Late in McGinn's article, he praises Josh Boyd. In last year's training camp, Boyd was no more impressive than Thornton is this year. I remember Trgovac talking about how "Boyd is being asked to do some things he hasn't done before". Yet by late in the season, Boyd was a contributor, and he's now seen as a key member of the DL. I think they will give Thornton some time.
As for Bradford, I just don't think he can play OLB. As I mentioned in another thread, I saw him at practice Tuesday standing next to Clay Matthews, and the difference physically is striking. He looks even shorter than his listed height. The question is whether he can play ILB. The Packers tried moving Terrell Manning inside and it didn't work. If they feel Bradford can't play there, he's probably worthless.