Confessions of a Polluted Mindset - Summer of Love
The Weekly Packers Brain Drain from Jersey Al.
By JerseyAl
Jordan Love
The Packers QB of the future (we hope) will get an opportunity to impress us or disappoint us this summer. Matt LaFleur confirmed that Love will play the majority of the time this preseason with Aaron Rodgers taking a seat and likely watching with interest just as we will be. Perhaps what he sees from Love will give him some clarity on what will happen with him after this season.
Crowded House
Adams, Cobb, MVS, Lazard, Rodgers, Taylor, Funchess, EQ, WInfree, Begelton, Blair, Thompkins. Imagine being anyone other than the top five listed here, basically fighting off six other players just in hopes that the Packers keep six wide receivers. Put yourself in their shoes for a second - talk about chasing a dream...
Having a look-see
The crowd is not just with the WR room, but the entire offense. Offensive linemen, tight ends, wide receivers, running backs... you want one? We've got one for you. It's no cooincidence the Packers recently brought some players in for workouts and they were all on the defensive side of the ball. No room at the Offense Inn.
More tryouts for the Packers:
S Tenny Adewusi (Delaware)
OLB Allen Cater (North Carolina)
OLB Landis Durham (Texas A&M)
DE Bryson Young (Oregon) https://t.co/OSYQkKMrW8— Rob Demovsky (@RobDemovsky) August 9, 2021
TJ Max
Rookie DL TJ Slayton was asked how hard it is to give maximum effort every play, especially for a big guy. You couldn't have blamed him if he went with that narrative a bit but no, TJ shut that right down. "Oh no, it's not hard. 'Cause you control your effort. You gotta go. You're in this league and you have a chance to make it and make a career, there is no, I gotta wait..." Later he was beaming with pride talking about the first moment when he realized he was actually in the NFL. Seems like a great kid with a great attitude.
Three Amigos
I believe we're going to see a lot of Rashan Gary and the Smith Brothers on the field at the same time and I can't wait.
Meanwhile, Back in Detroit...
Jamaal Williams, always living his best life
( @Lions)
— Pro Football Network (@PFN365) August 10, 2021
Moving Ento a Defensive Mindset
Kabion Ento was asked what the hardest thing was about making the transition from wide receiver to cornerback. His response, "Learning how to do everythng backwards." I never thought about it that way. Later, talking about technique-wise what was the hardest, he mentioned getting out of the habit of looking back at the QB out of a break. He had to train himself to look at the receiver instead. As his position coach put it, the QB isn't throwing you the ball.
Fields Day
Ladies and Gentlemen, I'm a little worried. I have this sickening feeling in my stomach that the Bears actually did something right when it comes to the quarterback position. It started on draft day. I'm no QB evaluator, but I firmly believe Justin Fields will be a very good quarterback in this league because he has enough talent and he WANTS it. He lives it. He breathes it. He doesn't back away from it. He wants to be great. Like the Black Knight in Monty Python's Holy Grail, he will discount major injuries as "flesh wounds" and continue to battle on. This is no Cutler or Trubisky, folks. I'm concerned that the Bears will one day not suck. Talk me off the ledge...
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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 (135)
NickPerry
August 11, 2021 at 06:43 am
Don't worry Al...The Bears will STILL suck , even with Justin Fields. This team has traded so many HIGH draft picks away the last few years including 2021 and again next year in 2022's draft, they just don't have much talent left on that roster IMO. Hicks is unhappy, Mack's a year older, their future LT and 2nd round draft pick Tevon Jenkins is already hurt or battling injuries and Ifedi and Cohen are on the PUP... Oh hold on a second...Allan Robinson isn't too happy either....And that's just a few of the issues.
Fields may very well be the real deal someday. Or because they've traded away their future time and again on players like Mack and Trubisky, Fields will either have to wait for some talent to be injected into that team, OR he'll get the hell beat out of him by the time they finally get some....
Don't worry bout NOTHING Al... The Bears STILL suck!!
croatpackfan
August 11, 2021 at 06:57 am
I like your optimism.
I also know that pessimist is realistic optimist, so...
dobber
August 11, 2021 at 07:02 am
The version of this that I've heard is that a pessimist is an optimist who has done his research...
...but you know how we Americans are about research.
Be well, Croat!
jeremyjjbrown
August 11, 2021 at 08:54 am
I can do my football fan research at TubeU. Everything else, not so much...
dobber
August 11, 2021 at 06:58 am
In the process of reaching for Fields, the Bears have enabled a darkhorse ARod candidate: the Giants. They have immediate draft capital to deal, a young roster to elevate, and play in a weak division...and have been none-too-impressed with Danny Dimes. If Jones continues to deal with injuries and doesn't progress, they might be desperate to make a team-changing move.
I know we worry about ARod sticking in the NFC, but if an NFC team offers the best package for #12, you take it. Imagine the Packers taking the pick the Bears dealt for Fields (a top 10 pick? Maybe), drafting a top DE, and pounding Fields into the turf with him for the next 5 years.
...almost gives you goosebumps.
mattgsx
August 11, 2021 at 11:18 am
Based on who has drafted a QB high in the last 2 years or has an entrenched starter, I'm thinking the Rodgers lottery will be between NYG, IND (pending Wentz's status), NE, HOU (pending the Watson situation), and maybe WFT. Split pretty evenly between NFC and AFC teams, but I agree the Giants have the most draft capital available to deal that wouldn't cripple their team so they could more easily build around a new QB.
If not them, I could see Indy going all in for AR if it doesn't look like Wentz can be salvaged or if he decides he is just done with football after his latest sidelining injury.
PatrickGB
August 11, 2021 at 11:55 am
Indy has the most cap room.
13TimeChamps
August 11, 2021 at 02:16 pm
No way do I see AR12 agreeing to go to a rebuilding team, especially NY or Wash or Houston.
And, yes, I realize he doesn't have a no trade clause, but no team is going to give up a ton of draft capital and/or players if Rodgers doesn't agree to restructure his contract with them. And I don't see him, at this stage of his career, wanting to go to a rebuilding team.
dobber
August 11, 2021 at 02:39 pm
Pittsburgh will probably be looking, too. If Mayfield plateaus, maybe CLE.
PeteK
August 11, 2021 at 02:59 pm
Denver, Raiders ?--- We'll worry about that in Feb.
JerseyAl
August 11, 2021 at 07:56 am
ok, I'm taking a step back from that ledge...
Coldworld
August 11, 2021 at 10:35 am
Fields and Love may or may not be good. Only time and real games will show that. It also has a lot to do with what is around them on O. Bad offenses can ruin good QB prospects.
I admit to peeking in Bearland. Some of the things he does that make them thrilled are the same ones that cause paroxysms of anguish in some here with respect to Love. Perhaps it relates to comparatives. Let’s see what happens.
Bure9620
August 11, 2021 at 09:43 am
Yes they can....
NickPerry
August 12, 2021 at 06:18 am
Good man Al...Glad to hear it!
flackcatcher
August 12, 2021 at 11:37 am
Don't worry my man, DA Bears are in Cap hell, and with the current regime throwing err trading away their draft capital, they have a fairly deep and steep hole to climb out of.
jont
August 11, 2021 at 08:38 am
Fields has looked good, they say, but yesterday I read the first sign of trouble. 'Bring him along slowly and don't ruin him,' the plan goes. Well, yesterday they were talking up his off-platform throws and Nagy said he might have to design some new plays, alter the offense a bit. If I were a Bear fan, I'd be afraid our not so great coach is already abandoning the sensible development of the Bears' future.
jeremyjjbrown
August 11, 2021 at 08:54 am
Yep, they will ruin him. It's the Bears way.
dobber
August 11, 2021 at 10:45 am
They said Dalton would start...I think that lasts to about game 4. Nagy and Pace will need to play Fields to try to save their jobs.
Maybe that's my greatest fear: not that Fields will be good, but that he'll be good and the Bears will jettison their inept front office and then bring in people who know what they're doing as Fields starts to hit his prime.
flackcatcher
August 12, 2021 at 11:56 am
The damage is done dobber. The Bears will need a minimum of three, more likely four draft classes to field a respectable team in the future. In other words it's a complete teardown. Throwing away high draft choices and paying out big contracts have put them in the dubious position of being in Cap Hell, and being draft poor. In the old NFL guys like Al Davis could get away with that with pushing their loses into the infinite future. With the Cap, every owner faces his day of reckoning within two years if not careful. As Ted and now Gute has shown, be fugal, pinch your pennies and above all, save your daft capital for the future. That will with good choices always puts your team in the Superbowl dance. And of course be lucky in who your owner is....
Tingham
August 11, 2021 at 11:06 am
I've been reading several different Bears blogs. The hype train on Fields is so far off the charts. I think most of their fans are pissed that they didn't put his bust in Canton last weekend.
Tundraboy
August 11, 2021 at 09:13 pm
Way to rally the troops NP!
HarlanHuckleby
August 11, 2021 at 06:47 am
I know it’s a competitive league with a lot of pressure, but I really hope someday Jamaal Williams lightens up and has fun out there.
HawkPacker
August 11, 2021 at 08:34 am
Yeah, he always seems to be in such a bad mood. Cranky at best!
BradHTX
August 11, 2021 at 12:37 pm
It’s so sad he had to go to the Lions. He deserves better. Such a classy guy.
Bure9620
August 11, 2021 at 09:44 am
Funny
Packers0808
August 11, 2021 at 10:13 am
I really hated to see Jamal Williams depart, such a great person and fun guy to watch especially before games with his dance moves. Un fortunate teams can only keep so many people!
dobber
August 11, 2021 at 06:51 am
Jordan Love: We need to be patient as he learns the ropes of being an NFL QB. I think Nagler posted yesterday that he's inconsistent, playing well on script but struggling when he needs to improvise. Not a surprise for a young QB. Yes, there are a lot of young QBs playing right away, but mostly on bad teams where they're asked to do too much. Regardless of what we think of the Love selection, the future of the Packers depends on his growth. He'll have some lousy looking plays, but he needs to be allowed to work his way out of it.
WRs: A lot of bodies here and many are flashing in camp. Every year, we as a group get pretty enamored with the Packers WR candidates, and gnash our teeth over some getting cut...but when was the last time the Packers cut a young WR and he went somewhere else and lit it up? The nice thing is all these guys seem to be able to catch the ball...which ones can block? Play STs? Keep the guys who give you the best chance to win, sign the guys you like to the PS, don't look back.
TJ Max: With Kylin Hill, he's another guy you look at and ask, "why was he available?" If he's got his weight under control, I think he's got a long future in the league. Here's hoping he's more Kenny Clark than Montravious Adams. Stay healthy, big man!
Three Amigos: With Barry supposedly preaching disruption, and Gary/Z able to play standing up and with their hands on the ground, these three need to play together a lot. Who would you rather see lined up with his hand on the ground on third and long: Gary or Lancaster? With Keke on the shelf, they'll get their chances.
Fields: Maybe he'll turn into a good QB. I've said before that there's a lot in his game that reminds me of Donovan McNabb. Still, Nagy and Pace have proven to be in over their heads and likely won't see the benefit of Fields if he pans out. The Bears are an old and undertalented team with cap problems, and a front office more concerned with trying to keep their jobs than trying to do their jobs well. Name me the last OSU/Urban Meyer QB who became a difference maker in the NFL...I'll wait.
jeremyjjbrown
August 11, 2021 at 08:56 am
"playing well on script but struggling when he needs to improvise."
He's also going against a defense that even AR says is confusing as F to read. So, no surprise and that should really help his development.
greengold
August 11, 2021 at 09:11 am
Ahhhhh. Yeah. dobs, throwing' high heat!!! Gotta love it. I agree with all of what you've said here, man! Cheers!
BTW, great work, Al. Again! Thank you for always doing such a great job with your columns. I needed this today after a devastating loss of a dear family member overnight. Needed something else to think about. You all here are the best, and I appreciate you - every last poster here.
Spock
August 11, 2021 at 10:29 am
Condolences on your family loss. The last 2 years I've lost a number of family members suddenly as well. Best to you and your family.
JerseyAl
August 11, 2021 at 10:35 am
Sorry to hear that. My condolences to your family and I'm thankful that we can be of some small distraction for you.
dobber
August 11, 2021 at 10:48 am
Be well, greengold!
LambeauPlain
August 11, 2021 at 01:51 pm
My sympathies G&G. I have had to say "good bye for now" to several close family members over the last few years as well...including my Dad last Christmas Eve. I will dearly miss our Packer Pre Game talks.
HawkPacker
August 11, 2021 at 02:17 pm
Sorry for your loss Greengold. You have my sympathy.
PeteK
August 11, 2021 at 03:17 pm
Hang in there ,GG. Your family member was lucky to have a caring and loving person like you in their life.
Swisch
August 11, 2021 at 03:47 pm
May we all see our departed love ones again one day at a joyful family reunion in a much better place, where all misunderstandings are resolved and every tear is wiped away.
There is a God of love who never gives up on us if only we ask him to get us over the goal line, with a final push on our part that stands up to further review from above.
In the meantime, it is so very hard for those of us left behind. May God console you, greengold, and help you to be of good hope.
CoachDino
August 11, 2021 at 07:51 pm
Condolences to you and yours on your loss. Thanks for the perspective w/o even trying, Football and fandom are really just great momentary escapes from the reality of our lives.
Tundraboy
August 11, 2021 at 09:37 pm
My condolences during the most trying times and prayers for your family. Appreciate the kind selfless thoughts and words to us all.
Since'61
August 12, 2021 at 09:44 am
greengold very sorry for your loss. I hope that the many happy memories of your loved one will sustain you during this difficult time. Peace brother. Since '61
Bure9620
August 11, 2021 at 09:46 am
Yes not surprising at all. He is thinking too much and looking to make the perfect play. He needs to just let it rip, just go play. I get the feeling Love is going be more of a gamer and less of a practice hero....Which I am more than fine with....
dobber
August 11, 2021 at 11:18 am
Absolutely. These guys are all super competitive. When you're playing next to #12, who is apparently lighting it up day in and day out, that's a lot of pressure.
PeteK
August 11, 2021 at 03:12 pm
Dob, I am also ready for some bumps from Love during preseason, but as long as there are some good plays mixed in ,I'll be happy. Stokes, LBs, Dline, and O line specifically center are my my main concerns. Coincidentally ,Positive progress in those areas will greatly help Love next season.
croatpackfan
August 11, 2021 at 07:00 am
Again, nice peace of work, AL
dobber
August 11, 2021 at 07:09 am
Agreed. A weekly must-read.
It's great to be back to actual player news.
PeteK
August 11, 2021 at 03:20 pm
Yeah, Al is a piece of work.
Savage57
August 11, 2021 at 07:31 am
Love will find a way. (Sorry)
I'll never get bringing in a dozen players in at different position groups on offense, when the liability of your team is defense. More balance would seem to be a good first step changing that.
But as always, they're able to figure this stuff out despite ignoring my thoughts on things.
Probably more so a case of 'because' than 'despite'.
JerseyAl
August 11, 2021 at 08:29 am
They do, however, appreciate your input.
packer132
August 11, 2021 at 12:30 pm
Packers have tried out many players in the last few weeks, almost all on defense. They signed two (Rivers LB; Avery DT). The team signed OT Kelly after Stepaniak retired and Bakh should miss the first few games. Gute and scouts work year round to try to improve the team.
CoachDino
August 11, 2021 at 08:00 pm
Many aren't brought in for the intention of making the team but for practice purposes, maybe due to injuries, cuts, retirements, fatigue etc....
Thinking you can find roster improvements by bringing in UDFA or declining veterans midway through camp is seldom the road to improvement maybe for a niche need or a very weak position that lost players during camp for some reason. Not saying it never happens but expectations of impact of these moves based on reality is beyond minimal.
Odds increase somewhat when bringing in guys from final 53 roster cuts for your practice squad. Other than that Draft and early to mid offseason FA's are the by far the best ways to improve. Sorry kinda obvious.
flackcatcher
August 12, 2021 at 12:09 pm
I always thought that the Packers brought in these players to update their database more than anything else. Football teams do have their emergency lists, when positions become open due to injury. Besides, a look see never hurts...
CoachDino
August 13, 2021 at 05:28 pm
duplicate
CoachDino
August 13, 2021 at 05:14 pm
great point
Oppy
August 11, 2021 at 08:02 am
It must be hard for Jamaal to go from literally thousands of fans watching him -practice- to looking across an almost empty field to see a hand full of fans sitting on a hill. wish him the best, he wasn't over-valued by pack fans, he was under utilized sitting behind a premier RB in Jones. Fully Believe he's not only a top 32 back in the league; he could be a top 15 back given the snaps.
Cb's and doing everything backwards.. literally. That's why they are, bar none, the best athletes on the field.
gkarl
August 11, 2021 at 08:07 am
I just hope our summer of Love works out better than the one in Seattle.
Roadrunner23
August 11, 2021 at 08:08 am
LOVE: I wasn’t a fan of the Love draft pick and I am still not impressed. I want Love to SHOW ME why the Packers traded up and pissed off #12 to draft this Deshone Kiser clone, SHOW ME kid, prove me wrong!
WR: It is good to have too much talent at any position. But training camp will whittle those numbers.
Injuries, Special Teams, contract status, trades (and yes comments made during a press conference that offend the “woke” on social media) will ultimately determine the final choices. Of course a few will end up on the PS too.
Offensive depth: Ditto with the depth on the Offensive side, it’s a great problem to have!
TJ Slaton: The BIG kid has a great attitude and has been wowing his teammates by dunking the basketball before practice. Just don’t pull a MLF and mess up your leg on the BB court!
Ento: Has been making plays almost daily in camp and should be an excellent gunner on Special Teams!
Let’s hope he can beat the injury bug this year!
Can’t wait for J. Love to SHOW ME Saturday night, SHOW ME kid!
Go Pack!
ND
Guam
August 11, 2021 at 08:30 am
Like you ND I was not a fan of this draft choice, but I hope you don't judge him too harshly on his first preseason game. Rodgers looked awful for two (pre season) years before he came into his own. I suspect if will take Love at least as long to come into his own (presuming he does eventually develop). I am hoping for flashes Saturday night. I don't expect to see a finished product by a long shot.
Razer
August 11, 2021 at 08:42 am
...I don't expect to see a finished product by a long shot...
Well said Guam. I don't doubt that Love has the physical tools - it is a question of whether he has the smarts and decision making ability to play the game at NFL speed. Enough game time should give all of us a better indication.
Roadrunner23
August 11, 2021 at 09:05 am
Guam, I very much want Love to succeed 100%, I just want him to SHOW ME ;)
Coldworld
August 11, 2021 at 11:03 am
Rodgers took till his third off season to show us and many still did not see it then. Patience.
As a reminder, here’s Rodgers reminiscing in 2008 about his first Family Night: “ Had an up-and-down scrimmage my first year (in 2005). I think I completed one pass that night. It wasn’t pretty. Threw a pick on the first play to (then-cornreback, now-scout) Brandian Ross for a touchdown the other way (in 2011). So it hasn’t been the greatestof nights for me.” https://www.google.com/amp/s/madison.com/sports/football/professional/a-...
As he put it in 2006, “What a difference a year makes." That was after his second Family night where he completed 11 of 23 passes for 92 yards, with one touchdown and one interception.
It is very easy to forget that it didn’t happen fast and isn’t likely do so for Love. Realism is required: wishful thinking risks putting you in the shoes of those who booed Rodgers during 2008 Family Night. Who admits to that?
PeteK
August 11, 2021 at 03:28 pm
Great job CW with that Rodgers quote. One positive that Love might have is a better rushing attack which might take some pressure off.
jont
August 11, 2021 at 08:46 am
I like your 'show me' part.
We all think Love is a good prospect and know he's young and inexperienced, but there are too many reports of inconsistent play and one day up one day down to give anyone a sound basis for believing he can step in and play well enough to go deep into the playoffs.
A couple good series to start off against the Texans will be very welcome.
Roadrunner23
August 11, 2021 at 09:08 am
Jont
I totally agree, if Love has just a few WOW plays I will be pleased. I just don’t want to see ball security issues, throwing into triple coverage, confusion, pick 6’s like he was prone to in College. SHOW ME is all I ask ;)
murf7777
August 11, 2021 at 09:18 am
ND, your right he was prone to throwing into coverage his Senior year, not so much his Junior. I’m hoping he learned from that year and his time studying the great AR. He is in the best situation to succeed. Keeping my fingers crossed.
LambeauPlain
August 11, 2021 at 02:00 pm
Agree. Rodgers and Love's college stats were fairly even.
Love was drafted as a Junior. His Sophomore season was his best then Utah State cleaned house with new coaching and Love had to also play with a new OL and Receivers.
murf7777
August 11, 2021 at 08:55 am
I know you are not a fan of Love pick. He will probably have growing pains because it is more likely he will. Most QB’s, including HOF’s had them. Just take a look at Rodgers first pre-season stats, they were not good with a QB rating around 53. He then lit it up the next two pre-seasons. It’s a process to become a quality starter. Even the great Peyton Manning sucked his first year as a starter.
Love has all the tangibles to become a quality starting QB, he just needs reps to learn his trade. I’ll be looking at how he reads defenses, the feel for the pocket and whether he looks poised vs his completion percentage. The main thing is I want to see Love progress from week 1 to 3.
Roadrunner23
August 11, 2021 at 09:14 am
Yep Murf, I want to see that too. My problem with Love, if you watch his College film:
1) Consistently throws into double & triple coverage
2) Throws too many pick 6’s
3) Doesn’t “will” his team to victory like the great ones do
4) Doesn’t strike me as a “take charge” leader
5) Tries to scramble but is leggy and ineffective at it
6) Shows no instincts or ability to read a defense
7) He’s just not a winner
If he can magically fix those 7 things, I’m on board ;)
murf7777
August 11, 2021 at 09:33 am
You have some good points and if all you did was watch his Senior film I’d agree with most of your comments. I’ve watched every bit of film I could find and when watching his Junior film when he had better coaching, offensive line and receivers he looked the part. I’m giving him a pass on his Senior year due to what I stated. His situation was a cluster.
His Junior film didn’t show much throwing into triple coverage or too many INT’s. He read defenses and put up seriously good numbers. Regarding being a leader and winner, you must consider where he was playing college ball. Regarding being Leggy, I’m not sure what you mean, but he doesn’t have to be Wilson or Mahommes to be effective.
Time will tell, but I like his potential.
JerseyAl
August 11, 2021 at 10:38 am
Absolutely what opinion you have of Love in college depends on which season you are looking at. His last year, he was trying to do everything himself, mostly out of necessity. That's been the official scouting report on him.
jannesbjornson
August 11, 2021 at 08:34 pm
The Andersen effect can stymie the best.
PeteK
August 11, 2021 at 03:39 pm
If he can leg out 7 TDs like he did his sophomore year, I'll be happy.
TheVOR
August 11, 2021 at 01:20 pm
I had to laugh at the highlights of Love from family night, he’s exactly what his film says he is, which isn’t an NFL caliber QB. Wishing upon magical unicorns that this guy is somehow a bonafide number one is just ridiculous. He has no game, if he did you would see it already. He has nothing to offer this team, especially following up on a Hall of Fame generational type player in Rogers. They did not need to draft him nor did they need to allow Boyle’s to leave. It was a totally ridiculous draft pick where it happened and when it happened. There’s just no logical explanation for why they selected that quarterback in the draft it was a complete blonder By the GM. It’s starting to look more and more like by the time the GM selected the players he wanted were gone and he was pulling a rabbit out of his hat, when it could have and should have been about any other positional player on the team. If this guy comes out in this first game and looks terrible it should put a huge spotlight on exactly what’s going on in Green Bay, and should focus the franchise the GM the players everything upon what needs to happen moving forward. Hint it’s not Jordan Love.
LambeauPlain
August 11, 2021 at 02:06 pm
And Brett Favre was within a hair of being benched after earning the starter's role. Only one O coach wanted to keep him as starter...Mike Holmgren.
At least give Jordan a few real NFL games before you grade and indict him based on a few practice plays.
Coldworld
August 11, 2021 at 02:22 pm
I watched Rodgers first scrimmage. Compare the two and I will take Love as the better QB. Yes, that is a totally ridiculous extrapolation. Needed something to rival your post.
JerseyAl
August 11, 2021 at 02:22 pm
I won't profess (unlike you) to know what Love will or won't be down the road, but to use some family night highlights as confirmation of your opinion (or is it bias), is rather ridiculous. At least wait until after the preseason games to look for reasons to pat yourself on the back.
13TimeChamps
August 11, 2021 at 02:30 pm
"He has no game, if he did you would see it already."
See it from what, a few practices? You do realize he has yet to throw a pass against an NFL opponent, right?
dobber
August 11, 2021 at 02:57 pm
"If this guy comes out in this first game and looks terrible it should put a huge spotlight on exactly what’s going on in Green Bay,"
If this is indicative of all it takes for ya, I'm glad you don't run the Packers....but I think the Bears will be looking for a new front-office staff in January.
jannesbjornson
August 11, 2021 at 08:45 pm
He was the second rated QB after Herbert in the 2020 draft. He will fill in the blank for the new NFL prototype QB.
Stronger arm than Tua; better movement skills and throw on the run than Burrows. He should get his chance in '23 or '24 or be traded for a high pick. Cap means squat as long as Rodgers performs as a MVP type guy.
RCPackerFan
August 11, 2021 at 08:09 am
Jordan Love
This is the Summer of Love. These 3 games could be the deciding factor in what happens in the offseason. Kind of weird to think that what happens in these 3 "meaningless" preseason games could determine our future.
Crowded House
I think they will end up keeping 6 WRs. The first 5 are taken. So who will be the 6th? Funchess, EQ, Taylor, Winfree? I think they will keep 2 more on the PS. But I don't know if EQ or Funchess will be willing to go to the PS. Winfree, Begelton, Thompkins might be. I'm really interested in seeing Winfree this preseason. Another sleeper guy I'm interested in seeing is Thompkins.
Having a look-see
Lets face it, the offense is loaded right now. I saw an article that said the Vikings Don Beebe is pushing for the 3rd WR spot. Just thinking about that, he would be 6th at best in GB. I would not be surprised if they keep looking at DL. Right now, Clark has a groin, Keke has yet to practice. I could see them looking at that position more then others.
TJ Max
Slayton is one of my rookies that I want to see the most. I think he is going to be a key piece on the DL. Early reports have been that he is almost impossible to move.
Three Amigos
Gary is poised for stardom. I do believe Preston is going to have a big bounce back year, and I think Z will do what Z does. This will be a scary front this year I believe. Especially if Stokes or King can lock down that other CB spot.
Meanwhile, Back in Detroit...
Williams is just a ball of energy. I don't know how else to say it. That will be missed in GB.
Moving Ento a Defensive Mindset
Ento has a chance at the 53. It sounds like he has been having a good camp. He has 3 preseason games to show up. Transitioning to a new position in the NFL almost never works out. But once and a while it does. Ento could be the once in a while player.
Fields Day
Fields maybe great his Rookie year. Sometimes players like him can come in and win on their athleticism alone. Remember RG3's rookie year. He will have to have good coaching a long the way to develop. If I'm the Bears, I'm more worried about the coaching then the player. And if Fields does turn out to be great, at least he didn't go to the Vikings.
Guam
August 11, 2021 at 08:32 am
TGR is much better acquainted with these rules than I am, but I don't believe either Funchess or EQ are eligible for the practice squad. If you have too many seasons on the 53 roster, you can't be stashed on the PS.
dobber
August 11, 2021 at 08:38 am
I think there are veterans' exemptions under the CBA for which virtually anyone qualifies.
I'll be waiting by the phone end of the month...
Since'61
August 11, 2021 at 12:30 pm
Dobber good to know that you will be waiting by the phone, just don’t be holding your breath. Stay well. Thanks, Since ‘61
dobber
August 11, 2021 at 02:59 pm
They measure my 40 in geological time...
PeteK
August 11, 2021 at 03:46 pm
Is that a sundial ?
dobber
August 11, 2021 at 04:20 pm
I think they compare to the radioactive decay of relatively stable heavy elements...
Since'61
August 11, 2021 at 04:17 pm
You and me both brother. Thanks, Since ‘61
Coldworld
August 11, 2021 at 10:41 am
These days you can have up to 10 with more than 2 accrued seasons and 6 of those can have more than 4 if memory serves. Funchess is never getting to the PS though.
JerseyAl
August 11, 2021 at 12:26 pm
That last sentence is what we fans say every year about certain players, and yet it happens.
Coldworld
August 11, 2021 at 03:18 pm
Certainly. I think Funchess will be picked up though.
Thegreatreynoldo
August 11, 2021 at 11:04 am
PS now has a bunch of exemptions. Up to six veterans with more than 2 accrued seasons.
More important, the NFL just made it official (assuming this media source is accurate): for 2021 teams can recall an unlimited number of players from IR and they can return from IR after a 3 week hiatus.
I think that gives flexibility for Bakh. Which route GB uses will be a medical decision. PUP means they don't have to expose him to waivers so being unavailable for six weeks is still possible. For IR, he has to take up one of the 53 roster spots for 24 hours and then can be placed on IR, but now just for 3 games.
https://sportsmetro.net/2021/08/11/nfl-memo-reveals-change-to-injured-re...
packer132
August 11, 2021 at 12:45 pm
Teams can stash two players on the practice squad, no matter of their accrued seasons. The other spots do depend on number of games played in the NFL. Taylor, Begelton, and Thompkins would be my thoughts (only two of this group). I see EQ being cut for sure, and Funchess traded or cut.
HawkPacker
August 11, 2021 at 10:45 am
RCP
RE: Crowded House
I have not seen this brought up anywhere on CH TV. What if Randall Cobb has an absolute terrible TC and Winfree, Funchess and maybe a few other, on the fence, WR's have a good camp as well. What does the FO do in this case?
1. Have 7 or 8 Wr's this year?
2. Keep Cobb anyway for obvious reasons (Rodgers)?
3. Cut Cobb as we just can't give up the future with the other young receivers looking so good in TC?
4. Turn it over to GM Rodgers to make the decision?
5. Other?
Thegreatreynoldo
August 11, 2021 at 11:07 am
Cobb is a lock. He looks fine in TC so far. So there is nothing to write about along these lines.
CheesyTex
August 11, 2021 at 12:34 pm
Couldn't Cobb be put on the Practice Squad under current rules?
Seems to me that would be an easy way to protect a roster spot, at least for a few games?
Thegreatreynoldo
August 11, 2021 at 08:17 pm
Yes, Cobb could go on a PS. However, GB would have to release him (and take the $4.175M signing bonus cap charge) and not have a team place a waivers claim. Cobb would play for a $1.45M cap charge for another team. So teams would be lining up to make waiver claims.
It isn't illegal to put Cobb on the PS, but in practice it is an impossible to imagine it might happen.
jannesbjornson
August 11, 2021 at 08:55 pm
Are the Fans eligible for the P squad?
JerseyAl
August 11, 2021 at 12:28 pm
Cobb would have to drop every pass and fumble every ball for him to get cut. And even then, it's not happening.
PeteK
August 11, 2021 at 03:58 pm
Unless he left a huge floater in ARods bathroom. That would definitly get him cut.
jeremyjjbrown
August 11, 2021 at 08:50 am
"basically fighting off six other players just in hopes that the Packers keep six wide receivers."
IDK, $142,000 to practice football for 18 weeks is a pretty good deal too.
Johnblood27
August 11, 2021 at 09:19 am
Making the NFL minimum on another teams 53 is waaaaaay better...
just sayin...
Razer
August 11, 2021 at 08:52 am
Gutekunst is going to have a hell of a time getting down to 53. A rough count of just WR, TE and RB uses up 13 spots. Bringing back Cobb doesn't help but it is the price of peace.
Overall, you gotta be impressed with the talent that Gutekunst and his scouts have brought into the picture. There is depth and talent in almost every position (other than linebacker). Our secondary can't help but be good and I am even starting to believe that we might be building a D-line. The purge after Ted seems to have been needed.
HarryHodag
August 11, 2021 at 08:58 am
I see it's starting already. My biggest fear is Jordan Love will be given the Trubisky-Darnold treatment, i.e., win the Super Bowl Saturday night or you're a bust and everyone should be fired who brought you in.
I turned on Amy Lawrence's show the other night and the first caller I heard was from Green Bay saying Love was bust and Murphy and Gute should be fired. I shut the radio off and went back to sleep.
I want to remind all the Packers "faithful" to go back to the first year Mr. Rodgers started. He fell in the draft because the 'experts' said he had a hitch in his delivery. Favre left and Rodgers was set to start post-Favre. He was hardly awe inspiring but with the proper coaching and patience developed into what he is today.
Show some class and brains and give the kid a chance before finding participants for the firing squad.
dobber
August 11, 2021 at 10:56 am
"Favre left and Rodgers was set to start post-Favre. He was hardly awe inspiring but with the proper coaching and patience developed into what he is today."
Those who have been talking about the Packers taking a serious hit in the win column if ARod departs and Love becomes the starter are probably right...year one. We'll have to see what happens after that....
jannesbjornson
August 11, 2021 at 09:04 pm
Rodgers had a strong year starting in 2008. The defense sucked and was the difference in most losses. Should have been a 10-6 team.
flackcatcher
August 12, 2021 at 12:28 pm
That was a strange year. The number of one score games decided under 2:00 minutes was crazy. What really stood out was Rodgers running the offense and usually scoring running the two-minute drill. That's when we saw the Packers had something special post Farve.
Since'61
August 11, 2021 at 09:08 am
Summer of Love - Be sure to wear a flower in your hair.
Given what is behind the top 5 WRs I might be concerned if I'm MVS. We haven't heard much about him in TC so far. If he is still dropping passes I could see him replaced in the top 5 by either Funchess or Winfree. Winfree may have a good shot since he can play STs as well.
Keep looking for defensive players especially on the DL. There is nothing to lose by bringing in and trying as many guys as possible.
TJ Slaton - hopefully he can become at least a rotational force on our DL and be a help to Kenny Clark.
Three Amigos - I hope to see the Smiths and Gary on the field for the majority of the defensive snaps this season. I've said from the beginning that Gary has the physical tools to become a force for the Packers defense but that the Packers would bring him along slowly. This is the season to let Gary play and to determine if he will in fact become a difference maker for the Packers defense. Go Three Amigos Go!
Back in Detroit - I wish we could have kept Jamaal. I enjoyed watching him play.
Maybe Ento can become our one DB who can actually hold onto an interception since he was once a WR. That would be nice.
Fields Day - even a blind squirrel finds a nut! One way or another the Bears will screw it up.
Great piece as always Al. Be well and keep then coming. Thanks, Since '61
jannesbjornson
August 11, 2021 at 09:05 pm
Speed Kills--MVS stays. Winfree may boot Funchess.
Since'61
August 12, 2021 at 09:41 am
Agree on Winfree especially if he has good hands. Haven't heard much about MVS in TC too far. Maybe no news is good news concerning whether or not he's dropping balls. Thanks, Since '61
murf7777
August 11, 2021 at 09:42 am
Funchess seems to be doing very well in practice. I noticed a comment he’s been catching everything thrown his way. He’s experienced and shown he belongs in the NFL. I expect him to make the team. He’s a matchup nightmare because of his size. Another thought, might they seek a trade for another player or late round draft pick?
Packers0808
August 11, 2021 at 10:18 am
Wonder if Love will be so woeful that he could be ending up the 3rd string QB again or worse yet sent packing some where down the line. First rounders yup I know hang on sometimes longer than they should! As always only time will tell!
JerseyAl
August 11, 2021 at 10:40 am
You must be fun at parties... (I couldn't resist)
ricky
August 11, 2021 at 10:36 am
The Bears are probably the second worst team in the league when it comes to developing a QB. First place has to go to the Jets. Whether they trade for a QB, ala Cutler, or overdraft a guy, like Trubisky (because the GM like his car!), they'll find a way to squander or undermine their QB, so he fails to reach his true potential. History will repeat itself.
jannesbjornson
August 11, 2021 at 09:08 pm
New QB, new merchandising package in Beartown.
stockholder
August 11, 2021 at 11:19 am
Love - We Hope. ? - If he doesn't progress. Then what. - A lot of Questions. Thats what! The Crowded House at WR; only shows you don't have to pay a WR 27 million. Having a look. Why couldn't that have been the case for the DL? Slaton Has moved the pile and already looks better then Adams. Wouldn't have anything to do with size? Baby Love; Supporting Rodgers is the best way to win a super-bowl.
splitpea1
August 11, 2021 at 11:20 am
Stay on the ledge. Maybe not right away, but the rest of the division will not suck in the coming years. Nowhere to go but up for the Lions, nowhere to go but up for the Bears offense, and the Vikings should remain steady depending on how they handle their QB situation. Just speculation at this time, but this division could turn into one of the tougher ones like the NFC West or AFC North.
The true test of Gute will come as he continues to rebuild this roster after this "last dance" period. I'd love to see a Super Bowl-contending Packer team that isn't overly reliant on a MVP-caliber QB--something I've never seen before.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
August 11, 2021 at 12:35 pm
That is why I am optimistic Love is going to be okay. All this irrational fear that he is a bust. The guy has all the talent the Packers need to be successful. Just get him experience!
Personally, and this will be very controversial but I am likely the exception on this following...but Gutey has more value to the success of the Packers than Rodgers. If one had to go it is bye bye Rodgers!
Rodger's has shown he cannot get it done, while Gutey has come in and masterfully has immediately turned the Packers into a perennial powerhouse. Lots of major changes coming in 2022 with the cap, but Gutey has demonstrated repeatedly he can and will find talent anyway he can. This is why Love will be successful. Gutey and LF will surround Love with talent and Love will not have to carry the team. This approach has a much greater chance for continued success.
dobber
August 11, 2021 at 03:13 pm
"That is why I am optimistic Love is going to be okay."
I have more faith in LaF putting together an offense that doesn't require an MVP caliber QB to function than McCarthy. ARod was not much better than NFL average in 2019, and this team won 13 games--that was year 1 of the LaF era. You point to Gute, but I think LaF is the real winner.. This is an evolving beast...we need to enjoy the ride and see where we end up.
"Rodgers has shown he cannot get it done"
...and yet the Packers have mortgaged everything to try to make it work this year, and are banking on other teams believing he can do it with a change of scenery.
CheesyTex
August 11, 2021 at 04:36 pm
And due to the Covid cap reduction and the huge dead cap hit from Rodgers' contract next year, Gute's hands are tied to do much of anything next year beyond letting veterans go and adding low cost players.
Does not bode well for surrounding Love with anywhere near as strong a lineup as Rodgers will have in 2021.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
August 12, 2021 at 03:28 pm
Dobber,
I don't underestimate LF one bit! I think the Packers are very fortunate to have him. No doubt, he is growing into the job. While most will say Murphy was instrumental in selecting LF I got to believe Gutey had input.
One of the things I am most excited about going forward is the LF and Gutey combination. They appear to work well together without major egos. This combination is going to be a winning combination for years to come IMHO!
CoachDino
August 13, 2021 at 05:25 pm
I think you're both right and both are required to succeed at the highest levels. AR turned around in ML new scheme, which to your point is much less QB centric than MM and many other schemes. AR will need to land on a team with similar scheme as IMO and from previous ,most recent performance, ARs days of being a one man, shotgun, 70% pass, improvise QB are over, not to say he can't give you a few a game but much more than that and no play action/run game commitment he pluments back to avg/good. Its not his fault unless you blame age as his fault, it happens to everyone.
And Gutey was masterful in how quickly and effectively he rebuilt this roster hitting from all angles.
Draft/Big Name FA/UDFA/ short term problem stopgap FA solutions (velander, wagner amongst others...)
BradHTX
August 11, 2021 at 01:35 pm
“No where to go but up for…”
Actually, that’s not true. There is definitely the possibility (or even likelihood) of simply staying lousy.
Both the Lions and the Bears have shown a remarkable aptitude for crappiness (dare I say, “craptitude”?) over the years. Regression to the mean is definitely a thing statistically on a micro level like, say, Fackrell’s 10.5 sack season, but when it comes to the macro view, like how to run a team, it doesn’t exist because there aren’t enough random elements at play. If it did, the Lions, Bengals, etc., wouldn’t be perpetual doormats and the Patriots wouldn’t have been the behemoth they were for two decades.
The smart money is always betting on a trend until the trend reverses itself. My money is on a 1. Packers, 2. Vikings, 3. Bears, 4. Lions NFC North 2021 finish.
Also, your avatar pic is really… something!
PeteK
August 11, 2021 at 04:23 pm
His avatar reminds me of the songs "In every dream home a heartache" Roxy and" Ms pinky" Zappa. LOL
fastmoving
August 11, 2021 at 11:46 am
ADAMS
MVS
RODGERS
EQ
WINFREE
COBB/FUNCHNESS
Coldworld
August 11, 2021 at 11:59 am
Lose EQ and you are close in my view.
PatrickGB
August 11, 2021 at 12:06 pm
Fast, If (and probably when)EQ gets hurt then he is gone. Or if he sucks at ST’s then he is gone. Otherwise that’s a decent list.
Razer
August 11, 2021 at 12:08 pm
Lazard has proven himself repeatedly and consistently. It would be a shame to let him walk out the door especially with Cobb and Adams potentially not sticking around after this year.
Roadrunner23
August 11, 2021 at 12:10 pm
No Lazard?
Dude has been $$ and he’s on a CHEAP contract?
Might want to rethink that one
packer132
August 11, 2021 at 12:57 pm
Where is Lazard? EQ will be cut, and Winfree probably on practice squad.
davekenya
August 11, 2021 at 11:56 am
This is not related to the article or comments...but something I picked up that I didn't know was that....
The 2020 Packers posted the highest TD % rate in the red zone (77%) and one of the (if not the) highest % since it was recorded.
AR12's numbers were sick:
35 TDs; 0 picks
CMP% inside the 20: 72% (next highest was Lamar Jackson at 67%)
CMP% inside the 10: 81% (next highest was Drew Brees at 74%)
JerseyAl
August 11, 2021 at 02:07 pm
You need to save this for the "Packers didn't give Rodgers any weapons" crowd.
PeteK
August 11, 2021 at 04:30 pm
Makes the championship game even more of an anomaly.
CoachDino
August 11, 2021 at 08:16 pm
Perspective - since the year 2000
4 out of the last 60 1st rd QB draft picks have EVER won a SB
Only 20% 1 out of 5 turned out good or better for a sustained career
Just 15% more turned out serviceable
Thats means 65% of the last 60 QB taken in the 1st rd flop
Jordan Loves is actually in the bottom 5% range of where in the 1st rd they were taken.
Conclusion
Love was a steal at 26
Odds are he won't even have a serviceable QB career
Teams will normally miss at least 5 times at QB before finding a good one.
Its why if you a Star QB you keep them until they decline or are no longer affordable.
jannesbjornson
August 11, 2021 at 09:12 pm
You keep them, period.
CoachDino
August 12, 2021 at 01:12 am
I hear ya but tell that to Atlanta, Pittsburgh, Minn, Rams, Chargers, NO now Dallas. Seattle to a point. Giants, Philly its a long list of QBs who dropped off at the end while still under elite contracts and the team plummeted.
Unfortunately AR will price himself out of GB. Why keep him and have a depleted roster that can't get him close enough to make a difference. If winning a SB is the goal neither option is favorable.
I'd like to keep him because he is so much better than Love at this point and most likely for a few years after this year as well. but then add in the age factor and the fact that other than Moon and Brady NO QB has excelled after the age of 40. He will be going on 40 after next year looking for a 4 year contract at Top dollar. He has shown no signs of being like TB and giving discounts. Heck, you don't think he knows that if he gets the contract he wants under the Packers current cap situation that the team will fade. He wants out and most likely the packers will have some rough years while he has another couple of good ones.
IMO, he needs to make sure he finds the right scheme, he was fading under MM spread it out, pass happy scheme. AR's resurgence came in with the new scheme that focuses on run first, quick release. No longer the AR scramble and find guys.
Do you think if the packers didn't draft Love they could still afford to pay a 40yo what he wants and field a SB contender under their current cap situation? They went all in and there is a price to pay and it looks to be the price of letting the QB go a year or two earlier than prime.
Coldworld
August 12, 2021 at 09:16 am
Agreed. The problem is knowing when the drop off will occur and at what point the balance between contract and benefit inverts. That can be a slow decline or, if injury plays a role as it often does, a brutally swift one. Crystal ball anyone?
Buckywunder
August 11, 2021 at 10:15 pm
Hahahaha.
Seriously, Al. When’s the last time there was a QB from tOSU that *mattered*?
Justin Fields is going to wash out — just like all the rest of them. He played with more talent at OL, RB and WR than in the history of UW. And he didn’t do squat.
I don’t care how much “he wants it.” He ain’t getting it…