenly get tunnel vision and do not go through progression. He is concentrated on the only one player, either it was Jordy or Davante. Look at the last 3 possesions Aaron had in the NFCCG play last season! 3 throws, all 3 was for Davante and all 3 was in double or triple coverage. On 3rd & 8, there was 2 players on the other (right) side free - if I can recolect it was MVS and Alen Lazard. One bucs defender was at the end zone line, another is one step in the field (at about half yard). Davante was running from the right to the left covered by 3 defenders. Both free Packers players was deep in the end zone. It should be easy throw for Aaron. But, no! He was forcing the ball to Davante. And he did it on 1st and on 2nd down. Bruce Arians is to good coach that he did not notice that kind of Aarons behaviour in crucial times. They knew that they need to cover Davante and nobody else...
jannesbjornson
September 03, 2021 at 07:43 pm
And jones cannot fumble the rock twice with one setting up 6 easy points and a mill stone of momentum turning against your team.
jurp
September 04, 2021 at 07:37 am
And AR cannot do nothing with three turnovers, either. I highly doubt that MLF called no runs in the second half. AR played a huge factor in the loss.
Grandfathered
September 03, 2021 at 09:00 pm
Corey Lindsay was an awesome run blocker last year. With Bak on IR and Jenkins not playing guard beside him, I don't expect the Packer run game to be all that good through the first 1/3 of the season. This offense will be stoppable for that reason. The OL is the bottom line
blacke00
September 03, 2021 at 07:43 am
Nick,
Your last paragraph about Shanahan is spot on. The media especially ESPN just loves teams on the "coasts" particularly the east. I said this about a lot of these teams like the 49er's and to some degree the the Bucs. Crap teams forever... leading to high draft choices and than.... media lovefests on how great the teams are.
Since'61
September 03, 2021 at 03:56 pm
blacke00 - that's because the big ratings are on the coasts. It has been that way for decades in all sports and by all of the networks long before ESPN or the NFL Network ever existed. The networks are not there to deliver information that matters. They are there to get ratings and they shout at us louder and louder to do it, especially when they don't know what they are speaking about which is almost always. It's why I've ignored them for over 20 years.
Watch the games, turn down the sound and make your own observations. Let the TV airheads ramble on endlessly to no one. Thanks, Since '61
Thegravedigger
September 03, 2021 at 04:42 pm
Also. The packers have been good to great since 91. Its not hot takey enough to give gb love. Because its too obvious. The packers and the steelers. Year in year out. Theyre just not a fun take.
mattgsx
September 03, 2021 at 11:10 am
We also fortunately have what could be one of the best RB tandems/trios this year in terms of balance, potential production, and versatility. If the Packers can rely on the ground game early on, it will really help the OL by slowing down that pass rush.
NickPerry
September 03, 2021 at 11:46 pm
You're damn right about that one mattgsx... Aaron Jones is a weapon in this offense. One thing I hope we see more of this year is Dillion and Jones on the field at the same time. Wen saw that from time to time with Jones and Williams last year and it was usually with excellent results.
In year one we saw a smidgen of the MLF offense. Last year we saw a bit more. This year I think quite a bit more will be revealed. The thing about this offense is the Packers can line up and play ANYWAY with ANYBODY. They can finesse you, grind you, or just pound the hell out of you. I can't wait to watch Dillion . Jones will start but Dillions going to get more carries per game...Especially down the stretch once the cold weather starts.
SpikeHyzer
September 03, 2021 at 11:35 am
He never really dropped the ball as much as people thought (cleaned it up on short range throws very early last year).
There is a site that does adjusted catch percentage based on long balls and he ranks very high there in his overall adjusted percent (and was actually #1 in the league in catch percentage on balls over 20 yards, catching nearly 50% compared to league average at around 25%).
MVS gonna break out and Davante will become a FA and leave.
Thegravedigger
September 03, 2021 at 04:45 pm
He just dropped a few big ones. And the fumble against indy. Highlight reel drops. I have felt very good about mvs since the bucs game. He was on a big stage and he did his job and even was bringing down contested balls. He just has to stay confident.
stockholder
September 03, 2021 at 07:36 am
Lots of good things here. Hanson. Did he really improve that much? I like this move. If the safeties are that good. Let them play. Move Savage closer to the Line. = Why wait on Sullivan. I Want King. Stop the panic. Ok- now that Lowrey made the team. Watch the regression. I really think the best way to the super-bowl, is replacing Lowrey. MVS- Tonyan - Alexander- . Waiting- just drives the price up. Their young, and worth every penny. Does Adams have a gray hair yet? Martin- I still think he could have replaced Burks. Bet he signs with the Bears.
jannesbjornson
September 03, 2021 at 07:52 pm
Hanson in the future lets them move Myers to guard.
dobber
September 04, 2021 at 06:24 am
I don't think so. I think Hanson is the beneficiary of the fact that they weren't satisfied with Patrick or Runyan at C, and their chief backup at C is tied up at LT.
Packers0808
September 03, 2021 at 07:52 am
Wow you sure covered a lot of material in this article. Well done and I wonder how long the new long snapper will be on PS and not elevated. Was also surprised not to see Begelton anywhere on the Packer squad! I would have thought dependability would have been taken over age in this situation, guess not! The keeping of Molson also makes one wonder how long the leash is in Mason Crosby. He has been Mr Reliable except the one big hiccup game of 5 misses! On another note saw a list of prospective NFL coaches of the Year and LaFluer not again mentioned on it, any thoughts as to why not again?
JohnnyLogan
September 03, 2021 at 08:45 am
Aaron Rodgers is the reason. The narrative is the Packers are a 5-12 team without Rodgers, it's his greatness that makes the Packer offense go, not LaFleur's brilliance. That perception will remain as long as Rodgers plays for Matt
Packers0808
September 03, 2021 at 08:55 am
Not really fair tho, when you figure he makes the offense what it is in the first place. The head coach is the Chief engineer and the QB is the engineer to use an old Railroad adage.
dobber
September 03, 2021 at 02:33 pm
The same people used to say ARod was worth 8 wins all by himself...2018 shot that to hell.
jurp
September 04, 2021 at 07:41 am
Yeah, but without AR we would've been winless in 2018! /sarc
Roadrunner23
September 03, 2021 at 07:59 am
Ramblin' Paul Bretl,
Love the content!
Yosh b' gosh - For every Yosh there are 10 Adam Panky's that don't work out, i'm really glad he made the 53, dude is BIG and has mad skills!
Love - I've re-watched Love's preseason highlights and came away very impressed! I was one of the sceptic's after watching his Utah State film, but he has a legit arm, good pocket awareness, and seems like a well spoken-bright kid. Now he just has to learn. He has a chance to be a very good QB in the NFL!
Uphoff - I was never sold on Uphoff, he just didn't look like a great football player. Maybe he looked great in shorts and his RAS score was excellent, but Gaines looked like the more instinctive football prospect.
Begelton - I was very surprised he didn't make it over Blair but at 28 I can understand the logic and who knows about Blair's skillset? Heck we had no clue what Malik Taylor was all about last preseason and he blossomed nicely!
Bojorquez - Interesting name and I did see a highlight (lowlight) where he kicked a 12 yard punt! Ouch! I do like the fact that he is left footed and has a powerful leg, but Scott saved a bunch of errant snaps last season on FG's! Hope the kid can handle it, at least he isn't afraid to stick his nose in there and tackle returners, ST needs all the help they can get!
Practice Squad - I was very pleased Gutey brought his guys back on the PS! Fan favorite Benkurt was a welcome addition and will be a good #2 next year should Rodgers depart. I'm also glad EQ gets one more shot, he knows the offense and could step right in should a few receivers get dinged. Ditto for Braden on the OL and Kaufusi at TE as Big Dog isn't getting any younger (and of course Aaron loves him) it was also interesting they kept Molson the Kicker and picked up a long snapper, maybe they really are putting a major emphasis on Special teams! How refreshing :)
Lancaster - Heflin - It's nice the Packers have some beef (Lancaster-Heflin-Slayton) to free up Clark & Keke to go make plays this year on the DL. Of course, the dirty work and steady play of Lowery goes unnoticed but he just does his job.
Sternberger - I don't think they are ready to give up on Jace just yet, they obviously wouldn't be able to sneak him on the PS because of his 3rd round pedigree and I believe he is very talented. Let's hope the light bulb goes on in year 3!
Hill - The Packers have to be pinching themselves on this one! What a find in the 7th round he was! Can't wait to see what he can do with the big boys! He will get some touches that is for sure!
King - Is underrated for sure (Championship game aside) he is an above average CB in the NFL and the Packers were lucky to re-sign him on that deal. This way Stokes can learn from him and Jaire and not have to get picked on constantly. I am "Stoked" about the Packers Cornerback group (pun intended)
Amrodg - Amari did look a bit tentative returning punts in the preseason but I don't think it's going to be a problem. The kid is a proven returner, he is smart, driven and has Randall Cobb as his mentor. He be OK!
Tipa - I knew the writing was on the wall when Mike Smith basically called him out saying "he's super talented but needs to put on 10 pounds" in other words, I told you to lift those damn weights in the off-season kid! I'll bet he listens this time!
Black - This kid loves to hit! Black looks like yet another excellent UDFA find by Gutey! He should be one of our top Special Teams guys and will most likely get plenty of snaps on defense as well!
Barry's Defense - OK it is put up or shut up time! I am very excited yet a bit skeptical that Barry is any better at DC that Mike Pettine.
If Barry's defense isn't any good it could mean the last chance instead of the last dance! Show me Joe! Show me!
ND
Coldworld
September 03, 2021 at 09:11 am
Chris Blair was injured during preseason or hindered. He’s another Nijman or Taylor type: a player who performed based largely on superior athleticism and lacked almost all technique or knowledge required to succeed in the NFL.
Blair played a couple of years in community college before joining the same school that gave us Donald Driver, Alcon State. He made his mark as a true deep threat, finishing 6th in the country in yards per catch in his final year, albeit in a small school conference.
He is 6’2” and 198 pounds. He ran a 4.47 and had a vertical of 40.5” at his pro day. I’ve no idea how far along he is at this point as a catcher or ST prospect since we really did not see him healthy. He is the only obvious MVS type we have on the team (though likely rawer even than MVS was coming in). That’s possibly why they chose him over another possession/slot type.
There’s a nice article on him here: https://www.google.com/amp/s/heavy.com/sports/green-bay-packers/donald-d...
Roadrunner23
September 03, 2021 at 10:24 am
Sweet!
Thank you
SpikeHyzer
September 03, 2021 at 11:31 am
I just never buy the argument about technique (especially that it becomes that different on the NFL level).
People are teaching the same fundamentals in HS, college, and the pros.
Superior athleticism often means you don't have to use proper technique and can just blow by inferior athletes, so I firmly believe the next steps for these guys are ALWAYS mental.
Realizing that you have to stay disciplined and use the techniques you've been taught to gain the slightest edge against equal athletes is a big MENTAL leap.
It's no leap at all physically.
They've been taught the techniques, but why use them if you don't have to?
(and I was a 32/42 vertical hoopster who grew up in exceptionally fundamental environs, but when I moved from Eau Claire to Madison, my adjustment, even as the best athlete on the floor most of the time, was almost wholly mental, staying slow and even keeled and picking my spots and moments more carefully, and even learning to pass more often to free myself up with fakes better; it wasn't about technique at all, but actually focusing and using it ALL THE TIME; I had the tools and just needed more discipline to use them better).
SpikeHyzer
September 03, 2021 at 11:25 am
I think Tipa DID gain 10 pounds this off season.
He was that raw last year and STILL needs another 10 this year.
And probably another 10 the year after that.
Then he'll be truly ready, though he should start to get snaps next year or if injury hits that position this year.
Coldworld
September 03, 2021 at 11:38 am
There is a reason that he was not a vaunted pick with his skills. He needed to add strength and mass on a scale that did not seem like a one year project and hope he retained his speed and agility.
ReaganRulz
September 03, 2021 at 08:01 am
The first game should be interesting with most of our starters being quarantined during pre-season :). Hope the rust comes off quickly especially the defense. Man we need a defense that we can have a little confidence with. We have some superstars on D, but as a whole it always seems like they are holding us back from winning the big games at the end of the season. Just hoping for a step up in 2021!!
Cheers for a big 1st win in Jacksonville!!
dobber
September 03, 2021 at 02:36 pm
The Saints are a shadow of the team they were two years ago...especially with Thomas a no-go and this game being played 500 miles from NOLA. The Packers should open 2-0, and we'll see how SF rebounds from a crappy year.
Blood-McNally
September 03, 2021 at 07:00 pm
A younger Drew Brees did a great job of running that offense and he was one of the more accurate passers in the league.
Father Time has no mercy and the Drew Brees that played for the Saints last year was just another casualty and probably should have retired one year sooner.
Lphill
September 03, 2021 at 08:15 am
The Offense should pick up where it left off last year , I hope Barry’s new schemes are easy to absorb and again here we are with the same concerns on special teams .
TarynsEyes
September 03, 2021 at 08:55 am
If the Offense picks up where it left off in the NFCCG, the season ends with no SB.
porupack
September 04, 2021 at 06:25 am
This is one of your more astute observations, and glad you're not so negative.
porupack
September 04, 2021 at 06:25 am
This is one of your more astute observations, and glad you're not so negative.
canadapacker
September 03, 2021 at 09:06 am
Is it just me or am I a conspiracy theorist - but does Loomis/New Orleans always try to get an ex Packer into their practice squad to try and pick their brains??? Hollman is there now?
packer132
September 05, 2021 at 08:28 am
I doubt that Hollman could give much more insite than the tape shows. What other Packer is there other than Taysom Hill? Packers played a vanilla defense in preseason and is probably just now mixing in a few wrinkles. It still comes down to your guy stopping our guy.
dobber
September 03, 2021 at 02:37 pm
These teams have played each other enough that there aren't many secrets.
jurp
September 04, 2021 at 07:45 am
Would've made more sense to have picked up Dexter Williams, then, since he knows the offense.
Ferrari-Driver
September 03, 2021 at 09:09 am
Two thoughts come to mind after reading your excellent summary.
1. I too agree that it appears the Packers are all in this year to go to the Super Bowl.
2. If we are in fact all in, then I believe we should have had Begelton on the practice squad. If we need to call up a receiver in the year of "All In", I feel Begelton demonstrated a greater level of performance than either of the two younger wide receivers that were selected.
Coldworld
September 03, 2021 at 09:16 am
Winfree in camp looked the best of the non locks by some distance and plays a similar type or broader type of role with more speed. Blair is a deep threat type and developmental. ESB I suppose has more upside.
GregC
September 03, 2021 at 09:33 am
I read somewhere that Kamal Martin may have been cut because after he re-injured his knee, management was not confident that he would ever return to 100% health. Seems like a reasonable explanation for his poor showing in the off-season.
frankthefork
September 03, 2021 at 09:45 am
17 game season-I say let's get it started...this weekend!.
I'm not excited sitting on the METAL at Lambeau in February; other than, yeah we're in the playoffs or NFCCG-Damn weather's a bit cha. That Giants game left blue marks on the toes.
gpt999
September 03, 2021 at 11:17 am
This was a good ramble! Lots of good insight! Looks like GB is addressing their STs finally, thank god! But my concern is still the secondary! Having King and Sullivan still as starters is more than concerning! The way Brady picked on them in the playoffs should be vivid in everyones' mind! If GB is all in this season, why not get Richard Sherman on this team? Cut King, and sign Sherman with the money! Sherman wants to play for a winner. Why not GB? If only for 1 year, he would be worth it!
SpikeHyzer
September 03, 2021 at 11:20 am
I agree with much of this.
I think the Uphoff and Lancaster decisions were the worst (and they could have found a PS spot for Reggie).
Keeping Yiadom was expected because it was a trade, but he's just not good.
Also love Kylin Hill and think he will be far more productive than Amari Rodgers (who seems to have more trouble with the playbook than Sternberger, not to mention the lack of focus that would lead you to believe he has bad hands; not impressed so far, as a WR or returner).
I expect a TE to get at least a little dinged and Jace to be back with us when his suspension is up. Lewis can't continue to be that productive at his age, and was showing signs of that last year.
I'd almost rather see him get hurt and miss the season, because Jace still has more upside in the long run.
Bradley will probably lose his job, and I expect to see ESB on the roster soon, when a WR gets hurt or Amari proves not to be good (and Cobb is the likely IR candidate).
I am strangely not at all worried about the O Line. It was cobbled together last year and was great. Almost no sites predicting the roster had Kelly on it, but he was traded for for a reason!!
Kelly and Turner as vets with Jenkins and a decent C will be fine. No real weak spots and the line did gel very quickly last year.
Getting Bak back will seem like a luxury.
CheesyTex
September 03, 2021 at 01:05 pm
"...Yiadom...he's just not good."
From all accounts I've seen Yiadom excels at tackling, an area where the Packers secondary definitely needs help. I'm hoping Barry sees him as a situational fit where his primary assignment requires no turn and cover, just utilizes what he is good at.
Pleasant surprise of the year would be if he succeeded in such a role, and also inspired the secondary to be better tacklers.
PatrickGB
September 03, 2021 at 11:55 am
“I'm not sure how opposing defenses will stop this offense.“ - My worry is that with two rookies starting and a move by our best guard to tackle means a lot more pressure on the QB. Also Williams is gone so the remaining running backs must pick up pass rush pressure. The best way to beat our offense is sack the QB. And I think that the other teams know that.
dobber
September 03, 2021 at 02:44 pm
The narrative on stopping the Packers' offense has always been to jam the WRs on their releases and win at the LOS. If you have IDL who can push the pocket and outside rushers who can get upfield and keep #12 from rolling out, this offense tends to struggle. When you look at the teams who have beaten the Packers in the recent past, they're teams who have beaten the Packers up...physical play at the line. The Packers have not responded well to that in a long time.
In the past, the Packers OL has been up to the challenge, and only a small number of teams have the personnel to play them that way for 60 minutes. Those teams usually win a lot of games, too, though, and have been waiting for the Packers in the playoffs.
splitpea1
September 03, 2021 at 04:19 pm
You hit the proverbial nail on the head. I would add that strong ILB play from those opposing defenses has helped stymie our efforts to gain offensive traction throughout.
saltandpeppers
September 03, 2021 at 12:05 pm
I hope these Kadar Hollman and Josh Jackson trades don't come back to bite us if some of the CBs get injured. Despite all the hate from fans, Jackson was a serviceable corner. Yiadom does not appear to be, and is there really that much of a difference between them on special teams? I think the Giants may have pulled one over on Gutey.
JohnnyLogan
September 03, 2021 at 01:46 pm
Gutey was looking for more than serviceable but not sure why he brought in Yiadom. He did start 10 games but he was terrible. Gutey was, I think, desperately trying to find someone better than King but will now have to wait to see how the King/Stokes tandem works out first. If neither are good enough come playoff time he'll have to make a major trade.
CB is a definite concern.
dobber
September 03, 2021 at 02:49 pm
Yiadom is filling a "Jarrett Bush2.0" role. If we think management doesn't know exactly what Yiadom is in coverage--and that Yiadom was brought in as a wing-and-a-prayer replacement for King--we're fooling ourselves.
The bigger issue is the pass rush, and whether it will prevent DBs from having to cover for that extra half second or so that makes King or Sullivan more targetable.
jlc1
September 03, 2021 at 04:59 pm
I don't think you need any extra time to target King. He plays soft most of the time so just throw over there until he moves up and then throw over him.
jannesbjornson
September 03, 2021 at 08:07 pm
Sherman may be a wild card
packer132
September 03, 2021 at 06:03 pm
Jackson is one of the worst CB's, and grabs and gets a 15 yard penalty (always 3rd and long). He will not come back to bite the Packers. They still could add someone, but I think its Stokes and King. Gute tried with Yiadom though he has shown nothing. He may not be on the team mid year.
Fubared
September 04, 2021 at 08:59 pm
good comments. Its ball time. we will know soon enough about our pass d. My sense says teams will go pass happy to test king, ya dum, sullivan.
If the d cant get off the field could be a long year.