Great stuff, Andy! Thank you for this!

Couldn't agree more that players getting first team reps are not necessarily indicative of earning a starting spot, or elevation of status. I think we saw instances of this in the past with some players who flashed at different points, but were getting those 1st team opportunities as a last look before making final decisions. Last year alone, I think we saw the same with Ty Summers, Ray Wilborn, Jack Heflin, Dexter Williams, Kabion Ento and LS Jack Coco.

I've been questioning Rudy Ford and Darnell Savage as being legit leaders in the clubhouse with all the new players they've brought in. If you'll recall, both Moore and Carpenter recently sat out due to "injury," giving others in the Safety Room more reps. I've wondered if that was just to get more on film for their decision making process on some possible bubble players?

Both Ford and Savage have proven themselves to be more one dimensional, offering coverage only, and in Savage's case, that's being generous. His PFF grades: Overall 47.5, Run Defense 56.2, Pass Rush 62.6, Coverage 43.8!!! In 2021 those numbers were 58.5/51.4/72.8/62.1. WOW. That's bad.

I would say things have not been looking good for him. In fairness, he played injured both years, with suspect pass rush in front of him at certain points of both seasons. His 2020 season numbers: 75.3/65.8/79.9/76.7. Maybe, just maybe, the Packers bank on those 2020 numbers for 2023 and he makes the 53.

And, maybe the PFF grading system is off. I've often found that to be the case, but... these do appear representative. I love Darnell Savage, and I want him to surpass his best numbers for a season in a Packer uniform. The amount of both pass rush and run stop added in front of him could easily help swing those numbers in his favor this year.

Appreciate the STs Punting reporting too. Myself, I like HIGH QUALITY STs, because it means that attitude of quality play is permeating throughout the entire team.

As for LaFleur pointedly taking time out, stopping a play for personal instruction is great to hear. Heath and Reed both benefit, as does the whole offense. These rookies get a ton thrown at them fast, and we saw LaFleur doing the exact same for Christian Watson last year. Great stuff.

It's all taking shape as we speak.