Confessions of a Polluted Mindset - The First Cut is the Deepest
The Weekly Packers Brain Drain from Jersey Al.
By JerseyAl
Roster Cut Day is a day that we fans wait for anxiously and get all excited about. We study the preseason roster and make our predictions and rejoice when we're right about a player being released. It's pretty selfish isn't it? We're thrilled because we were right about something. And I'm as guilty as anyone. But remember, someone has just lost their job and livelihood - and not just any job. It's something they've likely been working toward for a decade or more. Giving their all, enduring the pain and hard lessons. These players are willing to go through almost anything to reach their goal of getting on to an NFL roster. Oh to be one of the only 1696 people on earth to have achieved this goal on this day! But just like that, it can all be taken away from them. So have some compassion for these guys. Don’t rejoice that a player you didn’t think was any good got cut. Just understand what they all go through and wish them well.
The first potential Green Bay Packer we heard about that had that dream taken away for them (at least for now) was Samori Toure. Here is a player that is very likely deserving of being on an NFL roster. But on the Packers, he had the misfortune of being WR 8 in the deepest position group on the team. Toure was the "First Cut FROM the Deepest" group on the team. NFL competition can be downright brutal. I hope he catches on somewhere else.
Here are some of my surprises and expected moves from yesterday
SURPRISES:
Anders Carlson - this shouldn't be a surprise, but I guess I was just blind hoping he would get it together and keep improving with more time. Greg Joseph instills no confidence in me, other than when he makes a kick, it's usually more centered than Carlson's kicks are. I expect the Packers to bring some more kickers in for workouts and Joseph's days could be numbered.
Anthony Johnson Jr. - I really though he was coming along nicely and that Hafley's scheme would be good for him, but yes, the Safety room is now loaded. I was correct about Zayne Anderson making the team, but so did Oladapo, which we saw very little of in camp and preseason. I suppose they think Oladapo he has more upside.
Kristian Welch cut plus Brenton Cox Jr AND Arron Mosby both making the team. I was convinced one of either Mosby or Kristian Welch would make it, put picked the wrong horse in my predictions. I did not consider the possibility that both Cox and Mosby could be rostered, so I opted for Welch in and Ballentine out.
Kalen King - A mild surprise. I wasn't that impressed but he was a draft pick and we know the Packers will give them preferential treatment in year one.
AS EXPECTED:
I correctly had assumed AJ Dillon would go on IR as I mentioned in my roster predictions, due to the Packers "getting second opinions" on his injury. I did not, expect him to be on final IR and out for the season.
Zayne Anderson making the team surprised a lot of people, but not this guy. He's a as a special teams ACE the Packers dearly need.
Malik Heath - I was all over this one. I just felt he offered more overall at this time than Grant DuBose. Malik does everything well.he's assignment sure, runs good routes, find open spots in the zone, catches and secures the ball, blocks with nastiness. He's a gamer.
Royce Newman's time with the team has ended. In the spirit of my first paragraph, I'll just wish him well and hope he catches on with another team. I thought that would be enough.
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"Jersey Al" Bracco is the Editor-In-Chief, part owner and wearer of various hats for CheeseheadTV.com and PackersTalk.com. He's a lifetime Packers fan living in the land of the Giants (and Jets). Follow Al on twitter at @JerseyalGBP.
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Comments (92)
PackEyedOptimist
August 28, 2024 at 06:29 am
I agree with everything you said, Al.
I expect the Packers to shop Brenton Cox around this week. I don't think they go into game one with six DEs on the 53, and Cox isn't a ST guy.
I remain a big DuBose fan; I hope he goes to our PS, but Heath did enough to beat him. I think Toure really hurt himself his first year, when Rodgers pointed out his lackadaisical efforts; it's hard to overcome first impressions.
I'm not sure what Zayne Anderson does so much better on STs than Welch/King/Johnson Jr. etc. but I trust the coaches and Gute to have good reasons.
Finally, after watching more tape, I am PUMPED about Willis. He honestly looks a LOT like Jordan Love in his recent play--he looked fantastic against the Patriots in the final preseason game. He wasn't eyeballing receivers, he looked good in the pocket, and he had great ball placement. I think he was a STEAL for a 7th rounder!
GregC
August 28, 2024 at 07:00 am
I looked at TGR's snap counts for the preseason games, and Cox got 4 special teams snaps in the first game (Mosby had 8), 9 in the second game (Mosby had 12), and 7 in the third game (Mosby had 6). So they are at least trying Cox on special teams. I'm not sure how good he is. Cox and Mosby are virtually the same weight and height. I think Mosby has a lot more special teams experience though.
I don't remember Aaron Rodgers singling out Samori Toure for criticism, but that's not hard to believe. I remember him ripping on all of the rookie wide receivers while praising Sammy Watkins. I'm so glad those days are over. Anyway, Toure had plenty of time to move past that, but he just wasn't as good as seven other receivers on the preseason roster.
I hope you are right about Willis. His physical talent is intriguing.
dobber
August 28, 2024 at 07:23 am
You beat me to this one Greg. Both Cox and Mosby have been active in STs, and I think they saw with the shift to an even front that as the best way to the 53 in GB (and elsewhere if they got cut). I wouldn't be surprised if the new KO rules tend to favor beefier players who can get off blocks over speedier guys.
Thegreatreynoldo
August 28, 2024 at 06:05 pm
I thought the best player not to make the 53 was Rochell. And he is supposed to be very good on STs. I wonder if they preferred the beefier safety, Anderson, over Rochell.
WestCoastPackerBacker
August 28, 2024 at 11:28 am
I'd like to see examples of "ripping" on the rookies and "praising" Sammy Watkins. My memory is different. I remember Rodgers saying Watkins was getting a chance and could make the most of it. I remember him needing the rookies to know the playbook and know the routes. But what came out of that? Despite Watson being injured in training camp and a chunk of the season, he scored more TDs than any WR in his class. And Doubs was hurt a bunch too and still had a decent rookie year for a 4th round pick.
I did't remember Rodger's comments on Toure, but his demand for professionalism is a good thing, not a bad thing. That group didn't have a Davante Adams to show them how to practice and prepare.
Aaron Rodgers on Samori Toure - “I nicknamed him ‘captain casual’ in training camp as a way to maybe encourage him to start practicing with a different type of tempo, practicing like a pro.” “His practice habits really picked up and I’ve been impressed with him.”"
barutanseijin
August 28, 2024 at 12:49 pm
Mr Professional over there with the passive aggressive stares and the “stupid, fucking calls.”
GregC
August 28, 2024 at 05:51 pm
You have a selective memory. It's not hard to find this stuff with a google search. Try this: "Aaron Rodgers rips young receivers, praises Sammy Watkins." That's the title of an article on acmepackingcompany.
Leatherhead
August 28, 2024 at 05:55 pm
I absolutely recall Rodgers complaining about young WRs. Even more clearly, I recall him not throwing to guys he didn't "trust", even if the HC trusted him enough to put him on the field. There was much debate about "trust" on the fan websites.
murf7777
August 28, 2024 at 07:50 am
When active Cox did play ST’s.
Guam
August 28, 2024 at 06:30 am
Kalen King was a surprise for me as I thought he had a good camp. I do remember watching him on Family Night though and thought he lacked makeup speed which is a dangerous shortcoming for an NFL CB. I wonder if that is what cost him a spot on the 53 or if it was something else.
I am waiting for the other shoe to drop on Telfort or Glover or both. There have got to be better OTs available.
dobber
August 28, 2024 at 07:28 am
I was a little surprised on King, but I think the numbers in front of him were the issue. The ability of guys like McKinney and Bullard to walk down and cover the slot limited the need for the extra CBs, too. I think he makes this team most years...just not this year. I think he probably makes it to the PS.
"I am waiting for the other shoe to drop on Telfort or Glover or both."
I really liked Glover the draft pick but like many have been underwhelmed by what he's shown in games (although I think he graded well by PFF v. Balt). I was somewhat surprised to see him make the 53, but maybe it illustrates the weakness at OT now and going forward and their desire to take a chance on a guy with some upside.
Guam
August 28, 2024 at 08:37 am
Gute seems to be willing to give his projects (Jones and Tenuta as examples) three training camps to develop and then moves on if they don't. Telfort is in his second year and Glover his first so maybe they can develop into NFL grade players. My concern is Dillard is the only swing tackle in the reserves and he has not looked good at RT. If Telfort or Glover have to step in this season for Tom, I will be concerned for Love's well being.
I would rather Gute find a good veteran backup RT and push either Telfort or Glover to the PS. A year on the PS would not hurt either one of them.
dobber
August 28, 2024 at 08:46 am
"If Telfort or Glover have to step in this season for Tom, I will be concerned for Love's well being."
I tend to agree with the sentiment that the IOL depth is better than the OT depth, and on game day, that replacement might be Jenkins. That said, a lot of TE help might be in the offing for a Telfort or Glover.
TheKanataThrilla
August 28, 2024 at 09:25 am
My guess is if something happened at either RT or LT, the first response would be to have Jenkins or Morgan kick out and play Tackle and have Monk or Rhyan play the vacated guard position. The challenge would be if 2 Tackles went down.
dblbogey
August 28, 2024 at 11:38 am
" I would rather Gute find a good veteran backup RT" - And so would 31 other teams. There are no good veteran backup tackles available - teams keep their competent tackles, there's not enough of them.
Bitternotsour
August 28, 2024 at 12:25 pm
Wait, I was told we could go to the back-up tackle store to stock up
LambeauPlain
August 28, 2024 at 10:50 am
Glover played most of the game ok on Saturday. I believe the rookie showed enough progress up the NFL learning curve to get the nod over Tenuta and Jones.
Telfort was a bit of a surprise and I believe he is the first out if another T is signed this week.
Depth at T still needs shoring up.
Cheezehead72
August 28, 2024 at 06:34 am
Al they tell me that no one is perfect but I try to ignore it.
I was right that the Gute would cut both Clifford and Pratt but I did not predict that they would trade for Willis. Ok Willis is not much of an upgrade but we gave up only a 7th to see what he can do. I really hope that they sign Pratt to the practice squad. Yes I am on the record saying that it appears this crew never gave McGough a chance. All I can say is that they must think McGough is not fit to be an NFL QB. I believe from what I have seen he is better than Willis. Gute he is still out there.
I was surprised that they went with Joseph over Carlson but I agree with Al I hope they find a better kicker.
I was a little surprised at Welch being released but Mosby really showed up in the last game.
I was right about Toure. He is an average WR. I believe they did him a favor by listing him early as a release as this way other teams could evaluate his tape to see if they want to pick him up.
dobber
August 28, 2024 at 07:31 am
I think it's possible they put guys like Toure and Jones on the list early to attract attention away from other cuts. I realize that's a naive mindset because pro evaluators aren't going to be so easily distracted...but it makes it seem more logical. Otherwise you'd expect they come out at the end of the list as the more NFL capable players.
TKWorldWide
August 28, 2024 at 07:36 am
I hope you know that this will go down on your permanent record.
(Thanks, Gordon.)
dobber
August 28, 2024 at 07:42 am
Well, don't get so distressed.
TKWorldWide
August 28, 2024 at 08:40 am
Did I happen to mention that I’m impressed?
Savage57
August 28, 2024 at 06:39 am
I've worked with about a half-dozen ex-NFL'ers (commercial real estate draws ex-footballers like shit draws flies), a couple who had decent runs in the league and the rest fringe roster players who were depth and special teams guys.
To a man, they all said having to give up on a dream they've been chasing since childhood was the toughest ask.
Seeing them in the workplace, where everything isn't provided for you, no one's attending to all your needs was kind of sad as well.
Some adjusted, some were lost and I wondered after they left what happened to them.
dobber
August 28, 2024 at 07:33 am
"To a man, they all said having to give up on a dream they've been chasing since childhood was the toughest ask."
We see it all the time and, frankly, rely on it in college recruiting. Admissions and enrollment lean hard on athletes and activities because many of these kids--and just as much, their parents--can't envision a life where they aren't doing their sport or activity. Come to our college where you can spend tons of money on tuition AND make your academics harder by putting in huge numbers of hours in practice, weights, and film time to be a benchwarmer on one of our sports teams.
I say this, and I'm actually a believer in the co-curricular value of college athletics.
Guam
August 28, 2024 at 08:58 am
"I say this, and I'm actually a believer in the co-curricular value of college athletics."
I am having a harder and harder time reconciling what is going on in major D1 college sports with the goals and objectives of academic institutions. While I share your belief that competition and sport are important parts of developing young human beings, I am not at all convinced the "professionalization" major college sports is an asset to the collegiate experience. I am not opposed to young athletes sharing in the revenue from big time college sports, but the current system of playing for the highest bidder on an annual basis just seems to reinforce the wrongs values in young people.
The next few years are going to be very interesting in college sports.
Bitternotsour
August 28, 2024 at 09:26 am
The only change in college sports in the last 20 years is that the talent, the product, is finally being paid for their efforts.
30 years ago college coaches were being paid more than college presidents. 50 years ago alumni booster groups were providing automobiles and no-show jobs to athletes. College athletic departments created curriculum that fast tracked kids who could barely read to college degrees. The only difference today is that the athlete is no longer tied to the plantation for 4 years, and his overseer is now his management team.
40 years ago I had a student athlete show up 3 times in the course of a semester to my class. I flunked him. The athletic director came to our department head and cried that the F prevented the kid from being part of a preseason European baseball tour and would impact his getting drafted (he did get drafted, by the Mets) - The Dept head overruled the F and moved him to a D.
LambeauPlain
August 28, 2024 at 11:05 am
You aren't implying "grade inflation" for below average college student athletes is no longer happening, are you? I am sure it is.
But the pampering of college athletes is being supplanted by the chaos of the current system. The portals and payments is making a mess out of college sports. It has to change.
Coach Hafley indicted this system that left him so disillusioned with it.
Bitternotsour
August 28, 2024 at 12:24 pm
I'm implying that college athletics have nothing to do with education. Nothing. They are a part of the sports entertainment complex. The playthings of the Phil Knights of the world. That today's system is making it harder for the Boston Colleges of the world, well, they could just write off the athletic department and get to the business of learning, I suppose.
I'm glad those kids are getting paid for their labor. It's about time.
Leatherhead
August 28, 2024 at 11:25 am
I've passed kids who didn't deserve it for a variety of reasons, including athletics. It doesn't bother me. As I pointed out to one parent, who wanted their son's grade changed, changing his grade doesn't make him prepared for class, doesn't help him with his homework, doesn't improve his study skills, and really doesn't make him any smarter. They thought about that for a few seconds and then said, "Leave the grade the way it is"
On the other hand, I would never want to get in the way of somebody's happiness. I had a 6'7" 7th grader one year, and it was clear his future was basketball (he ended up being a pro), so I'm not going to bust his chops because he isn't interested in the rock cycle.
Tundraboy
August 28, 2024 at 07:38 am
Staubach was the most successful I would venture to say.
Savage57
August 28, 2024 at 08:08 am
To the tune of $600M when JLL bought him out.
GregC
August 28, 2024 at 06:40 am
Lots of draft picks got cut yesterday: A.J. Dillon, Royce Newman, Samori Toure, Anders Carlson, Anthony Johnson, Grant DuBose, Sean Clifford, Michael Pratt, and Kalen King, Mostly 7th rounders, but still, being a draft pick did not seem to be a tie-breaker, as it has in the past. Jonathan Ford (7th round pick) went to IR designated to return, which was interesting considering that they already have five DTs. They want to keep him around.
Good call on Zayne Anderson, I did not think he would make it.
dobber
August 28, 2024 at 07:40 am
"Jonathan Ford (7th round pick) went to IR designated to return"
One of the writers here (or maybe it was Vic Ketchman) used to say that DTs and NTs can be made as much as they are drafted. Ford has gotten better each year, but at this point is stymied by Slaton in front of him on the depth chart...who is in a contract year. Clearly the Packers think he might get picked up and they like his possible value even if they haven't used him the last two years.
I come back to the fact that Gute doesn't let late-round draft status determine his roster for the most part. The Packers have been flush with picks the last couple years and some of those late-round dart throws have turned up well (Walker, Valentine, as examples).
Keep the guys who fit your plan and make you better.
Cut the rest and try to make your PS signings.
Don't look back.
NickPerry
August 28, 2024 at 06:55 am
I'm not sure if there's a better option out there for a kicker than Joseph but I'm pretty sure Carlson wasn't. When the kicker who kicks for your team causes you to sweat, pace, and close your eyes with EVERY FG attempt or extra point attempt, he's definitely NOT your guy. Carlson made me feel much like Mason Crosby did in 2012.
I don't feel great about Joseph, at least not right now, but I do feel better it's not Andres. One Kicker who was cut was Riley Patterson. He was just cut by Washington. He's 59 out of 67 for his career in FG attempts (88.1%) and 93 out of 97 on PAT's. Well it's not horrible...
Good luck to all our former Packers and thank you for your time in Green Bay. 9 Days to Kickoff in Brazil and I can't wait!
Go Pack Go!
Cheezehead72
August 28, 2024 at 07:13 am
I stick with Crosby being better even though he might have lost some strength, which is not needed for the new kickoffs, he provides us with a clutch kicker that we can depend on.
At least get his agent on the phone and see what it will take. The one issue is they went with Joseph who counts more on the salary cap so that gives us less money to sign a good kicker.
Tundraboy
August 28, 2024 at 07:41 am
Perfect way to sum up Carlson NP. When you have to say a prayer every time he's on the field he's not the one.
dobber
August 28, 2024 at 07:47 am
It seems like the Packers are opting for the PATs and gimmes in Joseph over the leg, but shanky tendencies, of Carlson. As more teams go for 4th downs and 2 point conversions, kickers have become more interchangeable and most teams now roster one on their PS as the season goes on. It seems that a lot of teams are auditioning kickers throughout the season.
Patterson has been a FA for about a week. Nobody has jumped, in part--I think--because teams are waiting to see what else comes available. He's been knocked as not being a big-leg guy, but he seems to have been OK on long-range accuracy in the NFL.
Starrbrite
August 28, 2024 at 10:12 am
I like the idea on Riley.
T7Steve
August 28, 2024 at 07:06 am
Al, "Royce Newman's time with the team has ended. In the spirit of my first paragraph, I'll just wish him well and hope he catches on with another team. I thought that would be enough."
Starter on the Bears or Vikings, opening day.
dobber
August 28, 2024 at 07:51 am
Someone will claim him. He's a young, cheap guy with starting experience at multiple line positions. He'll be a 7th OL on some teams. Just not in GB.
stockholder
August 28, 2024 at 07:21 am
The cuts showed us; Gute's warped perspective.
He takes away two drafted QBs.
He takes away the drafted Kicker.
He over-loads us with slow OLBs.
And uses a revolving door to suck the
Loyalty and commitment from the roster.
The rebuild will continue.
And it's obvious with Gute.
The past is the past.
Spending money will be priority one.
Cheezehead72
August 28, 2024 at 07:30 am
Other than Dillon who is gone due to an injury and may not play again all of the players drafted by Gute were 7th rounders except for Clifford who was a 5th. Do you realize the chances of a 7th rounder making a team? I would have a better chance with my four four 40.
So he missed on one which he drafted way too early.
Let's see how many of these are back on the PS. I bet almost all except for Clifford will be on the PS unless they are picked up by another team which means Gute might have been right to draft that player.
Tundraboy
August 28, 2024 at 07:42 am
Oh brother, season hasn't even started yet!
dobber
August 28, 2024 at 08:02 am
He's gotta shake off the rust for when the games count.
It's like election ads, though--there's never really an off-season anymore.
LeotisHarris
August 28, 2024 at 08:38 am
You know he's loosening up when he busts out the semicolon.
dobber
August 28, 2024 at 08:49 am
The placement was only a 7th round value.
PeteK
August 28, 2024 at 09:56 am
Ha ha ha!!
packer132
August 28, 2024 at 07:45 am
Gute just showed why he is one of the best GM's in the NFL. He is willing to give up on 7th rounders who have a slim chance to make a team when drafted. He is trying to find the best players for the Green Bay Packers to beat the Eagles in week #1. What would you do if you are not satisfied with the play of your players after training camp and preseason? Keep them and hope they turn into good players? Warped perspective? Look in the mirror.
dobber
August 28, 2024 at 07:58 am
All GMs have their projects...the Packers let a couple OL projects go--Tenuta, Jones...it's good roster management.
As you said, the Packers have made a crap-ton of 3rd day picks over the last couple years--dart throws. Some make the team. Others don't. The Packers have made 36 picks over the last 3 drafts--36! Of those 36, the four 1st rounders are still with the team and the 9 2nd day picks are still rostered. All their 4th round picks are still around!
That leaves 23 picks on day 3...14 are still with the team...4 are 4th rounders (to recognize that I'm sort of double counting). Several are likely to be retained on the PS. Remember how people were lamenting the fact that "there's not room for <X many> draft picks on the roster" the last couple years? This is what happens. Still, the players secured with high-end draft capital are still with the team.
JerseyAl
August 28, 2024 at 08:20 am
You never pass up an opportunity to give us your own "warped perspective."
dobber
August 28, 2024 at 08:28 am
It's taking a toll on my "loyalty and commitment".
But then...I'm all about the money.
PeteK
August 28, 2024 at 09:59 am
I think he's a Cheesehead plant, nobody gets more attention. LOl
stockholder
August 28, 2024 at 12:27 pm
Opportunity - OK- Thank You.
Warped - No way.
Since 2010 Al.
The team made the playoffs last year-
So chemistry had nothing to with that?
Gute's New Roster Version every year.
Has us relying on his every draft move.
And when they fail. The ax comes out.
He's been working on the back 7 since he became GM.
Sorry but TT must be rolling over in his grave.
This isn't Due diligence!
tonyorth
August 28, 2024 at 08:47 am
A wiseman here awhile back reminded me that feeding the trolls is ill-advised.
I don't even bother keeping Stocksmolders's receipts anymore.
(yawn)
dobber
August 28, 2024 at 08:50 am
Cookie for the yawn!
dblbogey
August 28, 2024 at 11:43 am
Blah blah. Blah blah blah.
dobber
August 28, 2024 at 12:28 pm
<in best cheesy Transylvanian accent>
He does not say "Blah-blah, Blah-blah-blah!"
jannesbjornson
August 28, 2024 at 03:08 pm
DEs, not OLBs. Hafley is running a 4-2 hybrid attack, not a 3-4 scheme. Mosby has 4.7 speed off the edge.
I have high hopes for Hopper to go inside/out. Cooper was one of the best gap blitzers in college ball. They are a faster defense now. Clifford is now on the PS. My creed has always been you earn respect, but pay for loyalty.
stockholder
August 28, 2024 at 03:52 pm
Yes jb -They would be considered DEs per depth charts.
But don't be surprised if they don't go 4-3 .
Especially since P. Smith is still with the pack.
Bitternotsour
August 28, 2024 at 03:56 pm
Preston Smith is a large man. He is above any other on the team a true hybrid. He played with his hand in the dirt often, why would you think he's going to be something other than what they say he's going to be? Same with the defense, believe them.
stockholder
August 28, 2024 at 04:01 pm
Because he played OLB for Wash.
Keep Aaron Kampman in mind.
If you remember Kampman, he dropped back.
;;
Bitternotsour
August 28, 2024 at 07:14 pm
He played on the line in Washington too, i was surprised that they signed him because he was more of a defensive end in Washington with that scheme.
jannesbjornson
August 28, 2024 at 08:54 pm
P.Smith was a 4-3, DE with the Washington team when he entered the League out of Mississippi State. I would expect Hafley to be multiple going from 4-3 to 5-2 looks, maybe 4-4 stacks. It all depends if the Players have the ability to grasp a diversified game plan. I still believe they need another perimeter CB. See if he can make a deal. If not now, hopefully by the trade deadline. If Jaire goes down for any amount of time, they will be stuck in zone looks.
RCPackerFan
August 28, 2024 at 08:06 am
While most of us never want anyone to lose their jobs and I personally have no ill will towards any player, it is a part of the business. When a player/coach signs up to be in this league they are signing up to be fired eventually. There are very, very few players/coaches that are never fired. When they are let go, I do wish them the best.
For me its purely about what is going to make the team the best. Now I have to say that I do have favorites that I want to make it. But I want what is best for the team.
SURPRISES:
Anders Carlson -
When he hit the 54 yarder I thought he won the job. The last week in camp he was very good. He was i believe 9 of 10, and Joseph really struggled. I just wish he would have hit the 32 yarder and we would be done. I agree that Joseph doesn't instill confidence. I would not be surprised if we have a new kicker today.
Anthony Johnson Jr. -
This was probably my biggest surprise. I get that the room is loaded, I just felt he was one of the best 5. Hopefully they can get him on the PS.
Kristian Welch cut plus Brenton Cox Jr AND Arron Mosby both making the team. -
I felt Welch made the 53. He couldn't do more. He was that good. I think Mosby's last game put him on the 53. Also i think that its a premium position.
Kalen King - A mild surprise.
I wasn't overly surprised but it was a surprise to me that they didn't keep him. I thought he played well enough to make the 53, but was going to take time to develop.
AS EXPECTED:
Malik Heath -
I think Heath stepped up at the end of the preseason where I thought DuBose leveled off a bit.
Royce Newman's time with the team has ended. -
I will just say, I wish he could have played at least to the level that he played at his rookie year. He played at least to an average level that year. Since then it has been below average at best.
dobber
August 28, 2024 at 08:32 am
"Anders Carlson -"
I think it was really a crap shoot between the two, and I'm a little surprised they didn't cut them both to use the roster spot on someone else. As you say, I think Joseph is just keeping the seat warm for someone else.
"Malik Heath -"
In the end, I think they both fit similar roles in the offense, and Heath has the track record. DuBose flashed a little, but you wonder if maybe they were guarding him against Baltimore so they could push him to the PS. Whatever the case, they're flush at WR with young guys they like...they're going to bleed talent from that position the next couple years. If I'm DuBose, I might be looking for a PS opportunity elsewhere.
RCPackerFan
August 28, 2024 at 08:52 am
"nders Carlson -
I don't know if they have anyone they like that got cut. But one guy that I saw got cut, that I'm curious about is Rhyland. If they liked him in the draft process a year ago, perhaps they would try bringing him onto their PS.
"Malik Heath -"
I agree that they fit similar roles. I knew they weren't going to keep 7 but they could have. I would not be surprised if DuBose would get claimed honestly. I hope not because I want him to stay in GB. but i could see it happening.
LambeauPlain
August 28, 2024 at 11:14 am
Regarding DuBose: "you wonder if maybe they were guarding him against Baltimore so they could push him to the PS."
I like DuBose, Dobber...but he played himself off the 53 during the games in Denver and on Saturday.
He played most of the game vs the Ravens and did not catch a pass...but surprisingly blocked poorly. This was even more surprising because he had a strong practice last Thursday against the Ravens 1st and 2nd string Ds. Go figure.
mrtundra
August 28, 2024 at 08:34 am
My biggest surprises were Kalen King, Anthony Johnson, Jr , Michael Pratt and Kristian Welch getting cut/released. Now, to figure out who will fill those 16 PS spots. DuBose and Pratt, for sure.Maybe King and Welch? Where does Anthony Johnson, Jr fit in?
Swisch
August 28, 2024 at 08:42 am
It seems obvious that the Packers in the future should hold joint practices with great celebration in Lambeau Field on Saturday nights before wildly cheering fans in attendance plus a huge television audience.
Meanwhile, the preseason games can be scheduled for Thursday afternoons and reluctantly played in obscurity on an open field somewhere. Let the scrubs fight it out for survival while drawing up plays in the dirt, more like a rugby match.
tonyorth
August 28, 2024 at 08:49 am
I would expect Dubose, Welch, Pratt or Clifford, AJ Jr, K
King, and maybe even Toure on the PS if none get claimed.
TheKanataThrilla
August 28, 2024 at 09:35 am
I would have to think that Toure might be looking elsewhere. I can see him on a NFL roster, but unfortunately he was WR8 in Green Bay and has already spent 2 years in the system. I can seem him looking to a team like KC and their practice squad where he would have a legit shot at being called up and some playing time this year.
Swisch
August 28, 2024 at 02:01 pm
As I understand it, Toure is with the Bears, while DuBose is somewhere around WR5 with the Dolphins.
Zapato
August 28, 2024 at 09:39 am
Thanks for the good words on all these young guys and the effort they put forth toward making an NFL roster. They all deserve our respect!
I just think Gute is still shopping Cox and/or Mosby around. This isn't done yet! If one of them is traded, perhaps King or Welch come back.
This roster doesn't look like the Packers building for the future as much as it does a commitment to winning it all this year. I think they valued experience over potential upside, at least in the cases of Kalen King and Anders Carlson. Even Grant Dubose has an argument for the greater potential. It would be nice to see all three on the practice squad.
ricky
August 28, 2024 at 10:10 am
The release of Royce Newman was not a surprise. But what disturbed me was the reaction of some Packers websites. There were some out there who were absolutely giddy with delight that Newman had been cut. But as noted, the guy gave it his all. Unfortunately, he just wasn't an NFL caliber player. So, the Packers did the right thing by replacing him. But to actually cheer and gloat is in bad taste. I also wish him the best, though it would seem his NFL career has come to an end.
Starrbrite
August 28, 2024 at 10:19 am
I was mostly right; wrong on Welch; would’ve kept him.
I was 50/50 on Carlson, but leaned his direction because we drafted him.
I have an extremely good feeling about the Packers vs Eagles.
Go get’em Packers!!!
Swisch
August 28, 2024 at 10:29 am
I wonder how much A.J. Dillon's injury has hindered his explosiveness on running plays to get those tough yards, and for how long?
Swisch
August 28, 2024 at 12:52 pm
It's a question.
How can anyone downvote a question?
stockholder
August 28, 2024 at 01:07 pm
Because he never should have been drafted.
And he should have never been resigned with that stinger issue.
Swisch
August 28, 2024 at 02:22 pm
Well, at least stockholder offered a reason or two.
It's much appreciated -- although the reasons by stockholder seemingly wouldn't explain the downvotes.
***
Perhaps along with a thumbs up and a thumbs down, there should be an option for a middle finger.
Perhaps a couple of petty fans or more hiding in the shadows would use that option for me just about every time.
***
My question above seems really relevant because perhaps Dillon has been being evaluated without a proper understanding of his injury situation.
It would seem hard to pound the line of scrimmage with a stinger.
Just as we're hoping Christian Yelich of the Brewers will be vastly freed up to perform at or near his best in the future due to recent back surgery, it may be that a Dillon properly treated for this possibly chronic stinger could be elevated into a blockbuster running back for short yardage situations.
Then again, as I remember it, Sterling Sharpe had to retire due to a stinger.
I hope and pray the best for Dillon.
I'd like to see Sharpe get inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame. He was truly one of the greats over a significant number of seasons.
barutanseijin
August 28, 2024 at 02:47 pm
The dude sucks and always did, injury or not. The question is just a a way of avoiding the issue.
Swisch
August 28, 2024 at 03:11 pm
That seems an ignorant and mean-spirited comment with absolutely nothing to back it up.
A great guy like A.J. who has long been a valuable contributor to the Packers deserves so much more than any fan casting him aside so dismissively.
I think his injury situation should be taken seriously because I care about the guy as a player and a person; and I wonder about the lack of thoughtful responses to my question for the sake of A.J.
If fans don't truly care about our Packers, then why should they care about us?
In that case, it's just helmeted automatons and lifeless statistics and fantasy football -- and all of our comments at CHTV would be just a pathetic waste of time.
NFLfan
August 28, 2024 at 10:54 am
Jersey Al-I especially enjoy the pop culture/music references-'First Cut...'
Why have we waited till the 11th hour to address the kicker situation?
Bisaccia needs to be evaluated as well as the players.
LambeauPlain
August 28, 2024 at 12:02 pm
I see the Vikings cut prolific RB Nwangwu leaving them with 2 RBs. Aaron Jones is now their workhorse. All righty then!
Meanwhile the Saints quickly added Nwangwu to their 53. Stupid ugly purple!
Going, going....gone!
"DuBose ended up on the AFC’s Miami Dolphins while Newman and Johnson landed in the conference, signing with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New York Giants, respectively."
Wow...teams like the Packers Players.
Packers0808
August 28, 2024 at 12:12 pm
Pratt picked up now as well.
Bitternotsour
August 28, 2024 at 12:28 pm
He'll be available again
Ferrari-Driver
August 28, 2024 at 12:10 pm
Good morning Al,
I'll tip my hat to this comment you made in your column: "But just like that, it can all be taken away from them. So have some compassion for these guys. Don’t rejoice that a player you didn’t think was any good got cut. Just understand what they all go through and wish them well."
Alberta_Packer
August 28, 2024 at 01:30 pm
What has struck me more than anything else - is Gutekunst's strategic shift from future investment to present value. Perhaps he sees that there is a 2-3 year window to make hay with this current crop of players. In other words, he's going for it now - with decisions to match.
greengold
August 29, 2024 at 10:25 am
It's a good observation, Alberta. No doubt. Brian Gutekunst has assembled a great young core of talented/gifted players in what I think is a remarkably short period of time, and he is now poised to hit the nitro switch by making discerning roster cuts while possibly adding one or two more impactful, proven veteran talents.
Roster spots are valuable, especially when your team has become legit contenders to take the Super Bowl ring. I do think this Packers team is well positioned at this moment to realize achieving that ultimate goal.
Gutekunst's acquisitions of both Josh Jacobs & Xavier McKinney in FA have the potential to be as impactful as Ted's Ryan Pickett & Charles Woodson additions.
Personally, I wouldn't mind if he adds two more proven veterans. One at OT, the other at NT.
Matt
August 28, 2024 at 04:10 pm
When it comes to Newman in terms of what you wrote about being NFL player, life opportunites and goals. Newman is not really the guy who failed (even if he didn't go to Tampa). He is a veteran with multiple starts in Green Bay. Most of the guys who were cut would love to have his career.
I hope Kalen King's final chapter will not be in PS.
Leatherhead
August 28, 2024 at 06:00 pm
I rarely throw trash at our own players, but Newman is an exception. I thought he played well as a rookie, but he regressed and by his 3rd year, he wasn't really NFL quality anymore. I have no idea what happened.
He's 27, he's made $3M, the Bucs picked him up and maybe he can hang around for a while. Our Oline depth has questions, but he's not an answer.
SpikeHyzer
August 29, 2024 at 11:32 am
Job and livelihood?
Something was taken away from them?
Have compassion?
Please. There has NEVER been a more moronic post online (and this site has always been rife with them, from the idiot fans to the mostly bad writers on staff).
The guys who just got cut MAKE MORE MONEY in a single year than 90% of the populace makes in 30 years.
So don't try to tell us that spoiled, coddled, upper middle class (before 1980, 80% of athletes came from the lowest class and now, 80% come from the highest class, which makes it hard to root for ANY modern athlete because they are all rich kids), white dudes making a million a year suffered ANY sort of hardships through life.
They ALL had the best nutrition, money, time, coaches, trainers, and education, along with the support of parents, to get where they are.
They are as entitled a class of people as anyone and their failure is their own and something NO ONE should EVER be sad about.
And don't forget that jocks were the dudes who bullied and harassed everyone else, while turning in the lowest GPAs known to man....
And now I see nearly a year later that Al says I should leave.
What a psychopath.
HE should change his tune and not be a psychopath worshipping professional fucking athletes (and I could easily have been one myself).
And worse, I don't see an option to comment anymore on new posts. I guess in addition to being a blithering idiot and psychopath, he's a fascist (and they were all too moronic to prevent me from editing my previous posts, no IT geniuses here).
After all, ONLY fascists ban free speech....
JerseyAl
August 29, 2024 at 11:42 am
"There has NEVER been a more moronic post online (and this site has always been rife with them, from the idiot fans to the mostly bad writers on staff)."
Then I guess it's time to say goodbye, isn't it? Take your anger issues towards athletes and leave. Don't let the door hit you...