Brandon Underwood - falling off the depth chart

[Patler]

I think Blackmon is a slightly different story. He won the nickel job in camp and in preseason. He didn't get to play due to his work in shorts. But after a good start his play never progressed. Even after another offseason and camp.

He could never stay healthy enough to practice or play regularly. That probably hurt him a lot, too. Amazing for a guy that never missed a game in college even though he was a three year starter and returned kicks for four years, and as a senior played some on defense even though he was a starting at WR. Got to the pros and can't stay healthy.

[pbmax]

I think part of it is simply the fact that we put an emphasis on developing talent over trying to bring in proven veterans. We'll give talent more time to develop before we look for a replacement. That can help find more diamonds in the rough.

Shields is a rarity though. The guy is tremendously talented, yet wasn't super productive in college. He came in with the perfect humble yet confident attitude and that has allowed him to grow quickly and his ability to shine through.

I think having good starters also helps. Because that underdeveloped player can sit, play on special teams and practice without having the pressure to perform at Game time. It allows their strength and technique to develop if they are not forced into bad habits from the pressure of playing in games. In some ways, this player is at an advantage on a good team versus the high draft pick who would need to wait (QBs excepted).

[Fritz]

PB, I think your point fits Rodgers perfectly. I maintain that part of the reason that he's done so well is because he was allowed to develop and watch and not have to start right away. I think more franchises should bite the bullet and do that.

[rbaloha1]

BU is physically talented with long arms. With newly found maturity and competition expect BU to be part of the rotation next season.

Pat Lee is another story.

[Joemailman]

Where's he going to find that newly found maturity? Gift-wrapped under the Christmas tree?

[wootah]

Where's he going to find that newly found maturity?

He tried to buy some maturity of 30 & 31 year old at Matthews' charity golf event a while ago. Can't say the guy isn't trying...

[pbmax]

Where's he going to find that newly found maturity? Gift-wrapped under the Christmas tree?

Wasn't Maturity the name of the girl he took back to the condo from Chubby's?

[rbaloha1]

Where's he going to find that newly found maturity? Gift-wrapped under the Christmas tree?

Getting busted and forced to explain to your wife what happened.

[Joemailman]

Maybe. Hope so. Immaturity seems to be a pattern with him though. Not sure he can break it.

[vince]

Mature or not, he's not very reliable as a CB.