Confessions of a Polluted Mindset - It's Drafty in Here
The Weekly Packers Brain Drain from Jersey Al.
By JerseyAl
Drafty - Yep, I'm sure you've noticed that we've gone all-in with the draft content. And tomorrow, the CHTV Draft Guide hits the (digital) streets. This could be a critical draft for Brian Gutekunst, with an aging quarterback with just a few years left and no star weapons to throw to. This HAS to be the year they draft a WR in round one, isn't it? Isn't it?
Thoughts? - As I sit here ready to write, I find myself with a dearth of polluted Packers thoughts. perhaps this is because the space in my brain devoted to the Packers has been filled all week with editing and getting the draft guide ready. So I have no idea in what direction this post is going to go. Let's see...
Special Emphasis - One prediction I have for this 2022 draft is that special teams ability will carry more weight in the Packers' player evaluation formula. Special teams have killed the Packers, they finally hired a real special teams coach and now they have to fill his coffers with young athletes he can coach. All picks from round three on will be looked at through the lens of special teams contributions.
Draft a Punter - Until the Packers went and brought in Pat O'Donnell (yawn), I was fully on board with the Packers drafting a punter. Oh, I can hear you all screaming, and wait, was that the sound of Corey Behnke's head exploding I just heard? Normally, I'd be against drafting a punter, but I'm really concerned about Mason Crosby's kickoff ability. I want a kicker who can just put it out of the end zone every time. So what does that have to do with a punter? Glad you asked. There happens to be a highly regarded punter in this draft that also handled kickoffs for his team. Penn State's Jordan Stout would be just the guy. As a punter, Stout averaged 46.1 yards per punt with a first-in-the-FBS 4.34 second hang time, and only 4.5% of his punts resulted in a touchback. Handling kickoffs, he led the nation in touchback percentage at over 90%. And here's an extra bonus, in 2021, he even handled field goals for the Nittany Lions. While not a strength (69.6%), it would be cool to have an instant fill-in for Mason Crosby if he were to get hurt during a game. But alas, we have given a contract to Pat O'Donnell. So ignore everything I just said.
The Packers' off-season schedule was recently announced:
- April 18 Workout program begins:
- May 23, 24, 26 OTAs, week 1
- May 31, June 1, June 3 OTAs, week 2
- June 7, 8, 9 Mandatory Minicamp
- June 13, 14, 16 OTAs, week 3
My first thought - When will what is likely to be a very different group of receivers have their first opportunity to work with their MVP quarterback? Will Rodgers wait until the Mandatory mini-camp? As you likely know, Rodgers' contract has a jokingly minuscule $50K workout bonus, He obviously is not planning to be around in a couple of weeks. My guess is Rodgers wanted NO workout bonus (because he has zero plans of being there) but the Packers asked him to include SOMETHING, so Rodgers threw them a $50K bone. Anyway, when do you think he chooses to first join the team in the offseason?
Just Visiting - Normally, when the Packers bring players in for pre-draft visits, it's been later-round players they may lack adequate information on and players I usually have only cursory knowledge of. Well, throw that out the window for 2022: Treylon Burks, George Pickens, Sam Williams, Tyquon Thornton, Jamaree Sayler, Velus Jones Jr. (Note that a few were done as virtual visits).
Sorry, that's all I have for now. Need to recharge the brain batteries this week...
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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.
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Comments (194)
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 06:39 am
Great stuff, Al. Again. Looking forward to hitting that CHTV Draft Guide. It really is a super solid resource.
If Gutekunst doesn’t trade everything away moving up, we should be able to add a lot more talent to STs and their position groups. With 11 picks? Maybe Gutekunst trades down from #28, increasing the total so that he can take Jordan Stout later. Being proficient at both kicking duties is big.
Personally, I find Aaron Rodgers to be disappointing. Would it hurt him so much to come in early to do everything he possibly could to get his new WRs up to speed? And… we pay him HOW MUCH??? I’m not gonna hold my breath with that guy, for anything. Trying to just stall till he’s gone.
Love the visits. Solid group of players.
I’ve said some negative things about Tyquan Thornton’s hand size - 7 7/8” - but, in all fairness, EVERY report on him is good hands, sticky hands… and, his stats don’t lie. Did some study on him yesterday, and he’s a very high volume WR with the resume to prove it. Plus, he runs a 4.28. Wow.
HawkPacker
April 06, 2022 at 06:37 am
You can bet we will be selecting a speedster or two in the draft.
murf7777
April 06, 2022 at 09:57 am
hmmm....maybe MLF comment about speed was a smoke screen. Teams do send them out all the time to make other teams think one thing and they do another. All I know about the draft is I will be surprised. Rarely, do the Packers take who most of us think they will.
Leatherhead
April 06, 2022 at 10:34 am
Thornton's Consensus ranking has him as a Day 3 guy, maybe even a late 5th round guy. He's been damn productive, and he is fast. I mean, like "time-travel" fast. Tall, but skinny.
If we take a guy like this on Day 3 and give him a shot, I think it'd be a good move.
Leatherhead
April 06, 2022 at 10:34 am
Thornton's Consensus ranking has him as a Day 3 guy, maybe even a late 5th round guy. He's been damn productive, and he is fast. I mean, like "time-travel" fast. Tall, but skinny.
If we take a guy like this on Day 3 and give him a shot, I think it'd be a good move.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 07, 2022 at 08:34 am
Watching video of him he certainly was not impressive. If sole purpose is to scare defense and take the top off I suppose but do not draft him before 4th or 5th round. Like most all other receivers better.
LambeauPlain
April 06, 2022 at 12:04 pm
TT has the size to add 15-20 lbs of lean muscle mass. He would be on of those guys to take on day three after two WRs are taken on days one and in the 2nd round.
Liked him even more after Aranda gave him an very objective review. He said TT started slowly but took to coaching and worked very hard to improve every year. He said he was very pleased and impressed with Thorton's focus and study to improve his game so well.
HawkPacker
April 06, 2022 at 06:35 am
Always a great read Al. I do like the selection of the punter in the 5th round. Makes sense even thought they signed a punter.
I can't wait until the draft. With all the picks we have and the various needs, it really is an exciting time. I hope they do not trade any of those picks or move up in the draft.
I mentioned yesterday in a comment and will mention here as well. I believe the pack may select a great defensive lineman, probably in the first round, and then after June 1st, they will release/trade Dean Lowry and then get a veteran WR with the CAP savings from releasing Lowry. Just my thought.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 06:43 am
Super solid take, Hawk. Funny looking back on Gutekunst’s first presser in GB, saying he will be exhaust every avenue to upgrade the talent on this team. The guy’s relentless.
PeteK
April 06, 2022 at 08:47 am
Why release a productive defender who can give the young DT a chance to develop. Just extend Alexander if a WR is available.
murf7777
April 06, 2022 at 06:35 am
Thanks Al, this is a great site and really look forward to reading your draft guide. I also really like that all of us posters keep comments to the Packers and football.
JerseyAl
April 06, 2022 at 07:25 am
It hasn't always been like that - until I decided to start booting people. I would have preferred not to have to do that, but some people just can't be trusted. I now have a quick hook. I'm glad you have noticed the difference.
BradHTX
April 06, 2022 at 07:37 am
The air has been noticeably cleaner in here, and we all applaud you for it, Al.
Bitternotsour
April 06, 2022 at 10:10 am
You know Al, if you put this energy into racing forms, well, the Monmouth Park season is right around the corner...
Savage57
April 06, 2022 at 06:38 am
Armchair GMing, then talking about it, can be enjoyable as long as you maintain perspective going in.
A) Chances are better than not your 'no matter what' pick gets selected ahead of the Packers
B) Guys who dedicate their lives to this to earn their daily bread bat about .300
C) "Did you even see him play?" is a good way to piss someone off you disagree with
D) Measurables are like padded bras. It makes you think there's more there than there really is
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 07:04 am
Yup. Keeping perspectives in check with draft stuff is key.
It’s fun to study what’s there, understanding it’s a fraction of what GB’s staff knows, remove the emotion, and sit back and see what happens.
****SPECIAL NOTE: Many of us saw Eric Kendricks there when we needed ILB, and TJ Watt, waving to us only to be ignored… sometimes us fans can see it a mile away. It gets weird. And sometimes weirder. Those were BAAAAAAD MISSES. Us fans saw it plain as day.
Gutekunst needs to guard himself from trying to get too cute with this, and just play it smart.
As for D:
I’ll never forget a poster from a forum decades ago, sat next to Javon Walker on a flight. Said Walker was like that big, beautiful blonde, but not the smart kind… dumb as a box of rocks.
croatpackfan
April 06, 2022 at 08:24 am
Do not forget Ha-Ha Clinton Dix and the other kid I forget his name (Starting with P I believe) 90% of Packers nation salivated over possibility to get one of those 2 safeties. As Kendricks and Watt were good bet for excellent players, there is at least 10 other names per one hit that never panned out in NFL. It is around probability that you'll hit once per 10'15 years with your assessment. I'm on Savage page. Let it to experts and do not take to heavy if they miss with the choice. Draft is, after all only Crystal Ball business, with experts who have more information to make positive choice than fans.
Should I mention you the anger amongst many fans when Kenny Clark was picked, or more recent Rashan Gary? There is many 1st round choices that fans were angry with which failed, but there is also many that found success in the NFL.
PeteK
April 06, 2022 at 09:14 am
Yes, being drafted by a good team can also make a big difference as it allows time to develop.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 09:19 am
Haaaaa, yeah, man. Clark… WHO????
I’m a PAC 12 guy, being a Sun Devil Alum. A lot of East coast & midwestern fans just don’t watch those games.
Kenny is awesome, and he really was a great pick.
jannesbjornson
April 06, 2022 at 10:16 am
Sam Seale is the area scout. most of the Fans are sleeping when the PAC-12 games are on the box.
Johnblood27
April 06, 2022 at 10:34 am
I'm a Coug and i watch every game. I even stay up for some of the other late games too...
Not always the best football, but certainly some really great athletes.
Once you get to know the teams and regional cultures a bit PAC12 football is as entertaining as any.
I was a Florida State / UCF guy until I went to grad school at WSU, it was certainly a transition from FSU-The U - UF - SEC - fledgling UCF football to west coast ball, but it grows on you over time.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 11:04 am
Way to be, JB!!!
Me too. I love watching PAC12 football. I seriously do think there’s an unwitting East coast bias in many major draft resources, simply because many writing/reviewing haven’t watched as much.
One of my ASU favs for GB is Kellen Diesch, a 6-7 300 LT with a mean streak a mile long, and one of the best in this draft class. Needs strength/weight training like most rookies, but he’s got all the tools in the drawer.
I bet if pressed into action like Bak was as a rookie, he’d hold up just fine. His fundamentals and bend are that good.
Did YOU ask about Rachaad White the other day?
Good RB at 6-2 210 who runs a 4.42. I think he’s ranked around #5 overall. +1000 yd rusher w 5.5 avg and +450 yds receiving. Super long arms help him catch just about anything and super elusive with all kinds of different moves. Patience behind line to wait for the hole and has awesome burst speed thru. Needs pass pro work.
Speaking of, do you like Abraham Lucas? Seems both of our guys are similar.
Johnblood27
April 06, 2022 at 11:06 am
I love MEAN OL. GB needs one this year with Patrick gone. Lucas is gonna be a day 1 or 2 selection, the Q becomes - Is he the best OT at that slot? - so... depends on who has been taken at that point in the draft, i don't have Lucas at the very top of my OT wish list, ,but would not be disappointed to see him in GB.
Yes, that was me on White. he is a good pass catcher too.
I looked at a top 10 rb list and he wasn't even mentioned. good news for a late round flyer... just sayin...
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 11:16 am
Oh, Dude…. You got me LMAO on that.
White is a fucking beast, and should not be missed. Goes directly to that bias that I think many don’t even realize they have. I’m ver confident Rachaad White is a powerful, elusive and effective Top 5 RB in this class.
He’d be perfect added to our RB group.
Also, MEAN STREAK!!! Absolutely with OL. That was Bakhtiari’s calling card, and helped him step in as a rookie Game 1, after Bulaga blew his knee in TC, with solid results.
jannesbjornson
April 06, 2022 at 11:42 am
He's on my list.
Leatherhead
April 06, 2022 at 04:24 pm
You do a real good job of pointing out the Day 3 steals. I do appreciate that.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 06:02 pm
Thank you, my friend. I really pour over all of it, stats, histories, comparisons withe true passion, and really have been that draft geek going back way before cable TV… sheesh!
I have so much fun with it, it should be illegal in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Here’s my latest gem:
CB Zyon McCollum - Sam Houston St.
6-2 207 4.33 4.03 shuttle
SPEED. BALLHAWK. TACKLES. LENGTH.
Long with speed/range to provide great man coverage and BALLHAWK. Averaged 3 INT/year 4 years in a row.
Needs development in zone coverage/strength/weight.
LEGIT NFL coverage skills. Really smooth fast mover w effortless hip flip. Really low out of gate. Excellent form.
Willing/PUNISHING tackler in run stop.
54 PBU with 13 INTs career.
Jesus, Maria ė José!!! What a find. I love this kid. Another guy who 3 weeks ago was buried deep in R6-7. Now? Climbing rapidly.
—-
I’m just going to add, these 6-2 guys, DBs and WRs, seem to be the most effective players by a mile over recent years of experimentation. I’m not really digging the 6-4, 6-5” skill players too much anymore. They’re a little more susceptible to injury, and tend to lose their speed as they add weight/strength.
Just look at them all. Pretty limited by injury and ineffectiveness as they get to their 2nd contract years, with maybe 1 or 2 outliers?
Leatherhead
April 06, 2022 at 04:24 pm
You do a real good job of pointing out the Day 3 steals. I do appreciate that.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 06:20 pm
Saw you liked my Cam Thomas pick. What’s not to like, right??? WhooSH!!!
****
EDGE Cameron Thomas -SDSU A35/O55
6-5 264 4.78 arms 33 1/8” hands 10”
EXPLOSIVE. Both pass rush & run stop in 91st percentile
VERSATILE 0 3 5 7 from 2/3 point stances
POWER BULL + SPEED
LEVERAGE. SMART. TFL DEMON
RARE EFFORT. Has it all...
2021 #7 in nation sacks/game 12 sacks 21 QB Hits 44 QB Hurries
Career: 155 Tackles 39 TFL 20 sacks 2 PD 1 FF
Mountain West DPOY
Faced multiple double/triple teams to put up these numbers.
——
LOVING GB brought this dude in for a visit too:
****
EDGE Sam Williams - Ole Miss O131
6-3.5 261 4.46 40” vertical arms 34 1/8” Hands 9 7/8”
ATHLETIC FREAK.
MOTOR sideline to sideline.
Plays with excellent strength. Bull rush. Speed. Gets to football. Real versatility.
2021 57 tackles 13 sacks 61 QB Pressures!!!
Career: 134 Tackles 32.5 TFL 22.5 sacks 1 INT 1 PD 1 FR 6 FF
——-
Btw, A/O are Athlon/Ourlads rankings. Athlon only does a Top 100. Trusted though. I try to note as much info as I can with my player studies. This year, it’s all a mess due to my late start.funny, I’ve saved my player notes going back years…
stockholder
April 06, 2022 at 06:24 pm
Pass. Give me the Georgia LBs first.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 09:53 pm
One of my favorite LBs…
LB Channing Tindall - Georgia
6-2 230 4.47 arms 33” hands 10 5/8” 42” vertical!!!
ATTACKER with the physical profile & HOT MOTOR. EXPLOSIVE.
TOUGH. DEPENDABLE. PURSUIT SPEED. TACKLER. Instincts/recognition expected to improve with more reps. Underrated.
Everything you want. Fluid. Change of direction. Low cut. Sifts through traffic. Excellent short area bust, surge.
Spry laterally. Rare 2nd gear.
Coverage still developing. Will improve effectiveness as he gains comfort >>> reading coverages, adjustments at line. Great in box.
SUPERB TACKLER.
R2-4
jannesbjornson
April 06, 2022 at 06:58 pm
Williams will be targeted during round two, maybe earlier. All-SEC. Gil Brandt's top 100 is published. He still can spot talent to value.
LambeauPlain
April 06, 2022 at 12:31 pm
Yep...almost all analysts had Kenny a day 2, early day 3 pick. Jerran Reed was ranked ahead of Clark.
Yes, we fans can often see the perfect pick. I could not believe TT passed on Kendricks. But not taking TJ was a shocker. It still bugs me.
But then there are guys like Clark and Gary and Alexander and Jenks that humble me.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 01:58 pm
Well said, LambeauPlain. I was in shock with both Kendricks & TJ Watt. Never really recovered. Neither did the Packers.
LLCHESTY
April 06, 2022 at 11:24 am
Ha Ha was the first one I thought of too. Everybody and their mother wanted the Packers to draft him.
PeteK
April 06, 2022 at 09:15 am
Walker was smart enough to produce 89-1382- 12 TDS in 2004.
Coldworld
April 07, 2022 at 09:52 am
I think it was what came after that leaves some less impressed.
murf7777
April 06, 2022 at 08:58 am
"Measurables are like padded bras. It makes you think there's more there than there really is"
Thanks Savage, that gave me a great laugh this morning!!
PeteK
April 06, 2022 at 09:24 am
However, nipples are like speed without it drafting a WR would be pointless.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 10:06 am
Nipples, and a good draft? BING!
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 09:25 am
It’s great material. First double entendre is in. My day is now complete.
Oh, wait. “Double entendre?” In this particular context? I think my brain just melted. Have a great day, my friends.
LambeauPlain
April 06, 2022 at 12:23 pm
So far Gutey is batting .500 with 19 of his 37 picks still on the team. And a few of those left in free agency. His worst draft was his first so far, only Alexander remains from the 2018 11 picks.
"Padded bras!" That is a good one! I have seen Drake London called slow on this site (4.55 40, same as Adams and Lazard) and called just a jump ball artist. He plays very fast for a big bodied receiver and catches everything as an X WR generating a QB rating of 115 when targeted.
Leatherhead
April 07, 2022 at 08:44 am
That's one way of looking at it.....players still on the team.
Another way is how many are still in the league. Only two players drafted by Thompson from 2018-2021 are no longer in the league. JMon Moore, and Simon Stepaniak. 35 of the 37 players he selected are still in the league.
So by that measure, he's quite a bit better than .500 And some of those players have been real solid hits.....Alexander, Gary, Dillon, Jenkins. etc.
The Packers have done a good job with the draft in recent years.
NickPerry
April 06, 2022 at 06:51 am
"There happens to be a highly regarded punter in this draft that also handled kickoffs for his team. Penn State's Jordan Stout would be just the guy."
Well crap Al, I was kind of excited to have a punter in the house who could actually hold AND do a good job doing it. This is like the 3rd or 4th time I've heard Jordan Stout's names while listening to, or reading Packers content. I guess for now I'll be happy with Pat O'Donnell though. I mean the guy IS a good punter and holder. As long as Crosby's not missing 9 FG attempts again this season, largely because of the holding or blocking up front, I'm happy!
The Draft Guide... Can't wait for tomorrow. IIRC I'll get an email from CHTV informing me the draft guide is available to download. If anyone here hasn't got it let me offer a suggestion...Get it!. I've pre-ordered mine for the last several years and have really enjoyed it. Many of the people here at CHTV that bring us this content we all read and comment on, do an AMAZING job and work really hard to bring it to us. It will bring you hours of enjoyment if the draft is something you love as much as I do.
Rodgers...My hope is he shows up to as many of the voluntary things as possible and NOT for a God Damn bonus. Nope, my hope is he'd show up because the Packers have paid him a shit ton of money...AGAIN! He'll be working with a lot of new players, and he'll WANT to have as much time as possible with these young kids coming in. Your a captain, a role model, start with your OWN teammates.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 07:07 am
100%. Nick, throwin’ fire to start the day! Well said.
Johnblood27
April 06, 2022 at 10:40 am
See all the text inserted below?
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This is me NOT saying what I think about Aaron freakin Rodgers and his team commitment.
Guam
April 06, 2022 at 07:53 am
Rodgers' mindset worries me. He lost his favorite WR (who took the same money to play for another team); he signed a contract paying him buckets of money; he needs to build "trust" with a bevy of new receivers (whoever they are) and he can't be bothered to show up for voluntary OTAs? He probably won't want to play in many preseason games either.
Rodgers just doesn't seem very invested in the upcoming season. Not sure why the Packers invested in him........
And yeah, I know, I am a broken record about Rodgers and I will try to get better. It just pisses me off to watch this guy dis the Packers.
croatpackfan
April 06, 2022 at 08:27 am
Ah, Guam. When someone is blindly in love with other one you can not push him (her) to admit his (her) love is rotten.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 08:43 am
So true, Guam!
Had a thought: Never been able to reconcile AR throwing ONLY to DA for an entire 3 Quarters (THAT is a REALLY LONG time), with everything for our team’s advancement on the line, ignoring wide open receivers not named Adams…
Did he do that as his F-ed up way of asking Adams to stay in GB? Could that be?
For the life of me, I can’t figure out his failure to target any other WR for a full 3Q of one of the most important games of his latter career…
After seeing that, I was done with him. I’d much rather see Jordan Love get a legit shot, and believe this team, and our real chances to win the whole thing would be improved greatly.
Earning Rodgers’ “trust.” Give me a F-ing break.
Johnblood27
April 06, 2022 at 10:40 am
See all the text inserted below?
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This is me NOT saying what I think about Aaron freakin Rodgers and his trust issues.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 11:23 am
Went out to dinner with my 90 year old Dad last week, and HE’s all pissed off! Hilarious. He was telling the entire restaurant about it because the guy refuses to wear a hearing aid…
OMG. Tears laughing about that one.
Johnblood27
April 06, 2022 at 03:41 pm
Your dad sounds like my kinda guy!
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 03:51 pm
Oh man, JB. What a Dude. He still drives downtown to my painting studio to hang out. The guy is a rock of a man. Still.
Thegreatreynoldo
April 07, 2022 at 02:18 am
That's amusing. My father-in-law is 90 and works 6 days per week doing body work on used cars. Maybe 4 years ago he fell while fixing the roof and broke both elbows. He drove himself to the hospital. At the ER they wanted to put casts on both arms, but he pointed out that he wouldn't be able to attend to his, um, needs. Dr. told him his arm probably wouldn't heal correctly and he replied that he wasn't planning on taking up the violin.
greengold
April 07, 2022 at 07:15 am
Oh. My. God.
That’s hilarious, TGR!
Leatherhead
April 07, 2022 at 08:50 am
Roofs are not good places for old men. Max McGee, who was a much, much better athlete than I ever was, fell off his roof in his 70s and died. i'm only in my 60s and I've already decided I'm done climbing on my roof. I'll pay the neighbor kid to do that for me. I figure at $10 and $20 a shot, I can get him up on the roof for a lot less than what it will cost to fix me if I fall off.
JerseyAl
April 07, 2022 at 08:55 am
Over the last five years, I know two men in their 60's who fell off a ladder cleaning gutters or doing roof repairs and died. It's no joke. It's hard to let go for a confirmed "do-it-yourselfer," like myself, but that convinced me.
greengold
April 07, 2022 at 09:03 am
Yeah, both of you guys are spot on with the roof thing. I'm done, and I used to run gigantic restoration projects across the US. Scaffolding was my bitch. Boom lifts galore.
Not any more. Not any more.
Spock
April 07, 2022 at 10:47 am
I went through a glass door when I was a kid (on Mother's Day, no less). I ended up with my left arm heavily wrapped and in a sling and my right arm with a cast over the hand. I said to my Dad, "How am I going to go to the bathroom?"
I'll never forget his answer, "Son, you're about to find out who you're friends REALLY are."
:) I managed.
Hematite
April 06, 2022 at 02:33 pm
👍
PeteK
April 06, 2022 at 09:33 am
I have lost respect for AR, but since signing an extension, not having his go to WR, and losing in the playoff, I believe he will be highly motivated this season.
croatpackfan
April 06, 2022 at 10:43 am
I hope you are right, but there will be another excuse (they didn't give me "to go WR") if he fails to advance through post season. It looks like he is never guilty, for anything.
We do not need him to be highly motivated through the season. We need excelent level of execution in post season. And that is what he never deliver, at least after Packers won SB.
barutanseijin
April 06, 2022 at 09:21 pm
He’s about due for another major injury. If it’s another shoulder he’ll be finished, like Romo.
Leatherhead
April 07, 2022 at 08:51 am
Which is why protecting the QB is Priority #1 for this team. Improve the Line.
HawkPacker
April 06, 2022 at 08:29 am
Agreed Nick. Rodgers' complains about trust. He has a great opportunity to work with the new WR's early, whether we get them through the draft or trade for or if FA's and hopefully he gets it. He is a smart guy and certainly does understand that. If he does come in early, and savors the trust factor, there is a good chance he could get his 3rd in a row MVP. I think he knows that!
croatpackfan
April 06, 2022 at 10:45 am
Ah, Packers paid him $50 mill per season so he can win another MVP title? I thought there is SB as the goal.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 11:33 am
The only one I want to see Aaron Rodgers win right now is SUPER BOWL MVP.
It’s WAY past put up or shut up time.
Coldworld
April 07, 2022 at 09:55 am
Which is why the current situation makes little sense.
Hematite
April 06, 2022 at 11:22 am
👍
MainePackFan
April 06, 2022 at 11:23 am
Based on your recommendation Nick, I just ordered it :)
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 11:34 am
CHTV Draft Guide is really good, Maine. You won’t be disappointed. Tons of great stuff in there for any draft lovers out there, and we’ll worth it.
Ya_tittle
April 06, 2022 at 12:14 pm
Yeah it was GREAT last year.
LLCHESTY
April 06, 2022 at 07:44 am
STs emphasis=get Velus Jones! Over 3000 kickoff return yards without a fumble, two kickoff returns for TDs, a 15 yard return average on punts and a 1.46 10 yard split that was faster than Ruggs. Not just a STs weapon but also a manufactured touches weapon.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 07:55 am
I kid you not. Velus was the first player I studied. Why? Because I knew we needed not just WRs, but SPEED!
WR Velus Jones 5-11.5 203 4.31 Tennessee
Slot/KR/PR/Jet 6th year. 25 y/o.
14.7/att PR #3 in nation. 26.6/att KR #19 2 TDs. Bursts through lanes with speed you can’t teach.
3000+ KR yds with 0 muffs!
162 Tgts with only 9 drops with surest hands in class.
Clocked 2nd fastest time by offensive player at Senior Bowl at 21.75 mph.
Yet his play speed is quicker. Acceleration from line a sight to behold.
Routinely catches. Excellent body control, feet at sidelines.
Perfect #2 WR. Screens. 8.3 YAC
Needs work on routes. Choppy steps. So fast he rarely saw press coverage. Willing blocker w good contact balance. Didn’t get reps behind Pittman Jr, Amon-Ra SB & London so he transferred outta USC, bounced around before he got a legit chance = age/low reps.
Tough. Feisty. Playmaker.
HawkPacker
April 06, 2022 at 08:31 am
Never heard of him. And that is another reason I like this site. You can learn a lot. Thanks GG.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 09:13 am
Hawk, I hadn’t either! I just looked up the fastest WRs, saw him at 4.31, and Velus became the very first WR I started researching…. Pleasure to share.
So confident in him that I’d seriously snap him at 28 after Burks or Olave at 22 and consider that position group problem solved. Let people chirp “reach,” all they want, but he’s a perfect #2WR for the Packers, after landing a #1WR at 22. Done. STARTERS.
*** I know it doesn’t work that way in a perfect world… but, don’t forget, KC is right behind us with picks 29 & 30. Does anyone think they don’t have eyes on him after losing Tyreke Hill?
Skyy is truly a fit there too- a tested high volume WR and the most elusive in the entire draft. Maybe snap Skyy at 28 and Velus later, if possible. Big “if.” 100% certain KC has BOTH firmly on their radar.
Truth be told I’d take Skyy at 28, if he’s there, before Velus. But, if Sky’s gone, Velus available, and KC with the two picks after us? Could easily lose out on both.
Are we going to run LaFleur’s Jets or not?
Now is the time to be smart & bold.
Spend the next 9 picks R2-7 at OT, EDGE, S, CB, etc.
Leatherhead
April 06, 2022 at 10:44 am
Greengold, pump the brakes on Velus. This guy is a consensus #150 guy or so. He was in college for 6 years, between redshirting and the Covid season, and never did much until the last year.
He's fast. Everybody knows that. So why is he a consensus Day 3 guy? Yeah, it's a reach.
At #22 take the best big body WR we can. I predict that'll be Burks, London, or Watson. Take a WR at #53 like Pierce or Bell or Pickens. And if we can get a guy like Velus, or Thornton, on Day 3, then that's great.
murf7777
April 06, 2022 at 11:11 am
LH...right on, speed isn't everything, it's just the beginning and not the end of analysis of a WR's worth.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 04:06 pm
FFS, Leatherhead & murf. Who is saying speed is everything??? BS. Not me, and DON’T insinuate that.
Velus is a quality WR and one of the best returners in the entire draft class. Also some of the surest hands in this draft class. Averaged 8.3 ypr on screens 2021.
6-0 204 4.31 INSANELY GOOD HANDS… In 2021 he had 75% Catch% with 62 rec on 83 Targets for over 800 yds AND 7 TDs!!!
75% is insane. Olave had just 63%…
Velus also had 900 return yards on STs, scoring 1 TD.
Velus Jones Jr.’s 1700 All Purpose Yards ranked #3 in the SEC!
If you can’t see he’s a quality WR with exceptional gifts, I can’t help you, little sheep.
“Consensus” = B-a-a-a-A-A-AH!!!
Leatherhead
April 06, 2022 at 03:36 pm
I can see he’s a quality receiver. But there are other quality prospects out there.
He’s a Day 3 guy,imo, probably a 4th round guy.
Take Burks at #22. Take another WR at 53. That gives us a double shot at replacing Adams on the field. But if we could get a guy like this in the 4th, he’d be worth it, IMO.
Coldworld
April 07, 2022 at 10:02 am
Velus would be great in theory, as a ST pick, but I suggest he is likely to get drafted well ahead of that value as a result of his athleticism. I don’t think he helps much as a WR this year, maybe next, beyond maybe a few snaps a game on a go route. How highly will we value his ST skills? If we get lucky in the first couple of rounds at WR, then maybe that ST value gets greater?
MainePackFan
April 06, 2022 at 11:51 am
lol. Can you imagine if Gute took Velus in the first round? Heads would explode .
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 12:54 pm
Yes. It’s funny, but, he’d solve multiple high need problems calling out urgently to be addressed.
Oppy
April 07, 2022 at 09:49 am
Heads will explode no matter who is taken.
The draft is the time of year i'm annually reminded how horrible Packers fans are. So many heads exploding. So many.
LambeauPlain
April 06, 2022 at 12:57 pm
Totally agree LH. Select the best X WR on Gutey's board at 22 and again with 28 (Watson and Burks won't make it to 53) but at least at 53 with the expectation one will start and the other will play on game days. Olave and Watson...Olave and Burks...Burks and Watson.
But if London falls to 22...that would be a sprint to the mike event!
Then add another fast, productive WR prospect on day 3 who also offers formidable ST skills at returner and/or gunner. Velus or Thorton are great picks there.
Pickens scares me. Not just the ACL and lack of production on tape, but his behavior toward coaching and some off field issues. Prototypical boom and bust pick.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 02:36 pm
Lol. If you want an X WR, I’ve shared with all of you a hidden gem. Read the article I just posted from Touchdownwire - “The Rise of Velus Jones Jr., and What He Can Bring to the NFL,” look at the YAC chart… watch some of his videos, then tell me again how much you don’t want Velus Jones, or how he lasts into Day 3.
If any of you really care about landing the best X receiver in this draft specific to running LaFleur’s Jet concepts, it’s possible there may be no better than Velus Jones.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 02:22 pm
Read this https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/velus-jones-2022-nfl-draft/
BradHTX
April 06, 2022 at 09:21 am
He’s a great player, and paired with someone who is a really good route runner like Olave, could make for a really good tandem.
The only downside is that he is already 25. Just yesterday, Ross Uglem over at Packer Report had an article about how the Packers value youth in their premium draft picks. They have never once taken a player older than 22 in the first round since 2009.
Now, I am seeing Velus mostly listed as a day 2 prospect, so maybe in the second or third round they are willing to break that rule. But I would not be surprised if he is completely off their board as a prospect who would be close to 30 when his rookie contract runs out.
LLCHESTY
April 06, 2022 at 11:34 am
Yeah I think he's a day 3 because of his age. 4th round to early 5th. He's not a good route runner, although he is really good at tracking and adjusting to deep balls. On offense you'll either have him go deep or manufacture touches for via screens, jet sweeps and quick hitters. What I really like about him is he's RB sized, he's not 175-180 lbs. He was 204 at the combine and when you watch him he doesn't go down the first time he's touched.
You just can't teach this:
https://twitter.com/LogicSports3/status/1063919242238615552?t=65ebzHK5qP...
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 03:47 pm
LLCHESTY, it’s true. Check this out (full chart in article I shared), if anyone wants the best X receiver in this draft to run LaFleur’s Jets:
AFTER CATCH PRODUCTION WR 2022
AVG rank / name / YAC/rec / YAContact/rec / REC
3.0 Jones Jr 8.32 / 4.02 / 62
4.0 Ezukanama 7.79 / 4.26 / 47
4.3 Burks 9.20 / 3.06 / 66
6.3 Bell 5.76 / 3.19 / 93
6.7 Melton 6.44 / 3.22 / 55
7.0 Moore 5.62 / 2.88 / 95
8.0 Williams 9.14/2.72/79
8.7 Wilson 5.96 /2.20/70
8.7 Austin III 7.19/2.58/74
10.0 London 5.23/2.58/88
10.0 Metchie III 6.67/2.34/96
10.0 Watson 8.05/NA/43
10.7 Robinson 5.76/2.48/104
10.7 Tolbert 7.09/2.37/82
12.7 Shakir 6.08/2.08/77
15.0 Ross 4.46/1.76/46
17.3 Dotson 5.30/1.25/91
17.7 Doubs 4.00/1.30/80
18.0 Thornton 3.13/2.19/62
18.3 Pierce 3.65/1.92/52
20.3 Olave 3.34/1.06/65
This blows my mind, and lends credence to VJJ…!!! Go ahead, say it! LOL
I’m giving you guys my best.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 05:18 pm
Hey Brad, you’re seeing the results of a draft industry slow on the uptake. Many draft resources missed on this kid.
Imagine, he had the stones to trust himself, transfer out of USC by his own free will, in search of a better opportunity to get real reps.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 05:28 pm
Hey Brad, you’re seeing the results of a draft industry slow on the uptake. Many draft resources missed on this kid, Velus Jones Jr.
Imagine, he had the stones to trust himself, transfer out of USC by his own free will, in search of a better opportunity to get real reps. What guts that took. His was not the linear path many with his talents are normally afforded.
I admire that kind of confidence and want that player on this Packers football team. There’s no better player to run Jets screens, reverses, quick outs, short yardage/high completion stuff. Add to that, there’s no better, more reliable a returner on STs.
VJJ’s age is actually a PLUS, being we need maturity if the plan is adding rookies as starters at WR. One more PLUS is having that dangerous a threat as a security blanket for the 22 year old Jordan Love…
Coldworld
April 07, 2022 at 10:07 am
Maturity is important but so is football readiness. He a player who is a reach at WR in the top half of the draft for a team who desperately needs speed or a maybe 4th round ST and situational offensive role. If we pick him for his return ability then I think age is not a factor. If one picked him as a developmental receiver then yes, it likely is a detractor.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 06, 2022 at 08:25 am
Agree!
He is a good WR in traffic who gets a lot of YAC, and a great ST's Returner. NOT sure but he likely gone before round 3.
murf7777
April 06, 2022 at 09:05 am
I agree, in my mocks he goes in the 7th, but I wonder if he won't go earlier. Since we don't have a 6th, I suspect we might lose out on him.
jannesbjornson
April 06, 2022 at 10:20 am
They will trade into the sixth.
BirdDogUni
April 06, 2022 at 10:25 am
I hope they draft Velus Jones and Danny Gray...
MainePackFan
April 06, 2022 at 11:55 am
Please save room for Tanner Scott. That guy screams special teams.
BirdDogUni
April 06, 2022 at 05:29 pm
Priority UDFA list.
RCPackerFan
April 06, 2022 at 07:53 am
Drafty -
Or is it? Maybe they decide to bulk up the front 7 with their first round picks this year. What if a guy like Jordan Davis is there? Do they take him at 22? Maybe there is a pass rusher they like. Perhaps they go Edge on the first pick then DL on the 2nd. bolster the front 7.
Thoughts?
i like the honesty. About a month ago i needed a break. I stopped posting here. Some of it was how the content was going in the chats. Some of it was personal. But I needed a break. I appreciate the honesty.
Special Emphasis -
I have a feeling they will be looking to draft guy(s) that can return. I think they may look for an explosive player that could potentially be a game changer on special teams. A great return man could completely change the outlook of the special teams. Don't be surprised if rounds 4-7 they draft a WR that is quick and fast and shifty.
Draft a Punter -
Even though they signed O'Donnell, I would not be surprised if they took a punter if one is there that they like. I also wouldn't be surprised if they signed one as an UDFA if the one they liked in the draft goes undrafted.
My first thought -
I'm assuming he won't be here until the mandatory mini camp. I think it would be beneficial for him to be here sooner to get with the young WR's to start learning how they play and whatnot. But i don't expect that to happen until mini camp and then training camp. I expect him to miss all of ota's.
Just Visiting -
It really seems to me that they are doing their due diligence for WR's.
Get that brain Recharged for next week. Each week we are a week closer to the Draft. Can't wait!
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 08:26 am
RC, I this draft is going to be a little weird on that first part. Drafty…
My thinking is if Olave is there at 22, that’s the pick - UNLESS Lloyd or Wyatt has dropped. Maybe Olave anyway, and then they wait to see what happens to them before the 28 and a trade down from that slot.
Tough calls. Stranger things have happened.
Add to that, we seriously NEED more speed, and a variety of different WR types that have it.
If Olave and Burks are already gone, maybe they do trade out of the 28 after popping Lloyd or Wyatt with the 22. Maybe they just trade both the 22 and the 28 to stack a boatload top of R2 & R3… where truly great talents can be had throughout.
Pickens being damaged goods will likely drop out of R1 entirely. He’s got all the talent. I’d take a chance on him if he’s still floating around R3. Maybe. This draft is stacked well into R4.
HawkPacker
April 06, 2022 at 08:37 am
GG if you are correct on the amount of talent out there and when pick 22 rolls around and Gute sees that the prime picks are gone, then yes I can see him dump the pick 22 and maybe 28 to load up in the 2nd and 3rd rounds. We just have to trust Gute on this.
BradHTX
April 06, 2022 at 09:28 am
Pure speed can be found in the later rounds. True polish, really ready to be a difference maker on the field, that can probably only be found with our first pick. If Olave is there, even if he is a little smaller done the prototypical Packers WR, I would pull the trigger. If he is gone, then I would be all in favor of trading back for multiple picks in round two and three.
This team could use solid players at DL, Edge, ILB, S, TE and OT, besides WR. One great WR would be great, but a bunch of solid “reds” would really help too.
BirdDogUni
April 06, 2022 at 09:45 am
Round 1 Pick 22: Devin Lloyd, ILB/OLB, Utah (A-)
Round 1 Pick 28: Boye Mafe, DE/OLB, Minnesota
Round 2 Pick 22: Devonte Wyatt, DT, Georgia
Round 2 Pick 28: Christian Watson, WR, North Dakota State
Round 3 Pick 28: Alec Pierce, WR, Cincinnati
Round 4 Pick 28: Isaiah Thomas, DE/OLB, Oklahoma
Round 4 Pick 35 (COMP): Bryan Cook, FS/SS, Cincinnati
Round 5 Pick 28: Nick Zakelj, OT, Fordham
Round 7 Pick 7: Pierre Strong Jr., RB, South Dakota State
Round 7 Pick 28: Kalon Barnes, CB, Baylor
Round 7 Pick 37 (COMP): Erik Ezukanma, WR, Texas Tech
murf7777
April 06, 2022 at 11:14 am
Ok Bird, did you really just post another mock draft...lol
BirdDogUni
April 06, 2022 at 05:30 pm
You know I did... (And will again...) ; P
jannesbjornson
April 06, 2022 at 10:25 am
No point in giving up the fifth year options, especially with this group of wideouts. Keep the ones and trade into the second only if the #28 brings them two seconds and a third. If he blows this draft, he should be relieved of his duties.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 10:33 am
Great point. Just bracing myself for what Gutekunst might do. He’s got a ton of options, and I’m on board with making ZERO trades. If anything, trading 28 down for more Day 2 picks may be reasonable, depending on how the board looks at that time.
RCPackerFan
April 06, 2022 at 10:30 am
Greengold - Yeah i think the first couple of rounds will be more positional based, but i think rounds 3-7 they will have a heavy emphasis on who could be good on special teams as well.
I agree about Olave. I don't know if he will be available. But if he is, i think he will be the top pick.
I completely agree about needing more speed. I also agree about needing more variety of WR's types. They have a big physical guy in Lazard. They have the slot guy in Cobb, and Rodgers. But what they really are lacking is guys that put pressure on defenses with pure speed. MVS could do that, but he was mostly an over the top only type of guy. They need guys that can do that, but can also take a jet sweep and put stress horizontally. They need a guy who can take a bubble screen and gain 20+ yards based on his speed. They definitely need to improve in that area.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 10:37 am
Thanks, RC.
I don’t even count Cobb, really. He’s not what he was. Zero speed. Just the experience to possibly get open underneath. He doesn’t even factor as a Jet concept feature. Love the guy, tho.
murf7777
April 06, 2022 at 09:08 am
RC, nice to have you back, always enjoyed reading your comments. About the draft, I won't be surprised if we don't take a WR till round 2. Just depends how the board falls, there is so much talent in the EDGE/DL and OL that it might be hard to pass up.
mattgsx
April 06, 2022 at 09:16 am
I have no problem with GB drafting players specifically for ST contributions. High level return specialists and gunners make a much bigger impact on the game than their snap counts suggest.
If the Packers find 1-2 guys that fit this bill, this would go a long way to setting GB up for success, and any output they have in their listed positions would be a bonus.
There is a reason Belichick will wax emotional and go on long diatribes about STs - they're a critical phase of the game that can often be THE deciding factor in close contests. Field position is huge in close games, especially when you get down to the wire.
stockholder
April 06, 2022 at 08:04 am
This Has to be the year we draft one, in one. Isn't it? I'm all for two. And since Aaron Rodgers is the smartest guy in the packers organization. LETS; Think about him first. But with Savage having back problems in the playoffs. Maybe Gutey should take at Safety. Last time Gutey took a punter. One draft analyst said," it's a waste of a pick to draft a punter now." ( Yes, I do remember Guy.) But until they get the right guys on the field. It is. My thoughts- A lot of draft sites have Edge, WR, DL as our needs. Punter isn't one of them. And with all these needs. Were in a re-load.
jannesbjornson
April 06, 2022 at 11:41 am
PFN No Trading. No trades accepted.
#22 Olave WR
#28 Burks WR
#53 Alec Pierce WR (McBride gone )
#59 Brandon Smith OLB/Edge/cover ability
#92 Petit-Frere OT
#132 D. Mathis CB
#140 A. Wright Edge/DE/ Five tech
#171 Zach Tom OT
#228 Horvath FB/power back
#249 Chance Campbell ILB
#258 Nasir Greer S
Another Wolf draft to get playmakers. Pick up a free agent EDGE guy and a CB. Go with youth and talent at WR.
Leatherhead
April 06, 2022 at 12:23 pm
PFN, trade down #28 for Minnesota's #44 and #76
#22 WR Treylon Burks.
#44 OT Daniel Falale
#53 WR George Pickens
#59 Edge Drake Jackson
#76 OT Tyler Smith
#92 TE Jeremy Ruckert
Razer
April 06, 2022 at 08:12 am
Been watching the buckets of money thrown at WR this off season and glad that the Packers didn't go there. Love Davante but the team needed more depth and versatility going forward. Originally, I was not behind the Rodgers resign but I got to say that having QB1 at the helm has me full of hope for a couple of runs. Rodgers legacy is to be the best Packers QB to the end. If his head is in the right spot, he can fashion a dynamic offense that is more dangerous than the last couple of seasons. Gutekunst needs to get him some WR talent and Rodgers needs to work with these guys. Despite a little rebuild, this may be the most complete Packers team going into a season.
murf7777
April 06, 2022 at 09:11 am
Glad to see you are now behind the Rodgers signing and moving on with Adams. I've supported the Rodgers signing from the beginning and am/was in the minority. Very seldom, do you win the big one without a great QB. You don't have to like his antics and I don't, but I do like winning:)
MainePackFan
April 06, 2022 at 12:35 pm
I've been with you murf, but we have been a bit outnumbered in here. Though I suspect, the silent majority is with us :)
mrtundra
April 06, 2022 at 08:16 am
Rodgers had better show up, if he wants to win another championship, in GB. He needs to become familiar with the new players we draft or we could be looking at an end to our playoff hopes, just like last year, where the 49ers beat us, at Lambeau Field.
croatpackfan
April 06, 2022 at 08:39 am
Al, nailed again!
Regarding punter (and kicker) issue. I agree with you. They missed on Scott, but that means nothing if they are convinced they have real value in front of them. Maybe they are calculating Jordan Stout will be available after the draft and pick him to compete with O'Donnel. Also, regarding Mason Crosby, I think he should retire. All reports from last year camp showed that kid JJ Molson has the cannon in his leg. If he was not that good why he was protected on PS every game last season? OK, new ST coach wanted another K on the team for competition and they brought him in.
I do not know what benefit Packers can have if they release Mason after June, 1st this year regarding SC (if there is any benefit after all), but Mason may be at the end of his career with the Packers. His kick offs are way to short and no one can blame holder(s) or LS for that.
Keep up with good work Al. I really like this page.
EDIT: I believe Packers will have no compensation for Davante Adams loss, as I understand correctly the rules. Compensatory draft picks comes only when player is released (and signed somewhere else). Is that correct?
murf7777
April 06, 2022 at 09:14 am
Croat.... Adams was traded so there won't be any compensatory picks for him. My understanding is you don't get one if you release a player either. Only when a player ends his contract with a team and becomes a FA where another team signs them do you get a compensatory pick.
croatpackfan
April 06, 2022 at 10:49 am
Thanks for clearing things.
NoNonsense
April 06, 2022 at 09:26 am
I think they protected Molson strictly for Covid purposes and possibly protection in case of injury to Crosby. That's just a guess of course, they could view him as the future and kept him around for that reason.
As for Davante, we got picks 22 and 53 as compensation in the trade. Comp picks are only awarded for unrestricted FAs lost, if a guy is cut or traded he doesn't count in the formula for comp picks.
PeteK
April 06, 2022 at 09:57 am
Zadarious, Turner, MVS, and Sullivan should bring some later round picks.
Johnblood27
April 06, 2022 at 10:52 am
ask yourself this question...
how did those players leave the GBP?
If the answer is NOT as a FREE AGENT then there is NO compensatory pick coming for that player.
Learn it... Live it... Love it...
LLCHESTY
April 06, 2022 at 11:46 am
Picks can also be negated by anyone you sign, Reed cancelling anything they might have gotten for Patrick for example. Hard to know who counts until the comp period ends and the top 32 contracts are counted.
LLCHESTY
April 06, 2022 at 11:41 am
MVS will be the only guy they'll get a comp pick for. Z and Turner were released so they don't apply and Sullivan won't get a big enough contract to count. Signing Reed cancels out the Bears signing Patrick or they might've gotten a 7th for him.
PeteK
April 06, 2022 at 11:52 am
Ah shucks, got all excited there even before forgetting about Patrick. Thanks for clarification.
LambeauPlain
April 06, 2022 at 01:10 pm
If Stout is available in the 7th or an UDFA...bring him on board for camp competition.
Who knows, this season in Lambeau we may hear the Beer Barrel Polka before all kicks and punts with Molson and Stout😲
Hematite
April 06, 2022 at 02:20 pm
👍
Oppy
April 06, 2022 at 08:46 am
Rodgers made it clear last year that he didn't want to be bothered with helping develop a rookie WR- it's a waste of his time.
Rodgers has made it clear numerous years that he thinks pre-season snaps are a waste of his time.
Rodgers has also made it clear that he expects his receivers to ignore their coaching and do things the way he wants it done instead.
Anyone else see how these things don't align well with one another? Anyone really believe Rodgers is going to put in extra work to help improve a young corps of new WRs?
Anyone figuring out yet that this guy doesn't care about the team, he's just about Aaron Rodgers?
I'm 99% sure there won't be anything different with how Rodgers spends his time this offseason or during camp. On the 1% chance he does show up to voluntaries or otherwise spends his own time with the WR group in attempts to get them up to speed and on the same page, it will probably be for optics.
I hope you all like selfish pricks, we're on the hook for at least 3 years with one of the league's biggest.
murf7777
April 06, 2022 at 09:17 am
Oppy, Rodgers also isn't stupid. He will understand this year is different without Adams and must spend time helping develop new WR's to the team. Other than money, there is one BIG reason is still playing and that is to cement his legacy with another championship. With that said, he will know that he has to build a solid relationship with his new WR's to do that.
Leatherhead
April 06, 2022 at 10:54 am
Agree, murf. He's in a classic position where in order for him to succeed, the people around him have to succeed, and he needs to help make that happen. It's called maturity and leadership. Everybody knows he has the skills and the smarts, now would be a good time to show us how good he is.
He's not stupid. He'll throw it. And then if it's not a catch, he'll grimace for the cameras. Occasionally he'll gesticulate to the receiver that they didn't do the right thing. But he'll complete 2 out 3 of them, and he won't turn it over. That won't change.
Leatherhead
April 06, 2022 at 10:54 am
Agree, murf. He's in a classic position where in order for him to succeed, the people around him have to succeed, and he needs to help make that happen. It's called maturity and leadership. Everybody knows he has the skills and the smarts, now would be a good time to show us how good he is.
He's not stupid. He'll throw it. And then if it's not a catch, he'll grimace for the cameras. Occasionally he'll gesticulate to the receiver that they didn't do the right thing. But he'll complete 2 out 3 of them, and he won't turn it over. That won't change.
Leatherhead
April 06, 2022 at 10:54 am
Agree, murf. He's in a classic position where in order for him to succeed, the people around him have to succeed, and he needs to help make that happen. It's called maturity and leadership. Everybody knows he has the skills and the smarts, now would be a good time to show us how good he is.
He's not stupid. He'll throw it. And then if it's not a catch, he'll grimace for the cameras. Occasionally he'll gesticulate to the receiver that they didn't do the right thing. But he'll complete 2 out 3 of them, and he won't turn it over. That won't change.
Leatherhead
April 06, 2022 at 10:54 am
Agree, murf. He's in a classic position where in order for him to succeed, the people around him have to succeed, and he needs to help make that happen. It's called maturity and leadership. Everybody knows he has the skills and the smarts, now would be a good time to show us how good he is.
He's not stupid. He'll throw it. And then if it's not a catch, he'll grimace for the cameras. Occasionally he'll gesticulate to the receiver that they didn't do the right thing. But he'll complete 2 out 3 of them, and he won't turn it over. That won't change.
BirdDogUni
April 06, 2022 at 05:38 pm
I think we got it after the first 3 times... ; )
Oppy
April 06, 2022 at 03:33 pm
He's not stupid.
He's not stupid, but he spent years not handing the ball off consistently but still attempted to run play action over and over again.
He's not stupid but he spent the divisional playoff game vs. SF force feeding Adams (again) instead of using all the targets on the field.
He's not stupid, but he wants to cement his legacy in GB but his contract will likely mean he'll never have a team as deep or talented as the one he had in 2021 to help make that happen again.
He's not stupid. He's stubborn, arrogant, and selfish.
jannesbjornson
April 07, 2022 at 11:50 am
At least you said the word, team, once in your statement.
Oppy
April 08, 2022 at 01:15 pm
Why would I mention "team" when I'm talking about Aaron Rodgers?
It's not at the forefront of anything he does.
Razer
April 06, 2022 at 09:57 am
Oppy - Like you, I am worried about Rodgers' behavior/attitude. I am not a fan of his crafted comments and veiled manipulations. That said, he signed to remain the QB knowing that Davante was all but gone. Beyond the personal, Rodgers wants to win and he wants to win another Super Bowl. I think that he wants to be the greatest Packers QB of all time. As Murf7777 said, he will need to work with different and new players to get it done. I do not doubt that he will be all-in next season.
The Rodgers contract is big and dead-money bad BUT the Packers now have trade options after this next season. So - if Rodgers doesn't want to behave, the Packers are still able to get a bounty of picks from someone desperate enough to grab a star.
croatpackfan
April 06, 2022 at 11:00 am
"I think that he wants to be the greatest Packers QB of all time."
He will never be the greatest Packers QB of all time. He can't be. Not after that draft day 1 last year. And all the comments he made after that day, and the press conference at the beginning of the 2021 TC.
He will be always behind Bart Starr. Always.
blondy45
April 06, 2022 at 03:55 pm
It is hard to teach an old dog new tricks. Rodgers has never shown the desire to spend more time with unproven rookies or younger players. He is quick to point out their flaws and ignore them if he does not like them. Love has been a good soldier who does not ever complain. He is still developing. He needs to play. I too am concerned about Rodger's behavior/attitude. I unfortunately see Rodgers blaming the Packer's management for "failures" this year, "no weapons". The draft will not give Rodger's a go to WR #1 this year, no matter who is drafted. Love on the other hand will be well supplied in the near future. I am excited to see the new dog replace the old dog, with a well-supplied roster after this year's draft. We will see early in training camp how dedicated Rodger's attitude will be or will not be. Do you think Rodgers will show us some NEW TRICKS????
PeteK
April 06, 2022 at 10:04 am
There is a low cap hit after 2023 and I believe a better scenario if he retires after 2022.
zerotolerance
April 06, 2022 at 10:05 am
Spot on. I was hoping drama would leave Green Bay.
Hematite
April 06, 2022 at 11:28 am
👍
jannesbjornson
April 06, 2022 at 12:01 pm
Gives the greenhorns time to learn the Playbook, then he can test their mettle when he shows in June.
Hematite
April 06, 2022 at 02:20 pm
👍
MooPack
April 06, 2022 at 09:17 am
Al, One of the first thoughts I had after Davante left was the $150 million dollar man better get his butt into the training camps to work on the routes and timing with the new receivers. He better get to know their tendencies, and they, his. If they have bad tendencies, the coaches, AND him better work on them early. Repetition, repetition. I also think he should be playing at least a quarter in every Pre-season game. Not one series. It's not that Aaron needs the work, but that he and the receivers will need work TOGETHER. What better way than to work against a few different team's defensive looks, even if a little vanilla. The more they learn together, the better. It's also one reason why I'm not high on taking any injured WR in the draft. They are going to lose months of that time. Class time doesn't make up for field work. And then once they get on the field they'll be playing catch up. In another year, maybe. Not this year. The window is this year and maybe next. Team player or me player. Guess we'll find out.
Swisch
April 06, 2022 at 09:56 am
If Rodgers really dedicates himself to the team in the offseason and preseason, it would really elevate the team.
If Rodgers really instructs and encourages his wide receivers much more than he reprimands them -- and if he keeps his corrections private on the sidelines rather than making a show of them on the field -- it would really elevate the team.
If Rodgers continually seeks to get the most out of the guys already on the team, rather than lamenting about who is not on the team, it would really elevate the team.
As our superstar leader, everything that Rodgers does affects the team, all of the players on offense and defense and special teams.
***
This is a great opportunity for Rodgers to dramatically increase his stature by truly getting involved in the team in a way that does not intrude on the head coach or general manager, but that focuses on interacting in positive ways with his teammates.
Would that Rodgers truly embrace the role of team leader. It's not all about his teammates pleasing him; it works both ways.
So much of how the Packers do as a team this season depends on Aaron Rodgers. I hope and pray he'll take advantage of the possibilities to not only perform as a player, but to grow as a person who brings out the best in those around him.
That setting of a tone of camaraderie for excellence would make for an exciting and satisfying season, and enhance the chances of success.
Johnblood27
April 06, 2022 at 10:57 am
...and they lived happily ever after. THE END.
There Swisch, I finished your post for you with the appropriate ending for a FAIRY TALE ENDING!
Swisch
April 06, 2022 at 12:59 pm
No one has been more down on Rodgers than I have, Johnblood.
So, while I'm glad there are others like you who are realistic about the damage Rodgers is doing to the Packers in his self-absorbed and domineering ways, I also hope that we can be in good measure idealistic.
Let's hope and pray for Rodgers to finally get it -- for his sake and ours.
***
How much more fun and satisfying it would be for all involved with the Packers if Rodgers were to depart from his perceived persona as haughty and aloof and instead become humble and engaging.
All along my concerns about Rodgers have not been about hating him or wishing him ill, but about his betterment.
I don't want him poisoning the Packers, but I also want what's good for him.
At this time of year, we are reminded that God never gives up on any of us; the least I can do is to never give up on anyone, either, but to seek their true happiness.
Johnblood27
April 06, 2022 at 03:39 pm
Saint Swisch...
There should be a shrine in Ashwaubenon with a holy water bath in it in your honor...
I mean one that doesn't flush... LOLOLOL!!!
Swisch
April 06, 2022 at 06:21 pm
I'm a sincere but struggling Catholic, the kind who is holding on to God for dear life and trying to trust in his merciful love.
So far, Jesus has gotten me through to almost age 60, which seems no small feat considering the circumstances of my life as somewhat of a drifter and a misfit.
I've just started an historical novel about Vince Lombardi that I hope will help: "Character Is What Counts." Also reading a book about the merciful love of Jesus as taught by St. Therese of Lisieux (a model for Mother Teresa), which I thought may help because I share with her the affliction of scrupulosity (a form of OCD, which is a disorder of the basal ganglia of the brain, as I understand it).
Anyway, I try not to be overly religious here at CHTV, while not completely avoiding it either as a part of life that is always relevant. Please pardon any excesses on my part. I try not to preach, just to share, and to keep the focus on football.
My earnest prayers for all of us here as fans of the Packers, and also the staff of writers, for health and happiness, now and always. I do indeed want the best for everyone.
Johnblood27
April 06, 2022 at 09:23 pm
Im with ya Swisch.
My Catholic faith has seen me through the toughest times of my life, and there have been some.
Take heart in your faith as you work through your struggles. there is power far beyond mans ability to grasp or understand, have faith in it!
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 10:07 pm
All my very best wishes to you, Swisch. Peace.
Hematite
April 06, 2022 at 11:29 am
👍
wildbill
April 06, 2022 at 09:46 am
Strangely I see many pundits, and fans on sites, refer to the Packer’s draft history and proclaiming they haven’t ever done “X” or “Y”. The draft is like the stock market, past performance has no bearing on future performance. Nobody in that draft room is looking at past draft tendencies and following it in their draft. Gute will bust butt to draft the players that will help the Packers win, past tendencies will have no bearing on his picks.
Swisch
April 06, 2022 at 10:06 am
I think you make a really good point, wildbill.
Although I wouldn't say that past tendencies will have no bearing on Gute's picks in the draft, I would also say that he may try some significantly different things than in the past.
Gute seems to be a resourceful GM who will indeed continually explore various ways to improve the Packers.
If he goes with his Gute feelings -- with some flexibility but mostly firmness -- then it seems to me the Packers will have much success.
Be strong, Gute.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 10:03 am
Speaking of drafty…
Been thinking all along this is a good draft for GB to trade down, if anything. Seeing the new The Sporting News 7 Round Mock Draft made me wonder if Gutekunst doesn’t want to package - up - for his players? Olave goes to WAS at 11 in this latest. Skyy Moore goes to MIN at 46 as well.
Just thought I’d … uh… ADD IT UP, Violent Femmes style:
(22) 780 + (28) 660 = 1420 > (ATL pick 8) 1400
(53) 370 + (93) 132 = 502 > (SEA pick 40) 500
That would be one helluva haul, from a WR talent/speed perspective. Wouldn’t put it past him.
Leatherhead
April 06, 2022 at 10:16 am
Thoughts.......
My thoughts on special teams are that you should demphasize their ability to have a critical impact against you. A turnover on special teams is a big play, and often a critical one, as we've all seen.
Your kicker, long snapper, and holder/punter are the critical pieces of the special teams. The rest of the units are comprised of Day 3 rookies, UDFAs, etc. So I just don't see why we pay Aaron Rodgers zillions of dollars and then put the game in the hands of some 23 year old who's idea of fun is drinking Fireball and lighting farts. I think it's nuts, frankly.
That's all I've got to say about that for a while.
The Draft: I really love this time of year. There are so many possibilities, but eventually, choices will have to be made. Because I'm a fan of simplicity, I just have a formula that looks like this:
The Extra Picks we got from the Adams trade go to rebuilding the WR unit. That's #22 and #53. I use the #28 pick to trade down with the Purple for their second and third round pick. I use both of those picks to draft offensive linemen that I can use to bludgeon the Purple for the next several years.
That leaves #59 and #92 I usually take an edge at #59 and a TE at #92,
Take the best WR we can get at #22. I'm sure everybody has their own rankings, and in mine, I have Wilson off the board first, followed by these four guys: Williams, Olave, London, Burks. I think there's a better than 50% chance we can get one of them at #22.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 10:26 am
You had me at Fireball and lighting farts.
stockholder
April 06, 2022 at 10:39 am
Williams - Knee concerns? Olave is the Yo - yo on most sites. London hasn't run yet. And Watson out jumps him. Burks has the NFL Body. And field speed. But Watson will take the top of a defense apart.
Leatherhead
April 06, 2022 at 11:04 am
Williams does have an injury, which I'm sure has been examined by top guys and isn't going to impact his draft status much. I predict he'll be gone by #22.
Olave just isn't as big as I'd want. Nothing personal, I just want a bigger guy at #22. Size matters.
London, too, had a broken ankle he's been rehabbing. He's not a burner, but he'd be damn useful in keeping our offense on the field. 88 catches in 8 games.....if he could give us 88 catches next year in 17 games, I'd be ecstatic. Big, good blocker. A good route runner with good hands. I think it's 50/50 he's on the board at #22.
Burks is the guy that I think is most likely to be on the board at #22, and we should take him. If he's not, then I think we should take a real hard look at Watson, because he'd be next on my list.
And then Alec Pierce. I like this guy, but not at #22. And these guys like Dotson? Again, just a little too small for me.
Coldworld
April 07, 2022 at 10:18 am
I have become much more positive about Burks. If he falls, I agree we should take him. Watson is an athlete but not a WR yet, and still some questions on his hands. As a 3rd rounder maybe.
BirdDogUni
April 07, 2022 at 10:54 am
Watson - I just can not see him making it to 53, let alone the 3rd round. In fact, it would not surprise me if Gutey pulled the trigger on Watson at #28. If Gutey were to play chicken with the WR picks and waited, and actually got Watson at #53, that would be wicked IMO.
I don't think Jameson Williams will make it to 22, but if he does, I hope Gutey drafts him. I think he could be ready to play late in the season, playoffs, and Super Bowl if we had a run of good luck.
murf7777
April 06, 2022 at 11:21 am
LH, I could see that trade down scenerio on pick #28 for a second and 3rd. Then, I could see him trading back up into a higher position in round 2. Of course, that all depends on who the Packers prioritize and how the board falls.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 07, 2022 at 08:46 am
LH,
You brought back a memory I no doubt wanted buried....long buried! My freshman year at college I walked one night into my dorm bathroom to find a half dozen males bent over the sinks passing gas as someone used a lighter to ignite their passing of gas. Ugh! Yes, at ages like this they do stuff like that!
Leatherhead
April 07, 2022 at 09:02 am
I raised boys. One of them just turned 24. I know that they look like fully formed adult humans, but they aren't yet. They do incomprehensible stuff that makes no sense whatsoever. I mean, he's a smart guy who graduated from the Air Force Academy and he's a 1st Lieutenant in Air Force Intelligence, but he does stuff.
One story on that. He had a pill to take, so he just foamed it down without water. Well, it didn't work exactly and he was on the disabled list for a couple of days because of it. Why? Why not just use a glass of water, like a normal human?
And that's without alcohol, which as we all know, can make you stupid.
greengold
April 07, 2022 at 10:09 am
We’re all on that live & learn program, still. My nephews have stories like we do… and sometimes I wonder how we made it this far.
Sounds like a great son, LH.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 07, 2022 at 12:39 pm
LOL!
We can laugh but we were all young once and no doubt did crazy stuff. OMG!
No running for office but then again people with skeletons in closet still do.
PeteK
April 06, 2022 at 10:29 am
After WR, DT, OT ( unless a highly rated player in another position falls to them) , special team will probably be a focus which means a few LBs and DBs will be drafted in later rounds. I still have a concern about Crosby and was surprised he wasn't let go.
Leatherhead
April 06, 2022 at 11:09 am
Let''s talk about these LBs.....
We dress 7: Campbell, Barnes, Gary, PSmith. Those four for sure. The other three have to be good enough position players that they can start if the starter is injured. Are you proposing carrying some Day 3 rookie as a backup to Campbell? Or Gary? Primarily because they can help special teams?
Is that what you're proposing?
LLCHESTY
April 06, 2022 at 11:56 am
Wow you are really anti rookie. Burks is gone, if a rookie can beat out Barnes, Summers and McDuffie for playing time of course he should back up Campbell. Do you see those three as all time players or something? They were once late rounders and UDFAs who so far haven't shown much except an occasional nice tackle from Barnes. If they draft a guy in the 4th round and he's not a total bust he shouldn't have much trouble being on the active roster.
Leatherhead
April 06, 2022 at 12:11 pm
Yes, Summers, et. al, were once late rounders and UDFAs.
Now, they're all older guys. They've lifted thousands of tons since they were drafted. They've attended hundreds of meetings and practices.
So, we're going to suit up a Day 3 rookie LB who is somehow just magically better? I think that's unlikely. I know that there's a big difference between a 22 year old and a 25 year old physically, mentally, and emotionally, and these guys who've been with the program for years have a big advantage.
You'd go ahead and suit this guy up, and he'd be a starter as soon as the guy ahead of him got hurt. That's right, we're starting a Day 3 rookie at MLB in place of the injured Campbell in the playoffs.
Me? I'm trying to have as few mistakes as possible, and rookies are known for that. Look at Amari Rodgers. Look at Newman.
I agree that if you can get somebody better in the 4th round, you go for it. I'm just saying it's unlikely that guy is going to be a significant upgrade his rookie year. That's not how I'd plan.
Ya_tittle
April 06, 2022 at 12:28 pm
Summers should be GONE. Tomorrow. Useless.
PeteK
April 06, 2022 at 05:54 pm
Who has more fire in the belly, a player that has not cracked the starting lineup after 3 season or a rookie who has a chance of still developing into a starter and wants to make a name for himself in ST.
jannesbjornson
April 06, 2022 at 12:21 pm
Wilborn should replace Summers. The guy is a ghost on sp teams and will not engage the returner.
PeteK
April 06, 2022 at 12:23 pm
Well let's see, we had at least 8 LBs play 14 or more games plus another 5 on roster with a couple of games each. Barnes is more than capable of starting and already plays when we use a 2 ILB set as his 81 tkls show. Garvin is the hopeful developmental OLB. 21 of the top 25 ST tacklers in the NFL were LBs and DBs. By the way Campbell was a 4th round pick and Barnes UDFA. Also, our two leading special team tacklers were Black and Burks.
jannesbjornson
April 06, 2022 at 12:22 pm
Sp Teams is in rebuild mode.
MainePackFan
April 06, 2022 at 01:10 pm
I think you can keep special teams experience in mind when drafting in any round, not just the late rounds. Take a guy like Troy Anderson. Very good player with special teams experience. That should bump him up your board, or break a tie if you are deciding between he and another player. Special Teams contribution has to be a conscious effort by Gute throughout the draft IMO.
greengold
April 06, 2022 at 10:22 pm
My favs that I have notes on:
LB Troy Andersen - Montana St.
6-4 235 4.41
SPEED. RANGE. GOOD WRAP UP TACKLER. SPRINGY LATERAL FLOW. HIP FLIP. CHANGE OF DIRECTION. All caps for good reason.
Fierce competitor. White hot motor.
Can also play short yardage RB. + football player. FCS DPOY 2021. Dominant at QB, RB, ILB in career. Good Senior Bowl. Right place right time.
Came in as QB. Played RB proficiently = 1142 rushing yds 2018. All-Big Sky QB. Transitioned to LB 2021.
Positive>>>> not a lot to unteach in developing ILB instincts. Motivated team leader. Core STs. Starter yr 2-3. He will be good.
R3-4
—
*****
LB Channing Tindall - Georgia
6-2 230 4.47 arms 33” hands 10 5/8” 42” vertical!!!
ATTACKER with the physical profile & HOT MOTOR. EXPLOSIVE.
TOUGH. DEPENDABLE. PURSUIT SPEED. TACKLER. Instincts/recognition expected to improve with more reps. Underrated.
Everything you want. Fluid. Change of direction. Low cut. Sifts through traffic. Excellent short area bust, surge.
Spry laterally. Rare 2nd gear.
Coverage still developing. Will improve effectiveness as he gains comfort >>> reading coverages, adjustments at line. Great in box.
SUPERB TACKLER.
R2-4
——
I like Tindall best for us, but would be happy with Andersen. I’m partial to Top LB play. Haven’t had enough time to pour into this position group, really.
Hematite
April 06, 2022 at 11:37 am
I'd like to see Jordan Stout and Christian Watson in green and gold!!!!
Leatherhead
April 06, 2022 at 12:12 pm
How would you feel about Burks and Pickens?
Hematite
April 06, 2022 at 02:41 pm
Burks would be fine by me.
I'm on the Pickens fence.
LLCHESTY
April 06, 2022 at 12:04 pm
Drake London moved his testing day to April 15th now. Mild hamstring pull while working out. I don't think it means much unless he runs faster than expected or really slow. The scouts all know he can jump. If his 10 yard split is roughly in the same ballpark as Michael Thomas (1.55) he should be a first rounder. I doubt he could match Thomas' 3-cone(6.88) and probably won't try if the ankle is still tender.
Leatherhead
April 06, 2022 at 12:14 pm
Yeah, agility isn't his calling card. He's a big guy with long legs who is moving pretty fast in full stride. He can catch. He can block. He can run routes. He can compete for jump balls, particularly in the endzone.
He had 88 catches in 8 games. If he could get 88 catches for us in 17 games, I'd be happy.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 07, 2022 at 08:47 am
Guy is slow
White92
April 06, 2022 at 01:26 pm
Ya I think my head would explode if they draft a punter too. If they're going to do that, they might as well trade up for a long snapper too. 😜
NJMagic
April 06, 2022 at 05:40 pm
One note - the predraft visit approach changed with BG; pretty sure they brought in top guys last year too.
Oppy
April 07, 2022 at 10:06 am
I used to enjoy the draft.
Honestly, the 'draftnik' community has completely ruined the experience for me.
No offense to the draft hobbyists who just enjoy the process and have fun with it. You folks are fine by me.
It's the angry mob of fist shaking, pitch-fork wielding zealots who are so totally convinced they know as much or more than people who are 365/24/7 professional talent evaluators. Those people who lament for years that their team over-drafted / under-drafted this player or that based on their completely arbitrarily slotted big board, calling for front office heads to roll before players have even played a snap.. It has become a widely toxic bunch of twats.
I wonder if Jenny McCarthy is a draftnik? Cast from the same mold.
Oppy
April 07, 2022 at 10:08 am
..The irony of my posting this message is not lost on me, by the way. :)
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 07, 2022 at 12:50 pm
I am actually a fan of Gutey! Love how he operates and leaves no stone unturned to improve the team.
I see only one WR taken in round 1 with either a DL/EDGE, or OT. However, I would not be surprised if the WR's he desires are not available in round 1, or if players at other positions he likes are available in round 1 that he waits till round 2 to address the WR's. There is a lot of talented WR's bunched together that will be available in rounds 2 and 3. Should he go this route OMG fans will be out for blood. LOL! I would be totally fine with it as talented big bodies determine who advances in the playoffs.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 07, 2022 at 01:30 pm
Actually thinking about those teams behind the Packers who allegedly want to leap frog the Packers for WR's at either 22 or 28. Gutey is so unpredictable the GM's must be like will he take a WR, or will our guy fall to us. LOL...I like that unpredictability in Gutey!