OFFICIAL POSTDRAFT REVIEWS & POLLS

[TopHat]

DRAFT REVIEW

http://www.sportsnetwork.com/

Green Bay Packers 2007 NFL Draft Review By Tony Moss, NFL Editor

1 - Justin Harrell, DT, Tennessee (6-4, 305); 2 - Brandon Jackson, RB, Nebraska (5-10, 210); 3 - James Jones, WR, San Jose State (6-1, 207); 3 - Aaron Rouse, SS, Virginia Tech (6-4, 225); 4 - Allen Barbre, T, Missouri Southern (6-4, 300); 5 - David Clowney, WR, Virginia Tech (6-0, 188); 6 - Korey Hall, LB, Boise State (6-0, 229); 6 - Desmond Bishop, LB, Cal (6-2, 239); 6 - Mason Crosby, K, Colorado (6-1, 212); 7 - DeShawn Wynn, RB, Florida (5-10, 232); 7 - Clark Harris, TE, Rutgers (6-5, 261);

Analysis: Judging by ESPN's coverage, a group of seven-year-old Packer fans was clearly irate at the team's selection of Harrell, who was hurt for the majority of his senior year and who most experts expected to go late-first or early-second round. Green Bay didn't fill its glaring need in the backfield until the second round (thanks in large part to the Bills stealing Marshawn Lynch at No. 12), picking the somewhat undersized Jackson. The Pack also selected Wynn, who struggled to find his way out or Urban Meyer's doghouse while in college, in the seventh round. The franchise might have engaged in the reach of the entire draft by selecting Jones on the first day (some scouts had him in the undrafted free agent zone), but got good value for the speedy Clowney in the fifth round. Elsewhere on offense, Harris has a chance to stick on a team that needs tight end help. On defense, Rouse is a pure in-the-box type of safety. And on special teams, the selection of Crosby, who many considered to be the best kicker in the draft, puts Dave Rayner on notice. Bottom Line: Eleven picks, and not a can't-miss player among the bunch. Grade: C-

[HarveyWallbangers]

Re: DRAFT REVIEW

Bottom Line: Eleven picks, and not a can't-miss player among the bunch. Grade: C- [/b]

Bottom line: which team drafts #16, and gets a can't miss player?

[Rastak]

I'll trust Thompson's opinion on a WR over Peter King's opinion. Jones was rated anywhere from a 3rd or 4th round pick to undrafted. So, even the experts couldn't agree.

It's similar to Greg Jennings last year. Or, even more appropriately, Tarvaris Jackson. Jackson was ranked as a 4th or 5th round grade by the "experts." Minnesota took him in round 2, and was roundly criticized. Then, you find out that a lot of teams actually liked him. When these "experts" say a team could have waited to draft a guy, most of the time they are wrong. The "experts" said Donte Whitner shouldn't have gone in the top 10 last year. He did to Buffalo, and he was good. They say that the Packers should have traded down, and they could have still gotten Harrell. Then we find out that Denver likely would have taken him. I don't buy any of them. I think you can get a feel for a prospect by reading the scouting report. I think trying to figure when and where a guy should have gone is fruitless--since a lot of the stuff from the scouts is misinformation and most of the stuff from the "experts" is a joke.

Harvey, on the flip side, how many times do GM's blow their picks? Does that mean they aren't "experts"? Seems to me, the NFL draft is rather a crapshoot in the sense that NOBODY can be sure of how a player will play at the NFL level.

[MJZiggy]

Harvey, on the flip side, how many times do GM's blow their picks? Does that mean they aren't "experts"? Seems to me, the NFL draft is rather a crapshoot in the sense that NOBODY can be sure of how a player will play at the NFL level.

I think we have a winner...

[HarveyWallbangers]

I never said Thompson would always be right. Far from it. Hell, Ron Wolf seldom got his a #1 pick right. I just trust the professional scouts a lot more than the "experts" on TV. Hell, I should be on TV--as I was closer to the Packers picks than the experts were.


The "experts" are always give a higher grade to the teams the filled immediate needs. Hell, on average only 1-2 rookies start each year for a team, and it's often not the ones you'd expect. Overreaching for need is fool's gold. Just ask Wolf. Also, I get the feeling when analyzing, they don't take into consideration the system the team plays. The reason I likely hit on more guys is because I was looking at a players, and deciding which ones that I felt would fit the Packers system more.

[TopHat]

SE DETAILED COMPLETE DRAFT REVIEW

http://story.scout.com/a.z?s=61&p=2&c=641018

Summing up the Packers' draft By The Sports Xchange J.J.

Those weren't cheers that greeted general manager Ted Thompson when he came out to speak to fans during a draft party at Lambeau Field after the team's first selection was made April 28. The boo birds were out in full force in response to Thompson's taking Tennessee defensive tackle Justin Harrell with the 16th overall pick. The choice came as a shock to many because Harrell wasn't projected to go that high in Round 1 and of the team's needs, defensive tackle ranked far down the list. "I think it's great because that's what the Green Bay Packers are all about, is fans like that that have passion and they care," Thompson said. "We are doing everything we can to make this the best team possible. If they disagree with our decisions, that's OK. It's just as long as we believe we're doing the right thing, then we can take a few shots." Harrell was only the fourth defensive tackle taken by the Packers in the first round since 1970 -- Vonnie Holliday was the last in 1998. Harrell will have to be more than serviceable for the Green Bay supporters to change their tune on Thompson's approach to his third draft with the team. The timing of the selection was puzzling because the Packers seemingly were set with Ryan Pickett and Corey Williams as the returning starting tackles and have a couple emerging prospects in Colin Cole and Johnny Jolly. Plus, they re-signed Cullen Jenkins, a productive hybrid end-tackle, to a hefty four-year contract before the start of free agency.
Yet, the club was high on Harrell, never mind his injury history, and is convinced the imposing run stopper can be a front-line contributor. "We're going to build this football team strong with the offensive and defensive lines," head coach Mike McCarthy said. "You just cannot have enough big guys." That rationale prompted the Packers to pass on one of the top receivers still on the board (Tennessee's Robert Meachem or LSU's Dwayne Bowe), Florida safety Reggie Nelson, Michigan cornerback Leon Hall, Miami tight end Greg Olsen, even Notre Dame quarterback Brady Quinn. Any one of most of those players would have satisfied a great need - and appeased the fans. "We don't draft based on needs, and I know that's boring ... but we don't think that's the best policy," Thompson said. "We think really and truly that the more good football players, regardless of position, that you can add to your team, the better off you are as an organization and as a team."
True to his track record of trading down to accumulate more players, Thompson swung two draft-weekend deals to turn nine picks into 11. The marquee pick of Harrell notwithstanding, offense was the emphasis, with seven players targeted to play on that side. Second-round pick Brandon Jackson has untapped potential as a West Coast running back, but it will be asking a lot of him to assume the full-time role vacated by Ahman Green's free-agent signing with Houston. The Packers' chance to get Cal standout Marshawn Lynch fell by the wayside when Buffalo took him at No. 12. Meanwhile, the jury is out on whether third-round safety Aaron Rouse can displace Marquand Manuel as a starter and what impact, if any, James Jones (third round) and David Clowney (fifth) can make for a receiving group that is without Randy Moss. Long the subject of trade rumors involving Green Bay, Moss was traded from Oakland to New England on the second day of the draft for a fourth-round pick this year.
The team's best value selection of the entire process might have come at the back end of three straight picks midway through the sixth round with strong-legged kicker Mason Crosby, who will challenge incumbent Dave Rayner. "I hope that, in time, they would think this is a good draft," Thompson said of the fans.
BEST PICK
GM Ted Thompson again resorted to some wheeling and dealing throughout the draft to stockpile picks, turning nine into 11. The quality of those selections doesn't jump out as a blue-chipper ensemble, especially at the team's positions of needs. In fact, rather than land a top-line player at running back, receiver, safety and tight end, Thompson surprisingly chose to first bolster the depth on the defensive line. Tennessee tackle Justin Harrell, though, can't be written off so easily as the No. 16 overall pick. If not for a season-ending arm injury sustained in the second game last season, Harrell probably would have been out of reach in the middle of Round 1 for Green Bay, which has drawn criticism for reaching for him. Yes, Harrell is injury prone. If he can find a way to stay healthy for an extended period, however, Harrell's natural abilities suggest he will become the Packers' best interior lineman before long. Harrell, an uncanny run stopper who gets off the ball well, and Ryan Pickett give the defense a formidable tackle duo on early downs. Harrell is raw as a pass rusher, but the team can get by in the interim with Corey Williams, who held down a starting job most of last season.
COULD SURPRISE
Brandon Jackson was pegged to be a second-day draftee, but the Packers thought otherwise and grabbed the somewhat obscure Nebraska running back after trading down to the back end of Round 2. Jackson started only a third of the games he played in three years, but team officials deem him a suitable fit for the zone-blocking run scheme. Jackson and holdover Vernand Morency are shaped in the same mold, as shifty backs who can make the requisite cuts and slip defenders. Both will likely share the load at the outset as the offense goes forward without franchise back Ahman Green, who signed with the Texans in free agency. The hard-nosed Jackson, though, has considerable upside as an underused rusher in college. He is a multi-faceted player with solid receiving skills and is comfortable in the West Coast offense. If injury problems with both shoulders are behind him, Jackson might have the type of impact receiver Greg Jennings, another under-the-radar prospect taken in the second round, had as a rookie last season.
A closer look at the Packers' picks:
Round 1/16 (overall) -- Justin Harrell, DT, 6-4, 310, Tennessee
A surprise choice in the middle of the first round, given that the Packers didn't have a big need for a defensive lineman, but team scouts felt Harrell would have been a top-10 pick had he not suffered a torn biceps tendon early last season. Harrell is perhaps a medical liability, having suffered an assortment of leg and ankle injuries earlier in career. However, the team felt it couldn't pass on Harrell's starting-caliber promise as a pure run stuffer with rare explosiveness off the line.
Round 2/63 -- Brandon Jackson, RB, 5-10, 212, Nebraska
The selection of the part-time player (only 11 starts in three years) has to be considered a reach, but Jackson has the makeup to help fill the void left by the free-agent departure of another former Cornhusker, Ahman Green, to Houston. He averaged a gaudy 5.3 yards per carry last season and 92.8 rushing yards per game when given the chance to start. He brings added value as a capable pass catcher coming from a West Coast system. Jackson also has experience as a kick returner. There is cause for concern about his health, however, because he had both shoulders operated on in college.
Round 3/78 -- James Jones, WR, 6-2, 199, San Jose State
Jones doesn't fit the profile of the impact-type, deep-threat receiver Brett Favre covets. He's lacking big-time credentials, contributing as a receiver full time only last season, when he excelled with 70 receptions and 10 touchdowns to earn team MVP honors. Jones has desired size and is physical going for the football with good hands but isn't a blazer (40 times were in the 4.5s). He should be in the mix as a punt returner, after averaging 11 yards per return in 2006.
Round 3/89 -- Aaron Rouse, S, 6-4, 223, Virginia Tech
A prototypical strong safety who is a punishing hitter and closes fast in run support. The converted linebacker will be in contention with struggling incumbent Marquand Manuel and Marviel Underwood for the starting job alongside Nick Collins. Rouse, though, will have to regain the playmaking form of his junior season in 2005 after he was plagued by inconsistency and struggled in pass coverage last season.
Round 4/119 -- Allen Barbre, OT, 6-4, 300, Missouri Southern State
Division II product brings athleticism and quickness to a crowded offensive line. He was a fixture at left tackle for most of his four-year starting tenure and dominated from the spot last season with 94 knockdowns. Lean in physique, Barbre will need to bulk up in his early development. He will be given an opportunity to win a backup job at the tackle positions, as well as both guard spots.
Round 5/157 -- David Clowney, WR, 6-0, 188, Virginia Tech. Projected to be a first-day pick, Clowney's draft stock fell for one reason or another. The true speedster was slowed during his combine testing by a hamstring injury. Clowney, a sprinting standout for Virginia Tech's track team, is a dynamic straight-line, downfield runner coming off the line of scrimmage. Shortcoming, though, is he isn't overly physical and tends to get knocked off his route running.
Round 6/191 -- Korey Hall, FB, 6-1, 230, Boise State
The Packers plan to make a fullback out of the 2006 Western Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Year. Hall was a running back in high school but made his mark as a three-time all-WAC first-team performer on defense, producing 105 tackles and a team-high six interceptions last season. He was a special-teams ace for Boise State, likened to "a head hunter" by Packers special teams coordinator Mike Stock.
Round 6/192 -- Desmond Bishop, LB, 6-2, 239, California
With Nick Barnett and backup Abdul Hodge, a third-round draft pick last year, at middle linebacker, Bishop will be moved to the outside in his indoctrination to the NFL. Bishop has questionable speed but is regarded as instinctive in pursuit. He was Cal's leading tackler his only two seasons after transferring from a junior college and led the Pac-10 Conference with 126 tackles in 2006.
Round 6/193 -- Mason Crosby, K, 6-1, 212, Colorado
The top kicker in the draft fell from a possible late Day 1 selection. Crosby should be stiff competition for incumbent Dave Rayner, who is coming off only his first season as a full-time kicker in the league. Crosby has as much leg strength as Rayner does, if not more. Crosby left Colorado with 31 school records, including points (307) and longest field goal (60 yards). He connected on a 71-yard boot in practice. For all of his might, accuracy hasn't been compromised with Crosby, who made 75 percent of his field-goal attempts.
Round 7/228 -- DeShawn Wynn, RB, 5-10, 232, Florida
Big-bodied back gives the Packers some flexibility in seeing what he can provide at fullback. Wynn wasn't a workhorse ball carrier at Florida and endured a knee injury last season. Still, he averaged 5.1 yards per carry as the featured guy in 2006, primarily between the tackles. He's a decent pass catcher. Hanging over Wynn are character issues and a resistance to be a team player.
Round 7/243 -- Clark Harris, TE, 6-5, 261, Rutgers
Another big target for Favre, but not unlike incumbent starter Bubba Franks, Harris is a plodder running routes and will never be a deep threat. Blocking is a liability. Harris has experience as a long snapper

[Lurker64]

Re: DRAFT REVIEW: ALTERNATIVE SCENARIOS & REFLECTIONS...

I would have given this draft a grade of A- if we had come away with Justin Harrell DT - Dwayne Jarrett WR - Marcus McCauley CB ( 3 very athletic players all worthy of round 1 consideration including McCauley) And it could have came about. Just conjecture on my part but i believe it would have cost us KGB and pick 47 to move up in round 2 to have gotten Jarrett. and our 4th and 7th to move up in round 3 ------- Of course that would have meant no Aaron Rouse in late 3rd and Allen Barbre round 4 and Deshawn Wynn RB in 7th and of course KGB..

In other words "I would have given this draft a better grade if TT had drafted the players I wanted and made the moves I think he should make."

At least he's honest.

[TopHat]

Re: DRAFT REVIEWS

I would have given this draft a grade of A- if we had come away with Justin Harrell DT - Dwayne Jarrett WR - Marcus McCauley CB ( 3 very athletic players all worthy of round 1 consideration including McCauley) And it could have came about. Just conjecture on my part but i believe it would have cost us KGB and pick 47 to move up in round 2 to have gotten Jarrett. and our 4th and 7th to move up in round 3 ------- Of course that would have meant no Aaron Rouse in late 3rd and Allen Barbre round 4 and Deshawn Wynn RB in 7th and of course KGB..

In other words "I would have given this draft a better grade if TT had drafted the players I wanted and made the moves I think he should make."

At least he's honest.

TOP HAT'S NOTE: QUOTED PATTY SPEAKS HONEST IN HIS REVIEWS.

[TopHat]

DRAFT REVIEW PICKS: EXCELLENT SCOUTING REPORTS

http://www.forecaster.ca/jsonline/football/draft-team.cgi?GB&DraftID=14#8799

Round 1/16 Justin Harrell, DT Complete Bio Page
HT WT College 2006 Stats
6-4 305 Tennessee GP Tk Ast Sacks FR-FF TD Int
3 7 5 0-0 0-0 0 0-0-0

Scouting Report: A tantalizing mix of raw mass, athleticism, and leadership, Harrell can be dominant at times. Harrell plays with a lot of heart and is a take-charge defender, leading the way in run-stopping and occasionally sneaking into the backfield for a sack. He possesses a lot of presence on the field, both in terms of physicality and will-power. His biggest problem has been staying healthy, and a couple of serious injuries kept him from really blossoming. He's a sleeper due to a shortened senior campaign, but could really surprise if he stays on the field.
Impact: Like many of the other picks in the top round, this one seems dictated more by pure talent than by a team trying to fill holes. The Green Bay defensive line isn't sorely in need of a player like Harrell, but it's hard to argue with the selection. The team has said they are more interested in taking the most gifted player regardless of position, and with Marshawn Lynch off the board, the Packers seemed to go the "best player available" route. Harrell is a very good nose tackle prospect who can provide this team with some depth on the middle of the D-line.


Round 2/63 Brandon Jackson, RB Complete Bio Page
HT WT College 2006 Stats
5-10 210 Nebraska GP Rush Yds Avg TD
14 188 989 5.3 8
Scouting Report: Despite declaring after his junior year, Jackson really has only one full season of significant college experience. In 2006 he proved he can be a very productive, versatile, and elusive runner, piling up yards and touchdowns for the Cornhuskers. While he's not particularly big or lightning-fast, Jackson is a very instinctive back who reads plays extremely well and uses superb jukes and lateral moves to find holes. He also showed skills as a returner. Jackson is a top sleeper who may eventually find himself starting in an NFL backfield.
Impact: This may be the running back that most were expecting the Pack to take in the first round. The best way to describe Jackson is 'elusive,' and he has the talent to be eventually be a starter for Green Bay. While not an elite-level back, Jackson is sneaky-good and is the type who might end up being better than his draft position. A cagey pick by the Packers, who may still go out and bring in a veteran runner until Jackson is ready for prime time.

Round 3/78 James Jones, WR Complete Bio Page
HT WT College 2006 Stats
6-1 207 San Jose State GP Rec Yds Avg TD
13 70 893 12.8 10
Scouting Report: An All-WAC Second-Team selection, Jones came on strongly late in his college career. He put up very good numbers in his final season with San Jose State and was by all accounts the team's go-to guy on offense. Jones has good size, hands, and instincts for a wide receiver. He is quick getting off the snap and runs solid routes. His biggest challenge is overcoming a lack of great speed, either separating in space or going vertical. He has the look of a solid possession guy at the next level if he keeps working hard.
Impact: A surprising pick for the Packers. While it's a given that they are looking for mature players who are ready to contribute right now, Jones was seen by most pundits as a late-round selection, if not a free agent. He certainly has skill and good intangibles, but his lack of athleticism or elite size make him a possession guy in the best scenario. Maybe Packer management sees something others don't.

Round 3/89 Aaron Rouse, SS Complete Bio Page
HT WT College 2006 Stats
6-4 225 Virginia Tech GP Tk Ast Sacks FR-FF TD Int
13 57 34 0-0 0-1 0 1-28-0

Scouting Report: If Rouse had spent all his time at Tech playing just one position, he might be seen as one of his draft's elite defenders. Blessed with a rare combination of size, speed, and aggressiveness, Rouse was good as a linebacker for his first two seasons, then even better at safety as a junior and senior. A lights-out hitter, Rouse is always around the ball and is a real playmaker. His lack of polish as a safety showed a little in 2006, as he was replaced as a starter for three games. Regardless, he is a top prospect talent-wise and only needs to keep working to be great.
Impact: The Packer secondary finished the 2006 season much better than it started, a testament to the fact that they need more depth. Enter Rouse, a player who can provide some big hits at several positions. He may be a bit of a 'tweener linebacker-safety, but that may actually help Rouse contribute sooner rather than later in Green Bay's improving young defense. He's a sleeper, but may wake up quickly if all goes well.

Round 4/119 Allen Barbre, OT Complete Bio Page
HT WT College 2006 Stats
6-4 300 Missouri Southern State GP
11
Scouting Report: A Division II All-American and All-MIAA First-Teamer, Barbre has been dominant for MSU for the past couple of years. His rare combination of mobility and power are elite for his position, although he remains somewhat raw in terms of technique. Barbre is a major sleeper who projects as a potential starter in the NFL at either guard or tackle, but his athleticism and lack of elite pure size might make him more suited to certain systems. A hard worker and intense competitor as well, Barbre may be a major steal if given the time and patience to develop.

Round 5/157 David Clowney, WR Complete Bio Page
HT WT College 2006 Stats
6-0 184 Virginia Tech GP Rec Yds Avg TD
12 34 424 12.5 0
Scouting Report: Clowney has speed to burn. Probably known more for his exploits as a track runner than as a receiver, he showed in spurts as a Hokie that he can translate those jets into big plays on the football field. Clowney didn't get many opportunities to be the No.1 guy in the Virginia Tech system, but he has the talent to be a very good wideout. He needs to hit the weights and bulk up, and if he does then Clowney may surprise some by becoming a solid deep threat in the NFL.

Round 6/191 Korey Hall, LB Complete Bio Page
HT WT College 2006 Stats
6-0 232 Boise State GP Tk Ast Sacks FR-FF TD Int
13 111 54 3.5-19 0-1 0 6-108-0
Scouting Report: The WAC's reigning Defensive Player of the Year, Hall was an extrememly productive tackler during his time with Boise State. Highly aggressive and instinctive, he is a true ball-hawk who loves to deliver the big hit. Few players in the draft have a motor as strong as Hall's, and he has excellent leadership abilities to boot. His lack of great speed and size will be obstacles at the next level, but Hall is the type of player who will find a way to succeed. He projects as a special teams regular early on, with the potential for more as he learns the NFL game.

Round 6/192 Desmond Bishop, LB Complete Bio Page
HT WT College 2006 Stats
6-2 239 California GP Tk Ast Sacks FR-FF TD Int
13 126 63 3-18 2-2 0 3-79-0
Scouting Report: With All-Pac-10 First-Team honors in 2006, Bishop continued his rise amongst the ranks of college football's best inside linebackers. He is a very focused tackler, able to line up his targets and knock them down when he gets locked in. He was very productive for two seasons after transferring from JUCO. Bishop may have some trouble early in the NFL because he is a little one-dimensional, lacking a great awareness in pass coverage or the mobility to recover very well. That said, he's a hard worker who will get the most out of his ability. Special teams would be a great place for him to start.

Round 6/193 Mason Crosby, PK Complete Bio Page
HT WT College 2006 Stats
6-1 214 Colorado GP Field Goal Pct XPts
12 19/28 0.68 19/19
Scouting Report: A dominant kicker for several seasons at Colorado, in 2006 Crosby was yet again an All-Big 12 First Teamer. That honour came despite Crosby stumbling a bit as a senior, as he hit just 19-of-28 field goal attempts. Then again, many of those misses came because of attempts other college kickers would never attempt. Few kickers in the nation can match his leg strength or college career accuracy. Crosby is also almost automatic on extra points. He is that rare blue-chip kicking prospect who only comes along once every few years.

Round 7/228 DeShawn Wynn, RB Complete Bio Page
HT WT College 2006 Stats
5-10 238 Florida GP Rush Yds Avg TD
14 143 699 4.9 6
Scouting Report: If not for some nagging injuries in his final year at Florida, Wynn might have put up more impressive numbers. Blessed with good bulk and speed, Wynn flashes some brilliant moves on occasion. He reads plays well and is aggressive through holes, and has the agility to adjust and make cuts. Wynn's biggest issue is a perceived lack of intensity and work ethic, and that seems to limit his upside. He certainly has the talent to be a good NFL tailback, but needs to prove he's committed to making it happen.

Round 7/243 Clark Harris, TE Complete Bio Page
HT WT College 2006 Stats
6-5 261 Rutgers GP Rec Yds Avg TD
13 34 493 14.5 2
Scouting Report: A perennial All-Big East selection, Harris was a highly productive receiver for Rutgers. His consistency was impressive, as he simply piled up catches game in, game out for several seasons. Harris is a pretty polished route-runner who is good at improvising when needed, and will go out of his way to complete a catch. While not an elite athlete, he's not slow or stiff and he has excellent size. Harris can also help out on special teams in the long-snap game, which will help him early on in his career. He needs a lot of work on his blocking.

[TopHat]

POSTDRAFT REVIEWS & BONUS: "THE PLA[I]N"

http://story.scout.com/a.z?s=61&p=2&c=641465&ssf=1&RequestedURL=http%3a%2f%2fstory.scout.com%2fa.z%3fs%3d61%26p%3d2%26c%3d641465

Would everyone just relax? By Steve Lawrence

Ted Thompson's 2007 draft has come under fire from many die-hard Packers fans. PackerReport.com's Steve Lawrence is underwhelmed, too, but he urges patience and tries to explain Thompson's logic.
__________________________________________________ _____________________

http://story.scout.com/a.z?s=61&p=2&c=641465&ssf=1&RequestedURL=http%3a%2f%2fstory.scout.com%2fa.z%3fs%3d61%26p%3d2%26c%3d641465

Sydney Speaks! Sticking to the plan By Harry Sydney

PackerReport.com's Harry Sydney offers further analysis of the Packers Class of 2007, and wonders which of the 11 selections will make an impact this season. Thompson continues with rebuilding effort instead of landing impact players.
__________________________________________________ _____________________

http://story.scout.com/a.z?s=61&p=2&c=641752&ssf=1&RequestedURL=http%3a%2f%2fstory.scout.com%2fa.z%3fs%3d61%26p%3d2%26c%3d641752

Let's chill out Packers fans!

PackerReport.com correspondent Fox explains how Ted Thompson used the NFL draft to hit on areas that need improvement.
__________________________________________________ _____________________

BONUS: GM TT'S "PLA[I]N" VIEW:

http://pu2006.typepad.com/packerupdate/2007/04/pack_rebuilding.html

Even though he’s never uttered the dreaded “R” word, there should no longer be any doubt that GM Ted Thompson is still in the relatively early stages [?] of rebuilding the Packers. So then why are so many fans upset over his refusal to actively partake in free agency? “I think having Brett Favre around may be causing some confusion,” said a person familiar with the situation. “You normally don’t rebuild around a 37-year-old quarterback.” But that’s exactly what Thompson is doing, and it actually makes a lot of sense. “Favre should allow the Packers to stay competitive while all the young players develop,” added the source. “And to be perfectly honest, the goal isn’t to win another Super Bowl with No. 4; the goal is to be able to win another one without him."
So why is it so vital for the Packers to remain competitive while rebuilding? “It's important to remember that Thompson wasn’t hired by... John Jones,” said the source. “And just like Thompson wanted to bring in his own head coach, Jones would probably like to bring in his own general manager. I don’t think Thompson could survive two or three consecutive losing seasons....[BF] still good enough to keep the team fairly competitive, and in the process, keep Thompson around to see his long-range plan come to fruition.”
The “long-range plan” is to have a strong running game and a powerful defense in place for when...[the successor] takes over....[Who] is smart and resourceful player who will be able to protect the football and manage a game. “Thompson is being pragmatic,” said the source. “He knows how difficult it is to acquire a truly great quarterback, so he’s attempting to build a truly great team around that position.[/b] It's a bit easier to do and teams like Baltimore, Tampa Bay, Carolina and Chicago have proven it can get you to where you want to go.” In the meantime, Favre will hopefully buy Thompson enough time to get there.

[TopHat]

SUM UP DRAFT REVIEW: "SEND IN THE CLOWNEY...."

http://www.realfootball365.com/nfl/articles/2007/05/packers-clowney-otherpicks020507.html

Send in the Clowney, and other Packer picks By D.Laurant

Over the past two weeks, people all over the country have been thinking about Virginia Tech. And so were the Green Bay Packers , but for a different reason. As it turned out, the Packers snagged Hokies in the third and fifth rounds of last weekend's draft, choosing safety Aaron Rouse as one of their third-round picks and taking wide receiver David Clowney fifth. Both Tech products said they were still traumatized by the April 16 shooting on campus that left 33 dead.
It takes some confidence in your scouting staff to draft a guy named Clowney. Yet while Rouse was high on most draft boards, his teammate could be a sleeper. The 6-foot, 188-pound Clowney never visited the end zone for Tech last season, but he caught 34 passes for 341 yards. Frank Beamer rotated a number of receivers in and out, and quarterback Sean Glennon was a freshman, both of which contributed to his relatively modest numbers. The number that matters to Green Bay is 4.36 -- Clowney's combine 40 time, despite coming off a hamstring pull.
Green Bay also took a receiver in the third round, San Jose State's James Jones. More of a possession receiver than Clowney, Jones caught 70 passes for 893 yards last season. "James Jones is a very strong, very physical player," General Manager Ted Thompson told the Capitol News of Madison. "He's the kind of guy, he goes up to the ball and defensive backs just seem to fall off of him. He catches the ball in traffic, he's good after the catch, he has some return ability.
"Clowney is unbelievably fast. I think he gives us the ability to stretch the field a little bit. He's also a very good route-runner and he's got big hands, catches the ball well. But, like I said, they'll be in competition with our other guys." Overall, Thompson said he felt his team plugged the necessary holes with its 11 selections. On paper, at least, it's hard to argue with him.
Ever since Grady Jackson left, the Packers have needed a run stopper on the defensive line. First-round pick Justin Harrell (6-4, 310) may well be that guy. Harrell missed most of last season at Tennessee with a torn biceps tendon, but his performance at the combine convinced scouts that the injury was healed (some Packer fans, who booed the pick on Draft Day, obviously didn't agree). Pass rushing is not Harrell's forte, but Green Bay already has Kabeer Gbaja-Biamiula and Aaron Kampman for that. Harrell is known for having a strong lower body and being very difficult to move aside.
Green Bay's other pressing need, with Ahman Green gone, was for a running back. So the Packers revisited Green's old school, Nebraska, to draft Cornhusker Brandon Jackson. At 5-9, 210 and 4.5, Jackson has more than adequate speed and size, and he rushed for 989 yards and eight touchdowns last year in a pass-oriented offense. He also gained over 300 yards in pass receptions, giving Brett Favre another potential weapon. What raised some eyebrows was that such better-known backs as Antonio Pittman, Michael Bush, Tony Hunt and Lorenzo Booker were still on the board when Jackson was taken.
In addition, the Packers chose the underachieving DeShawn Wynn from the University of Florida in Round 7. A frequent target of criticism from coach Urban Meyer, Wynn still managed to gain 621 yards and score seven touchdowns for the national champion Gators, then tacked on a touchdown run against Ohio State in the BCS bowl. A 232-pounder, he could give Green Bay the big back it lost when Najeh Davenport went to Pittsburgh. Finally, the Packers may have gotten a jewel in Colorado kicker Mason Crosby, a Big 12 legend and the best at his craft in the college ranks. And, as a bonus, a guy who's used to kicking in cold weather.
Other Pack picks included OT Allen Barbre of Missouri Southern, a small school project who has been clocked at 4.8 in the 40 at 300-plus pounds; Boise State LB Korey Hall (the WAC Defensive Player of the Year) and Rutgers tight end Clark Harris, a prolific pass catcher with a well-known aversion to blocking. Draft gurus generally panned Green Bay's draft, ranking it from a B-minus to a D. Maybe they've never seen Mason Crosby kick. Or David Clowney run.

__________________________________________________ ______________________________________

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=cr-nfcdraftgrades043007&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

Green Bay Packers: They spent their first-round pick on Justin Harrell, a defensive tackle with an ample injury history and only three games of senior film. That's a tremendous risk for the 16th overall pick. At the very least, the Packers could have moved back to Denver's slot at 21 and picked up the extra third- and sixth-round picks that went to Jacksonville (the Broncos traded up to the Jaguars' spot at 17). Wideout James Jones sounds like another possession guy. Running back Brandon Jackson is a scary pick, too, considering his two surgically repaired shoulders. Strong safety Aaron Rouse was a good value pick in the third, and offensive tackle Allen Barbre could move to guard and end up a steal in the fourth. They cast a nice, wide net with 11 picks, but there were too many risks and question marks on the first day. Grade: C-

[TopHat]

DRAFT CHOICES VIDEOS

SI: ALL CHOICES

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/2007/draft/teams/packers.html

__________________________________________________ ____________________________________

Brandon Jackson

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n7LqfRdnT0I

James Jones

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uj5WV8nqxDY

David Clowney

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lVvPDJdFAp8

Aaron Rouse video.

http://nfldraft.rivals.com/cviewplayer.asp?Player=1625&PT=7&PR=2#bio

Desmond Bishop

http://tennessee.rivals.com/cviewplayer.asp?Player=51222#bio

Crosby Video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=42hYCLBpnpE

Harrell

http://collegefootball.rivals.com/cviewplayer.asp?Player=17601#bio

__________________________________________________ _____________________________________

Justin Harrell

http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?rn=207187&cl=2376400&ch=396337&src=sports

Brandon Jackson

http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?rn=207187&cl=2467965&ch=396337&src=sports

James Jones

http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?rn=207187&cl=2434101&ch=396337&src=sports

Aaron Rouse

http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?rn=207187&cl=2361135&ch=396337&src=sports

David Clowney

http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?rn=207187&cl=2434017&ch=396337&src=sports

Desmond Bishop

http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?rn=207187&cl=2433964&ch=396337&src=sports

Clark Harris

http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?rn=207187&cl=2468397&ch=396337&src=sports

DeShawn Wynn

http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?rn=207187&cl=2468029&ch=396337&src=sports

[TopHat]

DRAFT REVIEW: OFFENSIVELY, IS IT ENOUGH?

[TopHat]

DRAFT REVIEW: OFFENSIVELY, IS IT ENOUGH?

[TopHat]

PACKER NATION POLLS: SO FAR

TOP HAT'S NOTE: AMUSING SITES' CONTRAST.

1. PACKER RATS SMALL SAMPLING POLL:

56% Give 2007 Pack Draft B or better.

44% Give 2007 Pack Draft C or worse.

2. A SITE'S SMALL SAMPLING POLL:

45% GIVE 2007 Pack Draft B or better.

55% Give 2007 Pack Draft C or worse.
__________________________________________________ _____________________

TOP HAT'S NOTE: LARGE PACKER NATION POLLS AGREE.

3. A SITE'S LARGE SAMPLING POLL:

18% Give 2007 Pack Draft B or better.

82% Give 2007 Pack Draft C or worse.

4. A SITE'S LARGE SAMPLING POLL:

22% Give 2007 Pack Draft B or better.

78% Give 2007 Pack Draft C or worse.

5. ESPN SPORTS NATION HUGE POLL:

1. 21% Give 2007 Pack Draft B or better.

2. 79% Give 2007 Pack Draft C or worse.
__________________________________________________ _____________________

TOP HAT'S NOTE: CRITICAL FANS SEE DRAFT IMPROVING TEAM.

Are the Green Bay Packers 'better' after this years NFL Draft?

1. 59% YES

2. 41% NO.