He's just one of many we'll have all eyes on all season.I really don't know what to expect (hope for) from this guy. Seeing what the Packers do with him will be interesting. A few relevant considerations:
- Entering his 5th year already, but
- Just turned 25 years old in March
- Hasn't played in a game since Nov. 4, 2012.
- In 2010 looked to be unseating Colledge at LG until an injury ended his preseason. Started at RT from game 5 on.
- In 2011 missed games 4, 5 15 and 16.
- In 2012 started rather poorly, seemed to be getting it together until his season ended in game 9.
- Hasn't played since.
The team has played 60 regular season games since he became a starter in 2010. He has been available for only 33 of those games.
Let's assume he plays well in 2014, again misses 3 or 4 games during the season, but is still playing at the end of the season (you know, starts in the Super Bowl!) How much is he worth? What kind of a contract do you offer a 26 year old with 5 years longevity, all as a decent starter but who can not be counted on for the entire season?
If Sherrod appears physically recovered, seems to be a capable starter but maybe not as good as Bulaga, do you try to keep him and let Bulaga leave?
Personally, I hope TT finds an OT gem in the draft so they can let Bulaga leave in FA. I just don't think I will have confidence in his availability. Having Matthews is enough.