EARNING A BYE PACKERS CRUSH LIONS 34-13
Jerry Gilbert

A team entering for the NFL playoffs needs to have a level of confidence that is generally undermined if they are playing badly at the end of the season. That was the fear after the Bears game, because the Green Bay Packers, soon after their loss in Dallas were once again defeated, this time by an average team. Having already qualified for the playoffs, the Packers underperformed in Chicago, and this was of particular concern because at least some of the playoff games would be in the cold and windy confines of Lambeau Field in Green Bay.

Most of the reasons for concern were eliminated by the excellent performance by the Packers against Detroit in the final regular season contest on December 30. A first team offense, that had sputtered in Chicago, was sharp and efficient a week later, as Brett Favre led his teammates to 3 touchdowns in slightly more than one quarter of play After that, he took a seat, and an offensive group consisting mostly of back up players finished the game. Directed by an inconsistent Craig Nall, the second unit managed to add another 13 points to the scoreboard, which equaled what the Detroit first string was able to do in the entire game.

The one sided nature of the contest is made more significant by the fact that the Green Bay starting offense was without its starting receivers, Donald Driver and Greg Jennings, tight end Donald Lee. Only Jennings was injured, and Coach McCarthy said later that the speedy wide receiver could have played. The offensive performance was also largely without starting tailback Ryan Grant, who was held out after sustaining a minor injury to his hand.

REALITY CHECK PACKERS LOSE TO BEARS 35-7
Jerry Gilbert

In near zero blustery conditions, the youthful Green Bay Packers were no match for the Chicago Bears and suffered their only blowout defeat in an otherwise successful season. On this day, the Packer Defense was facing a team that, because of weather and personnel issues, was compelled to run the ball. The Bears have all season been a low ranked rushing attack. On Sunday, the Packers could not hold them in check.

On this day, the highly regarded Packer passing attack was never established. The wind blew passes. Receivers dropped catchable balls. With an entire game to adapt to the conditions, they never did. By contrast, Bears quarterback Kyle Orton missed some opportunities by throwing too hard in the first half. He adapted to the wind and cold, and had some success throwing the ball throughout the contest.

Special Teams tell the story. Chicago did not even need its great returner Devin Hester, Bears special teams out-hustled the Packers, resulting in two blocked punts and no significant punt or kick returns for Green Bay. The unit that had dominated the Rams one week earlier was itself dominated in Soldiers Field.

There are many explanations. Having clinched the post season, some edge may have been lost. Weather conditions worse than most of them had ever seen further beat them down. A flat performance during bad weather is a recipe for the butt kicking that happened. It is also possible that the run defense truly missed Ryan Pickett. Having already lost for the season two stout defensive tackles, Johnny Jolly and Colin Cole, losing Pickett may have been the tipping point. Justin Harrell and Corey Williams made many fine plays, but they also allowed some large holes to be opened. On offense, had Korey Hall been available, the agile fullback may have helped in the slippery conditions.

The game tells us, that this team may be a few players and a season or two away from truly being the team they have appeared to be in last few weeks. Against Oakland and St. Louis, the Packers faced beatable teams and dispatched them as a good team should. The 2007 edition has been more dominant in that type of game than many excellent teams of the past. Even the best Holmgren and Lombardi teams seemed to have had their share of close calls against weak teams. It was a rare pleasure as a Packer fan to relax during some fourth quarters this season. Blowing out the Vikings was a special treat.

The weather and the Bears tarnished that perception. This is a very good team, but it is open to question whether the players have the character to prevail against the elements as well as a determined opponent. These players are generally young, and the season has been a fairy tale. Reality jumped up and bit them last Sunday. We will see how they respond. To succeed in the playoffs, they cannot play as they did against Dallas or the Bears. Tired young players will need to find a second wind and show themselves to be professionals

On defense, coach Bob Sanders has to devise some ways to improve the pass rush. We are hearing that Cullen Jenkins is recovering from a variety of injuries and may be regaining his quickness. Corey Williams also needs to step up as an inside pass rusher. Whatever the reason, that aspect of the defense has been in decline for several weeks.

The offense also must improve, and there is some hope. It was during garbage time of the fourth quarter, but Brandon Jackson showed some hard running against the Bears. If he can provide some quality minutes, Ryan Grant, who is statistically the top NFC rusher since he took over the starting role, will be even more effective. The return of Bubba Franks makes the two tight end offense a threat once again, and he could catch a first down or TD pass in a key situation. Franks saw considerable action in Chicago, and should be ready to be a contributor against Detroit. On the negative side, when was the last time rookie James Jones made a play? Has he hit the "rookie wall"? Problems in the offensive line are not likely to go away soon.

Special teams should also rebound. Korey Hall and Tracy White are two star performers who should be at full strength for the playoffs. Punt protection will likely not break down again. The concern is that there is little margin for any special team lapses at this point in the season. These young players will have to perform like seasoned veterans, and that is asking a great deal.

It is too much to say that the loss to the Bears is either a big negative or positive. It was a single game in very unusual conditions. However, it was a test that this team failed. We will see how they respond.

THANKSGIVING VICTORY 37-26 TIME TO REFLECT
Jerry Gilbert

There are probably very few fans of the Green Bay Packers who did not either see the Lions game or, at least, benefit from many highlight films and print accounts. I will devote this article to discussing some of the reasons for the improbable reality that the Packers boast a record of 10-1, have almost clinched the Northern Division Championship, and are in a position to virtually guarantee home field advantage in the playoffs with a victory next week in Dallas.

This is a team that, as the season began, had major question marks at several positions, and, amidst much criticism, had not added a single major free agent. Now, ten impressive victories later, it is time to give a great deal of credit to General Manager Ted Thompson and Coach Mike McCarthy for their success in selecting and developing talent. The Green Bay Packers we have seen the past couple of weeks are a group of very talented individuals who combine their skills to produce a very good team. They make plays on offense defense and special teams, and even as players go down with injuries, the team performs well enough to win. How was this team put together?

For all the discussion about building through the Draft, Ted Thompson has effectively used trades and free agency to add significant players. The defense would be far less effective without nose tackle Ryan Pickett and cornerback Charles Woodson who were brought in last season as free agents. The star of the special teams has been free agent Tracy White. Another valuable free agent addition was punter and sometime running back Jon Ryan. A player of growing impact is veteran free agent Koren Robinson. This season, a trade has provided a running attack with the addition of Ryan Grant, who has replaced the injured Vernand Morrency who was acquired by trade last season.

PACKERS OVERWHELM VIKINGS 34-0
SO THIS IS WHAT IT COULD LOOK LIKE
Jerry Gilbert

As the Green Bay Packers have shocked the world by defeating almost everyone they have faced, there has been a consistent theme expressed here, by Coach Mike McCarthy, and elsewhere, that the team still has much room to improve. On Veterans Day 2007 against the Minnesota Vikings, the Green Bay Packers played fairly close to their potential at that moment and routed the Minnesota Vikings 34-0 before the largest official crowd in the history of Lambeau Field. It was also the occasion for Brett Favre to join Dan Marino as the only quarterbacks to pass for more than 60,000 yards.

It is fair to say that the Vikings did not bring their A Game to Green Bay. The collision between defensive backs that produced the last touchdown and missed tackles on running plays are signs of a defense not playing its best. A quarterback missing open receivers, and converting no third of fourth downs are signs of a pretty bad offense. On the other hand, this is a team that one week ago defeated the San Diego Chargers 35-17 with a smothering defense and record setting running back. There was every reason to expect that the Viking offense could present a great running attack and a fair passing attack, based mostly on play action. Why did what looked like a fairly even match up turn into a one sided affair?

Possibly the most important reason for the blowout, and a positive factor for the future, is the fact that Mike McCarthy and his staff totally out coached the Viking brain trust. In preparing for the game, the Packer Coaches totally analyzed why the Viking Defense had been successful, and designed an attack to beat it. It began with varied formations and play calling. The spread offense has been a staple of the Patriots and many college teams for years. By spreading out as many as five wide receivers, the Packers created so many options in the passing attack that the Viking linebackers and defensive backs were unable to cover everyone. However, Green Bay did not stick with that formation. They also used one, two or three running backs and motioned players in and out of the backfield. In one creative formation, there were 2 fullbacks on either side of the tailback.

NEW ARTICLE!!!
PLAYERS MAKING PLAYS PACKERS 33 CHIEFS 22
Jerry Gilbert

The Green Bay Packers are at the halfway point of the 2007 season with a record of 7-1. Neither national expert nor devoted fan would have predicted this feat last summer. Brett Favre stumbles as he tries to explain the success to reporters, often sounding as if he expects it to end at any second. He is right. With no running attack, no star in the return game and offensive and defensive units prone to damaging penalties, what could possibly insure continued success as the season progresses?

The answer is that the 2007 Green Bay Packers have enough talented players, so that one of them has shown up often enough to earn victories. Most prominent has been the Franchise Quarterback, Brett Favre. He was under constant pressure and mostly ineffective against the Eagles in the opener, but there was that one improvisational drive that made the difference. He was also missing in action against the Redskins. However, in every other victory, a key ingredient has been the play calling, deceptiveness and the "only he could do it" passes of Brett Favre.

The upset in Kansas City is an example. Burdened by a bad day form his offensive line, Brett Favre nevertheless completed pinpoint passes to his reliable Donalds, Driver and Lee and also to his emerging young wide receivers, Greg Jennings and James Jones. Each of them has made a great catch at some point, which also has made a difference. Being optimistic, one would hope that a potentially better receiver than any of them, Koren Robinson may also make a great play or three as the season continues. Any sign of life from the running game could make this offense a potent unit.

BY GEORGE THEY DID IT. 17-14 WIN 0VER WASHINGTON
Jerry Gilbert

I do not have the statistics to prove these statements but, as a long time observer of the NFL, I believe them to be true.

1. A team that surrenders 5 turnovers is unlikely to win the game.

2. A team that dominates the first half offensive statistics without also dominating the score frequently loses the game.

3. An offensive team that repeatedly puts itself in difficult situations due to penalties is a candidate to lose the game. The odds increase exponentially if the defense repeatedly stops the opponent only to have the drive continue because of a penalty. Add poor field position because of penalties by the return unit special teams, and you truly have a recipe for a bad outcome.

4. When the opponent's offense and defense outplay you in the fourth quarter, a loss frequently occurs.

This having been said, if the trajectory of Quarterback Brett Favre's desperate "hail mary" pass had been slightly different, it may have landed solely in Donald Driver's grasp resulting in a tie game and a chance to win in over time. For all their problems, the Green Bay Packers still had a chance to win at the end.

NEW ARTICLE!!!
BEARS BEAT PACKERS 27-20
Jerry Gilbert

I do not have the statistics to prove these statements but, as a long time observer of the NFL, I believe them to be true.

1. A team that surrenders 5 turnovers is unlikely to win the game.

2. A team that dominates the first half offensive statistics without also dominating the score frequently loses the game.

3. An offensive team that repeatedly puts itself in difficult situations due to penalties is a candidate to lose the game. The odds increase exponentially if the defense repeatedly stops the opponent only to have the drive continue because of a penalty. Add poor field position because of penalties by the return unit special teams, and you truly have a recipe for a bad outcome.

4. When the opponent's offense and defense outplay you in the fourth quarter, a loss frequently occurs.

This having been said, if the trajectory of Quarterback Brett Favre's desperate "hail mary" pass had been slightly different, it may have landed solely in Donald Driver's grasp resulting in a tie game and a chance to win in over time. For all their problems, the Green Bay Packers still had a chance to win at the end.

THEY WON THE FIRST GAME PACKERS 16 EAGLES 13
Jerry Gilbert

Opportunistic and lucky special teams combined with a stout defensive unit were sufficient to produce a victory over the favored Philadelphia Eagles in the season opener.
By any objective assessment, it was a lucky victory. The Packers seemed to have the ball bounce their way. Except for the Donald Driver pass interference flag, most of the calls and non-calls by the officiating crew seemed to favor Green Bay. The usually effective Philadelphia Eagle offense stopped itself at key times either because a pass was dropped or poorly thrown. In many ways, the Green Bay Packers were handed a victory.

On the other hand two thirds of the team played pretty well. For most of the game, the Green Bay Defense held the Eagles in check, and particularly in the second half, they were able to contain the Eagle attack to allow the offense to score some points. The only interception turned into points because Mason Crosby was able to kick a 53 yard field goal even though the offense netted negative yardage after the turn over.

Special teams saved the day. It is not a stretch to say that the second quarter 53-yard field goal by a rookie kicker in his first pro game was the reason the Packers emerged with a victory. His successful 37 yard effort in the third quarter and the game winner from 42 with 6 seconds remaining in the game were other key moments of the game. However, it was two muffed punts recovered by the Packer special teams that produced the home team's only touchdown and set up the game winning field goal.

UPDATE ON DRAFTEES AND CAMP BODIES
Jerry Gilbert 9/1/2007

As Packer Training Camp 2007 comes to a close, it is a good time to look back on the draft choices and camp bodies we have been watching and discussing, and draw some conclusions. In general, draftees and camp bodies have not made the biggest impact. The story of this camp has been the development of players already on the roster. Subject to a couple of exceptions, veterans from the 2006 roster are more likely to determine whether the team succeeds in 2007 than will the newly added talent. A position by position analysis will illustrate the point.

As last season came to a close, the Green Bay Packers possessed one reliable quarterback, Brett Favre, and he was widely criticized for poor ball security and inconsistent judgment. The present situation is far different. Brett Favre, at least to some extent, appears to have bought into Coach Mike McCarthy's strategy that the quarterback required by this team is a game manager who takes what the defense gives and minimizes risk. The real change however is in holdover backup Aaron Rodgers. Basically inadequate a year ago, Rodgers turned his game around, and has proved in this preseason that he could, if needed, lead the Green Bay Packers in 2007. The Draftee from 2006, Ingle Martin, and a free agent this season, Paul Thompson are non-factors. The improvement in Aaron Rodgers' game is the big difference.

LACKING THE ABILITY TO SELL
Jerry Gilbert 8/17/2007

Put yourself in the position of an NFL General Manager. You have a veteran player who may not fit well into your plans in future years. He has perfect size for his position. Although a starter for a couple of years, this player had volunteered for all special teams. Though not a gifted returner, he had sure hands and always gave his best when asked to return punts and kicks. As a wide receiver, this former high draft choice has never excelled, but he will go over the middle, and he has the speed to go long. Described in those terms, Robert Ferguson sounds like a player who could be traded to another team.

However, no person will offer value for what he or she can get for free. Packer General Manager Ted Thompson, aided by coach Mike McCarthy and all the staff, portrayed Robert Ferguson as surplus baggage. It is no surprise that last minute efforts to trade him were unsuccessful. An opportunity was wasted.

Now that he is gone, they praise his effort and attitude, he was great in the locker room, and he was often a victim of bad breaks, such as an illegal close line tackle that ended one of his seasons. On the other hand, all the talk and actions in the last two years have painted a different picture. Two high draft choices have been used at his position, a second last season and a third in 2007. Once Greg Jennings and James Jones were in camp, each was placed in an optimal position to show his stuff in practice and pre-season games. Recent statements by Greg Jennings suggest that James Jones is getting the chances that he got last season. Jones is a primary target for the pass play while Jennings runs a low percentage fly pattern to occupy a safety. Jennings said he identifies with the frustration that Ferguson must have felt.

CAMP BODIES PART 5 LINEBACKERS
Jerry Gilbert 8/5/2007

Linebacker is expected to be a position of strength for the Green Bay Packers this season because Nick Barnett, A.J. Hawk and Brady Poppinga are all talented, and they now have a year of experience playing together. On the other hand, the back up situation is unsettled, which creates and opening for a camp body to break through. Last season's top reserve, Ben Taylor, was not re-signed, which leaves only special team stalwart Tracy White to back up on the outside and former Iowa star Abdul Hodge to play the middle. White played very little from scrimmage last season, and Hodge had one forgettable start when Nick Barnett was injured. Many believe that Hodge could emerge as a valuable member of the team, but his performance in the off-season has not supported that view. White is probably not the answer as a reliable reserve at outside linebacker.

Given the apparent openings on the roster, it is surprising that no significant free agent was added at linebacker. Two linebackers were drafted, but they are unlikely to fill the needs. Korey Hall from Boise State was drafted for his special team ability, and he has been switched to fullback. California's Desmond Bishop is basically a clone of Abdul Hodge. Both were tackling machines as college middle linebackers, but neither is thought to have the speed to play any other position. If Bishop makes the roster, it will probably be because he beat out Hodge at middle linebacker. At least one camp body should have a good shot at making the final roster.

NEW ARTICLE!!!
CAMP BODIES PART 4 DEFENSIVE BACKS
Jerry Gilbert

On paper, the Green Bay Packers should be set at defensive back. They return their top three corners, Al Harris, Charles Woodson and Patrick Dendy, and, in the only significant free agent signing thus far, General Manager Ted Thompson added veteran corner back Frank Walker. Returning from injured reserve is 2006 draft choice Will Blackmon. The starters at safety, Nick Collins and Marquand Manuel, also return along with top reserve Tyrone Culver who was drafted last year. As with corner, there is a highly touted returnee form injured reserve, 2006 draftee Marviel Underwood. Finally, the Packers used a third round pick in 2007 to add safety Aaron Rouse. Five safeties and five corners would appear to more than fill the roster. Nevertheless, some camp bodies return from the last year and more have been added.

The cornerback with the best chance to crack the roster is Jarrett Bush 6-0 197 Utah State. Timed in college at 4.45 and having shown coverage skills, Bush was signed as a free agent by Carolina and was one of their final cuts before the 2006 season. He made 13 tackles and defensed 3 passes along with a fumble recovery in the preseason for the Panthers. Because Green Bay was so thin at corner following the wasted draft choices of Ahmad Carroll and Joey Thomas and the failed experiment with Jason Horton, Ted Thompson quickly signed Bush to the roster, and the cornerback played in every game on special teams and was the third leading tackler. As a gunner on the punt unit Bush was frequently charging the waiting returner or battling to keep the punt out of the end zone. He remains a camp body, because of the lack of game changing plays on special teams and his inability to add much in the nickel and dime. However, he now has a full season of experience and is in the mix at cornerback.

CAMP BODIES PART 3 OFFENSIVE LINE
Jerry Gilbert

The somewhat unexpected departure of 2 veteran offensive linemen this week has improved the prospects for the camp bodies who play on the offensive line. While the dismissal of tackle Kevin Barry is not a huge surprise, commentators here and elsewhere have opined that Josh Bourke, returning from injured reserve, was a prime candidate to back up at both offensive tackles. Bourke, possibly due, in part, to last season's back injury, was also cut by the team. With 2 tackles out of the way, free agents will have an opportunity to perform in practice and make an impression. Moreover, another prominent holdover, guard Tony Palmer, is nursing injuries. That also creates opportunities for the backups at offensive guard to show what they can do.

We have previously discussed center Pete Bier 6-3 297 Army. He should survive most of training camp simply because teams need several centers. The other candidates on the roster, other than starter Scott Wells, all have another primary position. This reality should provide a long term but still temporary home for this camp body.player.

CAMP BODIES PART 2 DEFENSIVE LINE
Jerry Gilbert

In the final third of 2006, the defensive line of the Green Bay Packers began to perform at a high level, and was, as a group, one of the most effective and consistent units on the team. Aaron Kampman played at a pro bowl level all season, and except for some minor injuries, nose tackle Ryan Pickett was a consistent force in the middle. One reason for success at the end was the emergence of Cullen Jenkins as a force against both the run and the pass. Corey Williams also showed some consistency by season end as an inside pass rusher and run stopper. These four starters all return, along with every reserve who was on the regular roster at the conclusion of the season. To this crowded and reasonably talented field, the Packers added first round draft choice Justin Harrell from Tennessee.

Barring a trade or serious injury, the reserve defensive end candidates who return are Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila and Jason Hunter as pass rushers and Mike Montgomery as a run stopper. Colin Cole and Johnny Jolly are the back up tackles. Justin Harrell is virtually assured a roster spot because he is a first round draft choice. There appears to be very little room for an unknown to crack the final roster of 53. Nevertheless, there are candidates, and we will proceed to introduce each player.

CAMP BODIES PART 1
Jerry Gilbert

As we bid farewell to the NFL Draft and wait impatiently for the season to start, one of the primary subjects for sports columnists is the long shot player, the non-drafted free agent in his first, second or even fourth training camp, who just may defy the odds and make the final roster. Of course, the long odds exist for a reason. The vast majority of these players will fill a back up position for the preseason and then go back to brake jobs or offering "fries with that", while the real players perform on Sunday. On the other hand, there is the occasional player who breaks through. Assuming that most of you who read this website will not be scouting all these players in person, this series of articles will provide a little background about these camp bodies as a starting point to judge the breathless commentary as some nobody makes a few plays at practice and is the favored "maybe he has a chance" news subject of the day. We begin with those camp bodies brought in for tryouts during the first mini-camp.

If you checked the Green Bay and other mainstream Wisconsin news outlets, you know by now that University of Wisconsin quarterback John Stocco was one of the tryout players who was not offered a contract. You may perhaps also have read a sentence or two about the UW Lacrosse basketball player, and theoretical tight end prospect, Joe Werner who also was not offered a contract. Three tryout players were signed for training camp, and each has his own story.

COMMENTS ON PACKERS DRAFT 2007
Jerry Gilbert

In the NFL Draft of 2007, Green Bay General Manager Ted Thompson basically filled needs. He says that he follows the best player available approach. By adding the qualifier, "best player available at a position of need," we can explain the first round, because a good case can be made that defensive tackle Justin Harrell was a better player than the receivers, running backs and defensive backs still available at pick 16. However, by the time of the trade down in round 2, the draft turned almost entirely into a process of filling needs. The selections of Brandon Jackson in round 2 and James Jones and Aaron Rouse in round 3 can only be explained at "need picks" at running back, wide receiver and safety, because the Green Bay Packers need help at those three positions.

As the second day began, the "best player" was traded away, and the Packers moved down in round 4 and selected small school offensive lineman Allen Barbre 6-4 300 Missouri Southern. Barbre was drafted to back up at left tackle, a position that has not had a backup for several years. Fans will recall that center Mike Flanagan and guard Daryn Colledge have been the reserve left tackles in the past two seasons when Chad Clifton was injured. Barbre has not played against NFL competition, but he has the size and quick feet needed contribute at either guard or tackle in the Packer offense.

A LOOK AT DAY 1 OF THE NFL DRAFT
4/29/07
Jerry Gilbert

One way to look at the approach of the Green Bay Packers to the first day of the NFL Draft is that they evaluated some current or recently departed players at certain positions, and General Manager Ted Thompson drafted some replacements. In the first round defensive tackle Justin Harrell, a tackle with quickness to penetrate and the strength to clog the middle, will be the backup and possible replacement for Corey Williams. Williams' rookie contact will expire soon, and defensive tackles who can rush the passer can be hot commodities in free agency. On the other hand, Williams is not worth big money to the Packers unless he begins to show up on an every down basis. At the same time, if he plays at a Pro Bowl level in 2006, he could easily become too expensive. Justin Harrell will back up at both tackle positions this season, and this year or next, he could become the starting tackle along side Ryan Pickett.

In the second round, Green Bay selected Nebraska running back Brandon Jackson. Jackson was drafted to replace long time starter Ahman Green, who, coincidentally, also attended Nebraska. Jackson now weighs about 212, which is similar to Green's size when he entered the league. Running backs seldom become every down players in their rookie season, but if Jackson is the good receiver and blocker he is expected to be, he could be, at minimum, a third down option while Vernand Morrency handles most of the carries. In a running back by committee situation, Jackson will be part of the replacement for Ahman Green.

WIDE RECEIVERS FOR GREEN BAY
4/26/07
Jerry Gilbert

The story for wide receivers in this year's draft is all about pairs. USC has a pair of highly rate receivers, as do LSU and Ohio State, and in every case, some think that the lesser of the two may become the better pro. The bottom lie however, is that if three schools have 6 top prospects, this wide receiver class is talented and deep. This suits eh needs of the Green Bay Packers, who despite having the established Donald Driver and the promising Greg Jennings., need a home run threat to add to their offense. They need to replace Javon Walker.

Georgia Tech's Calvin Johnson is the best of the class, who convinced the world that he has no equal when he ran a 4.32 forty at the combine in borrowed shoes. At 6-5 239, with great hands, there is little more one could ask of a rookie wide receiver. The Packers have no shot at Johnson. On the other hand, who will be picked next is wide open and there will be many fine receivers in the first few rounds.

Of the two LSU receivers, Dwayne Bowe 6-2 221 4.5 is the higher rated , but Craig Davis 6-1 200 4.41 will also be drafted very early. They are both proven receivers who teamed with quarterback JaMarcus Russell to create an overpowering offense. For Southern Cal, Dwayne Jarrett 6-4 219 4.6 has the big name, but Steve Smith 6-1 200 4.44 could be drafted ahead of him. They will also be gone by the conclusion of round. two.

TIGHT ENDS FOR GREEN BAY
Jerry Gilbert

Unless Bubba Franks can rediscover his ability to score touchdowns, the Green Bay Packers would appear to face major issues at the tight end position. With the departure of David Martin, who outplayed Franks in 2006, there is no one else to be an every down tight end. There are some candidates on the roster who may contribute, but expect the Packers to draft at least one tight end in 2007. They will have to be very good or very lucky to find much immediate help in this Draft.

The top guy is thought to be Greg Olsen of Miami, but he has shown nothing as a blocker, and he is not worth being selected at number 16. A possibility in round 2 is the second guy on most charts, Zach Miller 6-5 256 4.87 from Arizona State Miller appeared to be a pretty good blocker in college, but he was only able to lift the 225# bar 16 times at the combine. However, Miller surpassed Todd Heap's record for career receptions at Arizona State, and has the size and hands to be a short yardage and endzone threat. The Packers may agree with my friend Joe Coaty and select Miller in round 2.

2007 NFL Mock Draft
April 26, 2007
Joseph B. Coaty.

Note: Draft order is indicative of the order on April 26, 2007. Trades already completed by NFL teams are reflected in this draft order.

Note: The Cincinnati Bengals used their third round selection in last year's supplemental draft to select LB-Ahmad Brooks.

Note: The position listed for a player is not necessarily the position the player performed at in college. In this mock draft, the position listed is the position to I would project that player to play if he was drafted by the team that selects him in this mock draft.

(*) = denotes underclassman

Round One:

• 1. Oakland Raiders JaMarcus Russell/QB/Louisiana State (*)
• 2. Detroit Lions Calvin Johnson/WR/Georgia Tech (*)
• 3. Cleveland Browns Brady Quinn/QB/Notre Dame
• 4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Gaines Adams/DE/Clemson
• 5. Arizona Cardinals Joe Thomas/OT/Wisconsin
• 6. Washington Redskins Amobi Okoye/DT/Louisville
• 7. Minnesota Vikings Adrian Peterson/RB/Oklahoma (*)
• 8. Atlanta Falcons (from Houston) LaRon Landry/S/Louisiana State
• 9. Miami Dolphins Levi Brown/OT/Penn State
• 10. Houston Texans (from Atlanta) Robert Meachem/WR/Tennessee (*)
• 11. San Francisco 49ers Adam Carriker/DE/Nebraska
• 12. Buffalo Bills Patrick Willis/ILB/Mississippi
• 13. St. Louis Rams Jamaal Anderson/DE/Arkansas (*)
• 14. Carolina Panthers Greg Olsen/TE/Miami, Fl (*)
• 15. Pittsburgh Steelers Leon Hall/CB/Michigan
• 16. Green Bay Packers Marshawn Lynch/RB/California (*)
• 17. Jacksonville Jaguars Reggie Nelson/S/Florida (*)
• 18. Cincinnati Bengals Darrelle Revis/CB/Pittsburgh (*)
• 19. Tennessee Titans Dwayne Bowe/WR/Louisiana State
• 20. New York Giants Joe Staley/OT/Central Michigan
• 21. Denver Broncos Jarvis Moss/DE/Florida (*)
• 22. Dallas Cowboys Ted Ginn Jr./WR/Ohio State (*)
• 23. Kansas City Chiefs Alan Branch/DT/Michigan (*)
• 24. New England Patriots (from Seattle) Michael Griffin/S/Texas
• 25. New York Jets Aaron Ross/CB/Texas
• 26. Philadelphia Eagles Chris Houston/CB/Arkansas (*)
• 27. New Orleans Saints Lawrence Timmons/OLB/Florida State (*)
• 28. New England Patriots David Harris/ILB/Michigan
• 29. Baltimore Ravens Ben Grubbs/OG/Auburn
• 30. San Diego Chargers Dwayne Jarrett/WR/USC (*)
• 31. Chicago Bears Jon Beason/OLB/Miami, Fl (*)
• 32. Indianapolis Colts Justin Harrell/DT/Tennessee

CORNER BACKS FOR GREEN BAY
4/23/2007
Jerry Gilbert

Last year's signing of free agent Charles Woodson, and the decision this year to extend the contract of Al Harris give the Green Bay Packers a pair of fine cornerbacks. Harris shadows the opponent's best receiver, and Woodson, when allowed to freelance, can provide interceptions. However, either could be injured slightly or permanently on any play in any game. Moreover, given the popularity of the three or more wide receiver offense, every defense needs at least three reliable corners. Last season the nickel back was Patrick Dendy, who works very hard and gives his best, but Dendy does not have the skills to be a top-level cornerback. Finally, because Woodson is best against slot receivers, the player who is needed has to have the physical presence to stand up to a big receiver and the speed to run with anyone. The Packer defense needs one more topflight cornerback.

Fortunately there are a number of players in this draft who could fill that requirement. Unfortunately, none of them looks like perfect based on performance. The Packers will need to select the right man.

RUNNING BACKS FOR GREEN BAY
4/21/2007
Jerry Gilbert

With the departure of long term starter Ahman Green, general manager Ted Thompson and his staff will almost certainly use the 2007 NFL Draft to find at least one player who can help at the running back position. Many are predicting that the Packers will select California tailback Marshawn Lynch with the 16th pick in the first round, and that may happen. At 5-11 215 with 4.46 speed, Lynch has been both a workhorse and a big play performer. As a senior he averaged over 6 yards per carry and found the endzone on an average of nearly once per game. He also caught 34 passes for a 9.4 yard average and scored 4 more touchdowns as a receiver. Scouts say that he is a good blocker who can pick up the blitz.

A negative for Lynch is that he has been a fumbler in big games in college, and unless he can add some good weight, Lynch will not be a back who moves the pile. He also has serious off field issues including a charge of sexual assault by an ex girlfriend that was dropped for insufficient evidence. She did convince a family court judge to give her a restraining order. The perceived maturity and dedication of this college junior will determine where he is drafted. There is little question about his physical skills. The problem for the Packers is that if they are convinced that he is worthy of pick 16, another team is very likely to select Lynch in the top 15. He may be gone, even if Ted Thompson wants him. It is therefore important to look at some other running backs.

MISSING PIECES COULD BE NEAR BY
Jerry Gilbert

During this season of free agency and the upcoming college draft, football fans tend to concentrate on the players who can be added from outside the team to fill needs on a football team. However, many successful football teams are primarily built from within, as back up performers replace starters who retire or sign elsewhere as free agents.

This discussion arose in a particular context recently as long time running back Ahman Green was offered a huge contract by the Houston Texans, and the Green Bay Packers did not match it. The loss of Green generated controversy, particularly because the Packer brain trust had remained on the sidelines while many of the league's top running backs, including Thomas Jones, Travis Henry and Willis McGahee, were changing teams. Understandably, the questions then turned to whether the Packers' first round draft choice would necessarily be a running back.

2007 NFL Mock Draft March 24, 2007
Joseph B. Coaty

Note: Draft order is indicative of the order on March 24, 2007. Trades already completed by NFL teams are reflected in this draft order. Please keep in mind that the NFL will add compensatory selections at a later date, which will result in about 30 additional players being selected.

Note: This mock draft also includes projected trades. A projected trade is marked with a T with a following number that indicates which trade it is. All trade information is summarized at the end of the mock draft.

Note: The Cincinnati Bengals used their third round selection in last years supplemental draft to select LB-Ahmad Brooks.

Note: The position listed for a player is not necessarily the position the player performed at in college. In this mock draft, the position listed is the position to I would project that player to play if he was drafted by the team that selects him in this mock draft.

(*) = denotes underclassman

Round One:

• 1. T1 Cleveland Browns (from Oakland) JaMarcus Russell/QB/Louisiana State (*)
• 2. T2 Washington Redskins (from Detroit) Calvin Johnson/WR/Georgia Tech (*)
• 3. T1 Oakland Raiders (from Cleveland) Brady Quinn/QB/Notre Dame
• 4. T3 Buffalo Bills (from Tampa Bay) Adrian Peterson/RB/Oklahoma (*)
• 5. Arizona Cardinals Joe Thomas/OT/Wisconsin
• 6. T2 Detroit Lions (from Washington) Gaines Adams/DE/Clemson
• 7. T4 Pittsburgh Steelers (from Minnesota) Leon Hall/CB/Michigan
• 8. Atlanta Falcons (from Houston) LaRon Landry/S/Louisiana State
• 9. Miami Dolphins Levi Brown/OT/Penn State
• 10. Houston Texans (from Atlanta) Amobi Okoye/DT/Louisville

Top 300 Prospects for the 2007 NFL Draft March 21, 2007
Joseph B. Coaty

The following list is whom I consider to be the top 300 prospects for the 2007 NFL Draft as of March 21, 2007. This list is in no way a prediction of where I think players will be drafted. The list is simply a ranking of players with regards as to how I think they will eventually perform in the NFL.

NOTE: For players with two positions listed, the first position listed is the position that player played at during the 2006 season, the second position listed is the position I currently project that player to play in the NFL.

(*) = denotes underclassman. List assembled by Joseph B. Coaty.

• 1. Calvin Johnson/WR/Georgia Tech (*)
• 2. Adrian Peterson/RB/Oklahoma (*)
• 3. Joe Thomas/OT/Wisconsin
• 4. Gaines Adams/DE/Clemson
• 5. LaRon Landry/S/Louisiana State
• 6. Leon Hall/CB/Michigan
• 7. Alan Branch/DT/Michigan (*)
• 8. Brady Quinn/QB/Notre Dame
• 9. JaMarcus Russell/QB/Louisiana State (*)
• 10. Ted Ginn Jr./WR/Ohio State (*)

THOMPSON ON RIGHT TRACK
by Jerry Gilbert

No General Manager in the National Football League will ever approach perfection. Players become injured, malcontented or simply old beyond their calendar age. No one can predict the future. Nevertheless, in this early stage of the year 2007, it is fair to conclude that Green Bay Packer General Manager Ted Thompson has done a pretty good job.

The fact that he had a pretty easy act to follow is only a small part of the story. Anyone would look better by comparison to the disastrous reign of General Manager Mike Sherman. Sherman left the team with high draft choices such as Ahmad Carroll, Joey Thomas, Kenny Peterson and B. J. Sander. He also bequeathed to his successor generous contracts to such non-stars as Cletidus Hunt, Na'il Diggs and Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila. Finally, the bottom spots on the roster were filled with players who were ineffective on special teams and not good enough to step in when injuries knocked out a starter. Ron Wolf commented in 2005 that the team had too many players who were barely good enough for NFL Europe.

New Article!!! 2007 NFL Mock Draft February 25, 2007
Joseph B. Coaty,

Note: Draft order is indicative of the order on February 25, 2007. Trades already completed by NFL teams are reflected in this draft order. Note: The Cincinnati Bengals used their third round selection in last year's supplemental draft to select LB-Ahmad Brooks. (*) = denotes underclassman

Round One:

• 1. Oakland Raiders Calvin Johnson/WR/Georgia Tech (*)
• 2. Detroit Lions JaMarcus Russell/QB/Louisiana State (*)
• 3. Cleveland Browns Adrian Peterson/RB/Oklahoma (*)
• 4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Joe Thomas/OT/Wisconsin
• 5. Arizona Cardinals Gaines Adams/DE/Clemson
• 6. Washington Redskins Jamaal Anderson/DE/Arkansas (*)
• 7. Minnesota Vikings Ted Ginn Jr./WR/Ohio State (*)
• 8. Houston Texans Brady Quinn/QB/Notre Dame
• 9. Miami Dolphins Alan Branch/DT/Michigan (*)
• 10. Atlanta Falcons LaRon Landry/S/Louisiana State
• 11. San Francisco 49ers Leon Hall/CB/Michigan
• 12. Buffalo Bills Dwayne Jarrett/WR/USC (*)
• 13. St. Louis Rams Amobi Okoye/DT/Louisville
• 14. Carolina Panthers Levi Brown/OT/Penn State
• 15. Pittsburgh Steelers Adam Carriker/DE/Nebraska
• 16. Green Bay Packers Marshawn Lynch/RB/California (*)
• 17. Jacksonville Jaguars Sidney Rice/WR/South Carolina (*)
• 18. Cincinnati Bengals Reggie Nelson/S/Florida (*)
• 19. Tennessee Titans Robert Meachem/WR/Tennessee (*)
• 20. New York Giants Darrelle Revis/CB/Pittsburgh (*)
• 21. Denver Broncos Dwayne Bowe/WR/Louisiana State
• 22. Dallas Cowboys Lawrence Timmons/OLB/Florida State (*)
• 23. Kansas City Chiefs Michael Griffin/S/Texas
• 24. New England Patriots (from Seattle) Patrick Willis/ILB/Mississippi
• 25. New York Jets Zach Miller/TE/Arizona State (*)
• 26. Philadelphia Eagles Paul Posluszny/OLB/Penn State
• 27. New Orleans Saints Aaron Ross/CB/Texas
• 28. New England Patriots Jarvis Moss/OLB/Florida (*)
• 29. Baltimore Ravens Justin Blalock/OG/Texas
• 30. San Diego Chargers Brandon Meriweather/S/Miami, Fl
• 31. Chicago Bears Greg Olsen/TE/Miami, Fl (*)
• 32. Indianapolis Colts Jon Beason/OLB/Miami, Fl (*)

2007 Draft Central is HERE!!!!
Top 300 Prospects for the 2007 NFL Draft
Joseph B. Coaty, February 18, 2007

The following list is whom I consider to be the top 300 prospects for the 2007 NFL Draft as of February 18, 2007. This list is in no way a prediction of where I think players will be drafted. The list is simply a ranking of players with regards as to how I think they will eventually perform in the NFL.

NOTE: For players with two positions listed, the first position listed is the position that player played at during the 2006 season, the second position listed is the position I currently project that player to play in the NFL.

1. Calvin Johnson/WR/Georgia Tech (*)
2. Adrian Peterson/RB/Oklahoma (*)
3. Joe Thomas/OT/Wisconsin
4. Alan Branch/DT/Michigan (*)
5. Jamaal Anderson/DE/Arkansas (*)
6. Gaines Adams/DE/Clemson
7. LaRon Landry/S/Louisiana State
8. Brady Quinn/QB/Notre Dame
9. JaMarcus Russell/QB/Louisiana State (*)
10. Ted Ginn Jr./WR/Ohio State (*)

CONSOLATION CONTENDERS
by Jerry Gilbert

Like many of you, I play Fantasy Football, and in our league, as in most others, the teams good enough to defeat other good teams, vie for the league championship. Meanwhile, the lesser teams in our league compete in what we call the "Toilet Bowl". Other leagues may refer to it as the "Consolation Bowl".

Looking back on this season for the Green Bay Packers, they have been a Consolation Bowl type of team. Pair them with a bad team such as Arizona, Detroit or San Francisco, and the Packers seem dominant. They appear to be a pretty good football team. However, when the opponent is the Bears, Eagles, Patriots or Jets a different team shows up. At the start they appear over-matched. By the end they prove to be inferior.

Contrast this with other lower down teams. San Francisco has beaten some good teams such as St Louis and Seattle. The Cardinals outplayed the mighty Bears for three and one half quarters on national television. The Lions have kept it fairly close in most games.

2006 Former Packer All Star Team
by Jerry Gilbert

As a result of the coaching change in Green Bay, this season produced a larger pool of former Green Bay Packers available to comprise this team. Seeking his own type of player for his system, new head coach Mike McCarthy cut several players and did not re-sign others. In addition, the fact that former coach Mike Sherman is now an assistant in Houston, means that some people he brought to Green Bay will be given another chance in Texas.

This second Former Packer All-Star team, like the original, provides data for evaluating the personnel decisions that have been made over the years. The team is composed of players currently on the roster or practice squad of an NFL team. To be considered a former Packer, the player must have at least participated in training camp. Nearly all of them played at least a season in Green Bay.

This is a deeper team than last year's edition and significantly better at the skill positions on offense. While the number of starting quarterbacks has been reduced by the demotion of Kurt Warner and Mark Brunell, Matt Hasselbeck is a returning all pro and any of the others could fill in if needed. While last year we stretched to find a running back, this team has four who have seen substantial playing time. With Javon Walker joining Terry Glen and Corey Bradford, this team boasts receiver unit as good as many in the NFL. Tight end is the only position that could use an upgrade.

WHO SHOULD MAKE THE FINAL 42 FOR THE GREEN BAY PACKERS?
by Jerry Gilbert

The Green Bay Packers will open the regular season against the Chicago Bears with their regular season roster of 53 players. Unfortunately for the team and the affected players, the current roster of 75 plus does not contain 53 players worthy of inclusion on the opening day roster. If the Packers are to have any chance to be competitive, there will be up to 11 new faces added to the locker room.

Whether offense defense or special teams, the back up players in training camp have, in the preseason games, proven themselves not ready to compete in the NFL. Nearly every position on the roster, with the possible exception of defensive line and linebackers, is in desperate need of new talent.

It starts at quarterback. Brett Favre is drawing ever nearer to the end of his career, and Aaron Rodgers has shown nothing in the games to date to show he is ready to take over this season if needed. He has potential and should retained to carry a clipboard, but a veteran reserve should be signed. Kerry Collins, recently signed by the Titans, looked better Friday afternoon than either Rodgers or Ingle Martin, and Collins had only had a few days practice with his new team. There are 2 survivors at this position.

SECOND PRESEASON GAME 5 PLAYS THAT MADE A DIFFERENCE
by Jerry Gilbert

Packer fans have to be happy with the turnaround in the second preseason game. After being humiliated a week earlier in San Diego, the Green Bay Packers rebounded and defeated the Atlanta Falcons 38-10 at Lambeau Field. The offensive line protected its quarterbacks against a fairly good Atlanta defense. The line also opened some holes for a decent running game. On defense, after allowing an opening drive touchdown, the Packers were dominant and allowed only a 51yard field goal. They were particularly effective in the third quarter when they entered the field on consecutive drives with the Falcons near or beyond the fifty yard line and stuffed the opposing offense, not allowing even a field goal attempt. The defense also recorded three interceptions, which resulted in 17 points. On the other hand, without what might be called luck or Lambeau Field Magic, the final score could have been far different.

TRAINING CAMP REPORT THURSDAY AUGUST 17, 2006 9:00 A.M.
by Jerry Gilbert

The abbreviated practice session for Thursday Morning began slightly before 9:00 a.m. The crowd seemed a little smaller than afternoon and evening practices. The day was overcast and very comfortable. Most veterans on offense were missing from the practice including Favre, Driver, Franks, Green, Clifton, Tauscher, Henderson and probably some defensive players that I cannot confirm because they practiced at the other end of the field. The focus seemed to be on providing a walk through an some experience for the reserves and young starters.

Several players arrived early. One fun looking rookie is Guard Jason Spitz. He always seems to have a smile on his face and laughs and jokes with the other linemen. The practice had been advertised as no pads, but shells, which are padded vests worn under the shirt, were being passed out.

TRAINING CAMP RPORT WEDNESDAY 8/16 2:00
by Jerry Gilbert

This day's only practice opened on a sunny summer day. On Thursday, a young man told me that A.J Hawk had refused to give a pre-practice autograph on Wednesday. Hawk said: "Sorry, I have to go." I told the young fan that Hawk was being truthful, because well before this practice started, all the linebackers were on the field with their coaches listening to instructions and walking through game situations. It was very good to see Brady Poppinga out there. He was mostly watching, but he is in pads and on the field.

Tight end Zac Alcorn and receiver Chris Francies ran routes to warm up the three backup quarterbacks. Favre arrived later.

As the actual practice began, it was a very low key affair as offense and defense separately walked through plays. "Low key' was the term I used in my notes at the field to differentiate this practice form others I had seen. I have since read that McCarthy thought it was too lackadaisical, and called the team over and demanded more intensity.

TRAINING CAMP REPORT TUESDAY NIGHT PRACTICE AUGUST 15,2006
by Jerry Gilbert

On a beautiful Green Bay summer evening, practice opened right at 6:30 and continued till nearly 9:00. Two more camp bodies were added at defensive back. A new #20 is Antonio Malone 6-0 188 Toledo, and the new #42 is Jeremy Modkins 6-0 197 Texas Christian. Both looked lost throughout the practice.

A focus of the practice was clearly the correction of problems revealed in the opening game disaster in San Diego. From the blast of the horn that opened practice, the offense was working on basic pass protection and running plays. As the drills progressed, quarterbacks and wideouts were practicing quick passes from a three step drop. Adding the line and backs, the team ran through draw plays, screen passes and quick dumps to the backs.

WHO ARE THESE GUYS?
PROFILES OF THE OFFENSIVE LINE "LONG SHOT" PROSPECTS
UPDATED 8/20/2006
by Jerry Gilbert

The Green Bay Packer offensive line is set for starting tackles with Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher; however their veteran back up players, Adrian Klemm and Kevin Barry have both suffered season ending injuries. At every other starting and reserve position, there is a question as to who will emerge to make the final roster.

This situation has presented opportunities for an unknown to shine through. Last season, an undersized converted offensive tackle from Southern Mississippi, Chris White, made the team even though there were veterans and draft choices ahead of him at every position. This season the chances for such a break through are even stronger.

MINIMIZING DISTRACTIONS
Future stability of the Packer organization?
by Jerry Gilbert

The actions and of the Green Bay Packer executives and coaches in recent days have all pointed to a strategy of working diligently to minimize distractions from the work to be conducted on the fields and classrooms of Training Camp. Leading up to Packer Training Camp 2006, off-field issues have understandably dominated Media stories and discussions among fans because there were no on-field issues available. It is now clear that Ted Thompson and Mike McCarthy will do their best to prevent or minimize such distractions in the future.

Following the 2003 season, a fine writer and former regular contributor to ThaPack.com, Mark Quarderer, wrote a provocative article, which argued that Quarterback Brett Favre would never lead the Green Bay Packers back to the Super Bowl.