Official 2012 Training Camp Discussion Thread

[Smidgeon]

I'm surprised no one else has created one. Oh well. :)

This is just a thread where we can put all the discussion for observations, discussions, etc regarding what's going on in training camp.

I find it interesting that CJ Wilson is in base. Not because of him, but because it speaks to the players behind him. I think it was Pro Football Weekly (Focus?) who said he was one of the best run defending DEs in football. Maybe the staff saw that too? I think it's the end ofr Wynn. I'm guessing he'll be in the first round of cuts unless two of the new additions wash out completely.

[smuggler]

Cobb was holding on FG attempts. I like it!

[Smidgeon]

Cobb was holding on FG attempts. I like it!

I saw that too. If it sticks, it will make the special team defenders keep a spy from rushing the kick. Makes it a little easier for Crosby. I'm all for it.

[rbaloha1]

CJ Wilson -- you are kidding me?

According to reports Bush is an early stand-out. The light went on during the super bowl.

[denverYooper]

Bishop's injury is a calf, sustained during recent training.

[Fritz]

Is this a nominal nod to his veteran status, or will he be the first-down guy and the run-situation guy?

Only MM's hairdresser knows for sure.

[denverYooper]

Is this a nominal nod to his veteran status, or will he be the first-down guy and the run-situation guy?

Only MM's hairdresser knows for sure.

Breakout year.

[Pugger]

Anybody got pics?

[hoosier]

What does Desmond Bishop have against baby cows?

[Guiness]

Cobb was holding on FG attempts. I like it!

I'm surprised we don't see more of this. Seems like a natural thing, the WR's should have good hands to grab the snap, and if you want to do a fake FG , end-around stype, you've got the guy you want!

[rbaloha1]

I'm surprised we don't see more of this. Seems like a natural thing, the WR's should have good hands to grab the snap, and if you want to do a fake FG , end-around stype, you've got the guy you want!


Cobb is an ex qb.

[Upnorth]

Cobb as holder is brilliant. Great hands, great speed and the ability to make passes. Why do I expect a few trick plays this year?

[Bossman641]

Wilson at base doesn't surprise me. Capers is talking like he wants to do a lot more mixing and matching this year. The D is going to go back toward shutting down the run on early downs, getting the offense in third and long, and then bringing in the pass-rushing DL.

Worthy is the long-term plan at DE alongside Pickett and Raji but they probably want to start him off slowly.

Besides, who else would you expect to line up in place of Wilson? Neal and Hargrove are suspended and will probably get limited snaps in camp. Wynn is no run defender. Daniels in no 3-4 DE. Merling is just trying to stick on the roster.

[Fosco33]

Woodson steps into safety role... early sign??

http://www.packers.com/news-and-events/article-1/Woodson-steps-into-safety-position/0cc5afd9-6e0f-4383-9da2-74b616c0c9b6

[Brandon494]

Woodson steps into safety role... early sign??

http://www.packers.com/news-and-events/article-1/Woodson-steps-into-safety-position/0cc5afd9-6e0f-4383-9da2-74b616c0c9b6

I hope so, I've been saying for awhile I would like to see him move to safety. I'm also very confident in our younger CBs for the move to be made. Davon House seems like he has taken a big step forward this year, Shields still has a lot of potential IMO, and Hayward seems like he could be a player for us as well. I just hope Bush doesnt remain the starter.

[rbaloha1]

Woodson steps into safety role... early sign??

http://www.packers.com/news-and-events/article-1/Woodson-steps-into-safety-position/0cc5afd9-6e0f-4383-9da2-74b616c0c9b6

Polomalu II

[KYPack]

Cobb is an ex qb.

SEC player of the week for his QB play against a tough foe.

I want Cobb off KR's. He's great but he's such a maniac, he'll hurt himself eventually.

Holder? Oh yeah. he held on FG's for Kentucky and he had a number of big plays in that position.

The other spot Cobb is lethal at is passing and running from the slot.

Put in an option play where he gets a toss in the slot and then has the option to run or pass.

Once he gets comfortable, it's a bitch to stop and another headache for opposing DC's

[Smidgeon]

SEC player of the week for his QB play against a tough foe.

I want Cobb off KR's. He's great but he's such a maniac, he'll hurt himself eventually.

Holder? Oh yeah. he held on FG's for Kentucky and he had a number of big plays in that position.

The other spot Cobb is lethal at is passing and running from the slot.

Put in an option play where he gets a toss in the slot and then has the option to run or pass.

Once he gets comfortable, it's a bitch to stop and another headache for opposing DC's

How effective would that be in the NFL? Say, more effective that Rodgers throwing the pass--even if it's a surprise?

[HarveyWallbangers]

What I could gather from today's practice:

Graham Harrell looked pretty sharp.

Alex Green practiced, so his recovery appears to be coming along nicely. He's not at 100% though. Mike Daniels practiced for the first time.

Tori Gurley looks huge, but I can't figure out whether that's good or bad. He's stronger, but he can't lose any of the speed he had.

The plan is to play a lot of LBs--depending on the package. That includes subbing out A.J. Hawk and possibly Desmond Bishop in coverage. It sounds like D.J. Smith had a good day of practice.

DBs hit the tackling sled--which is unusual. Correcting the poor tackling of last season appears to be the top priority heading into the season.

Jarrett Bush was the standout in practice, and he appears to be ahead of Sam Shields and Davon House at CB. Jordy Nelson also stood out.

Jamari Lattimore remains at ILB. Brad Jones was moved back outside.

Evan Dietrich-Smith is "clearly" ahead of Sampson Genus at backup OC--accoring to the packers.com blog.

Sounds like Charles Woodson is going to play safety more than the 10% that McCarthy hinted at this offseason. He lined up at safety in the base. The Packers played base 25% last year and say they'll play it more this year. M.D. Jennings lined up as the starter in nickel.

[KYPack]

How effective would that be in the NFL? Say, more effective that Rodgers throwing the pass--even if it's a surprise?

ARod is probably the best passer in the NFL, we don't need much help in the passing department. The idea with an option play for Cobb is to put some poor bastard on defense in a trick bag. if he comes up to stop Cobb running, RC will throw a pass over him. If he stays back in cover, Randall will run very effectively. If they give the defender some needed help, that will open up an area in the interior of the coverage. MM will find that seam and rip it up for big gainers.

It's a play, not an offense.

[Iron Mike]

Anybody got pics?

http://www.greenbaypressgazette.com/

[smuggler]

ARod is probably the best passer in the NFL, we don't need much help in the passing department. The idea with an option play for Cobb is to put some poor bastard on defense in a trick bag. if he comes up to stop Cobb running, RC will throw a pass over him. If he stays back in cover, Randall will run very effectively. If they give the defender some needed help, that will open up an area in the interior of the coverage. MM will find that seam and rip it up for big gainers.

It's a play, not an offense.

We call this play "Phat Booty" and it's a bitch near the goal line.

[smuggler]

Finley's wife said he has a slight/mild concussion. I guess he got it at practice on Thursday.

[Patler]

Finley's wife said he has a slight/mild concussion. I guess he got it at practice on Thursday.

During a practice in shells? That's not a good sign!

[Smidgeon]

"You can see the explosion," McCarthy said. "They definitely add something to our group, the defensive line. I love (Worthy's) energy. He jumps around. He’s excited. He brings a lot of energy. He’s very energetic in a particular meeting we had last night, things like that. So I think he’s going to be in position to make an impact for us.”

Doesn't sound like a player who has a penchant for taking plays off. Of course, he could be trying to impress the new bosses.... ;)

[Iron Mike]

Finley's wife said he has a slight/mild concussion. I guess he got it at practice on Thursday.

Good thing his brain's in his skull, otherwise he'd probably drop that, too.....

[Tony Oday]

He did drop it aka concussion.

[rbaloha1]

"You can see the explosion," McCarthy said. "They definitely add something to our group, the defensive line. I love (Worthy's) energy. He jumps around. He’s excited. He brings a lot of energy. He’s very energetic in a particular meeting we had last night, things like that. So I think he’s going to be in position to make an impact for us.”

Doesn't sound like a player who has a penchant for taking plays off. Of course, he could be trying to impress the new bosses.... ;)


That is what I am talking about. Expect Worthy to start not Wilson.

[Smidgeon]

That is what I am talking about. Expect Worthy to start not Wilson.

Well, hopefully the explosion translates over to run-stopping acumen. That's what Wilson has right now more than anyone else except Raji and Pickett.

[Freak Out]

When the hell is JH going to give us a live report from camp?

[rbaloha1]

Well, hopefully the explosion translates over to run-stopping acumen. That's what Wilson has right now more than anyone else except Raji and Pickett.

I am sorry -- do not see the run stopping abilities in Wilson.

[Lurker64]

I am sorry -- do not see the run stopping abilities in Wilson.

In terms of "run stops per play" Wilson was actually 6th among NFL defensive ends last year (9.6% of his snaps, he stopped a running play.)

He can't rush the passer at all, but that's respectable.

[mission]

In terms of "run stops per play" Wilson was actually 6th among NFL defensive ends last year (9.6% of his snaps, he stopped a running play.)

He can't rush the passer at all, but that's respectable.

Stats shmants. Not a Wilson hater by any means, but he also didn't play a whole lot and mainly only on running downs. 10% of a small sample size is still a small sample size.

Put him out there for 3 downs and it's all of a sudden not very impressive. Run percentage on 1st down skews the tackle percentage.

[Lurker64]

Stats shmants. Not a Wilson hater by any means, but he also didn't play a whole lot and mainly only on running downs. 10% of a small sample size is still a small sample size.

Put him out there for 3 downs and it's all of a sudden not very impressive. Run percentage on 1st down skews the tackle percentage.

Well, sure, but this is reflected somewhat on the field. Wilson is physical and tenacious, and he doesn't play stupid. There's not a lot of talent there, but you can do more with "try hard" guys without much talent than you can with more talented people who are lazy (c.f. Jarius Wynn and Phil Merling).

Actually, if you could combine those three people into one player, taking the best of each, you'd have a top flight 5-tech.

[rbaloha1]

In terms of "run stops per play" Wilson was actually 6th among NFL defensive ends last year (9.6% of his snaps, he stopped a running play.)

He can't rush the passer at all, but that's respectable.

IMO a meaningless stat given the number of snaps. If Wilson is starting itts due to Worthy's inconsistency.

[RashanGary]

When the hell is JH going to give us a live report from camp?

I have to make at least one this year. . . . .


The most memorable training camp ever was the time Josh Sitton took off his helmet and was beating Brady Poppinga with it. I was in the 2nd row. They were right up against the rails. They look big and intimidating on the field, but to see the one of the baddest Packers on our team rip off his helmet, rage out and beat someone with it right in front of you, close enough to see the sweat dripping off his scraggly beard and the look in his eyes. . . . . football is no joke. Either you're fearless or have enough fear to fight like your back is against the wall. There is no other way to do what they do.

[Freak Out]

I hope you get to make it to a couple JH...I always enjoy reading your camp comments.... especially about the girls in the stands. :)

Because I've never been it's fascinating to read all the comments coming out of these camps with the new and developing talent on the teams this time of year.

[CaptainD]

Some of the media tweets are plain dumb. Not sure why they think a 1 on 1 drill is as big a deal as their making it. Bush always looks good in camp vs his own guys but vs someone else he gets burned consistently.

Really think you can read way too much into camp drills. True test is vs other teams IMHO.

[Tony Oday]

Well 1 v 1 does make sense for CBs

[George Cumby]

I have to make at least one this year. . . . .


The most memorable training camp ever was the time Josh Sitton took off his helmet and was beating Brady Poppinga with it. I was in the 2nd row. They were right up against the rails. They look big and intimidating on the field, but to see the one of the baddest Packers on our team rip off his helmet, rage out and beat someone with it right in front of you, close enough to see the sweat dripping off his scraggly beard and the look in his eyes. . . . . football is no joke. Either you're fearless or have enough fear to fight like your back is against the wall. There is no other way to do what they do.

Your TC reports are always a treat. Not to be a sycophant, but I find your insight is often more valuable than professional reporters.

Thanks in advance!

[denverYooper]

Tyler Dunne's Saturday Odds and Ends (http://sulia.com/channel/green-bay-packers/f/b54bee6c-f67e-4a7a-98fc-a0484b7706b6/?source=twitter)


First padded practice in the book for the #Packers. Here are some quick thoughts. Another solid practice for Casey Hayward. Rookie showing some early instincts, not afraid to make a play. ....Shields had another shaky practice and isn't in the team's dime package. ...Sharp day for Aaron Rodgers, which isn't a big surprise. Worked the perimeter well with Jordy Nelson and James Jones. ...Marshall Newhouse held up well at left tackle. Can't recall him allowing a serious pressure ...D.J. Williams continues to catch everything thrown to him. ...Undrafted OL Mike McCabe carted off with hip injury.

Damn Sam. I read somewhere else that Shields was pulled for Hayward.

[rbaloha1]

Tyler Dunne's Saturday Odds and Ends (http://sulia.com/channel/green-bay-packers/f/b54bee6c-f67e-4a7a-98fc-a0484b7706b6/?source=twitter)



Damn Sam. I read somewhere else that Shields was pulled for Hayward.

Hayward fits the profile of a zone corner for the Capers scheme. Capers like zone blitzes which is critical due to lack of pass rush.

[RashanGary]

DJ Williams and Hayward showing up big, early. There is a spot on our offense for Williams. I could see him playing an H-Back type role for us during the season.

Promising stuff coming out of camp so far. Shields had a bad day, but I don't know, a bad day does not make a career. We'll see. I'm pulling for him and House. They fit that "outside cover guy" mold.

I'd almost rather see Hayward as our dime guy, a guy who plays the inside spot opposite Woodson. I know he's savvy, and could be the starter, but that inside spot is complex. I'd almost rather see him get all of his work there so if Woodson goes down, we have a smart, instinctive corner to fill the role.

[Joemailman]

Wouldn't be surprised if Bishop is out for a while. Opportunity knocks again for D.J. Smith.

[RashanGary]

There is a vid on JS that shows some of Perry's ability. He pushes up field and put on a heck of a spin move against Datko. Looks quick on his feet, that's for sure.

http://www.jsonline.com/blogs/sports/164155656.html#!page=1&pageSize=10&sort=newestfirst

[Joemailman]

That was a good move. At the 00:42 mark of the video, it looks like Datko has him mirrored, but Perry makes a quick move that Datko can't counter.

[Guiness]

Like to see the comment about Tramon.

[rbaloha1]

There is a vid on JS that shows some of Perry's ability. He pushes up field and put on a heck of a spin move against Datko. Looks quick on his feet, that's for sure.

http://www.jsonline.com/blogs/sports/164155656.html#!page=1&pageSize=10&sort=newestfirst

Double digit sacker.

[KYPack]

We call this play "Phat Booty" and it's a bitch near the goal line.

Cobb will add a lot to the team.

This kid is a born leader. I first saw an interview with him after UK had beaten a division II team in a half assed effort. Cobb was dressed in a coat and tie and absolutely ripped his teammates for the lackluster effort. i asked a buddy who is a huge UK fans which coach he was. My pal informed me that he wasn't a coach, he was Randall Cobb. The kid takes his job seriously.

Last pre-season I caught a moment in garbage time at the end of a pre-season time. Cobb broke the huddle in a hurry-up offense. All the other rook WR's turned to Cobb to ask their assignments. He got 'em lined up and quickly got in position.

Leadership comes naturally to the hard workin' kid.

[Fritz]

If Shields ends up falling down, I'd like to see House grab an outside spot and Hayward the inside spot behind Woodson.

And stop with the porn there, KY. I read that post about Cobb and got this funny stirring in my parts.

[jdrats]

Seems that Shields had two bad days and followed them with a worse one in pads, which is both surprising and worrisome. I expected Shields to be one of those guys who could both rebound and take a big step forward with a complete offseason of team workouts and coaching. With only one year at CB in college, I had largely attributed his drop off last year to the shortened offseason. But, it seems like he's slid even farther.

The more I hear about how far he seems to have regressed the less confident I am that the light has suddenly gone on for Bush as well. It's early, but it sure seems like we have some unexpected concerns at corner.

[pbmax]

Wrongo, Bobby. Kampman switched sides in his first two or three years on the Packers. He started on the right, then moved to the left. As a starter, it might be accurate he never switched.

http://www.jsonline.com/sports/packers/right-left-right-3469m19-164223026.html

[pbmax]

Hayward fits the profile of a zone corner for the Capers scheme. Capers like zone blitzes which is critical due to lack of pass rush.

Inside, as a slot CB he does. But Capers has been running man to man on the outside with Tramontana, Woodson, Shields and Bush. It sounds like Hayward got a shot outside over the weekend but I haven't read how his speed played out. If he is to see the field in dime or nickel, he still needs to show something.

The last camp report I read was that in dime, Wood and Bush played in the slots as starters.

[smuggler]

The two most impressive defensive players, thus far, are Dezman Moses and Casey Hayward, according to the JSOnline staff and the Press-Gazette.

[Smidgeon]

If Shields ends up falling down, I'd like to see House grab an outside spot and Hayward the inside spot behind Woodson.

I think that's what I'd like to see too. And I think that's why they were drafted. Hayward was drafted to apprentice to Woodson and eventually replace him in the slot.

[smuggler]

I'm hoping Shields can pick it up. I know they don't like his tackling, but he's fast and has good ball skills. I hope it works out for him on the outside.

[Brandon494]

Nice to see so much depth at the CB position even with Shields struggling.

[Joemailman]

Sounds like Shields had a better day today. http://www.jsonline.com/blogs/sports/164310396.html#!page=1&pageSize=10&sort=newestfirst

[wpony]

Heres another report this one from espn not that they are all that reliable but Cobb is sounding really good so far. http://espn.go.com/blog/nfcnorth

[George Cumby]

There is a vid on JS that shows some of Perry's ability. He pushes up field and put on a heck of a spin move against Datko. Looks quick on his feet, that's for sure.

http://www.jsonline.com/blogs/sports/164155656.html#!page=1&pageSize=10&sort=newestfirst

Perry sure is Tick tru da' hips, bra'.

[Fritz]

I hope Shields rebounds, but the key in camp - beyond shining for a brief moment - is to be consistently good and assignment sure. That's what we'll have to wait and see about with all these young dudes.

Hayward seems to have the best head for it. Shields seems to have the speed and ball instincts but may not have the necessary mentality and drive. House seems to have good natural ability and maybe is learning that you can't ever let up in the NFL. Jarrett Bush, as someone else noted, seems to have the longest learning curve of any player ever.

We haven't talked about the safeties much. I wonder how Burnett and MD Jennings are doing.

[Joemailman]

Right now the Packers have at least 6 CB's worth keeping, but maybe only 3 safeties. (Burnett, McMillan, Jennings) If Levine doesn't have a strong camp, there could be a pickup or trade on cutdown day.

[Brandon494]

Right now the Packers have at least 6 CB's worth keeping, but maybe only 3 safeties. (Burnett, McMillan, Jennings) If Levine doesn't have a strong camp, there could be a pickup or trade on cutdown day.

Remember Woodson will now also be playing safety and Bush has experience there as well. I could see them keeping only Burnett, McMillan, and Jennings at safety if need be, but I think Levine will end up making the team.

[Joemailman]

http://www.jsonline.com/blogs/sports/164406686.html#!page=1&pageSize=10&sort=newestfirst

Interesting to see Sam Shields returning kicks on the first KR unit. Wouldn't read too much into it on July 31 but Slocum mixing it up.
by TyDunne via twitter 9:09 AM

Jarius Wynn picks off Aaron Rodgers on a screen pass. Don't see that too often. Defense goes nuts. #Packers
by TyDunne via twitter 9:32 AM

Dime has Bush and Woodson in the slot and Williams and House outside.
by TomSilverstein via twitter 9:33 AM

House getting all the reps with 1s but I think this thing will change depending who has a good day. Unless House grabs it and runs with it.
by TomSilverstein via twitter 9:44 AM

Burnett nice break up on deep ball, but could have intercepted. Then comes back and drills Finley over the middle. Then picks off Rodgers.
by TomSilverstein via twitter 9:54 AM

erron McMillian active in the slot. He said that'd be his biggest adjustment to the pros. Physical guy. He'll keep getting looks there.
by TyDunne via twitter 10:25 AM

Donald Driver opens up red zone work with a pair of touchdown catches from Rodgers. Still has it physically. Can't argue with that.
by TyDunne via twitter 10:27 AM

TD catch by Gurley to end practice. From Harrell, back shoulder on Shields. CB didn't turn around quick enough. Bobbled, caught by 86.
by TyDunne via twitter 10:48 AM

[pbmax]

The Packers should name the dime defense BushWood.

[Brandon494]

Per Packers Training Camp:


Packers coach Mike McCarthy spoke following Green Bay’s fifth training camp practice Tuesday. Some highlights from McCarthy’s post-practice presser:

Defensive end Ryan Pickett suffered a knee bruise. He was on the sidelines during a good chunk of Tuesday’s practice icing the injury. UDFA RB Marc Tyler had a shoulder bruise and rookie DE Mike Daniels was getting his knee/groin looked at following practice. No timetables were set for any of the three players.

Speaking of timetables, McCarthy said he thinks WR Greg Jennings (elbow) can return for Wednesday’s practice. He also speculated that LB Desmond Bishop (calf) and FB John Kuhn (knee) might be ready by the end of the week. Bishop and Kuhn have yet to practice during camp.

McCarthy was impressed with S Morgan Burnett, who he called one of the Packers young players “ready to step into the forefront.” Burnett had his most impressive practice of 2012 Tuesday, with a number of turnovers caused in 11-on-11 drills. Heading into his third NFL season, Burnett may be ready for a breakout season.

It’s beginning to sound like a broken record, but McCarthy again praised (when prompted) CB Davon House Tuesday. McCarthy said House’s body type is well-suited for bump-and-run coverage and that he is playing off that strength early in camp. “Definitely a different player this year,” McCarthy said. Sounds more and more like House is being groomed as a player much like Al Harris was during his time in Green Bay.

McCarthy said that CB Sam Shields was getting better with his technique, but that it still needs improvement. He still relies too much on his speed. No surprise there. Shields still peeks into the backfield too often and, because of that fault, gets beat on double moves.

McCarthy praised WR Donald Driver, who clearly had his best practice of 2012. The veteran pass-catcher hauled in at least three touchdown catches during 11-on-11 drills, including one in the two-minute situation. Barring a catastrophic injury, Driver is making this football team.

Other Notes

Seventh-round QB B.J. Coleman gave some good looks Tuesday. He clearly has all the arm talent necessary to make it in the NFL, and he proved it with a couple of laser throws to the far hashmarks. There was also another sequence where Coleman stepped up in a crowded pocket and delivered a completion into a tight window. Small steps to be sure, but encouraging ones, too. He has a bright future.

Tight end D.J. Williams continues to catch everything thrown his way. So far in camp, he’s gotten his share of looks in the passing game.

Two rookies—safety Jerron McMillian and linebacker Terrell Manning—might have had their most active practice to date. McMillian had at least one pass-breakup while playing near the line of scrimmage, and Manning was everywhere during a stretch with the No. 2 defense.

Jermichael Finley had a couple of nice catches in his first day back from a concussion. On one touchdown, Finley motioned out wide and had no problem hauling in a short slant route from Aaron Rodgers for the score. M.D. Jennings, the man in coverage on the play, didn’t have a chance.

The Packers return to practice Wednesday, in full pads, at 8:15 a.m. CT.

[Fritz]

The Packers should name the dime defense BushWood.

Or the Wood and Bush.

[Joemailman]

Driver beats Jarrett Bush for touchdown. Actually not bad coverage by Bush.
http://www.packers.com/media-center/videos/Play-of-the-Day-Drivers-red-zone-touchdown/f7e44854-881c-4656-adce-f491c27b638d

[Joemailman]

Eric Walden suspended 1 game for last year's domestic altercation on Thanksgiving. http://www.jsonline.com/blogs/sports/164495136.html#!page=0&pageSize=10&sort=newestfirst

[swede]

Eric Walden suspended 1 game for last year's domestic altercation on Thanksgiving. http://www.jsonline.com/blogs/sports/164495136.html#!page=0&pageSize=10&sort=newestfirst

Was Goodell cleaning out his desk and found a copy of the Milwaukee Journal from November 2011?

[RashanGary]

Lawrence Guy played some 1st team ST's. Sounds like he has a shot. Would love it if he showed up this camp. I still think he's probably a year away. Last year would have been his senior season in college. He was out the whole season. This is sort of a rookie year for him. With that tall body type, sometimes you have to be a little more patient. Those guys need to really learn leverage and how to use their hands. McCarthy mentioned him as an improved player. If he's showing upside and showing the ability to hunker down and use his hands, it would be nice to have a surprise like him pop up.

With the two early season suspensions, Guy might buy himself enough time to stick. Especially if there's an injury some time in the first 8 games before Hargrove can play. And if he's a worker, makes big gains next offseason, he has a chance to be a nice part of our rotation.

Lots of ifs, and I do think he's still that developmental type, but he has my interest a little.

[RashanGary]

Brandian Ross and Lawrence guy are two players I see as dark horses.

Gurley seems to think he can dominate with that fade route. We know Finley already does. If he's as good as he thinks he is, having those two guys split wide. . . . It would be real tough to defend deep in the redzone.

[Joemailman]

Lawrence Guy played some 1st team ST's. Sounds like he has a shot. Would love it if he showed up this camp. I still think he's probably a year away. Last year would have been his senior season in college. He was out the whole season. This is sort of a rookie year for him. With that tall body type, sometimes you have to be a little more patient. Those guys need to really learn leverage and how to use their hands. McCarthy mentioned him as an improved player. If he's showing upside and showing the ability to hunker down and use his hands, it would be nice to have a surprise like him pop up.

With the two early season suspensions, Guy might buy himself enough time to stick. Especially if there's an injury some time in the first 8 games before Hargrove can play. And if he's a worker, makes big gains next offseason, he has a chance to be a nice part of our rotation.

Lots of ifs, and I do think he's still that developmental type, but he has my interest a little.

I kind of thought the same thing. By giving him a shot at starting ST, they're trying to find a way to justify a roster spot for a talent who may not be quite ready to have a major impact this year on the defense. Guy is that rarity: A Packer DE who has the normal length of a DE.

[Fritz]

I too am rooting for Guy. I'd hate to see the Pack develop him last year and this spring/summer, then cut him so someone else can benefit. My hope is that he shows enough to warrant keeping on the roster, and if he can continue to improve in the first four weeks, then it'd be nice to have a tough decision to make when Neal returns.

Maybe this team should keep an extra d-lineman this year instead of seventeen tight ends.

[denverYooper]

The Packers should name the dime defense BushWood.

Gambling is illegal at Bushwood sir, and I never slice.

[Joemailman]

I too am rooting for Guy. I'd hate to see the Pack develop him last year and this spring/summer, then cut him so someone else can benefit. My hope is that he shows enough to warrant keeping on the roster, and if he can continue to improve in the first four weeks, then it'd be nice to have a tough decision to make when Neal returns.

Maybe this team should keep an extra d-lineman this year instead of seventeen tight ends.

I think they'll keep 6 entering the season, and then make a decision on whether to go with 7 when Neal returns.

[pbmax]

I think they'll keep 6 entering the season, and then make a decision on whether to go with 7 when Neal returns.


I too am rooting for Guy. I'd hate to see the Pack develop him last year and this spring/summer, then cut him so someone else can benefit. My hope is that he shows enough to warrant keeping on the roster, and if he can continue to improve in the first four weeks, then it'd be nice to have a tough decision to make when Neal returns.

Maybe this team should keep an extra d-lineman this year instead of seventeen tight ends.

Just in time for you Fritz, TE number 8: http://www.jsonline.com/sports/packers/packers-cornerback-house-knows-he-cant-coast-1k6a0fv-164354086.html

Scroll down to Late Addition section.

[pbmax]

Gambling is illegal at Bushwood sir, and I never slice.

Passing is illegal at Lambeau sir, and I never allow a completion over 20 yards.

Got to work on the last phrase.

[pbmax]

Note today in JSO that Daniels has been more consistent than Worthy and then suffered a knee AND groin injury. Worthy has had an emotional filled first few practices and has, as predicted, jumped offsides a bit. Also struggled with TJ Lang in 1 on 1.

[gbgary]

from what I've read DD is having a very good camp.

[Fritz]

I think they'll keep 6 entering the season, and then make a decision on whether to go with 7 when Neal returns.

Hah! Do you mean defensive linemen or tight ends?!?

[Iron Mike]

The Packers should name the dime defense BushWood.

http://static.moviefanatic.com/images/gallery/judge-smails.jpg

[KYPack]

http://static.moviefanatic.com/images/gallery/judge-smails.jpg

I've sentenced boys younger than you to the gas chamber. Didn't want to do it. I felt I owed it to them.

[Upnorth]

from what I've read DD is having a very good camp.

He said he was hoping to prove his critics wrong. Wonder if he reads packerrats...

[pbmax]

I've sentenced boys younger than you to the gas chamber. Didn't want to do it. I felt I owed it to them.

That was a fantastic line. Can also be put to good use on the boys looking to date your daughter.

[RashanGary]

Davon House


Davon House seems to be tearing it up.
- Is starting to lock down the 2nd CB position
- McCarthy specifically mentioned him as a guy who came in much stronger and NFL ready leading into camp.
- Has ideal size/speed to play man defense
- Showed instincts and awareness in college (evident by having a high *interception/pass breakup total* in college. Suggests he understands defense and can play zone too.

Last year Darren Perry said he thought Shields was ready for more, but had to scale back his responsibilities. Shields played really good man defense 2 years ago. I took it to mean he was struggling with the zone concepts. If House can do both, that opens up Capers playbook a little more.

[Joemailman]

I've sentenced boys younger than you to the gas chamber. Didn't want to do it. I felt I owed it to them.


That was a fantastic line. Can also be put to good use on the boys looking to date your daughter.

I could see Kevin Greene using that line.

[RashanGary]

Some other positive highlights. . . . .


DJ Williams
-Seems to be catching every ball that comes his way
-Has that ideal body type/skillset to play an H-back type role. He's fast. He has great hands. One of his biggest strengths coming out of college was YAC (for a TE.) He has a pretty complete skillset as far as being a weapon in the passing game. If he can block, he's going to see the field.

Morgan Burnett
-Tramon said he's going to go to multiple probowls. McCarthy said he's going to be a guy talked about around the league. Can't help but be excited about that.

Mike Daniels
-Lang said he has a rare mix of explosiveness and strength. Early reports are he's having a really good camp

Casey Hayward
-James Jones said Hayward gets it. Said he understands defense and is going to be a good player.
-He's had a damn good start to camp. We might have 2 corners better than Shields this year.

OL
Bulaga - Lots of talk about him being a Beast
Sitton - Healthy. He's a stud
Saturday - Has been one of the most consistent, durable OL of this decade. Might drop off, but you could see MM giving him days off during the season to stay fresh, and even if he's not great, he'll still get in the way on every play. He's not going to screw up, and he's going to help the offense keep a great pace as well as be in the right blocking scheme.
Lang - He had a good year last year, and he's at that point in his career where OL really come into their own. Should be improved
Newhouse - No way he's not better than last year. Not possible. Sounds like he had a good offseason. Outside of getting beat by Clay twice today, he hasn't been mentioned. Him and Lang worked together last year, and they're going to get a lot of time to gel this year.

I like the way the OL is shaping up.



DL depth looks much improved
LB depth looks much improved. Even if Perry can't get the OLB position down, he could still be a pass rush specialist
ILB depth improved. OLB depth improved


Backup OL is a question mark. Dominguez, Dietrich Smith and Sherrod are returning players. There are some camp bodies and possible trades at the deadlines.
RB is a question mark. Starks hasn't been able to stay healthy. Sounds like his pass pro and decisiveness have improved. Green made it back from his ACL injury, but you have to think he won't be 100% until sometime later in the season. Saine is steady eddie they say. Not a strength.

Looks like all of the WR's and Finley are ready to rumble. Gurley seems to be getting that fade route down and is having a good camp. No matter how it shakes out, that's one of the best WR corps top to bottom in the league. Maybe the best.


From top to bottom, this looks like the most talented Packer team we've seen in a long, long time. Even more-so than the team that won the SB two years ago. Backup OL and backup RB are your big question marks.

[Fritz]

Seems like a little more "juice" to the defensive side of training camp this year.

But what's going on on the o-line for the backup spots? Any word on Dominguez's development or lack thereof? How's Datko doing? Newhouse? Or is it too early to say?

[Joemailman]

Davon House


Davon House seems to be tearing it up.
- Is starting to lock down the 2nd CB position
- McCarthy specifically mentioned him as a guy who came in much stronger and NFL ready leading into camp.
- Has ideal size/speed to play man defense
- Showed instincts and awareness in college (evident by having a high *interception/pass breakup total* in college. Suggests he understands defense and can play zone too.

Last year Darren Perry said he thought Shields was ready for more, but had to scale back his responsibilities. Shields played really good man defense 2 years ago. I took it to mean he was struggling with the zone concepts. If House can do both, that opens up Capers playbook a little more.

From today's practice:

In 1 on 1s CB Davin House blankets WR Greg Jennings and then rips the ball out, throwing Jennings to the ground.
by TomSilverstein via twitter 9:34 AM

Break out the Kool-Aid!!

[Joemailman]

Seems like a little more "juice" to the defensive side of training camp this year.

But what's going on on the o-line for the backup spots? Any word on Dominguez's development or lack thereof? How's Datko doing? Newhouse? Or is it too early to say?

Haven't heard anything about Dominguez, but in that picture of him in another thread, he looks like he's in a lot better shape than last year. I think he has a lot of talent. Sounds like Datko has been struggling. Probably a candidate for the PS. Newhouse had been doing well, although he got beat pretty bad by CMIII today for a sack.

[HarveyWallbangers]

I'd love for House to be the man, but a lot of guys have a hot start to camp and then fizzle. Let's hope he keeps it up.

[Joemailman]

One of the things about training camp is that you face the same players and the same offense day after day. It can get to the point where a player can start to anticipate what the guy opposite him is going to do. Sometimes guys having a great camp don't look as good once they have to face an unfamiliar foe.

On the other hand, the receivers House is guarding in camp are better than most guys he'll face in a game. So we'll see.

[Smidgeon]

One of the things about training camp is that you face the same players and the same offense day after day. It can get to the point where a player can start to anticipate what the guy opposite him is going to do. Sometimes guys having a great camp don't look as good once they have to face an unfamiliar foe.

On the other hand, the receivers House is guarding in camp are better than most guys he'll face in a game. So we'll see.

That's because they haven't yet learned to pick up that anticipation from film. In training camp, they get a feel for a player. In the regular season, they need to get that feel through film study. Considering that it's two very different ways of learning, is it a surprise that only the best can do it from day 1?

[pittstang5]

Anyone know if the Family night scrimmage is going to be nationally televised. NFL Network used to air it. I don't see it on my guide.

[rbaloha1]

Anyone know if the Family night scrimmage is going to be nationally televised. NFL Network used to air it. I don't see it on my guide.

Generally its shown on the Green Bay fox affiliate.

[RashanGary]

When they drafted Raji, they said guys iwth that body type have a hard time not getting too big. Raji came into camp his usual 337. He hasn't gained a pound in 4 years. That's a good sign. Sounds like he's stronger than ever. That's good to hear.

[RashanGary]

They had a piece on Marshall Newhouse today. Lang said Newhouse's feet, ability to slide remind him of Chad Clifton. That's quite a compliment. Of course, Lang never got to see 26 year old Clifton.

It sounds like the coaches are happy with his improvement. He's getting better every day. Smart, hard working. . . . . All that stuff.

He's one of those guys, coming from a non-pro style blocking system in college. . . . . He had to completely reshape his footwork and punch, and he was mixing positions his rookie year. Unlike a guy like Bulaga who did a lot of the things he's asked to do in the NFL already, Newhouse needed a year to get those basics down. Last year, he was being bounced around again. When he took over at LT, sure, he wasn't a good one, but Bulaga wasn't a good one his rookie year either and now he's being talked by the Packers as a stud.

I expect a huge jump out of Newhouse this year. He's dialed in at LT. His technique has to be rounding into form. He has a lot of raw talent, with the ability to move and being 320 lbs. His body has to be stronger. Lineman seem to get stronger and stronger for those first three years. He and Lang played together last year, and now are together from start to finish this offseason. He can bend and move in the run game, unlike Clifton the last few years. He's been healthy, so he's been able to practice, practice, practice getting his fundamentals down, and work, work, work getting his NFL strength. He's young. He's only 23. He came into the league very young and raw. There are rookies his age or a little younger. I really like his chances to be a good LT for us, a long term staple even.

Sherrod, after that injury keeping him out of the weight room and off the practice field for what might be close to a year. He also came from a non-pro style blocking scheme. Hopefully Newhouse can stay healthy this year. I think Sherrod is going to need a full season of practice/weights and a full offseason to even get the type of strength he would need to play. I don't think Sherrod is a bust, he's just had some bad breaks and it's going to take time to recover. He could be a great backup swing tackle for us down the road, and if he really pans out, maybe he beats Newhouse. Call me a Newhouse honk, cuz I am, but I think he's going to be tough to knock off for a long time.

[Lurker64]

Generally its shown on the Green Bay fox affiliate.

Who will also stream it through their website.

[RashanGary]

http://cmsimg.greenbaypressgazette.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=U0&Date=20120802&Category=PKR0205&ArtNo=308020257&Ref=PH&Item=9&Maxw=620&Maxh=465&q=60

Marshmallow looks to be in better shape. Still 23. Probably a year away from really maxing out his strength. But should be a lot stronger and more sure in his duties than last year.

[RashanGary]

Oh, wait a minute

http://cmsimg.greenbaypressgazette.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=U0&Date=20120802&Category=PKR0205&ArtNo=308020257&Ref=PH&Item=8&Maxw=620&Maxh=465&q=60

[RashanGary]

He looks better sucking in :)

I still say he looks in better shape.

http://cmsimg.greenbaypressgazette.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=U0&Date=20120802&Category=PKR0205&ArtNo=308020257&Ref=PH&Item=10&Maxw=620&Maxh=465&q=60

http://cmsimg.greenbaypressgazette.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=U0&Date=20120802&Category=PKR0205&ArtNo=308020257&Ref=PH&Item=11&Maxw=620&Maxh=465&q=60

[HarveyWallbangers]

Another early stab at the roster--based on things we've learned from the first week of practice.

QB Rodgers, Harrell
RB Starks, Green, Saine
FB Kuhn
WR Jennings, Nelson, Jones, Driver, Cobb, Gurley
TE Finley, Williams, Taylor, Crabtree
OL Newhouse, Lang, Saturday, Sitton, Bulaga, Dietrich-Smith, Sherrod, Datko

DL Raji, Pickett, Worthy, Wilson, Muir, Daniels, Guy
LB Matthews, Bishop, Hawk, Perry, Smith, Francois, Moses, Walden, So'oto
CB Williams, Hayward, House, Shields, Bush
S Woodson, Burnett, Jennings, McMillan

K Crosby
P Masthay
LS Goode

PS Coleman
PUP Quarless
SUS Hargrove, Neal

That's only 52. I had a hard time picking out a 53rd. Could be somebody they pick up from another team. I lean towards another OL. Eight is light, but they've done it before. Maybe Genus or Dominguez. I haven't really gotten a feel for how the young OL are doing. It will probably be a guy who comes out of nowhere (B. Ross). I can't see them keeping 7 WRs, so this leaves out Borel. Guy and So'oto seem the most on the bubble. I've heard bad reports on Datko, so maybe he goes to the PS.

[hoosier]

Another early stab at the roster--based on things we've learned from the first week of practice.

QB Rodgers, Harrell
RB Starks, Green, Saine
FB Kuhn
WR Jennings, Nelson, Jones, Driver, Cobb, Gurley
TE Finley, Williams, Taylor, Crabtree
OL Newhouse, Lang, Saturday, Sitton, Bulaga, Dietrich-Smith, Sherrod, Datko

DL Raji, Pickett, Worthy, Wilson, Muir, Daniels, Guy
LB Matthews, Bishop, Hawk, Perry, Smith, Francois, Moses, Walden, So'oto
CB Williams, Hayward, House, Shields, Bush
S Woodson, Burnett, Jennings, McMillan

K Crosby
P Masthay
LS Goode

PS Coleman
PUP Quarless
SUS Hargrove, Neal

That's only 52. I had a hard time picking out a 53rd. Could be somebody they pick up from another team. I lean towards another OL. Eight is light, but they've done it before. Maybe Genus or Dominguez. I haven't really gotten a feel for how the young OL are doing. It will probably be a guy who comes out of nowhere (B. Ross). I can't see them keeping 7 WRs, so this leaves out Borel. Guy and So'oto seem the most on the bubble. I've heard bad reports on Datko, so maybe he goes to the PS.


I think you forgot Manning, and agree that Datko looks like a PS or IR. Dominguez, Genus or cutdown pickup will be the eighth OL. Manning instead of So'to.

[Smidgeon]

Another early stab at the roster--based on things we've learned from the first week of practice.

QB Rodgers, Harrell
RB Starks, Green, Saine
FB Kuhn
WR Jennings, Nelson, Jones, Driver, Cobb, Gurley
TE Finley, Williams, Taylor, Crabtree
OL Newhouse, Lang, Saturday, Sitton, Bulaga, Dietrich-Smith, Sherrod, Datko

DL Raji, Pickett, Worthy, Wilson, Muir, Daniels, Guy
LB Matthews, Bishop, Hawk, Perry, Smith, Francois, Moses, Walden, So'oto
CB Williams, Hayward, House, Shields, Bush
S Woodson, Burnett, Jennings, McMillan

K Crosby
P Masthay
LS Goode

PS Coleman
PUP Quarless
SUS Hargrove, Neal

That's only 52. I had a hard time picking out a 53rd. Could be somebody they pick up from another team. I lean towards another OL. Eight is light, but they've done it before. Maybe Genus or Dominguez. I haven't really gotten a feel for how the young OL are doing. It will probably be a guy who comes out of nowhere (B. Ross). I can't see them keeping 7 WRs, so this leaves out Borel. Guy and So'oto seem the most on the bubble. I've heard bad reports on Datko, so maybe he goes to the PS.

I'm starting to feel more and more that Coleman wouldn't make it past waivers. I hope I'm wrong. I think he's got a good future and might be a better QB than Flynn. He might be Hasselback material.

[Brandon494]

I'm starting to feel more and more that Coleman wouldn't make it past waivers. I hope I'm wrong. I think he's got a good future and might be a better QB than Flynn. He might be Hasselback material.

I think he'll be another Matt Flynn for us which will be a solid backup, he has a long ways to go before I start comparing him to Hasselback.

[Smidgeon]

I think he'll be another Matt Flynn for us which will be a solid backup, he has a long ways to go before I start comparing him to Hasselback.

Oh, he's certainly not there yet. It's just my gut feeling on where his ceiling is. He has the tools. He just needs the training.

[pbmax]

The reports on Starks I have read have said he has been a notch above everyone else running but that pass pro is still spotty. His QB was giving him a talking to two days ago.

I hope House keeps it up but they also really need Doc Jennings and Shields to make it a complete backfield through to the dime. A Tweet yesterday from one of the speciaty coverage guys (Packer Report or some such) said Shields had been solid for 3 practices in a row this week after the weekend trouble. Have read little about Jennings.

I want Newhouse to be a backup. But with Sherrod out until at least this weekend its looking less and less likely. McGinn said Datko looked like this year's Ricky Elmore at right tackle. Anyone here anything about Samson Genus?

[pbmax]

Question: Justin, that weight you got for Raji, was it the offficial Packer number or did Raji give us that? I wonder how often those weights are updated. I don't think Pickett's weight ever changes even though he does (this year thinner).

Notes from Last Night Stolen from Twitter:

1, Bush rotated (Whitt's word for who plays with the 1s) into the starting defense. Then proceeded to get torched for 40 yards by Rodgers on a deep sideline pass. There has to be a way to teach him to turn around. I will be rooting harder than ever for House.
2. Don Davey is a Triathlete now.
3. EDS over Genus at backup center.
4. Perry did not get much done versus Bulaga
5. Raji back at end, Pickett in middle. Will need to pull up old Eagle-Oakie thread from last year but I think that is a switch from last year. I prefer Pick in middle on base. Wilson with starters at RDE.
6. 2nd team D: Wilson at LDE, Raji NT, Worthy RDE
7. McMillan has some speed off edge on blitzes.
8. Shields still feeling way, broke on out route and missed. 20 yard completion to backup TE #7.
9. Mike Applesauce has dime DBs: McMillan, Jennings, Woodson, Bush, Williams and House. No Burnett?
10. Borel ahead of Gurley.
11. KR: Cobb, Shields, Borel, Smithson, Otis Merrill, Curenski Gilleylen. I love 90 man rosters.
12. Ray Dominguez got hurt.
13. Neal beat Greg Van Roten in 1 on 1 pass rush. First lost for grandson of Johnny.
14. Worthy got 1st team reps versus O in 4 minute offense. Weird. In this drill, goal of O is to kill clock. Why Worthy?
15. Dezman Moses is having his way with the bottom of the O roster.
16. Wilde: Five #Packers went out with injuries: Dominguez (ankle), Richardson (thumb), D.J. Williams (back), B.Jones (knee), Hoese (hamstring).

[pbmax]

Pete Carroll is a moron.

I understand the point and understand why it should not be a simply theoretical exercise. But this also demonstrates that Carroll does not understand the difference between Pro and College ball. And how to minimize risk in a complicated and large organization.

The money Flynn signed for is not enough to put all of your eggs into. But by publicly playing three card QB monte, he risks destroying two of his organizations most important assets. All because Pete does not have the intellectual discipline to hold two, opposing ideas in his head simultaneously. The QB front runner needs the opportunity that his front runner status bequeaths to him to prove or disprove that he belongs on the field. And two, that players must earn their time on the field.

Or he could simplify and remember that if you have three QBs, you really have none. Or that the coach's only goal should be to put the team in a position to succeed without regard individual agenda's or desires. And those individual agenda's or desires include the HC fondness for competition at a position to be perfectly consistent across all position groups.

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/nfl--matt-flynn-s-big-money-doesn-t-dim-rookie-russell-wilson-s-shot-at-seahawks--starting-job-.html

[RashanGary]

Hmmmm. . . Van Rotten making a push? ? ? The way most of our 2nd string OL suck butt, having only one loss in one on one's gives him a head up.

[HarveyWallbangers]

I wonder how impressive House has been. The reports are good, but half the time I hear about a WR making a play it seems to be on House. Or at least in the last couple of practices. It might be reporters thought House had taken the #1 spot (rather than Whitt rotating them), and then jumped the gun on scooping other reporters. I'd love it if he took that spot because Shields has shown he can be a good 3rd CB and Hayward would be intriguing as the 3rd or 4th CB.

From yesterday's camp report:


Jennings caught a back-shoulder throw for a touchdown against Davon House, as Rodgers beat a red-zone blitz, and then later he beat House again on a deep post as Rodgers bought time in the pocket.

I read some other things on JSO and GBPG, but I'm not going to try to find them because they'll count against my allotment of 15 articles/month.
:)

[RashanGary]

Dominguez and Van Rotten are two of the OL who are standing out in the rushing drills. I'm guessing those two make it. Dietrich-Smith might make it purely because we don't have a backup center on the roster. He's a stop-gap type player. After that, Derrek Sherrod, but Sherrod's strength has to be way down, not being able to work out for 6-9 months with his lower body. His technique still has to be raw. Obviously you can't cut him, even if it's going to take him some time to get back.

[RashanGary]

Saturday is the odd duck. He's old. His strength is his ability to get the OL set quickly and correctly at the line so the Packers can keep a rabid pace. Defense have a hard time getting set and substituting if the offense is pressing the pace.

The rest of these guys are 320 lb 23-25 year olds who can move, bend and pass protect (Marshmallow still has to prove it, but consider it done :) )

http://cmsimg.greenbaypressgazette.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=U0&Date=20120731&Category=PKR0205&ArtNo=207310803&Ref=PH&Profile=1058&Item=31&Maxw=620&Maxh=465&q=60

[pbmax]

I wonder how impressive House has been. The reports are good, but half the time I hear about a WR making a play it seems to be on House. Or at least in the last couple of practices. It might be reporters thought House had taken the #1 spot (rather than Whitt rotating them), and then jumped the gun on scooping other reporters. I'd love it if he took that spot because Shields has shown he can be a good 3rd CB and Hayward would be intriguing as the 3rd or 4th CB.

From yesterday's camp report:



I read some other things on JSO and GBPG, but I'm not going to try to find them because they'll count against my allotment of 15 articles/month.
:)

House also has won battles with Jennings (including a tip and a strip from previous practices) but I agree. He's not been lights out and mistake free. Without seeing him live, its tough to know if his success is across the board or mostly against fodder. Whitt did mention that he thought coverage of House's rise was funny. McCarthy has used similar language before to talk up young players and then not have it pan out. I think its his way of staying pawsitive in the press for the young guys. He clearly thinks Shields needs to stop reading coverage from 2010.

[HarveyWallbangers]

I missed Family Night, but it sounds like Lattimore has a chance at LB and Borel is ahead of Gurley.

[ThunderDan]

Pete Carroll is a moron.

I understand the point and understand why it should not be a simply theoretical exercise. But this also demonstrates that Carroll does not understand the difference between Pro and College ball. And how to minimize risk in a complicated and large organization.

The money Flynn signed for is not enough to put all of your eggs into. But by publicly playing three card QB monte, he risks destroying two of his organizations most important assets. All because Pete does not have the intellectual discipline to hold two, opposing ideas in his head simultaneously. The QB front runner needs the opportunity that his front runner status bequeaths to him to prove or disprove that he belongs on the field. And two, that players must earn their time on the field.

Or he could simplify and remember that if you have three QBs, you really have none. Or that the coach's only goal should be to put the team in a position to succeed without regard individual agenda's or desires. And those individual agenda's or desires include the HC fondness for competition at a position to be perfectly consistent across all position groups.

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/nfl--matt-flynn-s-big-money-doesn-t-dim-rookie-russell-wilson-s-shot-at-seahawks--starting-job-.html

PB, I too wonder if this happens because of Carroll's college days. In the NCAA you have 4 years with a QB and more likely 2 that he will play. You need to find the best QB for 11 games and that is all. In the NFL you need to build continuity. You can let a QB play and fight thru a 8-8 year knowing that 2 or 3 years from now you might be looking at 13-3 and a QB who can lead your team for 5-7 years.

[pbmax]

PB, I too wonder if this happens because of Carroll's college days. In the NCAA you have 4 years with a QB and more likely 2 that he will play. You need to find the best QB for 11 games and that is all. In the NFL you need to build continuity. You can let a QB play and fight thru a 8-8 year knowing that 2 or 3 years from now you might be looking at 13-3 and a QB who can lead your team for 5-7 years.

Yes, in College, that backup QB might stick around (Cassel, Sanchez) waiting for a known chance to play or simply transfer where you usually don't hear from them again. There are a few well know exceptions, but usually players that need to transfer are not substantially better than what you have on hand. So most transfers don't haunt college coaches. Aaron Stecker couldn't sniff a carry after Dayne came on board, but he transferred and the Badgers never looked back. Stecker was good enough to last 10+ years but no one ever second guessed Stecker or Alvarez.

In the professional environment, you need that QB to both trust and fear you. But your starter needs the reps and chance to start in live games before judgement is passed and a pro offense is no place for shuttling QBs. The backup QBs have no interest in sticking around if they are truly good. Accordingly, if you have no confidence in Tavaris Jackson, then you need to support Flynn now. Wilson will available and developing for more years than Flynn will. Building up Wilson (or Jackson) publicly puts more pressure on Flynn, causes confusion in the fan and reporter base and makes you look dumb when you make a decision contrary to the hype.

[LP]

TJack sure does get himself into some shitty situations. I wonder if it has anything to do with Darrell Bevell. For some reason I have the impression that Bevell is the HC's yes man, and just strings players like Jackson along because he doesn't have the balls to make a stand, one way or the other.

[RashanGary]

Rodgers Harrell (2) (2)
Starks Green Saine (3) (5)
Kuhn (1) (7)
Finley Williams Taylor Crabtree (4) (10)
Jennings Nelson Jones Cobb Driver Borel (6) (16)
Newhouse Lang Saturday Sitton Bulaga Sherrod Van Rotten Dominguez Dietrich Smith (9) (25)

Masthay Crosby Goode (3) (28 )


Raji Pickett Wilson Worthy Daniels (5) (33)
Matthews Perry Moses Bishop Smith Lattimore Hawk Francois Manning B Jones (10) (43)
Williams House Hayward Shields Bush Ross Woodson Burnett Jennings McMillan (10) (53)

[rbaloha1]

Appears thus the defensive horrors from last season are corrected.

The addition of Worthy and Perry provides juice for a consistent pass rush. The back-up ilbs are playmakers and shall help in nickel and dime situations. If one of them can retrieve defensive signals and line-up everyone correctly its special teams for Hawk. (Hawk is way overpaid for essentially being a signal caller).

The secondary has numerous athletes with more experience in the scheme. So much so that imo Shields is on the bubble or joins Bush on special teams.

Its difficult to be a top 10 defense given the high powered offense. IMO as long as the defense continues to force turnovers, improve on third down defense and an important stat Capers loves -- an under 80 qb rating, the super bowl awaits.

[Iron Mike]

I've sentenced boys younger than you to the gas chamber. Didn't want to do it. I felt I owed it to them.

How 'bout a Fresca??

http://www.carlspackler.com/archive/cs_273.jpg

[pbmax]

Newhouse situation is still murky. No one (even teammates) was sure he was injured. McCarthy had nothing when he spoke to media and no practice Saturday.

[RashanGary]

Newhouse situation is still murky. No one (even teammates) was sure he was injured. McCarthy had nothing when he spoke to media and no practice Saturday.

Not good. He looked to be walking perfectly fine. Zero limp, no shoulders hanging. He was walking mostly slowly, with his head down. I'm guessing concussion. That or a strain somewhere in his core area (back, oblique, etc)

[RashanGary]

pb, I know you want Sherrod in there. . . . . I really think it's going to be tough for him. He has very little game experience. He hasn't been able to work his lower body since December (7 months.) I don't know if you've done much weight lifting, but 7 months is a really long time. A lot of strength is lost in that time. He has to be at less than 50% right now of where he should be. He was a rookie coming in. He was already below the strength he should be been at. That's a big setback for him. Also, technique and muscle memory are paramount for OL. It's going to take him some time, to get that down too.

Marshmallow is our best bet. He has experience. He's been mostly healthy so he's been able to get his NFL strength and technique down. He worked with Lang last year and is building chemistry with him now. It's not a good thing to lose this guy. We have nobody ready.

I went back through the scouts information on Sherrod. He seems like a low floor, possibly high ceiling (in pass pro) type of guy. He just needs some time to get his legs under him. That could easily happen if he gets a season here to wait in the wings like Rodgers did. Work on all of the little things, get stronger. . . Next year could be quite the competition. This year, I just don't see him being able to do it. That was a really tough break for him (no pun intended.)

[RashanGary]

I meant to say his floor isn't low, and his ceiling is pretty high. So scouts thought he'd be a good player, with potential to be really good, but they didn't see him as special.

[Bretsky]

Newhouse situation is still murky. No one (even teammates) was sure he was injured. McCarthy had nothing when he spoke to media and no practice Saturday.


Hopefully the Marshmellow is fine

Otherwise we'll have to hope Sherry comes back sooner

[Joemailman]

Does T. J. Lang start getting reps at LT this week? Bulaga?

[Lurker64]

I don't think we should jump to conclusions on Newhouse's injury. Maybe he just turned an ankle and, since the scrimmage is meaningless, they sent him into the locker room to get it taped up.

I wouldn't overreact at least until tomorrow's practice, and better still hold off overreacting until McCarthy talks after practice.

[Joemailman]

I don't think we should jump to conclusions on Newhouse's injury. Maybe he just turned an ankle and, since the scrimmage is meaningless, they sent him into the locker room to get it taped up.

I wouldn't overreact at least until tomorrow's practice, and better still hold off overreacting until McCarthy talks after practice.

It may be nothing serious, but they play a preseason game in 5 days. You don't want Datko protecting The Franchise's blind side.

[Lurker64]

It may be nothing serious, but they play a preseason game in 5 days. You don't want Datko protecting The Franchise's blind side.

Worst case scenario, Aaron Rodgers plays one series in the preseason game, and hands the ball off on every play.

You don't gameplan to beat your opponent in the preseason, but you absolutely gameplan to do sensible things that help your football team.

[pittstang5]

Not good. He looked to be walking perfectly fine. Zero limp, no shoulders hanging. He was walking mostly slowly, with his head down. I'm guessing concussion. That or a strain somewhere in his core area (back, oblique, etc)



Thought concussion too for the same reasons you mentioned.

This one could really hurt, IF this is serious. Datko has shown nothing, except his best turnstyle impression. Sherrod hasn't even been cleared to play and if and when he does, how effective is he going to be? I'm of the opinion that if Sherrod doesn't start practicing soon, as in a week, might as well IR him for the year, cause I don't think he'll be any use.

Hope Clifton is on speed Dial should this incident or, God forbid, something in the future happens.

[BobDobbs]

Thought concussion too for the same reasons you mentioned.

This one could really hurt, IF this is serious. Datko has shown nothing, except his best turnstyle impression. Sherrod hasn't even been cleared to play and if and when he does, how effective is he going to be? I'm of the opinion that if Sherrod doesn't start practicing soon, as in a week, might as well IR him for the year, cause I don't think he'll be any use.

Hope Clifton is on speed Dial should this incident or, God forbid, something in the future happens.

You gotta think that we bump Lang out to LT before we start Datko with the ones right? It gives them a chance to play with their actual injury replacement instead of the depth chart replacement.

I think that Sherrod's going to be OK. We definitely can't IR him unless we trade for someone. We don't have anybody.

[Lurker64]

You gotta think that we bump Lang out to LT before we start Datko with the ones right? It gives them a chance to play with their actual injury replacement instead of the depth chart replacement.

I think that Sherrod's going to be OK. We definitely can't IR him unless we trade for someone. We don't have anybody.

The Packers have seven offensive linemen on their roster that have business in being on an NFL field in a regular season game: Bulaga, Sitton, Saturday, Lang, Newhouse, Sherrod, EDS. If Newhouse and Sherrod are unavailable and the game actually matters, you absolutely start shuffling people outside because EDS is your next best guy and he's strictly an interior OL (and he backs up all three interior OL positions.)

If it's just a preseason game, those don't really matter. Run direct snaps to the RB all night if that's what you need to do in order to get everybody important out of there with their health.

[HarveyWallbangers]

I love when Teddy shows his personality a little bit.


Q. Every good executive, especially in a corporation this large, needs to be thinking about line of succession. If you were unable to fulfill your duties, would you recommend John Dorsey, Russ Ball or possibly someone else to be the GM?

A. You're the only person who ever asks me what I'm going to do when I retire. First of all, I think they should have a shut-down of business for a year (laughter) in memory. Barring that, I'll leave that to the powers that be here as far as that. But these are all good people. I couldn't do my job without John and Russ and these guys. I think any of them could do the job.

[RashanGary]

Appears thus the defensive horrors from last season are corrected.

The addition of Worthy and Perry provides juice for a consistent pass rush. The back-up ilbs are playmakers and shall help in nickel and dime situations. If one of them can retrieve defensive signals and line-up everyone correctly its special teams for Hawk. (Hawk is way overpaid for essentially being a signal caller).

The secondary has numerous athletes with more experience in the scheme. So much so that imo Shields is on the bubble or joins Bush on special teams.

Its difficult to be a top 10 defense given the high powered offense. IMO as long as the defense continues to force turnovers, improve on third down defense and an important stat Capers loves -- an under 80 qb rating, the super bowl awaits.

Hmmmm. . . . It makes so much sense, I'm going to pour me a glass of kool-aid.

[RashanGary]

Question: Justin, that weight you got for Raji, was it the offficial Packer number or did Raji give us that? I wonder how often those weights are updated. I don't think Pickett's weight ever changes even though he does (this year thinner).

Notes from Last Night Stolen from Twitter:



In the GBPG, Raji said he came in at his usual 337. Said they don't realize how hard it is to lose 10 lbs. . . . I remember when Ted drafted him, he said the big worry with that body type is it's really hard to keep the weight down. Apparently Raji has a body type that really, really, really wants to be big.

[RashanGary]

Hopefully the Marshmellow is fine

Otherwise we'll have to hope Sherry comes back sooner

I'm a Marshmallow homer, but when you put it that way, it sounds very bleak :(

[RashanGary]

It may be nothing serious, but they play a preseason game in 5 days. You don't want Datko protecting The Franchise's blind side.

We might be going up against some Dezman Moses type player who's playing like his next meal depends on it. Yeah, if Datko is playing LT, it might be a good idea to either wrap AR with memory foam or just forget to buy him a plane ticket.

[RashanGary]

When they (the Packers) do good, then people clap for me when I come out in front of the shareholders. If they weren't doing good then they wouldn't clap for me.


Haha. . . . . . Talk about unconditional love, right

[packrulz]

Here is the current depth chart, Bush is starting at CB, ugh: http://espnmilwaukee.com/common/more.php?m=49&action=blog&r=40&post_id=9061

[Joemailman]

Here is the current depth chart, Bush is starting at CB, ugh: http://espnmilwaukee.com/common/more.php?m=49&action=blog&r=40&post_id=9061

Some thoughts:

EDS not listed on the depth chart at C.

Both Hargrove and Neal listed at the bottom of the DC at their respective positions. Wonder where they'd be if they weren't going to be suspended.

So'oto listed 2 spots ahead of Moses does not coincide with what we've been hearing from camp.

Really good depth at ILB.

Until Sherrod makes it back, depth at OT is a real concern.

[pbmax]

I love when Teddy shows his personality a little bit.

Who asked that question? Its not an employees job to think about their own line of succession. Its their supervisors. It had to be McGinn or Wilde.

[pbmax]

pb, I know you want Sherrod in there. . . . . I really think it's going to be tough for him. He has very little game experience. He hasn't been able to work his lower body since December (7 months.) I don't know if you've done much weight lifting, but 7 months is a really long time. A lot of strength is lost in that time. He has to be at less than 50% right now of where he should be. He was a rookie coming in. He was already below the strength he should be been at. That's a big setback for him. Also, technique and muscle memory are paramount for OL. It's going to take him some time, to get that down too.

Marshmallow is our best bet. He has experience. He's been mostly healthy so he's been able to get his NFL strength and technique down. He worked with Lang last year and is building chemistry with him now. It's not a good thing to lose this guy. We have nobody ready.

I went back through the scouts information on Sherrod. He seems like a low floor, possibly high ceiling (in pass pro) type of guy. He just needs some time to get his legs under him. That could easily happen if he gets a season here to wait in the wings like Rodgers did. Work on all of the little things, get stronger. . . Next year could be quite the competition. This year, I just don't see him being able to do it. That was a really tough break for him (no pun intended.)

Please don't misunderstand. I want Sherrod to win the job. But not by default or injury. I want him to smoke Newhouse and put his butt on the bench. Unless he is at practice first thing Monday with no restrictions, its looking like its not going to happen. As for training, I would be surprised if he has not been working out with weights for some weeks now. I have no info, but I bet that would get approved before being on the field or even running and cutting.

[pbmax]

Herb Taylor will be at LT if Newhouse is unable to go tonight according to Silverstein. Datko is behind him (odd because he has been at RT all week) and then Allred or Allerd. Perhaps we could just call him Shea.

[Bossman641]

Who asked that question? Its not an employees job to think about their own line of succession. Its their supervisors. It had to be McGinn or Wilde.

McGinn of course

[pittstang5]

Newhouse not at practice tonight. Still no word as to why.

I find it funny, that in today's age of technology, no one knows or at least info on Newhouse hasn't been released or at the very least, leaked out.

[pittstang5]

Newhouse out due to concussion.

[Lurker64]

Newhouse out due to concussion.

Jennings too. Both should be available for week 1, if not preseason week 2.

[mission]

Worthy with a big practice tonight... he's stringing them together now. Perry even put Bulaga on his ass in a one-on-one rep.

[Guiness]

Newhouse not at practice tonight. Still no word as to why.

I find it funny, that in today's age of technology, no one knows or at least info on Newhouse hasn't been released or at the very least, leaked out.

The Packers have always been one of the better teams at being closed lipped about going ons. Since there are no games, they don't have to release an injury report (do they?) so there's not much of a way for the info to get out.

[pittstang5]

The Packers have always been one of the better teams at being closed lipped about going ons. Since there are no games, they don't have to release an injury report (do they?) so there's not much of a way for the info to get out.

The Packers Office peeps - yes, I see that. But with Twitter, facebook and everything else the Players have access to, I'm just surprised that Newhouse himself or one of the Packer Players didn't leak anything out. Maybe McCarthy has a "no tweet" policy when it comes to these types of things. Sometimes you know a player's injury before it's even officially released due to the social media outlets we have today.

[Guiness]

pb, I know you want Sherrod in there. . . . . I really think it's going to be tough for him. He has very little game experience. He hasn't been able to work his lower body since December (7 months.) I don't know if you've done much weight lifting, but 7 months is a really long time. A lot of strength is lost in that time. He has to be at less than 50% right now of where he should be. He was a rookie coming in. He was already below the strength he should be been at. That's a big setback for him. Also, technique and muscle memory are paramount for OL. It's going to take him some time, to get that down too.



I'm going to chalk up that '50%' number to the Bureau of made up Statistics. (http://bomus.org/) Yes, you lose some strength, but the muscles don't go away. He can regain any lost strength a lot quicker than someone who's never been at an elite level.

[RashanGary]

Real nice fluff piece on Mike Neal (GBPG)

He'd be a perfect fit in the base defense. I'd actually like to see Pickett inside on base defense with Neal and Wilson. I'd like to save raji's snaps for the nickle/dime. He's a beast 3-tech.

Could be a real good year if Neal is a good player.

[Lurker64]

Real nice fluff piece on Mike Neal (GBPG)

He'd be a perfect fit in the base defense. I'd actually like to see Pickett inside on base defense with Neal and Wilson. I'd like to save raji's snaps for the nickle/dime. He's a beast 3-tech.

Could be a real good year if Neal is a good player.

In that Washington game his rookie year, before he got hurt he was basically living in the offensive backfield. It would be awesome if we could get that guy back for the last 12 weeks and the playoffs this year.

[Joemailman]

In that Washington game his rookie year, before he got hurt he was basically living in the offensive backfield. It would be awesome if we could get that guy back for the last 12 weeks and the playoffs this year.

Yep. Pickett, Raji, Neal, Worthy, Daniels and Wilson would look a lot different than what the Pack had last year.

[Joemailman]

Sounds like Bishop had a great practice Monday night. Didn't take him long.

Ryan Taylor with a concussion. Seems like a lot of these.

Sam Shields with an elbow injury.

Neither Bishop or Hawk played much in nickel.

[swede]

Sounds like Bishop had a great practice Monday night. Didn't take him long.

Ryan Taylor with a concussion. Seems like a lot of these.

Sam Shields with an elbow injury.

Neither Bishop or Hawk played much in nickel.

One wonders if the definition of "concussion" has ratcheted downward for the protection of players. The neurological threshold for sitting a player may trigger more quickly now. I don't see how a player can return in anything less than five or six days once identified as having sustained a concussion, even if it is considered minor. The real danger to the players lies in re-injuring a brain that hasn't healed.

[Lurker64]

One wonders if the definition of "concussion" has ratcheted downward for the protection of players. The neurological threshold for sitting a player may trigger more quickly now. I don't see how a player can return in anything less than five or six days once identified as having sustained a concussion, even if it is considered minor. The real danger to the players lies in re-injuring a brain that hasn't healed.

I'm almost entirely certain that the NFL currently sits guys down (especially in camp) for things that as little as 10 years ago would fall into the "rub some dirt on it"/"walk it off" category. It's both an issue of being more medically aware of this sort of thing, and an issue of liability (the NFL has a huge concussion lawsuit leveled at them right now.)

[rbaloha1]

In that Washington game his rookie year, before he got hurt he was basically living in the offensive backfield. It would be awesome if we could get that guy back for the last 12 weeks and the playoffs this year.

This small sample of success was supposed to make us forget Cullen Jenkins. Neal needs to cut it loose.

[pbmax]

House out for 2-3 weeks. Bullet dodged. EDIT: Reevaluate in 2-3 weeks and see if healing.. Unclear where it goes from there. Deeper in Tweets, sound more like rehab for 3 weeks and then harness or surgery.

Bishop needs hammy surgery. Bullet lodged. Surgery will reveal degree of severity and rehab schedule. Possible for new IR, but impossible to know now.

Starks has turf toe and is week to week.

[pittstang5]

Bishop needs hammy surgery. Bullet lodged.

Damn, he got shot too. That's one hell of a bad day.

Sorry, couldn't resist.

IMO, Surgery = Bishop done for year.

[RashanGary]

House is young. That tends to help when it comes to healing quickly. I'm really hoping we have him. Williams, House, Shields and Hayward seem like good depth. Take one of those guys out for the season before it even starts and it doesn't look nearly so good.

Bishops injury doesn't bother me. Everything coming from the Packers (players and coaches) is that DJ Smith is a player.

Starks turf toe is a real injury. Those things linger and slow a guy down. I'm not a Starks fan though, so that doesn't bother me.

House is potentially the biggest injury to me. He was playing really well.



So far, nothing horrible, but hopefully we can stop the bleeding and go into the season without any more injuries.

[RashanGary]

Is it just me or does Sharron look like a who down in Whoville?



http://www.mysolidrock.com/local/sry/images/2007/grinch.jpg
http://cdn.blisstree.com/files/2012/08/shannoneastin-640x428.jpg

[pbmax]

21 players were on the sidelines at tonight's practice, including 4 on PUP. That according to Demovsky and Wilde.

[pbmax]

Jason Wilde ‏@jasonjwilde

If Starks, Green, Saine are OK soon, they can cut Benson at end of camp if they want. I am told Thompson doesn't want to do that to Grant.

https://twitter.com/jasonjwilde/status/234496037161664512

[denverYooper]

Jason Wilde ‏@jasonjwilde

If Starks, Green, Saine are OK soon, they can cut Benson at end of camp if they want. I am told Thompson doesn't want to do that to Grant.

https://twitter.com/jasonjwilde/status/234496037161664512

Grant?

[pbmax]

Meaning, Wilde has a source that says Ted doesn't want to sign Grant when there is a chance he would just be a camp body.

[smuggler]

TT doesn't want to sign Grant just to cut him at the end of the preaseason. I'm not sure if I believe that.

[pbmax]

TT doesn't want to sign Grant just to cut him at the end of the preaseason. I'm not sure if I believe that.

It makes more sense if you substitute "cash" for "empathy" in considering Thompson's motivation.

[Joemailman]

Borel and Gurley both out with injuries still. With the injuries at other positions, I think the chances of the Packers going with just the returning 5 at WR are getting greater.

[rbaloha1]

Smith is the next man up and should do fine. DJ is always around the ball due to great instincts. Rarely out of position. Solid around football player.

Excellent depth as well at ilb.

[pbmax]

Injury list for Sunday, Aug 12th.

Jason Wilde ‏@jasonjwilde
Non-PUP #Packers out today: Smithson Borel Bennett House Saine Hoese Shields Starks Lair Bishop Dominguez Newhouse G.Jennings Gurley Finley

PUP is Frank Zombo, Andrew Quarless, Derek Sherrod and Johnny Jones.

Back are Worthy, Taylor, Daniels (yesterday) and BJones (yesterday).

[pbmax]

Silverstein flat out declares Datko is vastly better on left. Balance is much better he says on Twitter.

[Brandon494]

Anything else hes pointing out from today's camp?

[pbmax]

McCarthy says Sherrod will be challenged to be ready by the end of camp.

[pbmax]

Anything else hes pointing out from today's camp?

Receivers behind Borel and Gurley each made a play and then had a drop or poor snap. LB Manning made his first play in a while. Hayward and McMillan both made plays.

[Joemailman]

Anything else hes pointing out from today's camp?

http://twitter.com/TomSilverstein

[denverYooper]

M3 channeling Towely today:


MM: I have never seen so many injuries. I don't know what is going on.

https://twitter.com/MikeVandermause/status/234715774290391042

[Patler]

Silverstein flat out declares Datko is vastly better on left. Balance is much better he says on Twitter.

I was hoping he would get a shot at LT. Apparently he has played nothing except LT since high school, and rarely if ever even practiced at a different position. He had to literally concentrate on every little movement on the right. He said he knew he could make the change, but it would take time, because he instinctively moved as if he was on the left, which he never even thought about anymore.

They have said the same about Newhouse and Sherrod, that they are much, much better on the left. It's not surprising that TT drafts so many LTs, they tend to be the teams best linemen. Unfortunately, some haven't adapted to change quickly, and some not at all.

[Joemailman]

MM said in today's PC that there is a chance Newhouse will practice tomorrow.

[rbaloha1]

MM said in today's PC that there is a chance Newhouse will practice tomorrow.

Good news.

[pbmax]

Here is a nugget we have overlooked a bit. Greg Jennings has been out quite some time. And while McCarthy was willing to venture that Newhouse could see the field as early the beginning of this week, he said Jennings was further away and would not speculate. Was he hurt during the scrimmage?

[Joemailman]

Here is a nugget we have overlooked a bit. Greg Jennings has been out quite some time. And while McCarthy was willing to venture that Newhouse could see the field as early the beginning of this week, he said Jennings was further away and would not speculate. Was he hurt during the scrimmage?

Yes. I think it happened on the TD he scored. The ball was low and his facemask got smashed into his face when he hit the ground. He was bleeding in the forehead/nose area.

[pittstang5]

Silverstein flat out declares Datko is vastly better on left. Balance is much better he says on Twitter.

If Newhouse is a no go for Thursday and with everyday he's not back, this becomes more of a possibility, I'd like to see Datko start with the #1s. However, first little sign of trouble, get AR the hell out of there.

[RashanGary]

If Newhouse is a no go for Thursday and with everyday he's not back, this becomes more of a possibility, I'd like to see Datko start with the #1s. However, first little sign of trouble, get AR the hell out of there.

Uh Oh. Phillip Merling moving up the depth chart per JS.

Anytime we get a 6'4" 315 lb end who can play the run and push the pocket a little, I'm going to be happy. He might be the stopgap DL until Neal and Hargrove get back. If he plays well enough, he might find a way to take Hargrove's spot.

With Worthy and Daniels, I don't know how much room there is for a pass rush specialist. Merling (talents, not past work ethic) would round out the line a little.

[pbmax]

Uh Oh. Phillip Merling moving up the depth chart per JS.

Anytime we get a 6'4" 315 lb end who can play the run and push the pocket a little, I'm going to be happy. He might be the stopgap DL until Neal and Hargrove get back. If he plays well enough, he might find a way to take Hargrove's spot.

With Worthy and Daniels, I don't know how much room there is for a pass rush specialist. Merling (talents, not past work ethic) would round out the line a little.

Has he pushed the pocket? I haven't seen any of his work but the suttlebutt on him entering camp was that he was stout but not much against the pass.

[pbmax]

All via Twitter (Demovsky, Wilde, Applesauce, Dougherty, Dunne, McGinn)

Monday AM practice:
Newhouse back
Pickett and MD Jennings out
Green is #1 RB
Sitton back after getting day off
Davon House no sling on arm -- apparently belongs to Reggie White/Mark Chmura fast healers club

[pbmax]

All via Twitter (Demovsky, Wilde, Applesauce, Dougherty, Dunne, McGinn)

Gurley is on field catching passes, not sure about full participation, Borel no pads
No Starks or Saine
5 TE (Crabtree, Taylor, Williams, Bostick and Bill Cosby), no Finley or 2 other TEs picked up off street by Ted on way to work
Finley has a strained quad

[pbmax]

All via Twitter (Demovsky, Wilde, Applesauce, Dougherty, Dunne, McGinn)

Coleman with a couple nice completions and one D lineman drawn offside
Gurley with at least 2 catches and one DB flattened
Nelson beats both Williams and Bush, send Williams to sideline with some kind of hit to mouth, seems OK via Silverstein
Daniels and Worthy getting time in nickel
Datko and Taylor are swapping left and right at Tackle with the #2 offense
Alex Green looking better and better
Francois getting some run as LB in dime

[pbmax]

All via Twitter (Demovsky, Wilde, Applesauce, Dougherty, Dunne, McGinn)

Kuhn sprained ankle in practice
Pickett and Jennings out for personal reasons, no injury
No Benson for Cleveland game
Practice cut short after Kuhn's injury left 3 healthy bodies at RB with Benson in shells

[pbmax]

Shields hopes to return to practice next week from his elbow injury.

[pittstang5]

Kuhn sprained ankle in practice

Practice cut short after Kuhn's injury left 3 healthy bodies at RB with Benson in shells

Man, seems like we get one or two injured players back, then more get injured.

RB position keeps getting hit hard this TC.

[Fosco33]

I'm going to the game tonight... bro got tix. Anything to watch for in particular?? I haven't been able to pay attention to camp much this year.

Obvious ones - where is Chuck lining up, Perry/Worthy, CMIII still being doubled?, Driver vs. Borel/Gurley, etc. How bout anything else?

[Zool]

I'm going to the game tonight... bro got tix. Anything to watch for in particular?? I haven't been able to pay attention to camp much this year.

Obvious ones - where is Chuck lining up, Perry/Worthy, CMIII still being doubled?, Driver vs. Borel/Gurley, etc. How bout anything else?

Left tackles...RB's

[Smidgeon]

I'm going to the game tonight... bro got tix. Anything to watch for in particular?? I haven't been able to pay attention to camp much this year.

Obvious ones - where is Chuck lining up, Perry/Worthy, CMIII still being doubled?, Driver vs. Borel/Gurley, etc. How bout anything else?

Personally, I'm curious about two things:

1) How are the rookies looking? Can we expect impact?
2) Is anyone besides CMIII getting extra attention from the O-line and pass protectors?

[mraynrand]

Francois getting some run as LB in dime

You can do it!

http://blog.wsd.net/mireynolds/files/2010/07/waterboy7.jpg

[rbaloha1]

Merling issue is consistency -- needs to bring it every play which may be possible with a rotation.

[pbmax]

Twitter regurgitations from Sunday mid-day practice:

Benson in pads. Finley reported as in pads and not in pads (see Rumsfeld, Donald for info on first reports)
EDIT: my bad, both reports said he was back. See Max, Pb for info on reading)

Saine and Starks still out
Jennings is back in pads

Zombo still not practicing
Borel still out as is Hoese.
Woodson not practicing in pads either

Shields, Kuhn are back
Woodson, practicing his Houdini, has pads on now. Did this while upside down in port o potty. Amazing.

[pbmax]

Alex Green has fumbled twice in ball security drill (he is big into ironic performance art)
Only 13 players not practicing today

Bush running with 1st team at CB in base and nickel
MD Jennings still ahead of McMillan

Benson behind Alex Green despite fumble demonstration

[pbmax]

McMillan did impress coaches and got some #1 team snaps but MD Jennings still first in and bulk of snaps, McCarthy said McMillan took a huge step up

Jennings was off any physical activity for 2 weeks. Split his nose open on catch and head into ground

Still looking for someone to seize #1 RCB, which writers take to mean its Bush again, not Hayward at the top of the chart

DL played far better in 1st preseason game

Perry had best practice but largely against scout team

[pbmax]

Monday's practice off Twitter feed:

Wilde, Silverstein and Demovsky all report that Jennings might have suffered his concussion on Wednesday's practice prior to scrimmage. Had headaches rest of that practice and next and then drive his nose into the turf Friday. Would help explain two week absence. It's bad because one of the working assumptions about damage from blows to the head is that the second blow after an injury (before healing can occur) is what can lead to more permanent damage.

Silverstein's five guys on the bubble: Wynn, Manning, Crabtree and So'oto.

Borel is back as in Hargrove (ice on knee last practice). Datko looks out today after leaving a bit early yesterday.
Shields with two pass Ds early
Levine with #1 D early for Doc Jennings
Moses gets a spot on ST that Walden used to inhabit (punt coverage)
Shields got dime duty ahead of Hayward in 1 vs 1 team drill
Shea Allard and Barclay (?) getting reps at LT with Datko out

[HarveyWallbangers]

Silverstein's five guys on the bubble: Wynn, Manning, Crabtree and So'oto.

That's four guys.
:)

I believe that. I think Wynn is gone, Manning and So'oto haven't shown much, and I like Taylor more than Crabtree long-term.

[pbmax]

Francois has a pick and continues to drop well into coverage. You would think this team has got to get him on field in nickel, dime, no?
--maybe he can't shadow a TE like Bishop or Smith in man coverage, but there does not seem to be anyone else who can get back into a zone better

Gurley and Shields both get roughed up on hard landing to turf (separate plays) but both stay in. Nothing like competition to keep players on field.
Alex Green with first team reps in Red Zone drill


McCarthy
-Datko had a concussion, making the head this years version of the shoulder and hamstring of camp's past
-CJ Wilson earning more playing time, fits Oakie well (oy vey)
-liked the last two prractices because of health
-starters will play a half versus the bengals
-Benson's transition will be language not scheme, plenty off spots in scheme for him to work
-All PUP guys (Quarless, Sherrod and Zombo?) will go down to wire whether or not they get to practice before opener. Will not stop them from practicing just to get them on PUP (I would flag this statement as perhaps technically true but de facto false)

[pbmax]

That's four guys.
:)

I believe that. I think Wynn is gone, Manning and So'oto haven't shown much, and I like Taylor more than Crabtree long-term.

Nice catch. He also mentioned Harrell. I thought Harrell was an odd duck in this list as the odds he misses the roster even if the Packers sign a vet seem slim. But if they don't think Coleman can get hidden on the PS, I suppose its a possibility.

[Guiness]

Harrell on bubble, eh? Interesting. Backup QB was his to lose, and it looks like he might.

So'oto is interesting as well. Made the roster as a UDFA, hurt and unavailable through most of season (but kept on roster, right? I don't remember his being IR'd) and now might not make the team.

I think Crabtree makes it. I like the guy, and think he bring more to the table than is apparent. As mentioned before, he also has the body type MM and TT seem to like on special teams.

[Smidgeon]

Nice catch. He also mentioned Harrell. I thought Harrell was an odd duck in this list as the odds he misses the roster even if the Packers sign a vet seem slim. But if they don't think Coleman can get hidden on the PS, I suppose its a possibility.

If they bring in a vet backup, I think Harrell's gone. His days as a third QB have passed. If he hasn't gotten it together by now, it's Coleman's turn.

Manning might be stashed on the PS, but I can see the rest getting cut, although Crabtree may last only until Quarless is ready to go.

[Joemailman]

A few pictures I took at practice today.


http://s1206.photobucket.com/albums/bb449/route25/Packers%20Practice%208202012/?albumview=slideshow

[pbmax]

Fantastic photos Joe. How early did you get there and were the seats worth it?

Silverstein said it was pretty packed.

[Joemailman]

Fantastic photos Joe. How early did you get there and were the seats worth it?

Silverstein said it was pretty packed.

I got there about 10:30 with practice at 11:15. My vantage point wasn't great but I have a pretty good zoom on my camera. Don't know how soon people show up to get the good seats. I was surprised how many people were there on a Monday. Weather was perfect for calling in sick though.

[rbaloha1]

A few pictures I took at practice today.


http://s1206.photobucket.com/albums/bb449/route25/Packers%20Practice%208202012/?albumview=slideshow


nice pics. outstanding lighting and clarity.

[Guiness]

A few pictures I took at practice today.


http://s1206.photobucket.com/albums/bb449/route25/Packers%20Practice%208202012/?albumview=slideshow


Thank you thank you thank you! Great photos.

Do you know who the guy in the third picture, talking to Jones, is? I'm thinking Edgar Bennett, since he's the WR coach but it doesn't look like him. Also, what's with the red covers on some of the guys helmets? No hit, like QB's? A few offensive players, and So'oto have them.

[Joemailman]

Thank you thank you thank you! Great photos.

Do you know who the guy in the third picture, talking to Jones, is? I'm thinking Edgar Bennett, since he's the WR coach but it doesn't look like him. Also, what's with the red covers on some of the guys helmets? No hit, like QB's? A few offensive players, and So'oto have them.

I'm pretty sure that's Bennett.

The red covers are used on special teams drills. Kicking team was wearing them. That's used to identify which players are on the kicking team and which are on the receiving team since each team will have a mixture of offensive players (White jerseys) and defensive players (green jerseys).

[George Cumby]

A few pictures I took at practice today.


http://s1206.photobucket.com/albums/bb449/route25/Packers%20Practice%208202012/?albumview=slideshow

Awesome photos!

Thank you!

[imscott72]

Great photos Joe. Thanks for sharing!

[HowardRoark]

I got there about 10:30 with practice at 11:15. My vantage point wasn't great but I have a pretty good zoom on my camera. Don't know how soon people show up to get the good seats. I was surprised how many people were there on a Monday. Weather was perfect for calling in sick though.

I showed up around 12:15 with my two sons and found three nice seats at the 30-40 ward line right away. I noticed a few open spots. Were you sitting near that fat dude screaming his love for everyone?

[MJZiggy]

I showed up around 12:15 with my two sons and found three nice seats at the 30-40 ward line right away. I noticed a few open spots. Were you sitting near that fat dude screaming his love for everyone?
Maybe he WAS that fat dude...Just sayin'

[Joemailman]

I showed up around 12:15 with my two sons and found three nice seats at the 30-40 ward line right away. I noticed a few open spots. Were you sitting near that fat dude screaming his love for everyone?

I think I heard that guy. I figured it was Skinbasket.

[HarveyWallbangers]

Nice pics, Joe. Thanks. Howard, you drove out to Green Bay this week?

[Pugger]

I'm pretty sure that's Bennett.

The red covers are used on special teams drills. Kicking team was wearing them. That's used to identify which players are on the kicking team and which are on the receiving team since each team will have a mixture of offensive players (White jerseys) and defensive players (green jerseys).

OH! I always wondered about that.

[pbmax]

Tuesday's practice from Twitter:

DJ Williams (ankle) and Cosby (hammy) get injured, Packers down to seven TEs on roster
Levine gets #1 reps on D at Safety
Finley and Jennings still going
Shields had a pick and a PD but Bush going to start at RCB

[denverYooper]

Tuesday's practice from Twitter:

DJ Williams (ankle) and Cosby (hammy) get injured, Packers down to seven TEs on roster
Levine gets #1 reps on D at Safety
Finley and Jennings still going
Shields had a pick and a PD but Bush going to start at RCB

BJ Coleman shreds the first team D.

Packers press softening up the public to the reality that they're going to dump Harrell and roll with Coleman:
http://www.packers.com/news-and-events/article-1/Coleman-building-brick-by-brick/05e2a30f-e584-4731-9074-d449988d0023

[Joemailman]

Tuesday's practice from Twitter:

DJ Williams (ankle) and Cosby (hammy) get injured, Packers down to seven TEs on roster
Levine gets #1 reps on D at Safety
Finley and Jennings still going
Shields had a pick and a PD but Bush going to start at RCB

One of the pictures I took yesterday shows Williams getting his ankle re-taped in the middle of practice so that ankle may have already been a problem.

[Fritz]

One of the pictures I took yesterday shows Williams getting his ankle re-taped in the middle of practice so that ankle may have already been a problem.

Kicker + hammy injury = uh oh.

[Lurker64]

Kicker + hammy injury = uh oh.

It's Cosby with the hamstring, not Crosby.

DeMarco Cosby, TE out of Central Missouri wasn't going to make this roster anyway. He's playing for a PS spot or a spot on another team.

[Pugger]

It's Cosby with the hamstring, not Crosby.

DeMarco Cosby, TE out of Central Missouri wasn't going to make this roster anyway. He's playing for a PS spot or a spot on another team.

Nothing against Cosby but I'm relieved it wasn't Mason.

[Joemailman]

It's Cosby with the hamstring, not Crosby.

DeMarco Cosby, TE out of Central Missouri wasn't going to make this roster anyway. He's playing for a PS spot or a spot on another team.

It's an understandable miscue. I used to get Bill Cosby and Bing Crosby mixed up all the time.

[pbmax]

It's an understandable miscue. I used to get Bill Cosby and Bing Crosby mixed up all the time.

Their kids didn't.

[pbmax]

BJ Coleman shreds the first team D.

Packers press softening up the public to the reality that they're going to dump Harrell and roll with Coleman:
http://www.packers.com/news-and-events/article-1/Coleman-building-brick-by-brick/05e2a30f-e584-4731-9074-d449988d0023

I am prepared to believe a lot of goofy things will happen with the Packer roster given the needs on D and the unsettled lineup at DL, pass rusher on suspension, safety and 2nd and 3rd corner needs.

But if Coleman is the #2 QB then I will have seen it all. I am not even sure Thompson, McCarthy or Belicheck have brass ones that big.

[Joemailman]

I am prepared to believe a lot of goofy things will happen with the Packer roster given the needs on D and the unsettled lineup at DL, pass rusher on suspension, safety and 2nd and 3rd corner needs.

But if Coleman is the #2 QB then I will have seen it all. I am not even sure Thompson, McCarthy or Belicheck have brass ones that big.

Would it be any brassier than going into 2008 with Rodgers and 2 rookies, Flynn and Brohm?

[Guiness]

Would it be any brassier than going into 2008 with Rodgers and 2 rookies, Flynn and Brohm?

At least one of them was a 2nd round pick!

Um, ya. I guess that didn't matter so much.

[Guiness]

It's an understandable miscue. I used to get Bill Cosby and Bing Crosby mixed up all the time.

I'm the same. For years I thought Bill Cosby sang 'White Christmas'! :oops:

[Guiness]

BJ Coleman shreds the first team D.

Packers press softening up the public to the reality that they're going to dump Harrell and roll with Coleman:
http://www.packers.com/news-and-events/article-1/Coleman-building-brick-by-brick/05e2a30f-e584-4731-9074-d449988d0023

A Shaky Smithson sighting! I can't believe that guy's still with the team. Did he spend all of last year on the ps, or did they resign him for camp?

edit: he was on IR last year

[Brandon494]

I am prepared to believe a lot of goofy things will happen with the Packer roster given the needs on D and the unsettled lineup at DL, pass rusher on suspension, safety and 2nd and 3rd corner needs.

But if Coleman is the #2 QB then I will have seen it all. I am not even sure Thompson, McCarthy or Belicheck have brass ones that big.

Its not like Harrell is any better then some sign FA we can sign during the season if Rodgers were to get injured for a long period of time. I've never liked Harrell's game and have always stated he was a product of a heavy passing scheme in college.

[Pugger]

If indeed Coleman is gonna play most of the 4th quarter that alone is reason to stay up and watch after the starters leave.

[pbmax]

Would it be any brassier than going into 2008 with Rodgers and 2 rookies, Flynn and Brohm?

If they sign someone, I guess not. But if its Rodgers and Coleman, yes, I think that's bigger than 2 rookie backup QBs, 5 TE or 3 FB territory.

[PaCkFan_n_MD]

After what I have seen from Harrell, I wouldn't be surprised if they cut him and keep Coleman on the 53 man roster until they add a vet to be the primary backup for a year.

[RashanGary]

Packers seem to be playing more and more H-back offense. A lot of 1 back - 2 TE sets instead of the FB/RB sets. With Williams being so fast and having such good hands, it gives us the chance to open it up, or run.

[pbmax]

Sunday practice on Twitter:

Not much BUT:
Pickett, Taylor (TE), Crabtree and Francois are out (total of 18)
Saine back
McMillian at safety in dime ahead of MD Jennings. Some Tweets that but also mean he is nickel safety, but I don't think that's a rule
In dime, Shields and McMillan came in ahead of Hayward, Levine and Jennings
Bush is RCB with 1s in base and dime
---no mention of nickel lineup
Dougherty says Shields an McMillan also with #1 D in nickel
Phillip Merling put Newhouse into Rodgers lap and knocked the QB down

[Joemailman]

Finley only healthy TE in practice today. So'oto playing some at TE.

Worthy replacing Pickett with 1's.

[RashanGary]

It's Cosby with the hamstring, not Crosby.

I'm still scared by that post.

[RashanGary]

I think they're keepign the extra 10 cut players around because they're so injured. Would suck to be one of those guys, just waiting around for the ax.

[Guiness]

Finley only healthy TE in practice today. So'oto playing some at TE.

Worthy replacing Pickett with 1's.

Really? Don't we have like 9 of them in camp (or at least did, before the first cut down)?

[pbmax]

Really? Don't we have like 9 of them in camp (or at least did, before the first cut down)?

Yes, but five of the inured are TEs. They were down to Finley and Bostick. So'oto and Lattimore played TE on scout team.

[pbmax]

Sherrod hitting targets and getting closer to practicing. Still some targets to clear. Maybe avoid PUP?

[denverYooper]

Sherrod hitting targets and getting closer to practicing. Still some targets to clear. Maybe avoid PUP?

I'm puzzled by his rehab. From McCarthy's presser, they seem to have him doing hurdles and practicing archery.

[Joemailman]

House will not require surgery for now, but will have to wear a brace all season. If the shoulder pops out again, then surgery would be necessary. He could be back next week.

[pbmax]

Can Alex Barron play Tackle anymore? Was released by Seahawks at same time as TO.

[RashanGary]

This team is really starting to round into shape. Some of the big question marks are being answered.

Our LT seems to have made big strides from a year ago

We have young secondary players stepping up: Hayward, McMillan, Burnett. We have young pass rushers stepping up: Perry, Worthy, Moses. We have a RB stepping up: Benson. Our WR corp is looking dynamite. Finley is ready to rumble. DJ Williams has had an excellent camp. ST's look amazing.

The defense is a "work in progress." That's the cliche we've heard for a couple weeks now, but they look talented and laden with a few more playmakers than a year ago. The way this defense is built, it looks like we'll have to win with ST's and offense early, but they'll round into decent shape when it matters most.


We've had some good teams the last 5 years. IMO, this is the best Packer team we've seen since the 96 championship team. Maybe better.

[Smidgeon]

This team is really starting to round into shape. Some of the big question marks are being answered.

Our LT seems to have made big strides from a year ago

We have young secondary players stepping up: Hayward, McMillan, Burnett. We have young pass rushers stepping up: Perry, Worthy, Moses. We have a RB stepping up: Benson. Our WR corp is looking dynamite. Finley is ready to rumble. DJ Williams has had an excellent camp. ST's look amazing.

The defense is a "work in progress." That's the cliche we've heard for a couple weeks now, but they look talented and laden with a few more playmakers than a year ago. The way this defense is built, it looks like we'll have to win with ST's and offense early, but they'll round into decent shape when it matters most.


We've had some good teams the last 5 years. IMO, this is the best Packer team we've seen since the 96 championship team. Maybe better.

Even better than the 96 team?

http://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/gnb/1996.htm