Ridiculously Early 53 Man Roster

[vince]

Just for the hell of it...

Offense

Locks - 20
Rodgers
Tolzein
Hundley
Lacy
Starks
Kuhn
R. Rodgers
Quarless
Nelson
Cobb
Adams
Montgomery
Janis
Bakhtiari
Sitton
Linsley
Lang
Bulaga
Barclay
Tretter

Last Men IN - 5
Ripkowski - FB
Harris - RB
Backman - TE
Pinkard - WR
Taylor - OL

Last Men CUT
Rotheram
Neal
Perillo
Abbrederis
Coxson

Defense

Locks - 17
Daniels
Jones
Raji
Matthews
Peppers
Perry
Neal
Barrington
Ryan
Shields
Hayward
Randall
Goodsen
Burnett
Dix
Richardson
Hyde

Last Men IN - 8
Guion - NT
Boyd - DE
Ringo - DE
Elliott - OLB
Bradford - ILB
Dantzler - ILB
Rollins - CB
Sebetek - S

Last Men CUT
Francis
Pennel
Thornton
Mulumba
Hubbard
Thomas
Glover-Wright
Banjo

Special Teams - Locks - Goode, Masthay, Crosby

[mission]

Looks good. I couldn't venture a guess right now... isn't Harris a Viking now though?

[vince]

Looks good. I couldn't venture a guess right now... isn't Harris a Viking now though?
Alonzo Harris the UDFA Ragin Cajun running back extraordinaire - so extraordinary that 32 teams passed on him 7 times...and a few more teams more than that.

I am hoping one of the crop of UDFA RB's shines though... Harris is my early blindfolded dart toss.

[mission]

Alonzo Harris the UDFA Ragin Cajun running back extraordinaire - so extraordinary that 32 teams passed on him 7 times...and a few more teams more than that.

I am hoping one of the crop of UDFA RB's shines though... Harris is my early blindfolded dart toss.

Oh, derrrr.... sounds good to me. As long as you have Dantzler on there. I'm fully waving his flag. lol

[HarveyWallbangers]

Here's what I have. I have the last spot coming down between Backman, Perillo, Mulumba, and Banjo. There will be surprises, of course, but this is how I have it now. Good squad.


QB Aaron Rodgers
QB Scott Tolzien
QB Brett Hundley

RB Eddie Lacy
RB James Starks
RB Rajion Neal
FB John Kuhn
FB Aaron Ripkowski

WR Jordy Nelson
WR Randall Cobb
WR Davante Adams
WR Ty Montgomery
WR Jeff Janis
WR Jared Abbrederis

TE Richard Rodgers
TE Andrew Quarless
TE Kennard Backman

OT Bryan Bulaga
OT David Bakhtiari
OT Don Barclay
OG Josh Sitton
OG T.J. Lang
OG Lane Taylor
OC Corey Linsley
OC J.C. Tretter

DL Mike Daniels
DL B.J. Raji
DL Datone Jones
DL Letroy Guion
DL Josh Boyd
DL Mike Pennel

OLB Clay Matthews
OLB Julius Peppers
OLB Nick Perry
OLB Mike Neal
OLB Jayrone Elliott

ILB Sam Barrington
ILB Jake Ryan
ILB Carl Bradford
ILB Joe Thomas

CB Sam Shields
CB Casey Hayward
CB Micah Hyde
CB Damarious Randall
CB Quentin Rollins
CB Demetri Goodson

SS Morgan Burnett
SS Sean Richardson
FS Hasean Clinton-Dix
FS Chris Banjo

K Mason Crosby
P Tim Masthay
LS Brett Goode

[vince]

I like the Joe Thomas pick. They need some range at ILB and he's a good bet to bring that I'd say.

Backman could have a hard time supplanting Perillo because of special teams and fundamentals like blocking and just knowing the offense. We don't really know how long it will take Backman to learn where to line up much less make the right protection and route adjustments.

Guys who have a year in the program definitely have a distinct advantage over the rooks with the systems Capers and McCarthy run.

I'm looking forward to seeing Abbrederis compete this year. His slight build and pedestrian speed, combined with the presence of Montgomery now who supplants him in the slot, make me want to replace him with a burner who can bring a different dimension. But I think he could make it tough to let him go.

[vince]

Here's what I have. I have the last spot coming down between Backman, Perillo, Mulumba, and Banjo. There will be surprises, of course, but this is how I have it now. Good squad.
Love that squad. Clay will play some ILB there, so with the exception of the unproven boundary CB opposite Sheilds, that roster is loaded with talent and experience. Among Hayward, Randall, Rollins, and Goodson, I think there's depth of talent there, if not experience.

Obviously can't count on it, but Bradford could very well make the jump inside. He has the passion, toughness and instincts if not the measurables.

Then I think there's a wealth of upside potential dropping to the practice squad.

APRH, strongest and deepest squad in the Thompson/McCarthy era top to bottom.

Drink up boys.

[sharpe1027]

IMO, they kept Driver a year longer than they probably should have. Will they end up doing the same thing with Kuhn?

[Guiness]

I have a feeling Perillo will stick. He was a long shot from the beginning, but made it through last year and should have progressed quite a lot.

[HarveyWallbangers]

I have a feeling Perillo will stick. He was a long shot from the beginning, but made it through last year and should have progressed quite a lot.

Me too. I wouldn't be surprised if Quarless ends up being a surprise cut. It looks like it will be hard to keep four TEs this year. I was driving the Perillo bandwagon last year.

[Brandon494]

Will look more like...

QB Aaron Rodgers
QB Scott Tolzien
QB Brett Hundley

RB Eddie Lacy
RB James Starks
RB Rajion Neal
FB John Kuhn
FB Aaron Ripkowski

WR Jordy Nelson
WR Randall Cobb
WR Davante Adams
WR Ty Montgomery
WR Jeff Janis

TE Richard Rodgers
TE Andrew Quarless
TE Justin Perillo

OT Bryan Bulaga
OT David Bakhtiari
OT Don Barclay
OG Josh Sitton
OG T.J. Lang
OG Lane Taylor
OC Corey Linsley
OC J.C. Tretter

DL Mike Daniels
DL B.J. Raji
DL Datone Jones
DL Josh Boyd
DL Letroy Guion
DL Christian Ringo

OLB Clay Matthews
OLB Julius Peppers
OLB Nick Perry
OLB Mike Neal
OLB Adrian Hubbard

ILB Sam Barrington
ILB Jake Ryan
ILB Carl Bradford
ILB Joe Thomas

DB Sam Shields
DB Casey Hayward
DB Micah Hyde
DB Damarious Randall
DB Quentin Rollins
DB Bernard Blake
DB Ladarius Gunter
DB Micah Hyde
DB Morgan Burnett
DB Sean Richardson
DB Hasean Clinton-Dix


K Mason Crosby
P Tim Masthay
LS Brett Goode

[KYPack]

Love that squad. Clay will play some ILB there, so with the exception of the unproven boundary CB opposite Sheilds, that roster is loaded with talent and experience. Among Hayward, Randall, Rollins, and Goodson, I think there's depth of talent there, if not experience.

Obviously can't count on it, but Bradford could very well make the jump inside. He has the passion, toughness and instincts if not the measurables.

Then I think there's a wealth of upside potential dropping to the practice squad.

APRH, strongest and deepest squad in the Thompson/McCarthy era top to bottom.

Drink up boys.

Kool Aide or bourbon?

[Guiness]

Everyone putting Janis on their list - wouldn't be so sure about that. He couldn't get on the field last year for some reason, I suspect the lightbulb better go on for him sooner rather than later if he's going to make the team.

[Bretsky]

Everyone putting Janis on their list - wouldn't be so sure about that. He couldn't get on the field last year for some reason, I suspect the lightbulb better go on for him sooner rather than later if he's going to make the team.

Abbrederis was a better route runner..and football player. Hope he makes it but he'll be the popular guy to leave off the list....white wr coming off an injury vs. the raw guy who is faster but can't run routes nearly as well

[call_me_ishmael]

Here's what I have. I have the last spot coming down between Backman, Perillo, Mulumba, and Banjo. There will be surprises, of course, but this is how I have it now. Good squad.

Assuming key players remain healthy, this is a super bowl roster.

[Patler]

Will look more like...

.....

OLB Clay Matthews
OLB Julius Peppers
OLB Nick Perry
OLB Mike Neal
OLB Adrian Hubbard

......

DB Sam Shields
DB Casey Hayward
DB Micah Hyde
DB Damarious Randall
DB Quentin Rollins
DB Bernard Blake
DB Ladarius Gunter
DB Micah Hyde
DB Morgan Burnett
DB Sean Richardson
DB Hasean Clinton-Dix



Hubbard is a guy I have been wondering about. I have not seen or heard a word about him since he was signed to the PS last year. He stayed there the entire year while others came and went quite regularly, so clearly the team stayed positive on his potential. It sure would be nice if he was the surprise of camp this year.

You have a lot of DBs on your list. With Matthews' injury history, Pepper's age and the situation with Neall and Perry both being in the final years of their contracts and therefore free agents next year, I think they will keep more than just Hubbard behind them. At least one (maybe two) of Mulumba, Elliott and a surprise rookie free agent will make it, and one or two less DBs from your list.

I keep bouncing back and forth on Kuhn and Ripkowski. I wouldn't be surprised if they keep both, nor will I be surprised if Kuhn is let go. On the other hand, with so few teams using the limited FB types that the Packers still do, Ripkowski could probably stay safely on the PS for a year. If another team wants a FB, there will be good veterans and/or rookies more highly rated than Ripkowski available to them. Assuming he shows value in TC, Ripkowski might be a guy they can work with by paying him more on the PS and/or making a counteroffer if another team comes calling. He has to see GB as a golden opportunity, a contender who still uses a blocking FB extensively, with only a veteran on his last legs in front of him.

[vince]

Kool Aide or bourbon?
I'm about to head to the Dominican for a week so I'm thinking rum punch. Straight-up Kool Aide until then though!

[pittstang5]

Hmm. interesting that no one has Thornton on the 53. I know he didn't look good last year - in fact, I think everyone questioned what TT saw in him to warrant a 3rd round pick. However, remember, Josh Boyd looked like crap too his first year.

It'll be interesting to see how Thornton does this year.

[Fritz]

Kool Aide or bourbon?


Yes.

[Brandon494]

Everyone putting Janis on their list - wouldn't be so sure about that. He couldn't get on the field last year for some reason, I suspect the light bulb better go on for him sooner rather than later if he's going to make the team.

Boykin only had 3 catches himself last season for us. We ran the ball more so we didn't see as many 4 or 5 WR sets. Hes still one of the best athletes on the team and can play both sides on special teams. I would much rather keep him then a injury prone Abby coming off an ACL tear who also has a history with concussions.

[Brandon494]

Hubbard is a guy I have been wondering about. I have not seen or heard a word about him since he was signed to the PS last year. He stayed there the entire year while others came and went quite regularly, so clearly the team stayed positive on his potential. It sure would be nice if he was the surprise of camp this year.

You have a lot of DBs on your list. With Matthews' injury history, Pepper's age and the situation with Neall and Perry both being in the final years of their contracts and therefore free agents next year, I think they will keep more than just Hubbard behind them. At least one (maybe two) of Mulumba, Elliott and a surprise rookie free agent will make it, and one or two less DBs from your list.

I keep bouncing back and forth on Kuhn and Ripkowski. I wouldn't be surprised if they keep both, nor will I be surprised if Kuhn is let go. On the other hand, with so few teams using the limited FB types that the Packers still do, Ripkowski could probably stay safely on the PS for a year. If another team wants a FB, there will be good veterans and/or rookies more highly rated than Ripkowski available to them. Assuming he shows value in TC, Ripkowski might be a guy they can work with by paying him more on the PS and/or making a counteroffer if another team comes calling. He has to see GB as a golden opportunity, a contender who still uses a blocking FB extensively, with only a veteran on his last legs in front of him.

Opps I listed Micah Hyde twice on that list of DBs...6 CBs and 4 safeties same number we had last season.

Blake likely won't make it but I like his game and will be rooting for him.

[Brandon494]

Hmm. interesting that no one has Thornton on the 53. I know he didn't look good last year - in fact, I think everyone questioned what TT saw in him to warrant a 3rd round pick. However, remember, Josh Boyd looked like crap too his first year.

It'll be interesting to see how Thornton does this year.

Its believe him, Ringo, and Pennell for that last spot on the D-line.

[3irty1]

Here's my guess:

QB Aaron Rodgers
QB Scott Tolzien
QB Brett Hundley

RB Eddie Lacy
RB James Starks
RB Rajion Neal

FB John Kuhn
FB Aaron Ripkowski

WR Jordy Nelson
WR Randall Cobb
WR Davante Adams
WR Ty Montgomery
WR Jeff Janis
WR Jared Abbrederis

TE Richard Rodgers
TE Andrew Quarless
TE Justin Perillo

OT David Bakhtiari
OG Josh Sitton
OC Corey Linsley
OG T.J. Lang
OT Bryan Bulaga
OT Don Barclay
OC J.C. Tretter
OG Lane Taylor

DL Mike Daniels
DL B.J. Raji
DL Datone Jones
DL Josh Boyd
DL Letroy Guion
DL Mike Pennel
DL Khyri Thornton

OLB Clay Matthews
OLB Julius Peppers
OLB Nick Perry
OLB Mike Neal
OLB Jayrone Elliott
OLB James Vaughters

ILB Sam Barrington
ILB Jake Ryan
ILB Carl Bradford

S Hasean Clinton-Dix
S Morgan Burnett
S Micah Hyde
S Sean Richardson

CB Sam Shields
CB Casey Hayward
CB Damarious Randall
CB Quentin Rollins
CB Demetri Goodson

K Mason Crosby
P Tim Masthay
LS Brett Goode

Ted has shown this offseason was about special teams. Both FB make this roster for that reason, as does Perillo and Abbredaris.

I think Thornton finds a way to beat Ringo and Ringo stays on the practice squad to keep a fire under his ass all year.

I think Vaughters wins the final LB spot over Joe Thomas, Mulumba, Palmer, Hubbard, and Danzier for his ability to play inside or outside and his performance on special teams.

With the weak draft class I think pretty much any of these late round picks are safe on the PS.

[Guiness]

Lotta love for J. Elliott

[smuggler]

Coaching staff loves him, too. And unlike some T.C. darlings, he did actually play and produce in the regular season a bit.

[pbmax]

I have to find a struggling high draft pick to back. Going to bat for Elliot or Pennel is too easy. If they drop out, you can always say it was a long shot.

I might have to back Nick Perry even more this year. Its going to be a challenge.

[3irty1]

I have to find a struggling high draft pick to back. Going to bat for Elliot or Pennel is too easy. If they drop out, you can always say it was a long shot.

I might have to back Nick Perry even more this year. Its going to be a challenge.

Datone Jones? I think if you want it bad enough he can break out this year. The man quietly had some jaw dropping plays last year. Look at this one 2nd Q of our first Lions game: https://vine.co/v/O7vxIi3FjIJ

That's Larry Warford our boy has on skates. Collapses him into the center and takes them both out. Incredible play.

[pbmax]

Datone Jones? I think if you want it bad enough he can break out this year. The man quietly had some jaw dropping plays last year. Look at this one 2nd Q of our first Lions game: https://vine.co/v/O7vxIi3FjIJ

That's Larry Warford our boy has on skates. Collapses him into the center and takes them both out. Incredible play.

There we go. Its official.

Perry and Jones get midseason contract extensions this year.

EDIT: Perry, midseason. Jones gets his option picked up in the offseason.

[Patler]

There we go. Its official.

Perry and Jones get midseason contract extensions this year.

EDIT: Perry, midseason. Jones gets his option picked up in the offseason.

Both have had their moments showing above average ability, yet each has been invisible for long periods. I don't care that they aren't All-Pro, I just want them to show up consistently.

[Fritz]

There we go. Its official.

Perry and Jones get midseason contract extensions this year.

EDIT: Perry, midseason. Jones gets his option picked up in the offseason.

I am adopting both of these guys as my especial hoped-for successes this year. I'd like to see Jones develop into a very real, consistent, pass rush threat (and not a rag doll in the run game), and Perry to be even stauncher against the run and develop a second pass rush move so he can collect a few sacks. If he can occasionally provide decent coverage against a TE that would be cool, too.

[run pMc]

I don't think Perry will ever provide coverage, but he can set the edge aginst the run and bull rush. I think after this year he plays DE for a 4-3 team elsewhere.
Would love to see Jones make a jump to 'consistent'.
Which would you rather keep - Perry or Jones?

[mraynrand]

Datone Jones? I think if you want it bad enough he can break out this year. The man quietly had some jaw dropping plays last year. Look at this one 2nd Q of our first Lions game: https://vine.co/v/O7vxIi3FjIJ

That's Larry Warford our boy has on skates. Collapses him into the center and takes them both out. Incredible play.

The pass was completed. He didn't disengage soon enough!

[HarveyWallbangers]

I don't think Perry will ever provide coverage, but he can set the edge aginst the run and bull rush. I think after this year he plays DE for a 4-3 team elsewhere.
Would love to see Jones make a jump to 'consistent'.
Which would you rather keep - Perry or Jones?

I'd take Perry.

[smuggler]

My money is on Jones. Tape those ankles, dude!

[vince]

I think Vaughters wins the final LB spot over Joe Thomas, Mulumba, Palmer, Hubbard, and Danzier for his ability to play inside or outside and his performance on special teams.
I'd like to read what you see in this guy 3irty1 (and others). Vaughters looks like an overachiever to me. The anti-Hubbard. Strong and good football instincts but stiff.

It'll be interesting to see how his game translates in the NFL. Could be a good special teamer but I don't think his upside is very high.

He can bust a wedge on kickoff coverage (yeah I know they've been more or less outlawed but they still have two-man leads) but I'm not sure he's quick enough to play inside regularly and I don't see him getting to the QB enough from the outside. Not long enough to be slow and stiff.

I think Bulaga will eat him for breakfast in camp.

[Smidgeon]

Offense (24):

Quarterbacks (3):
Aaron Rodgers
Scott Tolzien
Brett Hundley

Running backs (3):
Eddie Lacy
James Starks
John Crockett

Fullbacks (2):
John Kuhn
Aaron Ripkowski

Wide receivers (6):
Jordy Nelson
Randall Cobb
Davante Adams
Jeff Janis
Ty Montgomery
Adrian Coxson

Tight ends (3):
Andrew Quarless
Richard Rodgers
Kennard Backman

Tackles (2):
David Bakhtiari
Bryan Bulaga

Guards (3):
Josh Sitton
TJ Lang
Matt Rotheram

Centers (2):
Corey Linsley
JC Tretter

Defense (26):

Defensive linemen (7):
Mike Daniels
Letroy Guion
Datone Jones
BJ Raji
Josh Boyd
Mike Pennel
Khyri Thornton

Inside linebackers (4):
Sam Barrington
Carl Bradford
Jake Ryan
Tavarus Dantzler

Outside linebackers (5):
Matthews
Peppers
Nick Perry
Mike Neal
Jayrone Elliott

Cornerbacks (6):
Sam Shields
Casey Hayward
Micah Hyde
Demetri Goodson
Damarious Randall
Quinten Rollins

Safeties (4):
Morgan Burnett
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix
Sean Richardson
Chris Banjo

Specialists (3):
Mason Crosby
Tim Masthay
Brett Goode

-----

Not a depth chart, but an early stab nonetheless. Gone are Abby, Barclay, and Mulumba.

I have four UDFAs making the roster: RB Crockett, WR Coxson, G Rotheram, and ILB Dantzler. Except for ILB, there seems to be more opportunity for fresh faces on offense than defense, which I found surprising.

At this point, I have all but one draft picks making the roster, including a second FB and a third TE (actually one of the most difficult guesses choosing Backman over Perillo). I have Ringo not making the roster, but he could also be swapped for Thornton who I'm guessing makes enough of a leap in year two just like Bradford at ILB.

I am heavy on Dline and light on OLB, but to be fair, there's always a curveball.

On offense, there are 7 new faces, one each of QB, RB, FB, TE, and G, and two WRs.
On defense, there are 4 new faces, two each of ILB and CB.

Like I said, there seemed to be more opportunity on offense, but the two weakest positions--ILB and CB (along with WR)--got the most new faces. And you could argue that the WRs added actually fit two positions: KR and WR at one each. But it all depends on how they're used.

[3irty1]

I'd like to read what you see in this guy 3irty1 (and others). Vaughters looks like an overachiever to me. The anti-Hubbard. Strong and good football instincts but stiff.

It'll be interesting to see how his game translates in the NFL. Could be a good special teamer but I don't think his upside is very high.

He can bust a wedge on kickoff coverage (yeah I know they've been more or less outlawed but they still have two-man leads) but I'm not sure he's quick enough to play inside regularly and I don't see him getting to the QB enough from the outside. Not long enough to be slow and stiff.

I think Bulaga will eat him for breakfast in camp.

I don't think he's got much upside but considering he was the #4 linebacker recruit in the country at one point I wouldn't call him an overachiever. Its more about if his game will translate or not. If it doesn't he'll fail fast which is a plus. The versatility is the big thing with him.

As an OLB he reminds me a little of Erik Walden. Not quite as long or as uber physical as Walden but not as stupid either. Same strengths though in that he can set an edge really well and he's abnormally stout for his size. As a pass rusher he's more like Mike Neal than anyone else we've got. Brute strong and high motor. Not the kind of skillset you'd bet on to become a star, Tamba Hali's are super rare, but if he could be the next Mike Neal that's a hell of a deal for a UDFA.

As an ILB I think he has the most upside specifically as a "buck" linebacker in a Capers 30 front. A FB of the defense type. His 7.09 3-cone suggests some upside in coverage. If he can develop there, he's a great find. It's rare to find a guy who can mix with lineman and also drop back into a hook zone with regularity.

That stuff is pie in the sky. I think he'll make the team because while starting 30+ games for Stanford he was also on kick and punt coverage. Physical 250 lb guys with hot motors and special teams experience are tough cuts.

[pbmax]

Looking at Smidge's roster, it might be possible that Tretter is the backup OT on each side after camp. But he will need to really step up his game. Barclay has the injury to overcome, so its no lock, but right now I would bet on DB being on the roster when camp ends.

[Smidgeon]

Looking at Smidge's roster, it might be possible that Tretter is the backup OT on each side after camp. But he will need to really step up his game. Barclay has the injury to overcome, so its no lock, but right now I would bet on DB being on the roster when camp ends.

Subconsciously, I was thinking musical chairs if a tackle goes down. TJ Lang. Backup tackle.

[pbmax]

Subconsciously, I was thinking musical chairs if a tackle goes down. TJ Lang. Backup tackle.

Yeah its a hard call. Barclay was light years better than anyone had a right to hope in his rookie year. But he still was a hole in the pass protection (nice run blocker though). Injury just makes it harder to say. And Tretter hasn't proven ready either. Didn't Lang play his way out of Tackle in 2013, which is what brought Barclay in, or am i thinking of another year?

[vince]

I don't think he's got much upside but considering he was the #4 linebacker recruit in the country at one point I wouldn't call him an overachiever. Its more about if his game will translate or not. If it doesn't he'll fail fast which is a plus. The versatility is the big thing with him.

As an OLB he reminds me a little of Erik Walden. Not quite as long or as uber physical as Walden but not as stupid either. Same strengths though in that he can set an edge really well and he's abnormally stout for his size. As a pass rusher he's more like Mike Neal than anyone else we've got. Brute strong and high motor. Not the kind of skillset you'd bet on to become a star, Tamba Hali's are super rare, but if he could be the next Mike Neal that's a hell of a deal for a UDFA.

As an ILB I think he has the most upside specifically as a "buck" linebacker in a Capers 30 front. A FB of the defense type. His 7.09 3-cone suggests some upside in coverage. If he can develop there, he's a great find. It's rare to find a guy who can mix with lineman and also drop back into a hook zone with regularity.

That stuff is pie in the sky. I think he'll make the team because while starting 30+ games for Stanford he was also on kick and punt coverage. Physical 250 lb guys with hot motors and special teams experience are tough cuts.
Good stuff thanks.

[smuggler]

I would definitely think Barclay is the backup on the right side. If Bakhtiari goes down, then swing Bulaga from the right and install Barclay. Tretter seemingly is the backup on the inside. Worst case scenario, if both tackles are out, Tretter on the left and Barclay on the right. And pray for a good day running from Lacy, because Rodgers is not going to have much time...

[HarveyWallbangers]

My roster is offensive heavy, so I suspect injuries or a surprise cut (perhaps Quarless or even Kuhn if Ripkowski, Perillo, and Backman show potential) will even things out when it comes down to final cuts.

QB AARON RODGERS
QB Scott Tolzien
QB Brett Hundley

RB EDDIE LACY
RB James Starks
RB Rajion Neal (I hope it's Crockett, but I liked what Neal showed last year in the little we saw him)

FB JOHN KUHN
FB Aaron Ripkowski

WR JORDY NELSON
WR RANDALL COBB
WR Davante Adams
WR Ty Montgomery
WR Jared Abbrederis
WR Jeff Janis

TE RICHARD RODGERS
TE Andrew Quarless
TE Justin Perillo
TE Kennard Backman

OT BRYAN BULAGA
OT DAVID BAKHTIARI
OT Don Barclay

OG JOSH SITTON
OG T.J. LANG
OG Matt Rotheram

OC COREY LINSLEY
OC J.C. Tretter

DE MIKE DANIELS
DE JOSH BOYD
DE Datone Jones

NT B.J. RAJI
NT Letroy Guion
NT Mike Pennel

OLB JULIUS PEPPERS
OLB CLAY MATTHEWS
OLB Nick Perry (alternates with Neal when Matthews is inside)
OLB Mike Neal (alternates with Perry when Matthews is inside)
OLB Jayrone Elliott (I think he's the exception to the UDFA OLB making the team and then falling flat the next year)

ILB SAM BARRINGTON
ILB JAKE RYAN (plays when Matthews is outside)
ILB Carl Bradford
ILB Joe Thomas

CB SAM SHIELDS
CB CASEY HAYWARD
CB Damarious Randall
CB Quentin Rollins
CB Demetri Goodson

SS MORGAN BURNETT
SS Sean Richardson
FS HA HA CLINTON-DIX
FS Micah Hyde (slot CB)

K Mason Crosby
P Tim Masthay
LS Brett Goode
KR Ty Montgomery
PR Micah Hyde

[Brandon494]

Funny how some think we will keep 6 WRS because they want Abby to make the roster...not happening.

[Pugger]

Abbrederis was a better route runner..and football player. Hope he makes it but he'll be the popular guy to leave off the list....white wr coming off an injury vs. the raw guy who is faster but can't run routes nearly as well

I'm eager to see if Abby has filled out some and his injury is healed. I don't think that injury is as career threatening as it once was. I hope we can keep Nelson, Cobb, Adams, Monty, Abby and Janis.

[Pugger]

Funny how some think we will keep 6 WRS because they want Abby to make the roster...not happening.

Because...?

[Smidgeon]

Funny how some think we will keep 6 WRS because they want Abby to make the roster...not happening.

I had six...but none were Abby. Do I get partial credit?

[HarveyWallbangers]

As a Buckeyes fan, I couldn't care less about Abby's hometown connection. Keeping 6 WRS is hardly shocking. McCarthy has done it before. Janis and Abbrederis both are on the bubble. Abby needs to get healthy. Janis needs to improve. But TT had proven on yearly basis that he'll go with bigger numbers at a position of strength. Abby was a midround pick that seemed to be doing well in camp, so I'm projecting that he'll return healthy. I'm also projecting that Thomas's camp performance last year wasn't a fluke and that Goodson will improve this off-season.

[red]

I'm eager to see if Abby has filled out some and his injury is healed. I don't think that injury is as career threatening as it once was. I hope we can keep Nelson, Cobb, Adams, Monty, Abby and Janis.

It really is amazing how even in the 90's a torn ACL was career threatening, and career ending in so many cases. but now its almost no big deal "he'll miss the rest of this year but he'll be back to normal by the start of next season". i mean, we see 1 or 2 ACL tears a week around the nfl. were a couple of guys careers ending a week a couple of decades ago, or were there just less acl injuries?

it seems to me like it use to be a freak injury, now it seems almost run of the mill

[red]

i don't even know how to properly pronounce abby's last name, but he's got some talent, and i don't see us cutting him if he doesn't suck the place up

[Brandon494]

Because...?

-Because we just used a 3rd round pick on a return specialist which was Abby best shot at making the roster

-Because Abby is injury prone, has concussion history, and coming off an ACL tear

-Because need to keep 6 DBs over keeping 6 WRs

-Because Janis can play both sides on special teams and Abby can only return kicks, they aren't going to keep a 6th WR just for depth if he can't contribute on special teams.

[Brandon494]

As a Buckeyes fan, I couldn't care less about Abby's hometown connection. Keeping 6 WRS is hardly shocking. McCarthy has done it before. Janis and Abbrederis both are on the bubble. Abby needs to get healthy. Janis needs to improve. But TT had proven on yearly basis that he'll go with bigger numbers at a position of strength. Abby was a midround pick that seemed to be doing well in camp, so I'm projecting that he'll return healthy. I'm also projecting that Thomas's camp performance last year wasn't a fluke and that Goodson will improve this off-season.

Hes done it once to keep a veteran Donald Driver on the team, not an injury prone player coming of an ACL year who has never played a down in the NFL. Abby was also a late round pick who was doing well in camp...for 4 days. Janis make a big play almost every day from what I remember and Janis is one of my best athletes on the team. IMO its an easy decision to keep Janis over Abby but we'll see.

[Patler]

-Because we just used a 3rd round pick on a return specialist which was Abby best shot at making the roster

-Because Abby is injury prone, has concussion history, and coming off an ACL tear

-Because need to keep 6 DBs over keeping 6 WRs

-Because Janis can play both sides on special teams and Abby can only return kicks, they aren't going to keep a 6th WR just for depth if he can't contribute on special teams.

I doubt that Abbrederis makes it out of training camp in one piece, but even if he does, Brandon has identified why he is facing a real uphill battle to make the team....limited ST potential.

Some have said Montgomery is one of the better return guys to come out in a number of years. Janis showed real potential as a return man, albeit in preseason. Each has the size to play on coverage units. Abbrederis might be (not "is") behind each as a return man and I doubt has any potential on coverage units. He will have to be head and shoulders above the others as a WR to make the team.

Janis is a guy I am anxious to see.

[vince]

My roster is offensive heavy, so I suspect injuries or a surprise cut (perhaps Quarless or even Kuhn if Ripkowski, Perillo, and Backman show potential) will even things out when it comes down to final cuts.

QB AARON RODGERS
QB Scott Tolzien
QB Brett Hundley

RB EDDIE LACY
RB James Starks
RB Rajion Neal (I hope it's Crockett, but I liked what Neal showed last year in the little we saw him)

FB JOHN KUHN
FB Aaron Ripkowski

WR JORDY NELSON
WR RANDALL COBB
WR Davante Adams
WR Ty Montgomery
WR Jared Abbrederis
WR Jeff Janis

TE RICHARD RODGERS
TE Andrew Quarless
TE Justin Perillo
TE Kennard Backman

OT BRYAN BULAGA
OT DAVID BAKHTIARI
OT Don Barclay

OG JOSH SITTON
OG T.J. LANG
OG Matt Rotheram

OC COREY LINSLEY
OC J.C. Tretter

DE MIKE DANIELS
DE JOSH BOYD
DE Datone Jones

NT B.J. RAJI
NT Letroy Guion
NT Mike Pennel

OLB JULIUS PEPPERS
OLB CLAY MATTHEWS
OLB Nick Perry (alternates with Neal when Matthews is inside)
OLB Mike Neal (alternates with Perry when Matthews is inside)
OLB Jayrone Elliott (I think he's the exception to the UDFA OLB making the team and then falling flat the next year)

ILB SAM BARRINGTON
ILB JAKE RYAN (plays when Matthews is outside)
ILB Carl Bradford
ILB Joe Thomas

CB SAM SHIELDS
CB CASEY HAYWARD
CB Damarious Randall
CB Quentin Rollins
CB Demetri Goodson

SS MORGAN BURNETT
SS Sean Richardson
FS HA HA CLINTON-DIX
FS Micah Hyde (slot CB)

K Mason Crosby
P Tim Masthay
LS Brett Goode
KR Ty Montgomery
PR Micah Hyde
So you've replaced Taylor with Rotheram...

I too think Abbrederis has his work cut out for him... injury prone, undersized pedestrian speed, good route runner, good hands, possession receiver - low ceiling with limited special teams value...seems like a combination destined for short career, not a guy you'd hang onto as a sixth receiver. I am looking forward to seeing more of him, Janis and a few of the new guys too. I think at least one of those guys is gonna flash.

This is the first year I can recall being real interested to see who makes the practice squad. You're looking at high-ceiling guys like Dantzler, Coxson, Pinkard, Hunt, Hubbard, Vaughters, Crockett, Ringo, Gunter, Manning, Rotheram, Reed, and I'm sure I'm missing a couple.

[Patler]

I am debating with myself about several roster issues, one of the primary being this:

If Ripkowski is good enough to keep, is there any reason at all to keep Kuhn? I don't think so. This isn't like a few years ago when Hall and Kuhn were both kept, because both were young, valuable ST guys. From what I understand, Kuhn has been used less and less on ST, because he has become less effective. It's been mentioned that he doesn't move guys as a blocker much anymore, either. His value on third downs was diminished last year as Lacy played more 3rd downs. Ripkowski surprised people at his pro day workout when he ran through passing drills and showed good hands.

If Ripkowski is ready to play, I think Kuhn is done in GB..

[Brandon494]

I think they will keep both, Ripkowski has experience blocking from in-line tight end so I could see them keeping him over a 4th TE. People forget Kuhn has been one of the best blocking FBs in the league the past two seasons, I see him staying for one more season. IMO they wouldn't have signed him if they didn't plan on him playing this season.

[Patler]

I think they will keep both, Ripkowski has experience blocking from in-line tight end so I could see them keeping him over a 4th TE. People forget Kuhn has been one of the best blocking FBs in the league the past two seasons, I see him staying for one more season. IMO they wouldn't have signed him if they didn't plan on him playing this season.

They signed Kuhn before the draft, so I don't attach much significance to it after getting Ripkowski

[Brandon494]

They signed Kuhn before the draft, so I don't attach much significance to it after getting Ripkowski

TT doesn't work like that though, he would have just not signed Kuhn and drafted a FB if he thought he was done. I like Ripkowski but hes still a late 6th round draft pick, we are SB contenders and I would much rather have Kuhn out there blocking in critical moments. Kuhn will remain the starter and I see Rip having a role similar to Ryan Taylor and Ryan Crabtree while they were here his first season then eventually taking over for Kuhn in 2016.

[Patler]

TT doesn't work like that though, he would have just not signed Kuhn and drafted a FB if he thought he was done. I like Ripkowski but hes still a late 6th round draft pick, we are SB contenders and I would much rather have Kuhn out there blocking in critical moments. Kuhn will remain the starter and I see Rip having a role similar to Ryan Taylor and Ryan Crabtree while they were here his first season then eventually taking over for Kuhn in 2016.

It's not that I think Kuhn couldn't play (as in, "done for good"), its that if Ripkowski is good enough to make the final roster (and not be targeted instead for PS), I don't see a reason to keep Kuhn. I think Kuhn was signed as a safety blanket, in case they were not able to finds a young one this year. But they did find one, and if he proves to be ready to play, Kuhn isn't needed.

In what areas could Kuhn be expected to contribute this year?
Special Teams - any of a number of younger guys will be better, as Kuhn has fallen off
Lead blocker - Ripkowski's strength. Scouts said he will "wow" you at least once or twice every game. If he is ready to take these snaps, I think Kuhn is gone.
Short yardage - GB has better options with Lacy, maybe Ripkowski, maybe the (big) 3rd back they keep.
Third down - Lacy is growing into this role as both a receiver and a blocker.
Pass situation extra blocker - Quarless or another TE, Lacy, maybe Ripkowski are options; but this might be the one situation where Kuhn still provides increased value.

If Ripkowski is ready to take the brunt of the load as a blocker in the running game, I think there will be reasons to keep other younger guys, not Kuhn.

[vince]

Kuhn could be a decision at cut-down time, but I'd expect him to be kept for his reliability in blitz pick-up to keep the franchise from getting crushed if/when needed to do so. Rip and/or Lacy (who's probably a full-fledged three-down back now) may also prove reliable in that fashion but Rip will need time to learn and Lacy could get hurt at any time so Kuhn's more of a security blanket than anything.

[Brandon494]

I kinda have a read on TT over the years and I think Kuhn will make the roster even if Ripkowski makes it. Like I said I think Rip will take the 4th TE roster spot over Kennard Backman, who will make the practice squad.

Like I also stated Kuhn has been one of the top 5 blocking FBs in the league over the last 2 seasons. Rip might bring more power in his blocks but he'll also miss assignments as a rookie.

[Patler]

Like I also stated Kuhn has been one of the top 5 blocking FBs in the league over the last 2 seasons.

Of course he has been. There are only about 5 blocking FBs in the league, so he has to be one of the top five! :-)

Seriously, though, Kuhn played just 192 snaps on offense last year, and most of those came after Rodgers was injured. Even the Packers are using the FB less.

[Rastak]

Both of you guys make great arguments. This one is a coin flip, I think it depends on the value of veteran leadership.

[Guiness]

Both of you guys make great arguments. This one is a coin flip, I think it depends on the value of veteran leadership.

Can't see that factoring into the decision. Veteran knowledge of a complex O, maybe, but not the leadership. With Rodgers, Nelson, Sitton, Lang...Bulaga entering his 6th year, Cobb on his 5th...that's quite a few long term guys, veteran leadership is not exactly at a premium.

[Brandon494]

Of course he has been. There are only about 5 blocking FBs in the league, so he has to be one of the top five! :-)

Seriously, though, Kuhn played just 192 snaps on offense last year, and most of those came after Rodgers was injured. Even the Packers are using the FB less.

I understand that he only played 20% of snaps on offense but like I mentioned before Rip has experience blocking from the TE position which is why I think they'll keep him as the 4th TE to block and play special teams similar to Ryan Taylor while he gains experience. He brings more pop in his blocks for sure but one of the knocks coming out of college was that he always missed one or two blocks a game. Thats not going to cut it in the NFL which is why dependable Kuhn will be the starting FB next season until Rip catches up.

[Patler]

I understand that he only played 20% of snaps on offense but like I mentioned before Rip has experience blocking from the TE position which is why I think they'll keep him as the 4th TE to block and play special teams similar to Ryan Taylor while he gains experience. He brings more pop in his blocks for sure but one of the knocks coming out of college was that he always missed one or two blocks a game. Thats not going to cut it in the NFL which is why dependable Kuhn will be the starting FB next season until Rip catches up.

...and the Packers' TEs have experience blocking from the fullback position.

What you are really arguing is that Ripkowski will not be ready to play regularly as the FB (at least in comparison to Kuhn), but they will keep him on the 53 man roster anyway as a blocking TE and ST performer. I can see some merit in that, especially with the depth they might have at WR. As I mentioned, I have been debating myself on how this all might shake out, and have convinced myself of the following:

- Ripkowski will make or not make the final roster based on his play as a FB. If he isn't ready to take the brunt of the workload as a FB, the Packers will target him for the PS. This carries only minimal risk, because fewer and fewer teams carry a FB at all, and there are likely to be some experienced ones available for any team that wants/needs a FB.

- If Ripkowski makes the roster (ie he is ready to take snaps as the FB in most situations) Kuhn will not be around.

- Ripkowski will not make the team as a "fullback in waiting" because there is likely to be a player at another position that will be more valuable than a FB who doesn't play FB.

- They might be tempted to keep 26 on D, making it even more difficult to justify carrying 2 FBs.

It looks like there might be an overload of potential talent at WR and RB. They could have 4 TEs, and 9 OL worth keeping. Seems likely that they will carry 3 QBs. Whomever they would have to release to keep 2 FBs might be more difficult to get through to PS than Ripkowski will be.

[run pMc]

Between the RB, FB, and TE spots, I think they'll keep a total of 8. If Rip and Kuhn make the cut they'll only keep 3 TE's. Lacy's running style and Starks injury history suggests they'll need 3 RBs.

[Brandon494]

...and the Packers' TEs have experience blocking from the fullback position.

Not 6th round pick Kennard Backman whos knock coming out was his lack of blocking. Like I've been saying the whole time I think Backman and Rip will be battling for a roster spot and I believe Rip will make it over him because of his blocking and special teams value. Similar to Bostick early on I see Backman being sent to the PS his first season until he improves his blocking. Kuhn will remain the starting FB while Rip plays a role similar as Ryan Taylor...don't know what is so hard to understand about that haha.

Rodgers, Ouarless, and Perillo only TEs I see making the roster so that 4th spot that use to belong to Bostick will be taken by Rip. Instead of having 4 TEs and 1 FB it will be 3 TEs and 2 FBs. You could see Rip blocking from the TE spot in jumbo packages on goal line packages with Kuhn at FB.

[Brandon494]

Between the RB, FB, and TE spots, I think they'll keep a total of 8. If Rip and Kuhn make the cut they'll only keep 3 TE's. Lacy's running style and Starks injury history suggests they'll need 3 RBs.

Exactly, with John Crockett making it as the 3rd HB imo...no way they go into the season with only 2 HBs.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9looRH1BVTg

[Patler]

Not 6th round pick Kennard Backman whos knock coming out was his lack of blocking. Like I've been saying the whole time I think Backman and Rip will be battling for a roster spot and I believe Rip will make it over him because of his blocking and special teams value. Similar to Bostick early on I see Backman being sent to the PS his first season until he improves his blocking. Kuhn will remain the starting FB while Rip plays a role similar as Ryan Taylor...don't know what is so hard to understand about that haha.

Rodgers, Ouarless, and Perillo only TEs I see making the roster so that 4th spot that use to belong to Bostick will be taken by Rip. Instead of having 4 TEs and 1 FB it will be 3 TEs and 2 FBs. You could see Rip blocking from the TE spot in jumbo packages on goal line packages with Kuhn at FB.

Not hard to understand, just don't agree. A FB forced into playing TE might as well be put on the PS, too. DB and LB have undergone change this off season. It might be useful to keep an extra one or two of those until their roles settle down. Especially at LB where Peppers is getting to an age you wonder about, and Neal and Perry are operating on the final years of their contracts. It's probably more important to deepen the reserves there than at FB. WR and RB could be deep in talent. We have had histories of injuries at those positions, so keeping an extra in those groups might be more beneficial than a fullback playing TE. Not sure they need a 4th TE anyway

[Patler]

Exactly, with John Crockett making it as the 3rd HB imo...no way they go into the season with only 2 HBs.


I agree with that completely. Maybe even 4 RBs, if another shows promise and the dump the spot held by a useless 4th TE or 2nd FB!:-)

[sharpe1027]

I mentioned this before, but they kept Driver at least a full year longer than they probably should have (ignoring off the field leadership and just looking at play on the field). It is not that big of a risk, however, to keep one veteran on the roster in a depth position. Still, I do not think that Kuhn brings enough to the table and I predict he does not make the team this year (unless there are a couple relevant injuries at FB and TE).

I doubt he would sign anywhere else, so they could still give him a call mid-season if needed (think Tauscher).

[Fritz]

anybody constructing a possible 53 and includes that FA guard Rotherdam or Rottertham or whatever his name is seems to me to not have probably looked at the picture of him posted here earlier. He's soft. Needs a year in the weight room to even begin to look strong enough to play, much less to learn the intricacies of the position. I just don't see it.