Restricted free agent Sam Shields is reportedly working on a long-term contract extension with the Green Bay Packers, according to Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com. "Shields and the Packers are talking, we’re told, about a long-term deal," writes Florio. "For now, nothing is imminent — and definitely not as imminent as the looming long-term contracts that apparently will soon be signed by quarterback Aaron Rodgers and linebacker Clay Matthews." Shields is represented by Drew Rosenhaus who typically doesn't talk to media outlets outside of ESPN. Of course Florio is pretty well connected, so perhaps he has some inside information. Shields is under no obligation to sign a long-term extension, because he can simply sign his tender and be an unrestricted free agent next year. So if he is truly considering signing a contract extension, the Packers are probably making a serious offer.

More on Sam Shields comes from Lombardi Ave.

Amid the tragedy that happened on Monday, you may have seen images of former Packers offensive lineman Joe Andruzzi carrying a woman to safety during the Boston Marathon yesterday. Andruzzi's charity foundation had a team participating at the Marathon, and he released a statement after yesterday's attacks: “Marathon Monday should be about uplifting stories, personal challenges and fundraising milestones, but today’s bombings irrevocably changed that. While I appreciate the interest in hearing our perspective on today's horrific events, the spotlight should remain firmly on the countless individuals — first responders, medics, EMTs, runners who crossed the finish line and kept on running straight to give blood, and the countless civilians who did whatever they could to save lives. They were the true heroes. Our thoughts prayers go out to all those affected by this senseless tragedy.” Thanks Joe for being a role model to people everywhere. Not only do you say the right things, but you do them too.

As reported by Tyler Dunne at JSOnline, the Packers have done their diligence on Michigan State defensive lineman William Gholston. "He talked to defensive line coach Mike Trgovac and the Packers at the NFL scouting combine and said he got 'a really good vibe,'" writes Dunne. "After not signing Chris Canty, Cullen Jenkins or any other taller, more prototypical ends in free agency, the Packers could look to find one this month in the draft." At 6-6, Gholston has the length the Packers could use on the defensive line, but he might be a little too light for their 3-4 scheme at 281 lbs. Whether he can add weight and still be the same player is anyone's guess.

More on the signing of wide receiver Sederrick Cunningham comes from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Press-Gazette and ProFootballTalk.com.

As Monday marked the first day of the Packers offseason program, articles appeared at the Press-Gazette and Packers official website.

NFL prospect analysis appears at ESPNMilwaukee.com with the quarterbacks and Fox Sports Wisconsin with the offensive tackles.

Offensive tackle is a position looked at in-depth with an overview, rankings and players categorized at Packer Report.

Some "trade up" scenarios are speculated at AllGreenBayPackers.com.

The Packerpedia podcast at PackersTalk.com enlists draft expert Matt Waldman for some assistance.

The future of cornerback Tramon Williams in Green Bay is examined at Lombardi Ave.

An interview with former Packers player and coach Forrest Gregg appears at Fox 11.

Video: Today's pre-draft position analysis is the wide receivers from the Press-Gazette...

Brian Carriveau is the author of "It's Just a Game: Big League Drama in Small Town America," and editor of Cheesehead TV's "Pro Football Draft Preview." To contact Brian, email [email protected].