motife
09-10-2006, 05:05 AM
Ranking the 2006 Packers
Posted: Sept. 7, 2006
On the Packers
Bob McGinn
Bob McGinn, who covers the Green Bay Packers for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, provides his annual analysis of the 53-man roster. The rankings were based on each player's value to the 2006 team.
Sometimes a player was downgraded because he plays a position with such depth that his absence wouldn't be significant. Others were upgraded because of the importance of their positions as well as the shortage of depth behind them.
1. Brett Favre, QB
For better or worse, the legendary one returns for his 16th season. He looked very common against San Diego, sharp against Atlanta and awful against Cincinnati. Vowing once again "to go down swinging," he'll no doubt be up and down and all around. Don't fret for Brett. Win, lose or draw, he loves the life. That's why he returned.
2. Donald Driver, WR
Up from No. 11 at this time a year ago, when Javon Walker went off at No. 3. Driver was the team's best player last season and it could be argued he was the best player this summer. Without Driver, one scout said, the Packers don't even have a passing game. Doesn't act his age (31) when it comes to running routes in traffic and performing many of the mundane parts of his job with enthusiasm. Appears to have taken on even more of a leadership role after signing new contract May 8.
3. Ahman Green, RB
In a perfect world, the Packers wouldn't be forced to make him tote the mail 25 times starting in Week 1. But what are the options? If Green breaks down early, the Packers could become entirely one-dimensional whether Mike McCarthy likes it or not. Not only is there the durability issue, but there's also the question of how much Green has left. His 3.3-yard average in '05 suggested he wasn't the same player even before the injury.
4. Chad Clifton, T
He's coming off the poorest season of his career, then had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee in January and on his right knee in May and didn't play well this summer. It's only his seventh season, but he did turn 30 in June. In June, Pro Football Weekly ranked him No. 5 among all tackles. If his knees are OK, Clifton is an extremely gifted pass protector with a lightning-quick set.
5. Mark Tauscher, T
One year younger than Clifton, Tauscher doesn't have as much wear and tear on his body. A pro's pro, Tauscher knows how to lead in his own understated fashion, how to pass protect against superior athletes and how to neutralize his man as a run blocker. PFW has him ranked No. 14 among all tackles entering the season, even though he played better than Clifton in '05.
6. Al Harris, CB
Harris will celebrate his 32nd birthday in December, an age by which some of the fast cornerbacks of yesteryear (Ronnie Lott, Rod Woodson) already had made the move to safety. In camp, there are moments when you swear Harris has lost a step of speed that he couldn't afford to lose. At other times, he'll lock up a wide receiver and looks to be in dominant form. The truth is that he must play well in '06 for this defense to function and for him to have any chance at a contract extension.
7. Aaron Kampman, DE
He didn't make much noise this summer after signing a lucrative deal on the eve of free agency. Given the paucity of depth, he might have to repeat his iron-man routine of playing 92.3% of the snaps. The Packers desperately need Kampman to rush the passer as effectively as he did a year ago, when he led the team in pressures per snap. He's a gung-ho team guy who doesn't take losing lightly.
8. Nick Barnett, LB
Still has this year and next year on his original deal. Looking for a breakout contract in the next 12 months but will need a breakout season to get it. He responded well to the challenge offered by A.J. Hawk, leaving little doubt in the minds of the coaches that he should be the only linebacker playing every snap. Just 25 years old, but with a youth movement in high gear, he'll be asked to assume more of a leadership role.
9. Greg Jennings, WR
The coaches didn't plan to start him, but given his sensational play there was no way they couldn't. If you care to nitpick, he did drop a few too many passes here and there. On the other hand, he not only made plays but big plays in almost every game and in a ton of practices. Built thicker than it appears and probably plays faster than he timed. An early gem in a class of wide receivers that scouts couldn't have been less enthusiastic about.
10. Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila, DE
Reported in great shape and worked to develop a better inside move. Coming off probably his most mediocre season as a rusher and continued to serve as a target for opposing ground games. The Packers tried but failed to find a more suitable backup that could lift some of the early-down load from his shoulders. If "KGB" has to play 80.1% of the snaps again, the run defense will struggle once more.
11. Charles Woodson, CB
Ranked by PFW as No. 21 among cornerbacks entering the season but looked more like No. 61 two weeks ago in Cincinnati. He couldn't cover. He couldn't tackle. He appeared to have lost his quickness. And he didn't put forth much effort. Otherwise, his performance in camp was solid. He hasn't played a full season since '01 due to injury and turns 30 in October, factors that must petrify the team's front office.
12. Ryan Pickett, DT
Looks like he might be a highly capable starter based on his performance in the final two exhibitions. He was stout at the point of attack, showed range and athletic ability skipping through trash down the line and collapsed the pocket on the pass rush. Playing his way into shape isn't much of an idea but, after reporting at 343 pounds, that's the way it had to be.
13. A.J. Hawk, LB
The heralded rookie was active, aggressive and around the ball against San Diego and Atlanta after a slow start in camp. Then he hardly showed up in Cincinnati and basically took the afternoon off with the rest of the starters against Tennessee. He's going to play a ton of snaps and will be expected to make a ton of plays. How he will fare is anyone's guess.
14. Scott Wells, C
With so much attention focused on the guards, it's sometimes forgotten that Wells has just four starts at center under his belt. Talk about pressure. Given so much uncertainty elsewhere, he has no margin for error. Wells is short and short-armed, but strong as an ox and surprisingly quick on his feet. He has got to play like Mike Flanagan did from 2001-'03, not as Flanagan did on one leg in '05.
15. Nick Collins, S
Some players make their most substantial improvements from Year 1 to Year 2. If Collins has improved, you wouldn't know it by anything that he did this summer. Talk about invisible. Based on his rookie season, Collins can run and he's a hard hitter. Whether he has the instincts and ball skills to make big plays is the question.
16. Jason Spitz, G
Here's another player that won't be allowed to perform like the neophyte that he is. Ted Thompson is counting on Spitz at LG just as he did Adrian Klemm last year. Spitz is tougher and uses his hands better than Klemm. He's also far less experienced and probably not as athletic.
17. Tony Moll, G
A fun-loving, husky Californian pressed into starting service when fellow rookie Daryn Colledge flopped at guard. Of course he isn't ready, but that's of little concern with the regular season approaching and no real alternative. If it means anything, he is far more athletic than last year's punching bag at right guard, Will Whitticker. But Whitticker did start at the position for the better part of four seasons at Michigan State.
18. Cullen Jenkins, DT
Played too much last year (541 snaps, fourth on the line) and was overwhelmed too often at the point of attack. Now, with improved depth at the position, he can settle into more of a niche role and go get the quarterback on passing downs. Still the team's best interior pass rusher and one of its more underrated players.
19. Marquand Manuel, S
Thompson obviously thinks he can play, but the rest of us haven't a clue. He pulled a calf muscle two weeks before camp and didn't return until the third exhibition game. In Cincinnati, Manuel appeared to be running in quicksand while the Bengals receivers raced by. Plus, he tackled poorly, too. Regarded as a great communicator in Seattle.
20. Bubba Franks, TE
He deserved more credit than he received in the last six seasons as a point-of-attack run blocker in Mike Sherman's gap scheme. But with the power game shuffled onto the backburner, the best part of his game seldom is utilized in the zone scheme. Coming off a distressing season, Franks will have to impress the new coaches early or risk losing playing time to fleeter tight ends.
21. Brady Poppinga, LB
On the field, in meetings room and during interviews, he's the epitome of an intense football player. In his lone exhibition start against the Titans, he was bristling with energy against the run and expended tremendous energy in pursuit. Playing linebacker doesn't come naturally for Poppinga, who spent his first three collegiate seasons at defensive end.
22. Ahmad Carroll, CB
The final impressions left by Carroll in the Tennessee game were drawing an offside penalty on a punt, letting a tight end (Bo Scaife) blow by him for a 30-yard completion and taunting the Titans' sideline after an incompletion in his area. His coaches went out of their way in July to insist that Carroll, 23, was a matured individual in his third season. Nothing in August supported their contention.
23. Corey Williams, DT
He stumbled last summer when the coaches tried to make a starter out of him. This summer, he played much better when the pre-camp sendoff went to Kenderick Allen. Adding 10 more pounds and another year in a pro weight room gave Williams the power to press blockers and hold his gap. He's also athletic enough to keep his feet clean and move to the ball carrier. His next goal is developing as a pass rusher.
24. Colin Cole, DT
Not gifted but gets by with a big heart and a lot of hustle. He reported to camp lighter by a biscuit or three but didn't lose any of his shock-absorbing qualities. Ranked fifth on the unit in snaps (460) last season but might not get as many this season. Talks smart. Plays smarter.
25. Robert Ferguson, WR
Failed to make the progress he hoped for as a wide receiver and slipped to No. 3 behind Jennings. Unlike Carroll, Ferguson is representative of an early-to-declare draftee who made himself into a real pro after an amateurish first season. He'll play a lot, both in three-wide formations and in several phases of special teams.
26. Samkon Gado, RB
Based on training camp you have to question his natural running instincts. There's nothing wrong with his speed, power or toughness. He impressed by sticking his nose into blitzing linebackers several times. But there were a few too many runs in which the coaches wished he had been more decisive.
27. William Henderson, FB
Part of the problem with the ground game is his diminished punch as a lead blocker. The linebackers that Henderson once drove backward on a consistent basis now get stalemates or even movement against him. Yet, Henderson is a far better receiver than Vonta Leach. At 35, he's a fan favorite and a comforting presence for the special-teams coaches.
28. Ben Taylor, LB
Probably shouldn't be a starter for a decent team but more than earned his keep in camp. Not that explosive, not that tall, not that heavy, not that strong and not that fast. At times, he has been overwhelmed physically on the strong side and found himself out of position against outside running plays. Still, he isn't bad in coverage and does have a knack for sifting out the ball.
29. Jon Ryan, P
Made short work of B.J. Sander by pounding the air out of the football on a consistent basis. Averaged an imposing 49.1 yards on 17 punts. His net was just OK (36.6) because he frequently out-kicked his coverage and had an average hang time of just 3.99 seconds. By the numbers, Sander punted better last summer than Ryan did this summer.
30. Tyrone Culver, S
The more this sixth-round draft choice played, the worse he got. He made plays all over the field in San Diego and, with Marviel Underwood's knee injury, all but locked up a roster berth. But then he began having major problems in coverage, giving too much cushion and not playing his assignments. All in all, Culver looks like a solid draft pick. He just doesn't look ready for prime time.
31. Kenderick Allen, DT
After getting wired to blocks in Cincinnati, Allen looked like a goner. But he probably saved himself by shedding some of those same blocks against Tennessee and making some jarring hits. The coaches were hopeful he'd be considerably more than the typical journeyman, even though this was his third team in four years. So far, that hasn't materialized.
32. Noah Herron, RB
Here's another player who might have gone from the street to the sideline with a boffo fourth-quarter showing against the Titans. Herron always will be on the endangered list because he lacks speed. However, even a losing team must strive to win every game that it can, and right now Herron could be the best option on kickoff returns and the second-best option at running back.
33. Daryn Colledge, T
He had a good outing against Cincinnati but went back into the Dumpster against Tennessee. At this point, he's a finesse blocker lacking effectiveness on run and pass. With training camp over, it will be hard for Colledge to improve this season. Unfortunately for Brett Favre, he's the No. 1 backup at both left tackle and left guard.
34. Mike Montgomery, DE
He played 10 pounds lighter this summer at 265 hoping to get off the ball quicker. Then he stacked the point better than he rushed the passer. The coaches know this about Montgomery. He will play every snap with maximum effort regardless of the caliber of tackle across from him or the score.
35. Abdul Hodge, LB
Hodge is physical. He doesn't run around blocks. He hits hard. And he can diagnose plays. All those are positive signs for his future. A 12-yard run by Tennessee's Travis Henry on a sweep to the right in the second quarter showed something else about Hodge. He charged downhill the way you draw it up but didn't have the speed to reach Henry before he was off around the corner. Average speed was one big reason why he lasted until the third round.
36. David Martin, TE
Martin is a competitive backup and had a good camp. He generally stayed on the field, and when he wasn't quite 100%, the coaches were encouraged by his willingness to play with the nagging hurts. He has developed into a competitive blocker.
37. Vonta Leach, FB
Even before dropping two passes against Atlanta, he had been a disappointment. His game is based on splattering defenders, and he wasn't doing it. Leach's embarrassing moments against the Falcons did more than motivate him to get on the Jugs machine each day after practice. It also inspired him to start pounding heads again.
38. Dave Rayner, K
He has never made a field goal in the regular season and wasn't accurate in the first few weeks of camp. Then the Packers cut Billy Cundiff on Aug. 17 and Rayner rose to the occasion. His field-goal accuracy will determine his longevity. However, his kickoffs were good. His 14 boots averaged 67.4 yards and 3.94 seconds of hang time.
39. Aaron Rodgers, QB
Looked somewhat improved in the first two weeks of camp and really impressed in San Diego. After that, he was very average against Atlanta, not very good against Cincinnati and awful against Tennessee. When decisive, he gets the ball out quickly and with considerable velocity. But for anyone to say he's any better under pressure or as a leader would be making a leap of faith.
40. Jason Hunter, DE
He wouldn't be here if there weren't more to him than just flying off the edge. Throughout camp and in several games, Hunter showed he had a knack for rushing the passer. Despite his lack of size, he used his hands well to escape blockers and hold his own at the point. Of course, he did get buried sometimes.
41. Donald Lee, TE
Retained his roster berth by staying on the field and turning in a workmanlike camp. Unlike last season, when he had receptions for 26 and 27 yards, Lee didn't do much downfield. He also showed absolutely no run after the catch against the Titans. What he can do is run, block and catch.
42. Ruvell Martin, WR
It's hard to find towering wide receivers with the courage to cover kicks and deliver crack-back blocks. Martin made the club as much for his toughness as his talent. Intelligent and aware, he could write the book for "street" free agents on how to gain notice in an NFL camp.
43. Rob Davis, LS
The oldest player on the roster, he will turn 38 in December. But nobody messes with this former bouncer for Dennis Rodman. He's a company man through and through, eager to stamp out fires in the locker room before they start to spread.
44. Johnny Jolly, DT
One of those "yes sir, no sir" kind of guys. Played his best game against Atlanta. Works hard rushing the passer and flashes some quickness if he gets a step. Also capable of holding his ground, disengaging from blocks and accelerating to the ball carrier.
45. Will Blackmon, CB
In July, CB coach Lionel Washington predicted that Blackmon, if healthy, could play as effectively as Mike Hawkins did as a rookie. He hasn't played since suffering a broken foot May 21, but the shortage of depth will expedite his return. Played wide receiver as a senior at Boston College. One thing's for sure: He's far more physical than Hawkins.
46. Tracy White, LB
Beat out Roy Manning for No. 6 berth at linebacker. His edge came on special teams. White doesn't appear to play as fast as he times, especially from scrimmage. But he performed well on special teams and figures to be a core player for coach Mike Stock.
47. Jarrett Bush, CB
Possesses prototypical size (6 feet ½ inch, 194 pounds) and has pretty good speed. Played wide receiver in junior college, nickel back at Utah State in '04 and started at cornerback in '05. "Intriguing," one scout said before the draft. "He's raw, but he's got measurables and isn't afraid to tackle." Posted jumps of 39 inches (vertical) and 10-5 (broad jump) in campus workout.
48. Charlie Peprah, S
Ran a poor 40 at the combine (4.69) but came back with 4.53 on campus. Also posted 37½ vertical jump and 9-11 broad jump. Took the 50-question Wonderlic intelligence test twice, scoring 16 and 25. Said one scout: "Outgoing, mature, intelligent kid with no issues. Very coachable. Tough. "
49. Chris White, C
Spent considerable time at guard in camp but center looks like his only legitimate position. Probably was more impressive in camp as a rookie but still held his own.
50. Tory Humphrey, TE-FB
His ability to run, cut and jump was obvious in camp last year. What the Packers didn't know was whether he had the toughness to block and cover kicks. His lead blocking as a fullback against Tennessee wasn't bad. Thus, he made the club as the fourth tight end.
51. Junius Coston, T-G
Thompson drafted Coston in the fifth round a year ago and still isn't ready to give up on his potential. Young for his class, won't turn 23 until November. On the short side (6-3½) for tackle and seemed a little lost at guard trying to make hair-trigger adjustments.
52. Tony Palmer, G
Four-year starting guard at Missouri. "Great personality," one scout said. "Vocal leader. Outstanding natural strength with good in-line explosion. Phone-booth player. Marginal athlete, slow-footed and stiff."
53. Ingle Martin, QB
Drafted in the fifth round and deemed skilled enough to spend a year trying to develop. He can spin a tight spiral, and doesn't have to wind up to throw the ball down the field. His decision-making and accuracy leave much to be desired.
Posted: Sept. 7, 2006
On the Packers
Bob McGinn
Bob McGinn, who covers the Green Bay Packers for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, provides his annual analysis of the 53-man roster. The rankings were based on each player's value to the 2006 team.
Sometimes a player was downgraded because he plays a position with such depth that his absence wouldn't be significant. Others were upgraded because of the importance of their positions as well as the shortage of depth behind them.
1. Brett Favre, QB
For better or worse, the legendary one returns for his 16th season. He looked very common against San Diego, sharp against Atlanta and awful against Cincinnati. Vowing once again "to go down swinging," he'll no doubt be up and down and all around. Don't fret for Brett. Win, lose or draw, he loves the life. That's why he returned.
2. Donald Driver, WR
Up from No. 11 at this time a year ago, when Javon Walker went off at No. 3. Driver was the team's best player last season and it could be argued he was the best player this summer. Without Driver, one scout said, the Packers don't even have a passing game. Doesn't act his age (31) when it comes to running routes in traffic and performing many of the mundane parts of his job with enthusiasm. Appears to have taken on even more of a leadership role after signing new contract May 8.
3. Ahman Green, RB
In a perfect world, the Packers wouldn't be forced to make him tote the mail 25 times starting in Week 1. But what are the options? If Green breaks down early, the Packers could become entirely one-dimensional whether Mike McCarthy likes it or not. Not only is there the durability issue, but there's also the question of how much Green has left. His 3.3-yard average in '05 suggested he wasn't the same player even before the injury.
4. Chad Clifton, T
He's coming off the poorest season of his career, then had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee in January and on his right knee in May and didn't play well this summer. It's only his seventh season, but he did turn 30 in June. In June, Pro Football Weekly ranked him No. 5 among all tackles. If his knees are OK, Clifton is an extremely gifted pass protector with a lightning-quick set.
5. Mark Tauscher, T
One year younger than Clifton, Tauscher doesn't have as much wear and tear on his body. A pro's pro, Tauscher knows how to lead in his own understated fashion, how to pass protect against superior athletes and how to neutralize his man as a run blocker. PFW has him ranked No. 14 among all tackles entering the season, even though he played better than Clifton in '05.
6. Al Harris, CB
Harris will celebrate his 32nd birthday in December, an age by which some of the fast cornerbacks of yesteryear (Ronnie Lott, Rod Woodson) already had made the move to safety. In camp, there are moments when you swear Harris has lost a step of speed that he couldn't afford to lose. At other times, he'll lock up a wide receiver and looks to be in dominant form. The truth is that he must play well in '06 for this defense to function and for him to have any chance at a contract extension.
7. Aaron Kampman, DE
He didn't make much noise this summer after signing a lucrative deal on the eve of free agency. Given the paucity of depth, he might have to repeat his iron-man routine of playing 92.3% of the snaps. The Packers desperately need Kampman to rush the passer as effectively as he did a year ago, when he led the team in pressures per snap. He's a gung-ho team guy who doesn't take losing lightly.
8. Nick Barnett, LB
Still has this year and next year on his original deal. Looking for a breakout contract in the next 12 months but will need a breakout season to get it. He responded well to the challenge offered by A.J. Hawk, leaving little doubt in the minds of the coaches that he should be the only linebacker playing every snap. Just 25 years old, but with a youth movement in high gear, he'll be asked to assume more of a leadership role.
9. Greg Jennings, WR
The coaches didn't plan to start him, but given his sensational play there was no way they couldn't. If you care to nitpick, he did drop a few too many passes here and there. On the other hand, he not only made plays but big plays in almost every game and in a ton of practices. Built thicker than it appears and probably plays faster than he timed. An early gem in a class of wide receivers that scouts couldn't have been less enthusiastic about.
10. Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila, DE
Reported in great shape and worked to develop a better inside move. Coming off probably his most mediocre season as a rusher and continued to serve as a target for opposing ground games. The Packers tried but failed to find a more suitable backup that could lift some of the early-down load from his shoulders. If "KGB" has to play 80.1% of the snaps again, the run defense will struggle once more.
11. Charles Woodson, CB
Ranked by PFW as No. 21 among cornerbacks entering the season but looked more like No. 61 two weeks ago in Cincinnati. He couldn't cover. He couldn't tackle. He appeared to have lost his quickness. And he didn't put forth much effort. Otherwise, his performance in camp was solid. He hasn't played a full season since '01 due to injury and turns 30 in October, factors that must petrify the team's front office.
12. Ryan Pickett, DT
Looks like he might be a highly capable starter based on his performance in the final two exhibitions. He was stout at the point of attack, showed range and athletic ability skipping through trash down the line and collapsed the pocket on the pass rush. Playing his way into shape isn't much of an idea but, after reporting at 343 pounds, that's the way it had to be.
13. A.J. Hawk, LB
The heralded rookie was active, aggressive and around the ball against San Diego and Atlanta after a slow start in camp. Then he hardly showed up in Cincinnati and basically took the afternoon off with the rest of the starters against Tennessee. He's going to play a ton of snaps and will be expected to make a ton of plays. How he will fare is anyone's guess.
14. Scott Wells, C
With so much attention focused on the guards, it's sometimes forgotten that Wells has just four starts at center under his belt. Talk about pressure. Given so much uncertainty elsewhere, he has no margin for error. Wells is short and short-armed, but strong as an ox and surprisingly quick on his feet. He has got to play like Mike Flanagan did from 2001-'03, not as Flanagan did on one leg in '05.
15. Nick Collins, S
Some players make their most substantial improvements from Year 1 to Year 2. If Collins has improved, you wouldn't know it by anything that he did this summer. Talk about invisible. Based on his rookie season, Collins can run and he's a hard hitter. Whether he has the instincts and ball skills to make big plays is the question.
16. Jason Spitz, G
Here's another player that won't be allowed to perform like the neophyte that he is. Ted Thompson is counting on Spitz at LG just as he did Adrian Klemm last year. Spitz is tougher and uses his hands better than Klemm. He's also far less experienced and probably not as athletic.
17. Tony Moll, G
A fun-loving, husky Californian pressed into starting service when fellow rookie Daryn Colledge flopped at guard. Of course he isn't ready, but that's of little concern with the regular season approaching and no real alternative. If it means anything, he is far more athletic than last year's punching bag at right guard, Will Whitticker. But Whitticker did start at the position for the better part of four seasons at Michigan State.
18. Cullen Jenkins, DT
Played too much last year (541 snaps, fourth on the line) and was overwhelmed too often at the point of attack. Now, with improved depth at the position, he can settle into more of a niche role and go get the quarterback on passing downs. Still the team's best interior pass rusher and one of its more underrated players.
19. Marquand Manuel, S
Thompson obviously thinks he can play, but the rest of us haven't a clue. He pulled a calf muscle two weeks before camp and didn't return until the third exhibition game. In Cincinnati, Manuel appeared to be running in quicksand while the Bengals receivers raced by. Plus, he tackled poorly, too. Regarded as a great communicator in Seattle.
20. Bubba Franks, TE
He deserved more credit than he received in the last six seasons as a point-of-attack run blocker in Mike Sherman's gap scheme. But with the power game shuffled onto the backburner, the best part of his game seldom is utilized in the zone scheme. Coming off a distressing season, Franks will have to impress the new coaches early or risk losing playing time to fleeter tight ends.
21. Brady Poppinga, LB
On the field, in meetings room and during interviews, he's the epitome of an intense football player. In his lone exhibition start against the Titans, he was bristling with energy against the run and expended tremendous energy in pursuit. Playing linebacker doesn't come naturally for Poppinga, who spent his first three collegiate seasons at defensive end.
22. Ahmad Carroll, CB
The final impressions left by Carroll in the Tennessee game were drawing an offside penalty on a punt, letting a tight end (Bo Scaife) blow by him for a 30-yard completion and taunting the Titans' sideline after an incompletion in his area. His coaches went out of their way in July to insist that Carroll, 23, was a matured individual in his third season. Nothing in August supported their contention.
23. Corey Williams, DT
He stumbled last summer when the coaches tried to make a starter out of him. This summer, he played much better when the pre-camp sendoff went to Kenderick Allen. Adding 10 more pounds and another year in a pro weight room gave Williams the power to press blockers and hold his gap. He's also athletic enough to keep his feet clean and move to the ball carrier. His next goal is developing as a pass rusher.
24. Colin Cole, DT
Not gifted but gets by with a big heart and a lot of hustle. He reported to camp lighter by a biscuit or three but didn't lose any of his shock-absorbing qualities. Ranked fifth on the unit in snaps (460) last season but might not get as many this season. Talks smart. Plays smarter.
25. Robert Ferguson, WR
Failed to make the progress he hoped for as a wide receiver and slipped to No. 3 behind Jennings. Unlike Carroll, Ferguson is representative of an early-to-declare draftee who made himself into a real pro after an amateurish first season. He'll play a lot, both in three-wide formations and in several phases of special teams.
26. Samkon Gado, RB
Based on training camp you have to question his natural running instincts. There's nothing wrong with his speed, power or toughness. He impressed by sticking his nose into blitzing linebackers several times. But there were a few too many runs in which the coaches wished he had been more decisive.
27. William Henderson, FB
Part of the problem with the ground game is his diminished punch as a lead blocker. The linebackers that Henderson once drove backward on a consistent basis now get stalemates or even movement against him. Yet, Henderson is a far better receiver than Vonta Leach. At 35, he's a fan favorite and a comforting presence for the special-teams coaches.
28. Ben Taylor, LB
Probably shouldn't be a starter for a decent team but more than earned his keep in camp. Not that explosive, not that tall, not that heavy, not that strong and not that fast. At times, he has been overwhelmed physically on the strong side and found himself out of position against outside running plays. Still, he isn't bad in coverage and does have a knack for sifting out the ball.
29. Jon Ryan, P
Made short work of B.J. Sander by pounding the air out of the football on a consistent basis. Averaged an imposing 49.1 yards on 17 punts. His net was just OK (36.6) because he frequently out-kicked his coverage and had an average hang time of just 3.99 seconds. By the numbers, Sander punted better last summer than Ryan did this summer.
30. Tyrone Culver, S
The more this sixth-round draft choice played, the worse he got. He made plays all over the field in San Diego and, with Marviel Underwood's knee injury, all but locked up a roster berth. But then he began having major problems in coverage, giving too much cushion and not playing his assignments. All in all, Culver looks like a solid draft pick. He just doesn't look ready for prime time.
31. Kenderick Allen, DT
After getting wired to blocks in Cincinnati, Allen looked like a goner. But he probably saved himself by shedding some of those same blocks against Tennessee and making some jarring hits. The coaches were hopeful he'd be considerably more than the typical journeyman, even though this was his third team in four years. So far, that hasn't materialized.
32. Noah Herron, RB
Here's another player who might have gone from the street to the sideline with a boffo fourth-quarter showing against the Titans. Herron always will be on the endangered list because he lacks speed. However, even a losing team must strive to win every game that it can, and right now Herron could be the best option on kickoff returns and the second-best option at running back.
33. Daryn Colledge, T
He had a good outing against Cincinnati but went back into the Dumpster against Tennessee. At this point, he's a finesse blocker lacking effectiveness on run and pass. With training camp over, it will be hard for Colledge to improve this season. Unfortunately for Brett Favre, he's the No. 1 backup at both left tackle and left guard.
34. Mike Montgomery, DE
He played 10 pounds lighter this summer at 265 hoping to get off the ball quicker. Then he stacked the point better than he rushed the passer. The coaches know this about Montgomery. He will play every snap with maximum effort regardless of the caliber of tackle across from him or the score.
35. Abdul Hodge, LB
Hodge is physical. He doesn't run around blocks. He hits hard. And he can diagnose plays. All those are positive signs for his future. A 12-yard run by Tennessee's Travis Henry on a sweep to the right in the second quarter showed something else about Hodge. He charged downhill the way you draw it up but didn't have the speed to reach Henry before he was off around the corner. Average speed was one big reason why he lasted until the third round.
36. David Martin, TE
Martin is a competitive backup and had a good camp. He generally stayed on the field, and when he wasn't quite 100%, the coaches were encouraged by his willingness to play with the nagging hurts. He has developed into a competitive blocker.
37. Vonta Leach, FB
Even before dropping two passes against Atlanta, he had been a disappointment. His game is based on splattering defenders, and he wasn't doing it. Leach's embarrassing moments against the Falcons did more than motivate him to get on the Jugs machine each day after practice. It also inspired him to start pounding heads again.
38. Dave Rayner, K
He has never made a field goal in the regular season and wasn't accurate in the first few weeks of camp. Then the Packers cut Billy Cundiff on Aug. 17 and Rayner rose to the occasion. His field-goal accuracy will determine his longevity. However, his kickoffs were good. His 14 boots averaged 67.4 yards and 3.94 seconds of hang time.
39. Aaron Rodgers, QB
Looked somewhat improved in the first two weeks of camp and really impressed in San Diego. After that, he was very average against Atlanta, not very good against Cincinnati and awful against Tennessee. When decisive, he gets the ball out quickly and with considerable velocity. But for anyone to say he's any better under pressure or as a leader would be making a leap of faith.
40. Jason Hunter, DE
He wouldn't be here if there weren't more to him than just flying off the edge. Throughout camp and in several games, Hunter showed he had a knack for rushing the passer. Despite his lack of size, he used his hands well to escape blockers and hold his own at the point. Of course, he did get buried sometimes.
41. Donald Lee, TE
Retained his roster berth by staying on the field and turning in a workmanlike camp. Unlike last season, when he had receptions for 26 and 27 yards, Lee didn't do much downfield. He also showed absolutely no run after the catch against the Titans. What he can do is run, block and catch.
42. Ruvell Martin, WR
It's hard to find towering wide receivers with the courage to cover kicks and deliver crack-back blocks. Martin made the club as much for his toughness as his talent. Intelligent and aware, he could write the book for "street" free agents on how to gain notice in an NFL camp.
43. Rob Davis, LS
The oldest player on the roster, he will turn 38 in December. But nobody messes with this former bouncer for Dennis Rodman. He's a company man through and through, eager to stamp out fires in the locker room before they start to spread.
44. Johnny Jolly, DT
One of those "yes sir, no sir" kind of guys. Played his best game against Atlanta. Works hard rushing the passer and flashes some quickness if he gets a step. Also capable of holding his ground, disengaging from blocks and accelerating to the ball carrier.
45. Will Blackmon, CB
In July, CB coach Lionel Washington predicted that Blackmon, if healthy, could play as effectively as Mike Hawkins did as a rookie. He hasn't played since suffering a broken foot May 21, but the shortage of depth will expedite his return. Played wide receiver as a senior at Boston College. One thing's for sure: He's far more physical than Hawkins.
46. Tracy White, LB
Beat out Roy Manning for No. 6 berth at linebacker. His edge came on special teams. White doesn't appear to play as fast as he times, especially from scrimmage. But he performed well on special teams and figures to be a core player for coach Mike Stock.
47. Jarrett Bush, CB
Possesses prototypical size (6 feet ½ inch, 194 pounds) and has pretty good speed. Played wide receiver in junior college, nickel back at Utah State in '04 and started at cornerback in '05. "Intriguing," one scout said before the draft. "He's raw, but he's got measurables and isn't afraid to tackle." Posted jumps of 39 inches (vertical) and 10-5 (broad jump) in campus workout.
48. Charlie Peprah, S
Ran a poor 40 at the combine (4.69) but came back with 4.53 on campus. Also posted 37½ vertical jump and 9-11 broad jump. Took the 50-question Wonderlic intelligence test twice, scoring 16 and 25. Said one scout: "Outgoing, mature, intelligent kid with no issues. Very coachable. Tough. "
49. Chris White, C
Spent considerable time at guard in camp but center looks like his only legitimate position. Probably was more impressive in camp as a rookie but still held his own.
50. Tory Humphrey, TE-FB
His ability to run, cut and jump was obvious in camp last year. What the Packers didn't know was whether he had the toughness to block and cover kicks. His lead blocking as a fullback against Tennessee wasn't bad. Thus, he made the club as the fourth tight end.
51. Junius Coston, T-G
Thompson drafted Coston in the fifth round a year ago and still isn't ready to give up on his potential. Young for his class, won't turn 23 until November. On the short side (6-3½) for tackle and seemed a little lost at guard trying to make hair-trigger adjustments.
52. Tony Palmer, G
Four-year starting guard at Missouri. "Great personality," one scout said. "Vocal leader. Outstanding natural strength with good in-line explosion. Phone-booth player. Marginal athlete, slow-footed and stiff."
53. Ingle Martin, QB
Drafted in the fifth round and deemed skilled enough to spend a year trying to develop. He can spin a tight spiral, and doesn't have to wind up to throw the ball down the field. His decision-making and accuracy leave much to be desired.