Packers Question of the Day: Gunter's Release

On Tuesday, the Packers needed to clear room on their 53-man roster to reactivate receiver Geronimo Allison. In order to do so, they released cornerback LaDarius Gunter.

Gunter stepped into a starting role a season ago despite being undrafted the year prior and was asked to guard talent such as Odell Beckham Jr., Dez Bryant and Julio Jones in three consecutive playoff games.

What're your thoughts on the release? Did it surprise you?

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Zachary Jacobson is a staff writer/reporter for Cheesehead TV. He's the voice of The Leap on iTunes and can be heard on The Scoop KLGR 1490 AM every Saturday morning. He's also a contributor on the Pack-A-Day Podcast. He can be found on Twitter via @ZachAJacobson or contacted through email at [email protected].

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Comments (119)

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Finwiz's picture

September 13, 2017 at 10:13 am

Not a surprise at all! Totally expected move, I was just surprised he wasn't cut at the end of training camp. He was clearly a large part of the reason for the embarrassment at ATL in the playoffs. He's got great technique as a CB, but he has no speed to cover the games quick receivers. He will be exposed every single time he's in the game, and the Packers know that after last years showing.

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croatpackfan's picture

September 13, 2017 at 10:59 am

Only embarrassment here is your attitude toward player who gave everything to help team you are supposed to be fan of.

Read what Joe Whitt said about LaDarius Gunter:
“I put LaDarius in some very hard situations,” Whitt said. “The last two games I probably shouldn’t have put him in the situations that I did, but it was best for the team. Out of the 19 games that we played, he probably had as many winning performances as anybody on the team. Now, he did have some hard games. Both Dallas games were hard. That second Atlanta game was hard. But he matched up in both games and played really well. Both Chicago games he played really well. Houston, we gave him no help, he played really well against a very good receiver (DeAndre Hopkins).
Hopefully, with the addition of the men that we add back to the room, and we can take a little bit of that stress off his play, and he doesn’t have to take some of the coverages that Sam (Shields) was taking, he’s going to play at a higher level consistently throughout the year. But the way he went out there and fought, and he did everything that we asked, you can’t ask any more from a man. And I put him in bad situations at times, but I thought it was best for the football team. And you’ve got to make a decision, what you think is best for the football team. And that’s what I did in that case.”
And I will post that opinion on every low class joy about hard moment of someone's life (at this moment Gunter's life).

And I wish you that nobody will be happy for your problems ever.

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Finwiz's picture

September 13, 2017 at 11:04 am

Pro sports is a tough business. Perhaps you don't have the HEART for the toughness of the decisions that get made, and the game itself.
Fact of the matter is, this team is far better today for having made the decision to part ways with a substandard player.
Only the elite get to play in the NFL - he wasn't one of them.
I'm not really sorry if that harsh reality offends you.

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fastmoving's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:16 pm

but Im pretty sure you have the toughness for everthing...... at least in your world

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Finwiz's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:29 pm

Why yes - yes I do. Very perceptive.
I drove myself to the hospital once with a separated shoulder from sliding into 2nd base.
Tore ACL and cartilage playing football - and again playing basketball.
Marine Corp sergeant dad has that effect on you. (RIP)
I'm sorry if the delivery is harsh, but there were so many people around here singing praises of a lousy player, it bothered me GB had to rely on a guy like this to cover some great receivers.
Glad it's over. Relieved.

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scullyitsme's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:36 pm

Ahh, bragging about being clumsy and not so smart?^^^

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Finwiz's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:44 pm

No brag, just fact.
Jordy tore his ACL, and so did AP. I suppose they're clumsy too?
Not much for gray matter up there, huh? LOL
Do me a favor and just ignore. My life will be fine without any further engagement with you.
TIA

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Spock's picture

September 13, 2017 at 02:50 pm

Finwiz, You're not quoting Walter Brennan from the old western "Guns of Will Sonnet" show are you? That was his signature line, "I'm the fastest gun in the West; no brag, just fact". I can do an excellent Imitation of Brennan, but sadly no one these days remembers who he was. Not that you probably care, but he was the father figure on "The Real McCoy's" and one of his young co-stars (Richard Crenna, I think his character was "Mr. Green Jeans"?) eventually played Rambo's boss in the movies. For those of you old enough to remember, Brennan's signature line in "The Real McCoy's" was, "Luke [Rambo's boss], go fetch some water from the barn." Brennan got his signature voice after being gassed during world war one. He was worried about his acting career and it actually became a plus for him. A man who went through a lot for his country. Sorry to digress from the Packers, but that just brought up some old memories for me. :)

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Finwiz's picture

September 13, 2017 at 03:08 pm

Realizing I am "dating" myself, I have to admit....
you are correct sir! Walter Brennan.
We used to recite that phrase all the time as kids - among friends.
Older than dirt, but young at heart!

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Since'61's picture

September 13, 2017 at 04:19 pm

Walter Brennan and "The Real McCoys", plus he took a great part in the movie "Pride of the Yankees" with Gary Cooper as Lou Gehrig, The Iron Horse. Good job, Spock! Thanks, Since '61

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Cartwright's picture

September 13, 2017 at 06:54 pm

Now that I'm a little older I got Walter Brennan's Real McCoy hop down to a tee.

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KamThomps's picture

September 14, 2017 at 06:38 am

I love Walter Brennan. My favorite is "Meet John Doe." I have been told I resemble him strongly when I dance. I take it as a compliment.

I also agree that Gunter played his heart out. Maybe a bit more time to grow rather than being thrown right into the fire, professional player though he may be, might have made a large difference.

I recently watched some film of Rodgers back when he was a rookie, playing in pre-season games. I had forgotten how terrible he could be back then. Athletes, as people in most professions, need time to mature. I hope he gets that time with another team.

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Oppy's picture

September 13, 2017 at 09:02 pm

GUnter isn't a lousy player. He is a Dime/Nickle level talent that was forced to take on the role of #1 CB vs. an all-out murderers' row of top tier WR talent during a season he was supposed to be learning the ropes and getting his feet wet.

Instead he went out and took on the task without fear or hesitation, and yes, he took his lumps, but he always battled, never backed down, and won his fair share of reps.

It's a shame that a self-professed tough athlete does not recognize what it takes to even make it to this level of football. Gunter is not a "lousy" player. The NFL is home to some of the world's top athletes and competitors. NFL DB's in particular are some of the finest pure athletes in all sports. The mere fact that there is a place for him on an NFL roster speaks volumes about his abilities as a football player. Is he a #1 or #2? No, probably not. Might not ever be. But I'd sign him as a nickle or dime in a heartbeat based on his experience and performance from last year alone.

People need some perspective. LG would make you look like a frumpy girl scout on a football field. He'd make 85% of top tier NCAA div 1 DBs look bad. That's why he HAS A JOB IN THE NFL.

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porupack's picture

September 13, 2017 at 11:02 pm

Very nice Oppy! Thanks for the tribute to a player that played his best when called.

The insultive language toward players by some posters reduce the fan-experience, including this site. You and others who pay the respect to players keep this fun and in perspective.

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fastmoving's picture

September 14, 2017 at 02:35 pm

Yeahh, you toot your own horn a lot. Its kind of a trend lately in that country.
Since nobody else would do it, its a pretty classy move.
and by the way, its not about your opinon on something. its about how you express it.
gunter get picked up in a second, so you stand smart and strong like always.....

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mrtundra's picture

September 13, 2017 at 04:36 pm

Gunter got picked up by the Panthers.

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Arthur Jackson's picture

September 13, 2017 at 03:42 pm

Everybody else was injured or unavailable so Gunter despite being 6th CB at the start of the season, played. He played as well as he could and I doubt anybody is questioning his desire. But desire and ability are two different things or the Packers might still have Scott Tolzien as QB. I said long before the start of the season that if Gunter is even sniffing a starting CB position the Packer defense is in serious trouble.

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Finwiz's picture

September 13, 2017 at 03:49 pm

Exactly how I felt.
This was actually my biggest fear coming into the season.
Fortunately TT and staff didn't beat that dead horse much longer.
Scott Tolzien = painful to watch. Wasn't even good at WI.
How in hail that guy got a job in the NFL is beyond me.

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4thand1's picture

September 13, 2017 at 07:41 pm

Gunter played as well as he possibly could. It just wasn't good enough, that's life in the NFL. When Montana, Rice, Manning, etc, etc, can be let go, no one will feel sorry for the Gunter's of the NFL world. Maybe TT has learned his lesson of hanging on to guys to long and putting better players on the roster.

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Oppy's picture

September 13, 2017 at 09:07 pm

How many #4 (or lower) CB's in the NFL do you think would have a stellar season taking on the #1 CB duties?

This young man is plenty good enough to carve out a respectable career as a nickle or dime back in the NFL.

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porupack's picture

September 13, 2017 at 11:07 pm

No one here felt sorry to see Gunther go. We just appreciated his service and 100% effort when called upon, and recognize that he got toasted and for understandable reasons. Some of us bristle at Finwitz to disrespect a team player; like kicking a man in the ribs when he's down. Give him respect and appreciation, and in most cases (though not always), we trust the GM is making the right decision here. All the best, Gunther

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Bearmeat's picture

September 13, 2017 at 10:25 am

It surprised me in 1 sense - Gunt was very valuable to GB last year. Not in another sense - his upside was limited and it looks like we're getting solid contributions from the young uns.

What I really hate is bringing up Pankey. WHY? Don't we have enough crappy backup OL on our team already? What's the upside?

What about Gilbert? Or hell, RJF not getting cut?

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Finwiz's picture

September 13, 2017 at 10:29 am

Pankey is apparently insurance for injuries which we obviously don't know the severity of. Sounds to me like Bulaga might be out even longer than we thought. Plus who's going to play center if Linsley goes down, and Barclay injured? Can Pankey play center - I don't know.
Gunter wasn't valuable last year - he was a total liability they were forced into playing. They honestly would have been better off putting a fast receiver like Janis at CB, he could have been just as effective.

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Michael Capraro's picture

September 13, 2017 at 11:53 am

You can't really be this stupid. I hope you're just trolling the page.

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Finwiz's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:10 pm

Check mirror if you want to see stoopid.
The guy that was so valuable last year, is now gone, and not even on the practice squad. That doesn't sound like a diamond gem in the rough to me!
I stand by my comments.

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JDK52's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:34 pm

Conveniently for you, nobody cares if you stand by your comments.

I'm trying to remember one comment you've made that WASN'T entirely disparaging of the Packers... Nothing comes to mind.

Yup, you're just Cow version 3.1.

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Finwiz's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:41 pm

I feel so badly that I've disappointed you. I'm not sure how I'll be able to go on with my day/life?
You haven't been paying attention to anything but the negative.
It's all about HIGH expectations.

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jeremyjjbrown's picture

September 13, 2017 at 10:24 pm

Well, now we know who the new troll is.

You.

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Dzehren's picture

September 13, 2017 at 02:16 pm

Gunter is not practice squad eligible

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Spock's picture

September 13, 2017 at 02:55 pm

Dzehren, Not true. He has less than 3 accrued seasons so he IS practice squad eligible.

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Oppy's picture

September 13, 2017 at 09:08 pm

LG isn't on the practice squad because he got signed to Carolina's 53.

Just sayin'.

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RCPackerFan's picture

September 13, 2017 at 10:35 am

I am surprised they cut Gunter.

Also surprised they let Ricky Jean Francois go.

I am guessing they felt there was more upside to Hawkins and Pipkins then Gunter.

The decision to cut Gunter though really shows what we were dealing with at the end of the year last year when Gunter was our number 1 CB.

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Finwiz's picture

September 13, 2017 at 10:41 am

Yes I was very surprised they cut RJF. I thought he was going to be a veteran contributor on the DL, but apparently they are highly impressed with Clark, so he wasn't necessary. It's actually a good thing that a draft choice or two are playing better than expected for once.

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RCPackerFan's picture

September 13, 2017 at 10:56 am

'It's actually a good thing that a draft choice or two are playing better than expected for once.'

Its crazy to think that none of our draft picks have ever worked out...

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croatpackfan's picture

September 13, 2017 at 11:01 am

Those are rumors.

This is official Packers roster:
http://www.packers.com/team/roster.html

So, RJF is not cut!

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Razer's picture

September 13, 2017 at 11:14 am

... in the blink of an eye...

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RCPackerFan's picture

September 13, 2017 at 11:37 am

Yup, its official now.

Signed G - Darrell Greene to the PS.

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dobber's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:34 pm

Greene's an interesting guy. Stocky with shorter arms. Strong as an ox with a mean streak. Got busted for weed in college which hurt him. Maybe he can snap the ball.

http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/darrell-greene?id=2555490

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RCPackerFan's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:58 pm

Nice. Good find.

Maybe a good guy to develop on the PS for the year.

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snowdog's picture

September 13, 2017 at 01:18 pm

" Stocky with shorter arms. Strong as an ox with a mean streak. "

Danials 2.0 on Offense

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Spock's picture

September 13, 2017 at 02:59 pm

snowdog, Wasn't the knock on Bulaga when he was drafted that he had short arms (I may be confusing him with someone else). So, maybe (at Guard) Bulaga 2.0 ? I like your thinking here!

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Arthur Jackson's picture

September 13, 2017 at 03:46 pm

Yeah, so short he can't into anything but a two point stance! https://cdn.fansided.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/51/files/2016/04/bryan-bul...

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Donster's picture

September 13, 2017 at 10:38 am

Spriggs has a hamstring injury. Got it on the one play he participated on special teams.

Would have been nice to have cut Gunter at the end of camp and kept McCaffery.

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Razer's picture

September 13, 2017 at 10:55 am

One thing for certain, the Packers are not resting on their hands this season. The free agents and fluid turnover of the roster is a different mode of operation for this organization. I like the change. Hanging onto guys, in the hope that they turn the corner, is noble but costly in the modern game. Gunter showed Ted all he had and they decided it wasn't enough for a roster spot.

I think in the past we hung onto guys too long and wasted development time on guys who would never make the leap. Ted has turned up the heat on the player and coaches to keep a place on this team. The only area that has lagged behind in this respect has been the O-line. We still pull in all these low round or UDFA and try to make them into serviceable lineman. Given that Don Barclay is our best reserve, we are not deep enough or good enough in this area. It could very well be the position(s) that defines our season. Let's hope not.

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Dzehren's picture

September 13, 2017 at 02:20 pm

TT has drafted an OL in every draft since 2005. Almost everyone was a LT in college except Lindsey.

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Andrew Lloyd Peth's picture

September 13, 2017 at 11:04 am

Mild surprise after Gunter looked great in the final preseason game, but his athleticism just isn't NFL caliber.

Pankey is a good move. Powerful kid who was coming on in camp.

Question: Do we actually have to pay RJF's full salary because we let him play one game instead of cutting him beforehand? If so, that is one of the worst wastes of money I've ever seen.

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dobber's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:35 pm

I think once you get past week 1, the salary counts against the cap. I'm not sure if it gets pro-rated if someone signs him, though.

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JDK52's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:51 pm

No, only his signing bonus and one game check, roster bonus, and workout bonus for the time he was here. Ted is really good about not promising huge amounts of guaranteed money to old Free Agents.

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Andrew Lloyd Peth's picture

September 13, 2017 at 01:28 pm

That's what I thought, JDK, but I saw an article say otherwise.

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dobber's picture

September 13, 2017 at 01:40 pm

Thanks for picking me up, JDK!

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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

September 14, 2017 at 01:00 am

Except I think JDK is wrong. We'll probably take a cap hit of $1.625M for cutting RJF, unless he has offset language in his contract. I'm guessing he doesn't, but we don't know for sure.

As a vested veteran who was on the roster for game 1, his $1.25M base gets guaranteed, he keeps the $250K signing bonus and the $100K workout bonus, and earns $25K roster bonus since he was active for one game.

109th comment: probably was a waste of my time.

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ChrisPeterson's picture

September 13, 2017 at 11:04 am

I thought they cut Francois to make room for Allison? So did they cut both? Leaving the roster at 52?

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Andrew Lloyd Peth's picture

September 13, 2017 at 11:16 am

Doesn't Pankey make 53?

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Mojo's picture

September 13, 2017 at 11:05 am

As far as bringing Adam Pankey onto the 53 sometimes they bring players up from the PS when other teams come sniffing around trying to entice that player to join them. Maybe part of this was because of some Hanky Pankey going on we're unaware of.

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Andrew Lloyd Peth's picture

September 13, 2017 at 11:17 am

Excellent pun, and good point.

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dobber's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:36 pm

How long were you waiting on that one? ;)

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croatpackfan's picture

September 13, 2017 at 11:06 am

I will always respect what LaDarius Gunter did for Packers. He was there when no others are healthy or ready to play. I understand why Packers cut him. He is at the bottom of the roster and likely will be available if Packers will need him (I hope not).
LaDarius thank you for your participation in effort to bring Packers nation joy and happiness and I wish you the best in the future...

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Finwiz's picture

September 13, 2017 at 11:09 am

Do you want a cookie and a glass of milk for your heartfelt good-bye to Ladarious? Seriously dude - get real, he isn't listening, nor does he care about your or my opinion.

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Razer's picture

September 13, 2017 at 11:12 am

Feel better Finwiz?!

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Andrew Lloyd Peth's picture

September 13, 2017 at 11:19 am

Fin is like the Grinch, slithering down chimneys and stealing Christmas joy...

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Finwiz's picture

September 13, 2017 at 11:53 am

If he had ANY redeemable value, they would have signed him to the PS.
Don't shoot the messenger.
They are done with him, and now your man-crush on the 4.7 CB can sadly come to an end.
It looks like they aren't sitting still with the roster this year. Times are changing in GB, and hopefully for the better!

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dobber's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:36 pm

No one says he won't still end up on the PS. Can't do anything til he clears waivers.

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Finwiz's picture

September 13, 2017 at 01:08 pm

True, but my guess is they already know what I know.....

NO amount of practice is going to improve the 4.7 speed!

Sorry - couldn't help myself.
LOL

You know what just came to mind regarding Gunter? Ever see Jurassic Park ? The part where they're in the trailer with the baby T-Rex and mom comes around, and Jeff Goldblum says, "hold on - this is gonna be bad"!
That's how I felt with Gunter on the roster knowing there was even a remote possibility he was going to be required to play!
LMAO

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croatpackfan's picture

September 13, 2017 at 11:23 am

What he thinks and what he care I do not care. I care who I am and how I feel, think and doing. I can not be responsible for acts of others, only for my acts.
Saying that I think it is low in moral and human point of view to be happy because somebody's dream is ruined.
And to tell you honestly I think only embarrassment at ATL in the playoffs and after that games are fans like you.
Sorry, but that is how I see the problem. Falcons were better, not because LaDarius Gunter, but because Packers were ruined by injuries before and during that game. When you try to place responsibility on shoulders of one person who just tried to made what is asked from him and he did the best he could, that tells a lot of you as person.
Shame on you.
I will sleep well as I am sleeping every night. But need others hell to be happy is really, really....

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SteveCheez's picture

September 13, 2017 at 03:25 pm

I think the cookie should go to Dobber...

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dobber's picture

September 13, 2017 at 04:06 pm

I DO like cookies... ;)

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porupack's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:26 pm

Big respect for Gunter, taking on all that was asked of him, and gave it all. Hope the best for him. Thanks Croat for the earlier salute to Gunter.

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porupack's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:27 pm

Big respect for Gunter, taking on all that was asked of him, and gave it all. Hope the best for him. Thanks Croat for the earlier salute to Gunter.

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billybobton's picture

September 13, 2017 at 01:24 pm

I think you are making a great point.

Another great point is that Gunter out played both Randall and Rollins last year and by a wide margin. In Pre Season there was not enough snaps/in quality situations to judge.

Gunter NEVER ducked a tackle, unlike both Randall and Rollins who duck contract up to and including last week's game.

Gunter was on the field, not whining or hiding with injury that does not appear to change on field performance

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billybobton's picture

September 14, 2017 at 12:22 pm

Of course I could... or you could watch a game

or you could go read about Randall being benched and not having a clue why and MM saying....'we are going to let him know why'

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Packer_Fan's picture

September 13, 2017 at 11:18 am

Here is what I recommend. Hope MM sees it. At the start of the game, use the Seattle game short pass formula to start and get ahead, use time up, save Rodgers from getting hit and save the defense. Then during the game begin to spread it out. And always attack for the full 60 minutes or until the Pack is ahead by 35 in the fourth quarter.

So, the Pack had too many OL and put Barclay on IR. Not enougth WR and brought back Allison. Expected. Not enough depth at OLB and picked up Brooks. Found a gem in Dial and brought him in which made Francois expendable. Saved $2 mil from the cap. Too many DB and released Gunter. Only 52 now, where do they go? Bring back Ringo who has upside and less money. Bring back Jones? NO. PIck up another dependable OL or let Murphy develop as he plays. Decisions, decisions, decisions. Question answered, OL Pankey from the practice squad.

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dobber's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:38 pm

"Not enougth WR and brought back Allison. Expected."

In all fairness, Allison was suspended for being dumb. It's not like they cut him. True, they could have opted not to activate him.

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dobber's picture

September 13, 2017 at 08:02 pm

I may have the details wrong, but wasn't he driving at an excessive speed AND had pot in his car? Why tempt fate like that?

Whatever NFL rules are, in most states possession is at least a misdemeanor depending on quantity and circumstances. I think he did something dumb.

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flackcatcher's picture

September 13, 2017 at 11:56 am

The God of Injury has struck early on this team. With the hits the OL have taken, and Brooks concussion forced the packers hand early. Gunter was low man on this roster at his position. TT always keeps his draft choices early on, so Gunter was at a disadvantage at his position. Am I surprised, not really. 53 is a hard number in the league. Ron Zook is the coach hardest hit, Gunter is a good solid player who is assignment sure. It will hurt ST in the short term, long term depends on Jones growth. Gunter will catch on with another team, DB with the ability to play three positions are rare. L. Gunter was a good player for this team, he just got caught in a number crunch. I wish him well.

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Finwiz's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:13 pm

I'll be surprised if he gets picked up, and if he does it will be a quick stay on the PS or roster, after they find out how slow he really is.
He wasn't a good player.
Slow CB's are as bad as 5' 9" CB's in this league.

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dobber's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:39 pm

There are some good short corners in the league...Brent Grimes, Chris Harris I think both go under 5'10".

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Finwiz's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:46 pm

Sorry but I keep channeling the midget CB, Terrell Buckley getting torched by the 2nd receiver for Dallas - Alvin Harper.

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dobber's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:51 pm

Yeah, T-buck was a mess at CB...at least he was in GB.

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Oppy's picture

September 13, 2017 at 09:17 pm

Terrell Buckley had a long career in the NFL (14 years... that's 5 times longer than the average NFL career and longer than 95% of everyone else) - and is the only CB with 50 INT's that isn't in the HOF...

So, while he didn't play well in GB.. He actually had an exceptional career.

Or is he another lousy player?

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Mojo's picture

September 13, 2017 at 02:54 pm

I wouldn't get too excited Fin, a couple of injuries in the GB secondary and if Gunter is a street FA he could easily end-up resigning with the Pack. It wouldn't be that uncommon.

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Andrew Lloyd Peth's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:15 pm

I don't know why Since '61 and Finwiz catch so much heat for wanting Gunter gone.

I mean, doesn't Gunter's fall on the roster and quick release prove them right?

It's like those who warned against releasing QB Hill, saying he'd get snatched up and we'd be left with a 1-year, player-to-be-traded backup QB and no developmental depth. They were right, and no one gives them credit now.

This site gets pretty harsh on people who call it right.

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Finwiz's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:24 pm

Thank you sir! I also think it was a big mistake letting Hill walk, regardless of age or injury history.
Personally I saw a better player than Hundley, and so did the Saints.
I hope they don't live to regret this one if Hundley has to play and they find out he's average.
I've always thought it's better to be right than popular, regardless of the delivery.

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Andrew Lloyd Peth's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:31 pm

Well, you guys called it early, while many others let sentimentalty get in the way of hard talent analysis.

I'm all for banter, but too many posters (and writers) here conveniently forget all the correct calls made by more critical posters. Basically, if you make bold calls criticizing team decisions, writers and homers rain dislikes and attacks on you while deleting all memory of your correct calls.

It's just silly.

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Finwiz's picture

September 14, 2017 at 08:37 am

Damn lovely comment.
Someone that actually gets it.
It's the internet. You take the good with the bad and move on.
Not a place for sensitive people.

Call me anything you want, just don't call me late for dinner!

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flackcatcher's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:45 pm

As long as it is only football everything is fine. since 61 was very clear on his view of Gunter, as a football player on this packer team. Others disagree with 61 over Gunter's worth. It ls a judgement call we fans make all the time. Finwiz is different. Some think Finwiz is making a judgement on the person, not his performance on the field. It is unfortunate that Finwiz chose to go low and nasty over a football players performance. That's what irks so many commenters on this site. It has nothing to do with right or wrong, it is being mean for meanness sake. And Finwiz rightly got called for it. Andrew, if you want to take shots on a player's worth, that is fine. Just as long as YOU understand you will be called on it. Tough, yes. Harsh, nah...

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Finwiz's picture

September 13, 2017 at 01:01 pm

I suppose you want a plate of Oreo's and warm milk too?
I'm running low after Croat's outbursts today, so you'll have to wait a bit.
LOL!
So many sensitive "men" around here, but I use the term quite loosely.

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Finwiz's picture

September 13, 2017 at 01:01 pm

X

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scullyitsme's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:46 pm

Not sure I've ever seen anyone be harsh to 61'. On finwiz, yes, but that's just because he's an ass and likes to flaunt it.

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Since'61's picture

September 13, 2017 at 04:29 pm

Thanks ALP, I appreciate your support. Speaking for myself, I have nothing against Gunter. I don't know anything about him except how he played for the Packers last season, which was not very well.
Now there are other bloggers here who disagree with me because Gunter played hard or played his heart out. I agree with that as well. But this is professional football and again, speaking for myself I expect every player on our roster and in the league for that matter to play hard or play their hearts out. This is their livelihood, this is their profession, at the least they owe it to themselves and their teammates, their employer and the fans to play hard. It is a privilege to play in the NFL.

But if we agree that everyone is playing hard then it is the results that matter. That's why we keep score and a boatload of meaningless statistics. People in any profession are paid for results not for working hard. Yes, it requires hard work to achieve results and that is why playing hard is a minimum standard or minimum requirement of any professional in any occupation.

Whatever upside Gunter had we saw it last season. He couldn't get the job done, playing hard or not. Obviously, TT and the coaches feel the same or he would still be on the team. (Regardless of Joe Whitt's comments, he is not going to throw his player or by inference himself, under the bus). Of course there are many who blast TT and MM and they actually achieve results season after season, yet they are supposed to keep players who can't compete and who would not even have been in the league 40 - 50 years ago.

Yes, I'm relieved that Gunter is chucked and I don't care if it proves me right or not that doesn't matter to me. To me it's not a matter of being right or wrong (I've taken my turns over the years at being wrong about Packer personnel, etc.), it's about who gives the Packers the best chance to win and let's face it we're never going to gain a consensus from everyone on the best 53 players to be on the roster, we all have our favorites.

I have made my case why I didn't think Gunter should be on the roster and for some reason I have taken a little heat over it
(which is OK, it comes with the territory like everything else) and now he's gone, so let's move on to the players who are here and the upcoming games and who can help us win. Also, I usually wait for the off-season to be critical of Packers management or their players, once the season begins I never give up on the team or the players. Quite frankly, we have discussed a lot less about players who played much better than Gunter for several seasons for the Packers. I know that I've wasted enough time and blog space discussing a marginal player at best. Case closed!
Thanks, Since '61

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Finwiz's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:58 pm

"Marginal player at best"
"wasted enough time and blog space"
Enough said!

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Since'61's picture

September 13, 2017 at 01:19 pm

When the best thing you can say about a player is that "he plays hard" it's like the woman back in college that everyone tells you "she has a great personality" in response to your question "what does she look like?"
Apologies to any who this analogy may offend, no offense intended, it just seemed apprapro at this point in the conversation. Thanks, Since '61

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56Packfan's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:25 pm

Defense trying to get bigger up front and faster in the back. Last year Hyde made plays but trailed on many others. Gunther does not have enough speed. NFL is a tough life. One minute you have a job and the next you are on the street. And it's brutal on the body while you are employed.

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Andrew Lloyd Peth's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:34 pm

100% correct.

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Since'61's picture

September 13, 2017 at 01:14 pm

Absolutely accurate. Good post. The NFL is a very tough business but just one of many in a tough world of business.
Thanks, Since '61

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Lphill's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:38 pm

Gunter made some plays but he also got burned plenty, I think a switch to safety is in his future.

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sonomaca's picture

September 13, 2017 at 12:47 pm

TT got in the speed bandwagon sometime last year. Jones, King...fast, fast, fast.

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Dzehren's picture

September 13, 2017 at 02:23 pm

Im glad our #1 corner is gone from last year (obviously after Shileds injury) Gunter was #1 in snaps to- secondary upgraded from '16

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JRome Coaxum's picture

September 13, 2017 at 02:52 pm

Classic TT thinking he knows something or that he is by far the smartest person in the room. Gunter should have been cut. But to cut RJF when he was perfect for Depth and Leadership as well as his mean streak is a terrible move. We already paid him. Why cut him. Why Keep 4 RB at the expense of the Defense being and staying strong. Cutting RJF was a weak move by TT. TT needs to go. He has held us back more than anyone.

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dobber's picture

September 13, 2017 at 03:02 pm

I was as surprised as anyone when they gave RJF his pink slip, but they have plenty of veteran leadership, and more than enough guys who can play his role. RJF played only a handful of snaps on Sunday. Dial and Odom will be available to pick up snaps starting this week. Adams has been practicing on a limited basis. While TT does some things that make us all question his sanity, I don't think this one of them.

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cheesehead1's picture

September 13, 2017 at 03:47 pm

Obiviously Gunter wasn't good enough. Competition is tough and it's a brutal business. If this makes our team better so be it. On to ATL and hope to see a continuation of the progress our D made against SEA. Keep up the pressure on Ryan and I think we'll be ok. Payback time for that embarrassment last season.

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4zone's picture

September 13, 2017 at 03:59 pm

Kinda hate to see the kid go. He got stuck in some tough situations last year and he made a bunch of plays. Sure, he isn't top of the line but you can't knock his effort. Hope he lands somewhere and continues to improve.

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dobber's picture

September 13, 2017 at 04:16 pm

Claimed, as some predicted, off waivers by Carolina. Lessee...that would be week 15 for the Packers...

profootballrumors.com/2017/09/panthers-claim-cb-ladarius-gunter

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Spock's picture

September 13, 2017 at 04:07 pm

Was I surprised that Gunter was released? No. Clearly we now have better/faster players ahead of him. However, I refuse to denigrate his play. He was "physically available" for every game (something the coaches value, and we will never know what his health was like) and gave it his best effort. I'm never going to knock a Packers' player for doing his job to the best of his ability. I will not mock a player for his physical limitations. I don't expect there to be a lot of "love" for a (as some have said) marginal player, but I just feel it's mean spirited to throw a past player under the bus for something he can't control. That's my opinion and anyone is free to disagree. It just bothers me that a decent, hard working player is being "roasted" in the manner I see in many of these posts. Maybe I'm too "sensitive" or not "harsh" enough on players. I'm just a Packers fan who feels that a little respect isn't too much to ask for a player who was just cut. I know the NFL is a tough business and Gunter being cut was one of those business decisions, but, Sheesh, why pile it on to the man?! He's someone's son and has a family. By all accounts he is an exemplary citizen, "Packer People". Okay, he's not the CB people wanted; I get that. But is it too much to ask that we let him leave (assuming he's not back of the PS) without trashing him? Alright, I'll step down off my soapbox. Feel free to trash me, I'm not a player. I just felt this comment section was, well, "better", than this. It makes me sad. :(

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dobber's picture

September 13, 2017 at 04:17 pm

I'll share my cookie... :)

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lou's picture

September 13, 2017 at 06:10 pm

Plain and simple, the NFL is a business and your job and most NFL contracts are not guaranteed. Give Gunter credit for making an NFL roster as an undrafted free agent and starting 16 games and contributing as best he could and the right thing to do is wish him well going forward. I hope he does make an NFL roster this season, he is one game short (50 required) to be a vested NFL veteran. His release is similar to Graham Harrell's, a QB with less than an average arm, just like a CB with less than average speed but BOTH NEED TO BE RECOGNIZED NOT DISPARAGED for being on an NFL roster for several years, in Harrell's case it produced a Super Bowl Ring.

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Cartwright's picture

September 13, 2017 at 07:22 pm

I think another guy on thin ice might be Trevor Davis, read that the coaches were not happy with some of his punt return decisions. Are they waiting for a fumble at a crucial moment in the game? He already fumbled 2. Too bad McCaffrey got plucked He was the better choice.

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croatpackfan's picture

September 14, 2017 at 02:26 am

Lets start another session of game named: "Throwing under the bus!"

I'm sorry that Jeff Janis did not fulfill many Packers fans dream of speed WR who can outrun opposite DB, but Davis can do that and Davis knows how to run routes.

I predict that when Josh Jones learn how to control his speed and strenght, Jeff Janis will be released and the gunner position on ST will be taken by Jones. Look for Devante Mays to take KR job.

That will happen this season? NO!

Despite some problems Davis has with fielding punts or making decisions, I believe he will be better by time.

Sorry, this is my opinion and I believe Travor Davis is in front of Jeff Janis on the depth chart - Davis played little bit more than Jeff on Sunday...

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LayingTheLawe's picture

September 13, 2017 at 09:57 pm

This site and its obsession with bottom of the roster guys mystifies me. The whole preseason we worried over who was the 7th best wide receiver on the team. And now we wonder if cutting the 6th or 7th best cornerback on the roster is a good or bad idea.

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croatpackfan's picture

September 14, 2017 at 02:51 am

Despite your post has some interesting and correct observation, I have to admit that my participation was not based on worrying why Gunter is cut (it is clear and somewhat expected decision) but based on somedody's need others to suffer to be happy as well as on spitting and pronouncing guilt of the player who is not guilty for what he is accused.
First accusation: "I wanted Gunter gone for two reasons: First, he hurt the team last season. ..." (posted by Since '61 on article "Packers Stock Report: Daniels Dominates, Cobb Proves His Worth")
Second accusation: "He was clearly a large part of the reason for the embarrassment at ATL in the playoffs. " (posted by Finwiz on this article)

I asked both to explain how LaDarius Gunter had/has respoxsibility for "hurting team" or "team embarrassment" and I never got the answer.
I just read that I'm weak, soft, having not enough HEART and so on...

That kind of discussions are not about players. Those kind of discussion are about how someone is great and have heart for "difficult" decission (if so obvious that player is not good, why that should be "difficult" decission), how they can see things better than coaches and proffesionals and their need to impose opinion on others while their arguments are like those: "hurting OUR team" or "embarrass US"...

I lived long enough under the system in which many where the casualty of imposing will by people who ruled over country. And I do not like that.

I can respect everybody's opinion, I will never ever accept imposing anything by force!

Thank you!

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Since'61's picture

September 16, 2017 at 10:33 pm

Croat - if you go back to the article where you asked me those questions you will see that I responded. Second, I never, ever posted that you were "weak, soft, or not having enough heart". I have never imposed or forced my opinion on anyone and I strongly resent your characterization of me in that manner. In fact in my response to your questions I apologized to you that we did not agree on this topic.

To set the record straight I am reposting my answer, which I posted in the article of 9/12 "Packer Stock Report, Daniels and Cobb rising"

Croat - I usually enjoy your posts and I respect your long distance loyalty to the Packers. I too am a long distance fan, although not as long distance as you are. You can claim that I have something personal when it comes to LaDarius Gunter but whether you believe it or not I don't.

To me he had no upside left for the Packers and we had better options available at the CB position in this year's training camp.
Like other posters here I noted in some of my posts during the 2016 season that Gunter plays hard, however, while I originally expected him to improve the fact is that his performance declined over the course of the season to the point where he could not compete against the NFL receivers he faced during the playoffs.

OBJ had him beat for 2 TD passes but fortunately for the Packers OBJ did not catch the ball. In the Dallas playoff game his play against Dez Bryant enabled Dallas to comeback in the 2nd half. There is no need to discuss the Atlanta game again.

Now, this not all Gunter's fault. A win or loss is rarely the result of one player good or bad. However, Dom Caper's defense requires the CBs to be able to play one on one coverage. The CB play drives the blitz packages and the safety coverage. As a result of the Packers poor CB play, including Gunter, the Packers had to play two deep safeties for much of the 2016 season. Often the safeties rolled to Gunter's side to support him in coverage. That situation wreaked havoc for the Packers defense which had plenty of problems to begin with due to injuries.

A good or great defense can cover or hide a player like Gunter for part of a game or even part of a season. But the Packers defense was far from being able to that in 2016. When we faced the better QBs and offenses during the playoffs they were ready to zero in on Gunter and manipulate our defense to expose our various weaknesses. Even when Gunter's side was covered it left our other CBs one on one or one our of safeties out of position with the middle of the field wide open.

A defense is as good as it's weakest player and Gunter was our weakest player. He played hard, yes, but you receive no points for playing hard in the NFL and no sympathy from your opponents as they happily cut you to shreds as in the Atlanta game.
To paraphrase a famous line from a famous movie, "it's not personal Croat, this is strictly business". I'm sure that is what TT, or MM, or Joe Whitt said to Gunter after they told him that he was chucked.

I will complete my response to your inquiry with these final points:
1. Playing hard is the minimum expectation that I have for every player on the Packers roster and in the entire NFL. Playing hard is the starting point for me, but ultimately it's the results that matter. That's why we keep score.

2. I was pretty confident that the Packers were going to release Gunter after the debacle in Atlanta. I could not understand what TT and the coaching staff were waiting for. You accuse me of hating Gunter and being personal against him but how about telling a guy that he has made the final 53 roster going into the season and then letting him go after the first game of the season. How is that for crushing someone and you accuse me of being personal. What the Packers management did was as impersonal as it can get. They knew they were going to release Gunter at the end of camp, yet they kept him on the roster while the moved the players around that they wanted to keep. These moves are all planned to get to the final roster they want to have way ahead of time, including responding to injuries.

3. As for Whitt's comments about Gunter. No responsible NFL coach is going to bash his own guy after he releases him. Also, if Whitt does that he is hurting himself. What does that say about him as a coach if he says that the released player wasn't very good? He's not going to throw himself under the bus.

4. During the off season I make some harsh comments about players or coaches (e.g. Capers in the past) and TT. I believe that the off season is the time for questioning, criticizing and for seeking opportunities to improve the team. However, once the season begins I never give up on the team and support our players in every game. That's not to say I won't point out poor play during the season or agree with everything MM or TT will do. Constructive criticism is a great part of our blog. But after 56 seasons I can assure you that I know where I stand about the Packers.

Croat, that's it for me on Gunter. I'm sorry that we don't agree and I'm sorry you think that I have something personal against him, I don't. I just want the Packers to have the best players and the best opportunities to win every game they play and I want to maintain this blog as the best Packers blog on the web. I hope that the time I have taken to respond to your post makes these points. Thanks, Since '61

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Finwiz's picture

September 14, 2017 at 08:58 am

Don't take it personal Since '61.
It's one mans crusade to defend a player and admonish anyone with a strong opinion opposite his.
I think everyone knows what you said, and I'm sorry if you somehow got lumped into my excessive rant and subsequent "grave dance".
He got all the cookies yesterday, so today he has to settle for bread and water.
G got picked up by the Jags, so everyone can breath easy knowing the young man is employed again and won't be standing in the welfare line.
For how long is anyone's guess. I'd say "not very".

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Since'61's picture

September 14, 2017 at 09:17 am

Fin - thank you for taking the time to reply and I agree with you.
I'm letting it go now that it's out of my system. Now that he has his answer we'll see what happens. But where I grew up and some one calls you out you better respond or it never ends. Forgetting that, what gives him the right to admonish anyone. This blog is about friendly Packer banter or it should be. I think of it as a bunch of Packer fans sitting around in a tavern enjoying a few beers and having a friendly exchange about Packer football. Apparently that is a problem for some. Silly me. Thanks, Since '61

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Finwiz's picture

September 14, 2017 at 10:35 am

> I think of it as a bunch of Packer fans sitting around in a tavern enjoying a few beers and having a friendly exchange about Packer football<

Exactly. You should hear me talking to my brothers about the Pack. We argue all the time! People take it way to seriously regarding opinions. We're ALL fans.

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croatpackfan's picture

September 14, 2017 at 11:57 am

Gunter is picked by Panthers and McCaffrey is pickled by Jags...
Just a note from weak guy with no heart. So it is not possible for me to be on crusade. That is for strong macho man who has no weaknesses...
Thank you

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croatpackfan's picture

September 14, 2017 at 11:53 am

You still did not explain me how it is Gunter responsibility. I thought that GM decide who is on the roster and who is not and coaches decide who will play and who will not. Also, when player is send on the field I think he got instructions from coaches how and what he should play, whom he need to cover etc...
So, once again I do not have answer on my question. But forget, this discussion has no purpose, because we obviously do not agree and talking about different things. I understand what you are talking about, but maybe it is my mistake why I can not be understood from your side (my English which is not that good!).
Nevertheless, if that is your choice, I accept your Goodbye and wish you all the best in future...

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Bure9620's picture

September 13, 2017 at 10:10 pm

So I just hear all the time from some packer fans the praise for Gunter which is cool, he played his butt off in tough circumstances. It just blows my mind how many people are surprised by his release. Watch the film, we were lucky OBJ had the dropsies in the first half of the Wild Card game becuase Gunter could not cover him. If he was beat off the line, he was beat, becuase he lacks closing speed, the other six corners don't. This makes Gunters margin for error miniscule. Even if Hawkins and Pipkins were forced into duty I would be significantly more comcortable because they both have speed. Plain and simple. Gunter is a gamer and he is tough. But his release indicates to me our corners have been upgraded.

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Bure9620's picture

September 13, 2017 at 10:14 pm

Question, if Spriggs were forced into duty in the playoffs and was a turnstile im over his head but plyed his butt off would packers fans come to his defense the way they do Gunter?

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Dzehren's picture

September 14, 2017 at 09:54 pm

Springs protects the franchise QB and missed assignments could kill the season.

All of Gunter's missed assignments & lack of speed just racked up points that AR could overcome.

LT is #1. CB is #4 or so....

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Siwi87's picture

September 13, 2017 at 11:18 pm

Competition is the only thing that will keep these millionaire athletes frosty and focused. Cutting two veterans is a sign that this Packer team is headed in the right direction. Stay young and stay hungry.

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