Confessions of a Polluted Mindset - April 7 2021

The Weekly Packers Brain Drain from Jersey Al.

 

 

Rodgers in Jeopardy:

ARODG did a fine job hosting Jeopardy. He was a bit unexciting, but in a good way. He executed his assignments, didn't make any mistakes and allowed the game to successfully play out. Kind of like a "game manager." Insert rimshot here.

 

Russ the Wizard:

When I retire and have a bunch of time on my hands, I plan to delve into the intricacies of the NFL salary cap.  For now, I'll leave that to others (The Great Reynoldo) and just smile in wonderment at the creativity Ball shows at finagling around the system. Lewis, Lancaster and Redmond are brought back and the salary cap goes DOWN by over $2M. Sure we're "kicking the can..." but who cares? Give Rodgers another shot or two and worry about the future cap in the, you know, future.

 

EDGE Sleeper:

The Packers have the Smith Brothers and Gary at EDGE, but they need a fourth. It's hard to say Randy Ramsey or Jonathan Garvin are definitely it, and I have a guy that may be a worthwhile roll of the dice. Charles Snowden of Virginia. He needs to get stronger to be a true EDGE, but he is is a very active gap shooter and 3-4 OLB type. Here's the interesting part; The Staley/Barry defense used three DL and two wide OLB/Edge players, who in contrast to the Packers' current EDGE players, were more about quickness than power. I could see the Packers looking to draft that kind of EDGE player somewhere later in the draft. Snowden has the same body type as Leonard Floyd (tall and lean at 6'6" 240lbs), who played for Barry last year on the Rams. All the puzzle pieces fit quite nicely. Snowden is a developmental player, not doubt, but that's fine for your #4 EDGE.

 

Let's get the band back together:

According to ProFootballReference.com, the Packers now have brought back 23 of their top 25 players on defense and 15 out of 18 on offense with respect to 2020 snap counts. We're running this one back, people.

 

Who's running the Jet Sweep?

With Tyler Ervin and Tavon Austin still unrestricted free agents, if the Packers don't bring one of them back, who is going to be that hybrid WR/RB/RET that LaFleur likes to use? Could this finally be the year they answer my prayers and finally draft a Randall Cobb type to insert into this offense? 

 

Sneak Peak:

So besides acting as Editor-In-Chief for our Draft Guide, I handle the offensive tackle rankings. After all, I did have a not-so-illustrious career at the LT position in high school. But seriously, I can modestly say I've had pretty good success with scoping out what kind of career the players will have in the NFL. This year there are more top-10 tackles than usual I find to be poor fits in Green Bay. Alex Leatherwood and Tevin Jenkins - just make them guards and stop the charade. Sam Cosmi will get overdrafted on athleticism like Jason Spriggs did, and like Spriggs, will struggle early in his career. I do give Cosmi a better shot, however, at getting stronger and figuring it out than I did Spriggs. I also have more surprise names this year in my top-10 compared to what I've seen around the Draft Industrial Complex. You'll have to get the guide to see who they are. Boom! The tease is complete.

Depending on when you are reading this, you may still have time to take advantage of the Pre-Order price of $9.99. It goes to regular price of $12.99 once published some time TODAY.

 

How did Aaron Rodgers do as host of Jeopardy?

Great
34% (13 votes)
Good
55% (21 votes)
Just OK
11% (4 votes)
Poor
0% (0 votes)
Terrible
0% (0 votes)
Total votes: 38
 

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__________________________

"Jersey Al" Bracco is the Editor-In-Chief, part owner and wearer of many hats for CheeseheadTV.com and PackersTalk.com. He is also a recovering Mason Crosby truther.  Follow Al on twitter at @JerseyalGBP

__________________________

NFL Categories: 
12 points
 

Comments (89)

Fan-Friendly This filter will hide comments which have ratio of 5 to 1 down-vote to up-vote.
The_Justicar's picture

April 07, 2021 at 06:17 am

I actually thought Snowden was impressive in the few games I saw of Virginia. And it was against the better teams they played (bowl game vs Florida being one). Hey I’m first!

4 points
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dobber's picture

April 07, 2021 at 07:05 am

ARod was better the second night on Jeopardy. As you note, it's not a role where you're looking for a flamboyant personality. Makes sense. He'll adjust and get better as his 2 weeks go on.

The Packers do need a speed/quicks guy in the WR room. That's not necessarily in keeping with the kind of physical types they've coveted over the last couple years. But it was clear to everyone that the offense was different when they had that guy to run out there on occasion. I've said before: the kinds of jet sweeps and sweep action plays they design for that guy are very practice intensive. Not just anyone who runs fast can do it.

Your discussion of the edge is an interesting one. Even though there are many things that might remain the same on defense, the preferences for sub packages and who fills those packages is likely to shift. I think that's the greatest opportunity for the defense to take that next step: can they use the personnel they have better?

5 points
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PeteK's picture

April 07, 2021 at 09:44 am

Haydel from Texas ST checks all the boxes: returns punts & kicks, good receiver, has a few rushes and even threw a pass. Maybe Avery Williams who is probably the best returner coming out , but played a solid tackling CB.

0 points
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Leatherhead's picture

April 07, 2021 at 11:31 am

PeteK....I beg of you....please take another look at the whole concept of returning punts and kicks. I believe if you look at the cold, hard, facts it clearly points to the fact that these are losing propositions.

Last year, for example, according to pro-football-reference.com, 775 punts were returned. for 6850 yards and 8 TDs. That's out of 256 games. In other words, that big return almost never happens, and the average is only about 8 yards.

8 yards. And look what you risk by focusing on a return. The possibility of a fake punt or a turnover (we had one last year, and the year before) that keeps your offense off the field. A penalty, that moves the offense back farther to start. An injury to a key backup. Lots of bad stuff, and it happens all the time.

The Packers returned 11 punts last year, which was 2nd lowest in the league. I think that's smart, but smarter would be returning 0. Fair catch and get the bottom of the roster off the field and get Rodgers, Adams, Jones, etc. on the field. Returning the punts is a bad investment.

1 points
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PeteK's picture

April 07, 2021 at 06:21 pm

You make some valid points, but on the occasion when a punter line drive one or kicks it deep a good return is in order. Also, we were so bad on kick returns that teams stopped kicking it in the end zone and preferred we return.

1 points
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Starrbrite's picture

April 07, 2021 at 11:43 pm

Can’t agree with you on this Leatherhead—many games seem to be decided with and/or without good special teams. Last year’s Packers appear to be the exception, although the FG unit was very good. Personally I believe game-changing players on special teams can tip the scales, a -la Desmond Howard, Travis Williams, et al.

2 points
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Leatherhead's picture

April 08, 2021 at 08:38 am

Many more games are decided by mistakes on returns than by the return itself.

0 points
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Coldworld's picture

April 08, 2021 at 09:21 am

The problem I have is the fact that teams figure this out. Then they kick to pin you in your own 10. We saw this last year, when they preferred to kick in play. Fair catching with that kind of field position will kill teams.

If we do try to return without a good returner, then mistakes make it worse. It’s a deterrent concept. You have to be able to to have the choice to not to and, ideally, have teams kick into the end zone. We do need a credible return threat for that reason.

1 points
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Leatherhead's picture

April 08, 2021 at 10:36 am

Kicks may have to be returned. Punts don’t.

0 points
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Starrbrite's picture

April 08, 2021 at 11:30 pm

Maybe— but good special teamers create those turnovers, not commit them.

1 points
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egbertsouse's picture

April 07, 2021 at 07:07 am

On the Jeopardy vote the correct answer in the form of a question is, “Who cares?”

3 points
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HankScorpio's picture

April 07, 2021 at 07:16 am

Interesting take on Tevin Jenkins. He passed his Pro Day testing and averages out to the 4th OT prospect. He is a guy that I was kind of hoping might fall to #29 and the Packers might jump on. But I sure as heck don't want them drafting an OG at #29.

Same thing with Cosmi but to a little lesser degree. Most draft boards have Jenkins higher than 29 in the overall. It's much more split on Cosmi.

That's what I love about the draft process. Lots of different view on players. Some are right, some are wrong. The hard part is telling the difference.

2 points
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JerseyAl's picture

April 07, 2021 at 08:05 am

Making the assumption that the Packers preference for mobility and athleticism among their offensive linemen doesn't change, then I don't think that Jenkins is a good fit. Strength and a high football IQ are positives. Speed on the edge and blocking in space (lots of misses) is a real problem for him.

4 points
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croatpackfan's picture

April 08, 2021 at 02:35 am

Hi Al! I have one question for you. Can you dig into the past and give us your opinion and mark you gave to David Bakhtiari when he was drafted by Packers. I remember that many, if not all was disappointed with the choice and there was panic when David started as rookie at the position of the LT.

I'm not trying to take anything from your good job you are doing in OL assessments, it is just my curiosity...

Thank you!

0 points
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JerseyAl's picture

April 08, 2021 at 01:49 pm

Croat, 2013 was the year before I took over the Draft Guide. I do remember he was not in my Top-10 and thinking it would be best if stayed in school one more year.

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croatpackfan's picture

April 09, 2021 at 02:11 am

Thank you for your honest answer. It looks like David was nobody option. I believe this is the confirmation that draft is really crystal ball business. Not to mention Aaron Jones, Cory, Brady,
Sam Shields, Tramon etc...

By the way your "Confessions of a Polluted Mindset" is my favorite serial on this web page (community?). Good work Al.

1 points
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LambeauPlain's picture

April 07, 2021 at 09:00 am

T. Jenkins would bring a Josh Sitton type mauler/growler and he fits what Coach Matt covets....versatility to play along the line be equally adept at pass pro and run since the O is so balanced.

While Jenkins mostly played RT at OK State, he also played both guard spots. Elgton can play well at any OL spot...Turner can play G and T, Patrick both G spots and C.

A line of Bakht, T. Jenkins, E. Jenkins, Patrick, and Turner looks to be a top NFL grouping once again. And hope the trio of Runyon, Stepaniak, and Hanson step up....all were good college players.

With AR playing at such a high level, having options to keep a good line in front of him in case of injury on the OL is key.

-1 points
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stockholder's picture

April 07, 2021 at 07:18 am

Sounds like you wouldn't draft a Ot @29. But A Cobb replacement? Who??? ( Your doing the draft Guide. ) Snowden has a huge wing span and is coming back from a injury. I like Oweh more. But why edge/WR over A DL? I want to stop offenses. Were Desperate. If Clark goes down, it won't matter what the offense does.

-1 points
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HankScorpio's picture

April 07, 2021 at 07:35 am

Deperation is an ugly thing that leads to mistakes. I hope you and the mouse in your pocket are the ones that are desperate. If Gute is part of the "we", the Packers are screwed.

I agree with your take on the need for DL help. I further think this draft class sucks for DL help. I don't want tthe Packers to walk out of this draft with no DL additions. But I'm accepting that it might happen. If the players are not there, they are not there. Just drafting a player does not fill a need. It has to be a good player.

5 points
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JerseyAl's picture

April 07, 2021 at 08:07 am

Where did I say EDGE over anything? I mention Snowden simply because he's a guy that no one is talking about that caught my eye.

9 points
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packer132's picture

April 07, 2021 at 02:05 pm

Al, good article.

1 points
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stockholder's picture

April 07, 2021 at 10:49 am

but they need a Forth? Guess I put to much into it.

1 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

April 07, 2021 at 12:25 pm

Snowden has a bit of versatility with his pass coverage skills and is a smart player. He could play in dime sets right off the bat. At 6-6 and 240, he fits a Ted Hendricks, "stork" like frame.

1 points
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greengold's picture

April 08, 2021 at 06:49 am

Al, I appreciated you sharing thoughts on Snowden. Another similar player you might like is Elison Smith.

I’ll be snapping up that draft guide again this year. Gladly. Last year’s was my first, and for a decades long follower of drafts, it impressed the hell outta me! Cheers, bud!

0 points
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dobber's picture

April 07, 2021 at 02:00 pm

" If Clark goes down, it won't matter what the offense does."

Kenny Clark played in every game the Packers lost in 2020. The Packers were 4-0 in the games that he missed--or missed the majority of--due to his groin injury.

5 points
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greengold's picture

April 08, 2021 at 06:39 am

Quite honestly, the point is a good one. There is truth to the statement, and the Packers have been guilty of ignoring depth there for years. Solid depth behind Clark or in rotation with him is as smart as adding quality backup at QB.

Regardless, adding a Clark-calibre talent, or a player with that kind of potential, if possible, would be a very smart move in my eyes.

1 points
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Roadrunner23's picture

April 07, 2021 at 07:23 am

Great tease Al you got me! I personally like the Radunz kid out of ND State, versatility is the key to what the Packers love.

Jet sweep gadget guy - Demetric Felton UCLA, dude can do it all Slot/RB/KR

I think the Packers made the right move getting the band back together, should help in the locker room and on the field!

Rodgers on Jeopardy = Nerd Alert!

6 points
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JerseyAl's picture

April 07, 2021 at 08:13 am

I like Radunz better than Jenkins overall, but I don't think he's NFL-ready. As I wrote in the guide, if you can afford a year or two for him to develop and get stronger, you may end up with something special. I also wrote he's perfect for the Packers' scheme, but can they afford to wait 2 years is the question.

3 points
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PeteK's picture

April 07, 2021 at 09:40 am

Farrar from Yahoo sports on his review of top Ts said this about Raydunz, "Looks like a TE out there", not what you want to hear about a RT.

0 points
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JerseyAl's picture

April 07, 2021 at 10:02 am

That's an interesting coincidence - In the guide I wrote "He runs like a tight end and may be the best in this class at getting to the second level and being productive there."

4 points
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Coldworld's picture

April 08, 2021 at 09:28 am

Wasn’t Spriggs a former TE?

0 points
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HankScorpio's picture

April 08, 2021 at 05:07 am

Barring further injury, the Dec/Jan starting OTs are penclied in to be Bahk and Turner. The Sept starters are not a huge concern to me. So I do believe the Packers can wait. Every draft pick, particularly early ones, need to be viewed as a 6-8 year investment. Drafting something special is the goal with each pick. So putting that all together and accepting your judgement of Radunz, bring him on!

The real question at hand is whether Gute & Co view him the same as you. I'm sure it would infuriate the instant gratification crowd to draft the QB of the future and his LT of the future in back to back years with All Pro talents in front of them. But I think it just makes for spicy discussion.

1 points
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Starrbrite's picture

April 09, 2021 at 08:34 pm

Radunz won’t need two years Al. He’s better than Turner was at NDSU —I believe he’s better then Runyan and or/Patrick.

1 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

April 07, 2021 at 12:14 pm

Some have mocked Felton to the Pack in the fourth round. Hawkins from L-ville and Jefferson from Oregon State are blazers. Pooka Williams can fly.

-1 points
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PF4L's picture

April 07, 2021 at 07:32 am

It's a tough gig as the show itself doesn't lend itself to "entertainent".

It's a show for Brainiac's, which is fine.

Not much you can do with that spot but i thought Rodgers voice and tone was flat.
I expected a little more fluctuation, maybe some funny one liners.

But truth be told, that isn't my type of show. As most of you already know i'm mentally, ummm...lets just say...challenged.

I know what you all are thinking, I'd do well on Jeopardy.
But that is only because i'm highly respected by the readers here as an expert based on my knowledge, and insightful near genius point of views. concerning Green Bay Packer football.

Rest easy and enjoy the comfort, and peace of mind knowing i'm staying here. I won't be going to Jeopardy any time soon.

1 points
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Razer's picture

April 07, 2021 at 08:05 am

...Rest easy and enjoy the comfort, and peace of mind knowing i'm staying here. I won't be going to Jeopardy any time soon...

What is - thank God? :o)

4 points
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PF4L's picture

April 07, 2021 at 02:29 pm

I'll take who does that guy think he is for $400 Aaron.
:)

-1 points
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Guam's picture

April 07, 2021 at 07:48 am

I will happily settle for an OT, CB or DL at #1. Hopefully the draft board falls the Packers way and they get what they need. Hopefully Gute doesn't do another left field pick that contributes precisely zero to next year's team.

3 points
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Razer's picture

April 07, 2021 at 08:03 am

...I will happily settle for an OT, CB or DL at #1...

You are singing to the choir my friend. Add slot WR and ILB to the mix after that and we will have checked a lot of boxes. How much the draft picks will contribute to the team is the million dollar question. All three of the positions that you mention need improvement now.

0 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

April 07, 2021 at 11:56 am

They should move Up in the first round to get a solid starter on the O line. Reviewing Turner at the LT spot is troubling.

-4 points
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marpag1's picture

April 07, 2021 at 12:59 pm

If last year's Billy Turner is a team's biggest trouble spot on the offensive line, then they have a pretty darn good offensive line. Maybe left tackle isn't where you prefer him, but I don't think there's much chance that we'll see him at left tackle unless Jenkins is hurt. ESPN gave Turner the third highest "pass blocking win rate" among all NFL tackles, so it's not like you can't win with him in there.

That said, I don't mind if the Packers can grab value at the tackle position, but I doubt there will be value in a trade up.

5 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

April 07, 2021 at 02:27 pm

Was that evaluation before or after the NFC CH game?

-2 points
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Coldworld's picture

April 08, 2021 at 09:38 am

If one believes that the problem in both Tampa games was rooted in underlying player ability along the line, just replacing Turner would be utterly fruitless. Simple solutions only help if they actually match reality.

0 points
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Razer's picture

April 07, 2021 at 07:55 am

Rodgers MVP season and the team's success has forced Gutenkust to bring the gang back together for another run. I don't see where the team and this defense have got any better so all hopes are on the draft. Like most of you, I think a Cobb-like slot receiver would add another gear to this team.

More than anything, this pre-season has shown me a creative front office. While all the moves weren't to my liking, we haven't sold the house for a season and that takes skill. The draft will tell me if Gutekunst has rebuilt the scouting to match.

Rodgers is doing a good job on Jeopardy. You got to admire his courage and confidence to step into that arena and play at a high level. Impressive to say the least.

7 points
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PackEyedOptimist's picture

April 07, 2021 at 08:35 am

Best Available Player. Will you guys be disappointed if the Packers draft JOK or Collins and they become All-Rookie/Pro-Bowl ILBs? Same thing for Moehrig or Holland at S/Nickel? How about Humphrey at C? Any one of those results will fill a need and be far better than a reach at a position of "greater" need.
I just hope they don't trade up again; that drives me crazy, and this year, with less tape, it's the perfect year to trade down and trust your scouts.

5 points
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1
dobber's picture

April 07, 2021 at 09:04 am

I don't know where Creed Humphrey will fall--true C usually don't go round 1--but it will likely be in round 2. To be honest, I like him a lot. He won't make it to the Packers' pick in round 2, and I think he's a reach in round 1, but would love to see him in GB (which likely means a round 2 trade-up). Sure, he doesn't play OT, but he'll step in day one and lock down the C position for 10 years, and free up the rest of the OL to account for Bakh's absence.

4 points
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PeteK's picture

April 07, 2021 at 09:08 am

That's why the draft for me is likened to the mystery of a noir film.

4 points
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Since'61's picture

April 07, 2021 at 10:20 am

PeteK I enjoy your analogy but for future reference please note that the correct phrase is film noir not vice versa.

Thanks, Since '61

4 points
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PeteK's picture

April 07, 2021 at 04:41 pm

I thought just leaving it film noir did not sound correct , but on second thought the phrase has a built in adjective noun reversal. Thanks.

1 points
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Coldworld's picture

April 08, 2021 at 09:34 am

It was coined by French critics, so the reversal is the correct usage in the language of origin. I can see why we didn’t just anglicize that phrase.

0 points
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Razer's picture

April 07, 2021 at 09:10 am

...I just hope they don't trade up again; that drives me crazy, and this year, with less tape, it's the perfect year to trade down and trust your scouts...

Players opting out, COVID reduced schedules and guys with old or little tape does make this year a perfect opportunity to mine some gems. Perfect year to keep or add to our picks. Picking at 29 will not be as big a handicap. As you say BPA and trust your scouts.

1 points
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murf7777's picture

April 07, 2021 at 09:20 am

I wouldn't have a problem if they trade up this year. They are very close to the title and need a difference maker who can come in right away and contribute with our 1st pick. We also have the draft capital to spare. If someone really special drops to 15 -20 area I hope Gutey goes and gets em.

The debate I've heard is we need depth so we need every crack at the bat. Like every team, every year you need depth, but this year they need the difference maker. Rodgers isn't getting any younger so the clock is ticking, we can work on depth with extra picks another year when we might be in rebuild mode.

-1 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

April 07, 2021 at 12:10 pm

Depth is Veteran players to be signed after the draft. These greenhorns w/out a full year to dial in and some with little game action due to Sars-Cov-2 pandemic will take two years to show something. Best to focus on blue chippers.

2 points
3
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LambeauPlain's picture

April 07, 2021 at 05:47 pm

Pack has 10 picks so I have no problem trading up for quality depth and possibly land 2 players who will play starting or meaningful snaps this year....especially at DT, ILB, OT, G, C, WR or CB. Gutey has many options, especially at positions were the draft seems deep.

Barmore DT, JOK ILB, Jenkins OL, and someone from a deep WR class and CB class....trade up and get them.

0 points
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PackEyedOptimist's picture

April 08, 2021 at 09:39 am

For me, I hate trades up because they make a calculated guess that someone is going to take your targeted player, but that is just a guess, and you throw away draft capital. . Too many times I’ve watched Packer GMs trade up, and then there was still a great player available at their original pick and ALSO at the traded away slot.

1 points
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Swisch's picture

April 07, 2021 at 08:59 am

I've come around to the idea of not drafting projects early. I'd avoid them in the first four rounds, but be open to them in the last three.
If a guy takes two or three years to become a solid starter, then he's only a year or two from becoming a free agent.
If MVS becomes a star this year, he may be too expensive to keep, but it'll be too soon to see him go.
I guess it all depends on being able to sign them to their second contracts. It does seem second contracts are better than third contracts, though. It's tricky with guys like Linsley, Bulaga, and Bakh -- even Davante Adams -- trying to estimate how many years they have left at an elite level.
As much as I like to keep our Packers for their entire careers, I'm wary of third contracts that have big payouts even as players are in the process of decline.
So, in summary, I'm thinking the way to go is to draft guys in the early rounds who are ready to play significantly in their first or second year; try to sign the good ones to second contracts; and then be reluctant to keep them for third contracts.
Glad to read thoughts from other fans.

8 points
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PatrickGB's picture

April 07, 2021 at 11:51 am

Concur.

1 points
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PackEyedOptimist's picture

April 08, 2021 at 09:45 am

I agree Switsch; I want high-floor ready-to-play players in the first and second round. I’m okay with “potential “ in the fourth and later. The third round is more flexible for me, more of a cost/benefit judgement.

1 points
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Tundraboy's picture

April 07, 2021 at 09:02 am

I bow to you oh OL guru. I have absolutely no insight there among a few other areas.

2 points
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Handsback's picture

April 07, 2021 at 09:10 am

It wouldn’t shock me if Gutsey trades up this year. The two things we as fans never get a lot of insight to is a player’s medical history or other team’s targets. Last year was an example of a QB being targeted by another team and the Packers deciding they had to move to get him. You can argue if Love will replace Rodgers, but the Packers look at the long game.
So who will be their Love? Only 24 players have 1st round grades and if they can’t get their pick...I see a trade down. My suspension is the CB from Va. Tech. Major surgery has knocked him out of the top 10 and is falling. IF, that’s a big if, his medical checks out I could see Green Bay targeting him in first round without giving away the farm.

-1 points
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LambeauPlain's picture

April 07, 2021 at 06:17 pm

VA CB is having microdisk surgery on his spine. That is a big concern for a game of tackling, running, turning and jumping. He is a stud when healthy. But backs/spines are very difficult to heal.

2 points
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Coldworld's picture

April 08, 2021 at 09:44 am

There is a risk of degeneration often, decreased flexibility too. I am no doctor, but I’d need to be incredibly reassured by more than one specialist before I took such a player, regardless of merit.

Indeed, it would not surprise me if the Packers medical staff have a hard no on him already if there is any doubt about long term consequences.

0 points
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murf7777's picture

April 07, 2021 at 09:11 am

The one thing I've always noticed about the Packers drafting and it hasn't changed with Gutey is to expect the unexpected. That's not a bad thing thou, it's just they don't usually go with what the pundits or what we are thinking. They scout well and go with the BPA, normally based on need. Their smart, they draft for now and the future. It's fun to guess what they will do, but we're normally wrong.

As always, I'm prepared to be surprised and than seek information to understand their rationale. GPG let's hit a home run this year!

3 points
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dobber's picture

April 07, 2021 at 09:38 am

Once you get past those top 8-12 consensus picks, the draftnik boards unravel pretty fast. Draftniks mostly rate players, but they don't often rate or study player fit. They also don't manage 53-man rosters. In the end, it's fun to watch guys like Mel Kiper get his hair messy over a pick he doesn't like and sulk for a couple hours over it.

6 points
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LambeauPlain's picture

April 07, 2021 at 06:22 pm

Many draft gurus were calling AJ Dillon and Deguara huge reaches by the Pack. I have a feeling both will be big parts of one of the highest scoring offenses in the NFL...and gurus will get amnesia.

4 points
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canadapacker's picture

April 07, 2021 at 09:42 am

As a kind of a repeat of one of my earlier comments - this draft is that most mocks have predicted that 5 or 6 quarterbacks are going pretty early - way before us anyway. Most mocks also show that there are an additional 7 offensive players ( OL, WR, TE etc going to teams before us). That means that we will be getting one of the top 12 defensive players in this draft. So I would assume we need to go defense first and we should be able to get at least a top tier guy at whatever position - DL, edge, or defensive back. I think that we should seriously look at getting an interior Dlineman to help Clark jam up the middle and get some interior push and aid in the run stopping. But some people say we take Collins some say Davis - I say we better have our act together and not pull a TT and take the wrong guy - can you say Biegle. As far as the comments on replacing the Austin /jet sweep stuff - we need to get a half decent kick and punt returner and that should be available in the later rounds - MVS and others could run some of those plays until the new guy learns the system - but you dont waste a high pick on this type of player. Our Cobb replacement is Funchess and was supposed to be last year.

3 points
4
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PeteK's picture

April 07, 2021 at 04:53 pm

Biegel might not be the worst 4th rounder. He had a solid year for Miami in 2019 and was just signed to a one year extension.

0 points
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Coldworld's picture

April 07, 2021 at 10:04 am

I don’t see a DL that can disrupt enough to free up Clark more. I see pure run stuffers later. I see light penetration types early, none great. Those are trap picks. Our DL needs to be better against the run. That would be a big boost alone. Since I don’t see a player who can stop the run and disrupt, that upgrade may have to wait for another year.

As to OLBs, we have speed types that needed to bulk up in Garvin and Galea. I presume that’s why we kept them. Not saying we won’t pick late but both could be more genuine contenders with the benefit of a year in the weight room. Sound rather similar to Snowden except with a year bulking up hopefully. Both looked good speed rushing in practice last year apparently. Ramsey seems like a different type, more a back up to the bigger OLBs.

As to the bring back. With the exception of the big fish like Jones, perhaps that is a reaction to the strange year. Less film, more uncertainty. By bringing back cheap depth players we know, we create a backstop position that the Draft and UDFA can build on. We can let new prospects compete and, should they supplant, we get better. Seems to have a certain sense to me.

It’s not who is on the 90 that matters, it is who remains in September, on both the roster and PS (if last year’s rules remain particularly). None of the minimum contract types are guaranteed a roster spot. If a new player or a futures type can beat them out, surely we get better.

Here is hoping that players like Lowry on bigger contracts will be similarly pushed. A lot can happen post draft even with the cap situation. Gute’s been willing to churn, I think he will this year, possibly more so. I look to see high upside types among the UDFAs. Should be interesting. Hope we find a Barnes or two, let alone a Tramon. I think that is the thinking. Could be fun.

3 points
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dobber's picture

April 07, 2021 at 11:29 am

"I don’t see a DL that can disrupt enough to free up Clark more. I see pure run stuffers later. I see light penetration types early, none great. Those are trap picks. Our DL needs to be better against the run. "

If the preview we've been given on the Barry defense is correct, I think the likelihood of landing an immobile, mountain-type DT is pretty low. Up 'til now, it seems that those Michael Pierce types aren't on BG's radar, and it took forever for them to find a guy (Snacks) that they liked enough to bring in...then they didn't use him hardly at all. The Fangio defense seems predicated on pressure and playing the run on the way to the QB....which doesn't sound like much of a change from Capers or Pettine. BG seems to like 6'1"-6'3" and 290-310 lbs and that defines the majority of the DL they've looked at in recent years. Lowry's a bit of an outlier, and I'd like to see a true stud 5-tech (6'5", 290-310 with good length) brought in to push him out.

4 points
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flackcatcher's picture

April 07, 2021 at 10:15 pm

The main difference between Fangio and Pettine is in secondary coverage. Yes, while Pettine played more 2 DL and Fangio played 3 DL. The Packers preferred to have an extra OLB or SS online or in the box for run cover. (I never understood taking 300+ pounds off the LOS) Fangio scheme plays zone combo, while Pettine played a Man combo scheme. Packers under Rodgers chewed up LA's zone, it's the danger of becoming fixed in your coverage schemes. Pettine played man, but off coverage, which became a short cover zone scheme. Well, you can do that if the other teams QB is inaccurate. Both schemes rely on personnel and matchups and are pretty similar in style of play. Packers defensive players should have no problems adjusting to the new scheme.

0 points
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LambeauPlain's picture

April 07, 2021 at 06:27 pm

Barmore is the highest ranked D line player in the draft and he can stuff, pressure and hurry QBs and would be a fine wingman for Kenny. Kenny would lose the double teams.

But this is one of the weakest DL classes in many years.

3 points
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Coldworld's picture

April 08, 2021 at 09:53 am

I do not think Barmore will hold up against the run or double teams this year. He needs to develop. He is a pick for next year and situational use this year. That’s why, this year, I would not take him with our first pick.

0 points
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dobber's picture

April 08, 2021 at 10:02 am

Usually very broadly true...draft picks are always investments in the future. You draft those guys for who they'll be in 2-5 years and whatever you can get out of those guys now is a plus. I would argue that if you're going into draft day counting on a draft pick--who has never played an NFL snap and when you don't know who is going to be available--to put you over the top, you aren't as close to the top as you think you are.

0 points
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TarynsEyes's picture

April 07, 2021 at 10:01 am

With GB bringing so many of a particular group back, perhaps the confidence in them will allow the FO to forgo the draft altogether. I mean, how hard was it to bring back those whom no one else wanted. Do they believe those will take the stairs of growth two or three at a time this season instead of the usual one step forward and two back? This band has played at two big events and were off-key a lot, and now they 'expect' to play again with the same instruments they failed with the other two times. Yeah, that's worth the time and money.

-5 points
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Coldworld's picture

April 07, 2021 at 10:07 am

Every year teams bring back in tendered RFA types at lower contracts. It’s part of cap management and preseason competition. It’s just as predictable as your Chicken Liken pronouncements.

2 points
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TarynsEyes's picture

April 07, 2021 at 01:24 pm

I love Chicken!
You can boil it,
You can broil it,
You can braise it
You can pan fry it,
You can deep fry it,
You can saute it,
You can smoke it,
You can steam it,
etc.
What's not to like about Chicken Liken?

1 points
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Since'61's picture

April 07, 2021 at 10:24 am

Maybe they brought so many players back so that the coaches would not need to learn too many new names when they get to TC. LOL. Thanks, Since '61

4 points
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CoachDino's picture

April 07, 2021 at 05:25 pm

Bak - LT - Best FA LT - packers signed him
Kenny - NT/DT - Best FA NT/DT - Packers signed him
AJones - RB - Best FA RB - packers signed him
Tonyan - TE - Arguably Best FA TE - Packers Signed Him

RFA's are a bargain for teams so they are often brought back kinda a given.

Lancaster/King - Lower Level FAs - packers signed them at cheap price (Bit much for King)

So they signed the best FA's until they ran out of money and then looked for serviceable players at a low price.

They could of refused to sign Bak/Kenny and freed up 30M. Could they improved the team doing that? Signing another teams FA LT or DL is better?

Jones and Tonyan is 12M freed up - Could they have improved the team losing them?

That left for the most part ZERO cap space so they went to guys they now that will work for the min more or less.

king is the one signing that I question. If they new he was hurt and can play better than 6M is actually cheap. But if your going to spend 6 because you are desperate for a starter, spend 9M as see if you can get Sherman.

3 points
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LeotisHarris's picture

April 07, 2021 at 07:30 pm

Now now, Taryn. You know darn well NFL rules, as well as multiple Brown County ordinances, do not allow any horseplay on The Stairs of Growth. No one takes two steps back on The Stairs of Growth, ever. The handrail must be used at all times and there shall be no monkey business or tomfoolery.

I can't begin to imagine how they'd get a full band and and all those instruments up The Stairs of Growth. Perhaps if the horse is blind, one still loads the wagon? Or when the window has been shuttered, one opens the door and makes lemonade? Yes, that must surely be the case.

1 points
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Leatherhead's picture

April 07, 2021 at 08:27 pm

So....we need to add David Lee Roth to Van Halen?

Who did the Packers bring back that nobody wanted?

This is a really good team that made lots of mistakes and still came up only one play short last year. There’s every reason to believe they should be given another shot......

2 points
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PeteK's picture

April 07, 2021 at 04:59 pm

-All drafts are important, but this one has the added pressure of providing players for another SB run and for a young QB in 2023.
-Even though I have confidence in Love's ability, I couldn't help but think how Darnold would have fit on this team for a minor draft haul, but wrong time and year.
-One more win by this young Cal student from California and the conspiracy theorists will start banging their drums of another Quiz Show scenario. LOL

-3 points
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4
davekenya's picture

April 07, 2021 at 10:39 am

I got a good laugh at the Day 1 Final Jeopardy response the returning champ put on his card. Aaron managed to hang onto the ball w/o fumbling it with his answer.

Knowing how competitive AR is, don't you just know he's 'multitasking'? Both doing his job as game show host while simultaneously thinking to himself 'I could beat this contestant'...'I'd have to watch out for this guy'....'I'd know this answer even w/o the answer sheet given to me as host'...'I'd run this category'...just the way the guy's mind works and how he's wired.

-1 points
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PeteK's picture

April 07, 2021 at 05:02 pm

It did seem a few times the second night that he was surprised when no one knew a few ans. LOL

-1 points
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Leatherhead's picture

April 07, 2021 at 11:12 am

I think every great athlete has to decide what he's going to do with his life after he's done playing. Many choose something that keeps them close to the game, but others go into different endeavours. Alan Page became a judge. Merlin Olson became an actor (he also did football commentary). A few others. You can get involved in charities and causes and foundations and such, and trade in on your fame. I could see Rodgers as being willing to get out of his comfort zone and succeed in something other than football in the second half of his life. More power to him.

Russ Ball, like the rest of the professionals at 1265, is very competent and has worked hard to get where he is. We are kicking the can down the road to maximize our chances this year.

We have a nice rotation of OLBs, but we could certainly use one more, especially if we're losing Preston Smith next year. I'm not a fan of choosing quickness over power in our OLB because I remember the 2019 Championship game and how we got ran over by a bigger, more powerful team. I'm in favor of quickness, but not if you're sacrificing the power you need to hold the edge. If there's a Day 3 steal, that'd be great.

We have already brought back 41 of our gameday 53 from last year, but that still leaves 12 openings. We are reloading. It's time to summon our inner Goodnight Robichaux and make sure we don't miss for the third time. This shot has to find its mark.

Aaron Jones. What is "Who'll be running the jet sweep for $500"? As I see it, the weapons we want on the field are Aaron Jones, Davante Adams, Robert Tonyan, MSV,/Lazrard, and AJ Dillon. If you line up Dillon and Jones at the same time, along with two WRs and a TE, then Jones become a wingback, usually going out on a pass. But it sets him up perfectly as that jet sweep guy. You've still got to respect Dillon between the tackles , double cover Adams, keep MVS in front of you, and hope that you've got Tonyan covered. Covering Jones on the jet sweep is way down the list of things you have to do when the ball is snapped. And that's part of the reason he's going to have so many nice runs off it this year.

I'm going to have to disagree with the author about his assessments of Tevin Jenkins and Alex Leatherwood. I think either of these guys would be very good RTs for the Packers, almost from Day One of training camp. There are others. I think we could get a very good tackle all the way down to 45-50 in the draft......Leatherwood, Jenkins, Cosmi, Mayfield, Radunz, the guy from Notre Dame, and others. What kind of players they'll be in the pros is going to depend on a lot of things including attitude and health. But we need to lead off the draft with one of them. Protecting the QB is Priority #1, and we've lost a lot over the past year.....Taylor, Wagner, Linsley, and an injured Bakhtiari.

3 points
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PeteK's picture

April 07, 2021 at 05:10 pm

or a fake up the middle with Dillon and a toss to Jones.

1 points
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PatrickGB's picture

April 07, 2021 at 12:04 pm

Coaches can adjust the scheme to the players. So, if they don’t have the type of players that they want for the scheme then they can (and probably should) change the scheme. If our defense cannot find the right DT in the draft then they adjust the defense and maybe pick up an UDFA or FA who has been released. I prefer that the team find the best affordable players available and adjust to suit the talent. All the drafting sites look at a teams shortcomings and predict a certain player but GB looks at the players available and takes it from there.

6 points
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fastmoving's picture

April 07, 2021 at 12:06 pm

I have to agree with every single word of that post. And I loved Merlin nearly as much as Charles Ingalls.....

1 points
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CoachDino's picture

April 07, 2021 at 05:01 pm

At 6'7" he has the ability to reach out at RB and get his hands up in passing lanes alone. Once he puts a few more pounds on so to Hold the edge better he's there. Year or 2 of Development. Pass Rush is so critical.

0 points
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CoachDino's picture

April 07, 2021 at 05:06 pm

D'Wayne Eskridge is my guy. Maybe 3rd rd but butter value in 4th from what info's all out there. Dardon/Felton are others.
Scouting report from NFLDRAFTNETWORK.
Former defensive back that transitioned back and forth between the two positions due to injuries on the roster and other players transferring from the program. He had high-end production despite not being able to settle into a position until his final season. Eskridge is a well-developed wideout that has the mentality of a defensive player. With strong hands and a seasoned route tree, he’s capable of playing on the inside or outside. Also a mainstay on special teams, he’s a prospect that will be on every special teams unit—not only as a returner, but as a hustle man on both kickoff and punt groups. A vicious and high effort run blocker, he has bone-crushing blocks on the perimeter and doesn’t take plays off if the ball isn’t in his hands.

1 points
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