Washington Rust-skins Buried 38-20 by Pack

The atmosphere at Lambeau Field was electric. Ionized by 7,500 brand new seats and lit aglow by well over 80,000 total attendees, the Packers struck early and often in what amounted to a route of Washington to the tune of 38-20. Gobs of passing yards, stout defense, and a surprise 100+ yard rusher made this game an all around positive. Let's focus on a few keys.

RB James Starks. Photo: CBS.com

The Running Game: If one had said during the preseason that James Starks, not Eddie Lacy, would be the savior to rid the Packers of the stigma of going 44 straight games without a 100+ yard rusher—The last was Brandon Jackson (seriously) on October 10, 2010 (seriously) to this same Washington football club (seriously)—one might have been labeled insane. Yet it happened. Everyone saw it. On his first carry—a 10 yard gallop— rookie Eddie Lacy was struck hard on the helmet by safety Brandon Meriweather, and forced to exit with a concussion. That would be his only carry. The next man up was James Starks, a guy who quietly took precedence over running back Alex Green in training camp, ultimately winning Green's roster spot. Starks hasn't been a household name for many fans since his 2010 breakout performance and subsequent struggles to stay healthy, but it's clear the coaching staff saw enough in the tall running back to warrant a job. Score one for the coaching staff. On Sunday, Starks was decisive. He was elusive. He cut well and made guys miss, carrying the ball 20 times and rushing for 132 yards. Starks also notched something the team has been sorely lacking, a "big play run" on a 32 yard touchdown scamper.

QB Aaron Rodgers. Photo: NFL.com

Up in The Air: It's been communal wisdom among Green Bay fans that if only the Packers could mount a formidable rushing attack, quarterback Aaron Rodgers would have a field day. Well, with RB James Starks gobbling up an average of 6.6 yards per carry, Washington's already suspect safety group was forced to respect the run. What happened next has become so commonplace in Green Bay, that one almost forgets to highlight its significance. Aaron Rodgers was surgical, completing 34 of 42 passes for 480 yards, 4 touchdowns and no interceptions. The yardage tied a franchise record set, funny enough, by former backup Matt Flynn. On the strength of Rodgers' arm, Green Bay saw 18 of its 28 first downs come via the pass. While they were only 4-10 on 3rd down conversions, the ratio of 28 first downs to just 10 third downs means that the offense was humming efficiently, already a well-oiled machine just two games into the season. Rodgers has 7 touchdowns and 1 interception through those two games.

S Shields. Photo: Roemerphotoblog.com

Sam Shields Was All Over The Place: At some point between defensive snaps in the third quarter, I scribbled the following exclamation in my notebook: "Sam Shields is all over the place!" And indeed he was. The young cornerback was involved on seemingly every clutch stop. Shields led the team with 8 tackles—5 of them solo— and made three pass breakups in textbook fashion, closing on receivers with perfect timing and playing the ball rather than the receiver. Lacking the quality and quantity of receiver that San Francisco enjoys, Washington's wideouts were contained when it mattered against Sam Shields and fellow corner Tramon Williams. They surrendered yardage late, but this secondary was much improved from last week's flop, and Sam Shields was a key cog in that improvement.

More From The Daily Dope Sheet:

See how our pregame keys shook out relative to Sunday's route over Washington

DDS Podcast: First ever podcast! Talking the 49ers loss, Clay's clothesline, and out-of-market fans.

Packers Humbled in Opener, Lose 34-28

The visiting Packers were again humbled by the home-team Niners to open the season—a highly touted rematch of last year's playoff rout. With a final score of 43-28, this latter contest was much more competitive than the prior, but San Francisco continues to be the Achilles heel on an otherwise formidable Green Bay football team. I had the pleasure of watching this game at the abode of some Niner fan friends. Wait—let me rephrase. My viewing experience was less than optimal. Here are some quick takeaways.

Photo credit: 49ers.com

Eddie Lately: The Packers seemed poised to unveil a new balanced attack on the back of rookie rusher Eddie Lacy. But those who expected great things from the get were foolish to ignore San Francisco's epic run defense. With a stingy defensive front lead by Smith & Smith (that's Justin at DT and Aldon at LB), not to mention LB's Navorro Bowman and Patrick Willis just to name a few, it was another long day for the Packers offensive backfield.

Lacy ended the day with 14 carries for 41 yards (a mere 2.9 YPC average), but did score on a goal line leaper—a game highlight for the young back. On the flip side, Lacy's lowlight came in the second quarter when LB Navorro Bowman dislodged the ball from the rookie's grip, forcing a fumble that lead directly to a Niners touchdown. The Packers had chances to make up for that, but it was ultimately the difference in the game.

Fans would be remiss to bemoan Lacy so soon, though. When it all shakes out, the 49ers will finish the season with a top three run defense, and the Packers will not face such a threat for the entire balance of the season.

Photo credit: 49ers.com

Second Thought Secondary: Simply put, the Packers need
Casey Hayward and Morgan Burnett. With the defensive line and linebackers wholly occupied with containing Colin Kaepernick, the secondary minus the two starters was routinely exploited in the middle of the field. New Niners weapon Anquan Boldin may be slow, but he caught everything thrown his way, bowling forward with a kinetic energy that left the secondary constantly on their heels. Such is the threat of Boldin, a giant body with great hands who is constantly moving forward.

Notably smoked in this contest were safeties M.D. Jennings and Jerron McMillian, who just could not keep tabs on San Francisco's wideouts for as long as QB Colin Kaepernick tends to linger with the ball in his hand.

Photo Credit: Packers.com

Jolly's Return a Spark: With most fans focusing on a new-look Packers rushing attack, it's worth noting that the return of DL Johnny Jolly appeared to give the team something they've lacked in his three year absence: attitude and a consistent pass rush. Green Bay twice wrangled the nimble Kaepernick for sacks, no small feet when you consider the strength and competency of San Francisco's offensive line, not to mention Kaepernick's incredible elusiveness. Jolly himself was credited with one of the two sacks, corralling the gazelle-like quarterback out of bounds for a loss.

The imposing defenseman could be seen many times on the sidelines firing up the squad for the occasion, including the frequently exploited young safeties.

The Signs Cannot Be Ignored... Football Is Back!

Life can get pretty lonely for a Packers fan living in Brooklyn. Yesterday, however, I was comforted by several subtle reminders that not only is the NFL season upon us, but the Pack is back! En lieu of any amateur analysis about what to look for in today's epic playoff rematch at Candlestick park, enjoy some of those aforementioned subtle reminders. Go Pack Go!

With Backup Spot Locked Up - Packers Eye Super Bowl

For the past few weeks, the Green Bay Packers have been playing a game of musical chairs. But now that the music has stopped, Seneca Wallace has taken his seat, and BJ Coleman, Graham Harrell, and Vince Young have been left standing and shown the door, the team is finally primed for their Super Bowl run.

Like every team with playoff aspirations, the backup and third string quarterback position have been hashed, rehashed, and poured over all offseason. Hundreds, nay thousands of scouting department man-hours have been poured into finding the perfect candidate to carry a clipboard with poise, give advice that Aaron Rodgers doesn't need, take a knee at the end of a blowout, or to not fumble heaven forbid they be called into action for one real life snap.

Top Secret Weapon, Seneca Wallace. Photo: ESPN

In Seneca Wallace, the Packers have found the perfect candidate. His clipboard handling skills are finely tuned, having worked with renown backup QB groomer, Mike Holmgren. Wallace has shown great poise on the bench, riding the pine like he truly belongs. Simply put, the game is not too big for him.

Now that the Packers have signed their secret weapon--so secret they hope to never have to use him in a game--they are primed and ready to make another run at the Lombardi trophy.

Packers to Workout RB Joe McKnight

Former Jets RB and all around utility player Joe McKnight is headed to Green Bay for a workout. The fourth year player made the news public via Twitter. 

McKnight would offer help not only out of the backfield, but also as a punt returner, special teamer, or even as an emergency defender.

The news does not bode well for current Packer, James Starks, who has seen his reps decrease as camp progressed. 

We'll know more this weekend, as teams must trim their rosters down to the final 53 men. 

Injury Bug Bites--DuJuan Harris to IR

The Packers have placed RB DuJuan Harris on IR. Head coach Mike McCarthy made the announcement at today's post-practice presser. Harris recently sought a second opinion on the patellar tendon he injured earlier in camp, and the news was not good. McCarthy seemed despondent, and confessed that Harris was set to be a major part of the team's offensive plans this season. 

The injury opens the door for a few backs who had been on the fence. Alex Green has been fielding kicks and taking on other special teams responsibilities in an effort to stay relevant. Despite seeing few reps, James Starks has also apparently impressed in camp. An opportunity has arisen to step up and secure a roster spot. The timing is appropriate, as all teams must cut their rosters from 90 to 75 men by this afternoon.

Packers Release QB Graham Harrell After Three Seasons

QB Graham Harrell

Shortly after another tepid performance in Friday's preseason contest versus Seattle, and after being out-shined by newcomer Vince Young, QB Graham Harrell finds himself a free agent on the street, freshly cut from mane of the Packers roster. Harrell had been with the team for three seasons. An undrafted player out of Texas Tech,  he set innumerable school passing records and just generally chucked it all day long. The team had high hopes for harnessing his obvious intelligence and improving his physical tools. They liked him enough to let backup Matt Flynn go before the 2012 season, essentially handing Harrell the backup job. But Harrell's body of work since then has been unflattering at best. Aside from his only in-season snap last year resulting in a goal-line fumble, Harrell has generally looked like a deer in headlights, never mastering the calm cool needed to be proficient at the NFL level. His inability to show poise in the face of game-speed, and the anxiety with which he routinely overthrew receivers, left the team with no choice but to cut him. Fans have been calling for Harrell's ouster for weeks, and the relief, justified or not, has been palpable—Like a stubborn scab finally excised.

There is now an opening at backup quarterback. In Vince Young and BJ Coleman, the Packers have two QB's with immense physical talents, but with similar track records of poor decision making. The job is each of theirs to lose, and the final preseason contest against Kansas City will be a telling job interview for both.

Three's Company - Packers Sign Third Kicker in Ramirez

Pardon the lack of updates this weekend as 'blog central' was turned into 'brunch central' at the hands of my party-hosting girlfriend (a great skill player to have on my roster, to be sure). On to the news!

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Kicker Mason Crosby - Photo Cred: JerseyAl.com

Much like the stock market, Kicker Mason Crosby's value to the team has risen, fallen, risen, and fallen again throughout training camp. His recession of accuracy climaxed again as he went just 1-4 during a recent practice, the third time he's performed as poorly in as many weeks. Coach McCarthy has seen enough and saw fit to call in, try out, sign, and then practice Zach Ramirez, a third kicker on a crowded roster that can only get smaller from here.

Rookie kicker Giorgio Tavecchio has been deadly accurate as Crosby's direct competition thus far, but his leg power has been in question. Fans have been left to debate Tavecchio's merits. Some ballyhoo his weak leg, while others are hungry for literally any kicker besides Mason Crosby. But the team brass has made it's opinion clear by signing a third kicker: Tavecchio won't cut it.

Checkout Zach Ramirez's demo video below. For more on new kicker Zach Ramirez's story, check out Tom Silverstein's write-up over at JSOnline.com.



For more the Packers crisis at kicker:
First it Giveth... Free Agent Kickers Off The Market

First it Giveth... FA Kickers Off The Market

First it giveth, and then it taketh away. Recently-cut kickers Dan Carpenter and Rian Lindell were snatched up quicker than you can say "the free agent market is awash with talented kickers."--Though that phrase is admittedly lengthy. 

Rian Lindell, the former Bill, inked a deal with the Tampa Bay Bucs, while former Dolphin Dan Carpenter signed on with the new look Arizona Cardinals. 

Meanwhile, in Titletown, kicker Mason Crosby's newfound groove was offset by a terrible practice Wednesday, having missed a slew of kicks. He had somewhat restored coaches' faith after a perfect performance in last week's preseason contest in St. Louis. 

Challenger Giorgio Tavecchio has been the more accurate leg through camp and preseason, but the feeling from beat writers is that coach Mike McCarthy wants to give Crosby the job. McCarthy may not have a choice, as Crosby seems to be making that decision for him. 

The competing kickers are running out of time. The first round of roster cuts is due by August 31st, and it would be surprising if the team kept two legs past that point. Every kick matters.

Will the team regret not giving Carpenter or Lindell a serious look come mid-season? Are you comfortable with either of our current options?

Carousel of Kickers. Bills Release Lindell

Rian Lindell was cut 8.19.13
Photo credit: buffalobills.com

The kicking carousel made another revolution today as the Buffalo Bills released their longtime kicker, Rian Lindell. Lindell joins now-former dolphin kicker Dan Carpenter in the unemployment line, salary cap casualties in a weak special teams marketplace.

Meanwhile in Green Bay, the Packers are currently saddled with a $2.4 Million cap number for shaky kicker, Mason Crosby. The Titletown booter's woes are well documented here on the Daily Dope Sheet, having converted a paltry 63.6% of his field goal attempts last season (league worst).

Crosby is in competition with newcomer Giorgio Tavecchio. "Sergio," as head coach Mike McCarthy once mistakenly called him, has been much more accurate than Crosby, though his leg is nowhere near as strong.

Followers of DDS are familiar with the sentiment that the Packers would be foolish not to pursue Dan Carpenter. Now it appears the market is flush with talent, and the team would be highly remiss in not examining these options. Faith in the kicking game is fickle, and far too important to leave well enough alone.





Did Crosby show you enough on Saturday at St. Louis? Is Tavecchio the guy? Should the team look elsewhere? Tell me what you think.

Packers "Win" "Game" Over Rams, 19-7

Fans despondent over last week's all-around flop, a 17-0 preseason loss to the Arizona Cardinals, have reason to feel comforted after an improved effort from the Green Bay Packers last night in the Edward Jones Dome, where they handled the St. Louis Rams 19-7. The offense was sharper, and the defense looked more cohesive as well. Here are few players that stood out.

Eddie Lacy saw his first action on Saturday.

Eddie Lacy: The rookie running back finally got to show his mettle, facing an opposing team's starting defense for the first time. Lacy looked like he belonged and appeared to really resent being tackled, routinely carrying one or two defenders along for the ride after first contact. Overall he received 8 carries and totaled 40 yards for a 5 yard-per-carry average. His first two runs of the game went for 7 and 15 yards respectively. If he can keep this up into the regular season, the very real threat of a capable back could potentially expose opposing secondaries to the wrath of Rodgers.

Jermichael Finley: Is the reformation complete? The imposing tight end has historically irked fans with his brash talk, excessive celebration, and generally not living up to the hype. Finley is reported to have rededicated himself. He has put his nose to the grindstone and is letting his play do the talking. The tight end took hits and grabbed yards after the catch, showing an aggression that's been lacking in the past. He displayed his quickness, slicing through the Rams zone defense for 25 yards on the third play from scrimmage. His extra prep-time spent with Aaron Rodgers appeared to pay off later in the quarter when, after the QB called an audible, Finley knew to look for the quick pass and turned it into a 33 yard gain, absorbing some hits along the way. And no shark-fin dance this time. Maybe Finley knows it's only preseason. Maybe he knows it's a contract year. Whatever the reason, it means positive things for the Packers offense.

Jolly had a batted pass and
an interception on Saturday

Johnny Jolly: Speaking of reformation, DL Johnny Jolly showed glimpses of his old self and reminded coaches and fans of his great instincts for the game. A Jarrett Bush interception can be credited to Jolly batting a pass at the line of scrimmage, something the big man was known for in his past life. Later, cornerback Loyce Means batted a pass, and it was Jolly who came down with the a goal-line interception after he had dropped into coverage. Without missing a beat, he plowed forward and even executed a spin move for a few extra yards. All this excitement in only 15 snaps for Jolly. He's starting to build a strong case to be a 6th DL on this team. He just knows football.

Micah Hyde: Taking more snaps than anyone else on the team (52) Hyde showed his versatility. He played the corner position left, right, and worked in the slot, breaking up 2 passes and collecting a sack and 5 tackles. Hyde did surrender a 57 yard catch and run to Rams WR Chris Givens, exposing a slight lack of speed, but an argument can be made for blown coverage over the top. The real surprise of the night was a chance to return a punt in which Hyde recovered 17 years. Hyde returned punts at Iowa and said after the game, "I feel comfortable doing it." If WR Jeremy Ross continues his bobbling ways, Hyde could see more action on special teams as coaches should be anxious to relieve the dynamic and valuable WR Randall Cobb from his returning duties.



Did you see anyone that stood out? Anything you liked or didn't like? Comment and let's chat about it.

Packers Would Be Foolish Not To Pursue Carpenter

The Miami Dolphins announced the termination of kicker Dan Carpenter's contract this week. The move clears $2.7 Million from Miami's salary cap and clears the way for the installation of  rookie kicker, Caleb Sturgis. 

Meanwhile in Green Bay: Much has been made of Green Bay's kicking competition between veteran Mason Crosby and newcomer Giorgio Tavecchio. While Crosby's woes continue, Tavecchio has positioned himself well as a dead-nuts-accurate field goal kicker. His leg strength has been called into question, however. His kickoffs have been inconsistent, many failing to reach the 5-yard line. His kickoff power has no doubt improved since the start of camp, but having punter Tim Masthay also practicing kickoffs doesn't bode well for the team's faith in Giorgio's power. 

K Dan Carpenter is on the market.

Enter: Dan Carpenter. The six-year man has a career field goal percentage of 81.9%, and is four years removed from a career high 89.3% in 2009. 

Mason Crosby, by contrast, was good a league-worst 63.6% of the time last season, bringing his career average down to 76.8%. The nuances of kicking may be plentiful, but kickers are ultimately signed and cut based on this lone metric, and Crosby is trending in the wrong direction.

Carpenter, who is taking a brief leave to see his wife through the delivery of their new baby, has several kicker-needy teams already waiting in the wings, the Browns and Seahawks likely among them. The Packers would be foolish not to buy a ticket the Carpenter lottery. 

Should Ryan Longwell Be Welcomed Back?

Ryan Longwell kicked for the
Packers for nine years, and holds
multiple franchise records

This week, amid a fierce kicking competition between Mason Crosby and Giorggio Tavecchio, a third kicker was welcomed into Lambeau. Former Packer and holder of virtually all significant franchise kicking records, Ryan Longwell, announced his intention to retire as a Packer. Longwell kicked for the team for nine seasons, and had a golden toe to be sure. Here's a short list of his accomplishments:

• Most made FG's in Packers history: 226
• All time Packers leading scorer: 1054 points

It's relatively common these days for players to sign one-day contracts to retire with their preferred team. But in a game of rivalries, tough love, and hard and fast rules, it could be seen as an empty ceremonial gesture— a bit "warm and fuzzy." 

First, a history lesson: The first player ever to sign a one-day contract was Roger Craig. The phenom 49er ball carrier plowed through the NFC West from 1983 through 1990, then went on to play a year with the Raiders and two with the Vikings. He stated a desire to retire as a 49er, the club where he saw the bulk of his success, and where he set many records which still stand today. Signing a one-day contract allowed him to achieve just that, where he was welcomed back into the fold with open arms. 

Since then, it's become common place for players to do this. As teams become more brand oriented, it also benefits them to rewrite history in the most favorable light for their flag. But shouldn't there be a statute of limitations? A point after which it becomes downright silly to sign a one-day contract?  

Ryan Longwell was an excellent kicker for the Packers for nine seasons. But he then went on to be an excellent kicker for the division-rival Vikings for six more years. After that, he signed with his hometown Seahawks for a playoff run in which they'd lost their kicker to injury. In short, when Longwell left Green Bay, his career was only 56% complete. The average career length in the NFL is said to be about 3 years. Longwell played twice that long and then some for the Vikings and Seahawks. After almost doubling his career length with these other team after Green Bay, is there a spot in Lambeau for Ryan Longwell? Should there be?

I'm soliciting your comments here. Should there be a statute of limitations? If so, how long is it? And do franchise accomplishments outweigh it? Discuss!

Datone Jones Sits Out With Mild Sprain

Datone Jones was selected
by GB at #26 overall 

In a training camp full of nicks, bumps, and bruises, it was with bated breath that the Packers awaited further information on the injury to first round draft pick Datone Jones. The relief was palpable in the media room when coach Mike McCarthy today clarified that Jones will "miss a couple days this week." He seemed genuinely unconcerned that the injury may linger. Jones will likely be held out for the next preseason game against St. Louis, and it would seem the team will be extremely cautious with him until the season starts. Caution may outweigh practice reps for a rookie who has looked every bit the pass rusher the team hoped they nabbed on draft day. 

Packers "Lose" "Game" to Cardinals, 17-0

There are differing opinions of the value of preseason football among Packer fans. Those that follow only to chart wins and losses are likely to be disappointed by the Packers ho-hum preseason opener, a 17-0 loss at home to the new-look Arizona Cardinals. But to be sure, preseason games are not about winning at all. Rather, it's important to focus on individual performances. Depth charts are nebulous at this point. The game is largely a televised job interview for tens of players on every team. Coaches and execs look for translation from the practice field to the fight bell. They look for flashes from players previously hidden among the ranks. Most importantly, they pray to the football gods that their guys arise unscathed from every scrum. With that in mind, here are a few thoughts on last night's action...

Datone Jones Sprains Ankle: Tests are pending, but an injury to a first round pick in the first preseason game is a huge blow. Jones was pulled at the slightest hint of injury—later reported as a sprained ankle—and didn't even emerge from the locker room after half-time. It brings to mind a certain first-round defensive lineman named BJ Raji, who also sprained his ankle in his first preseason and missed the majority of the year as a result. Ted Thompson has to be pleading with those aforementioned football gods right now.

DL Johnny Jolly.
Photo credit: totalpackers.com

Johnny Jolly Gets Push: The walking human-interest-story that is Johnny Jolly performed admirably, while seeing snaps for the majority of the contest. Given his extended stay from the game, and the team's massive DNP list (17 players did not participate), Jolly seemed to take advantage of what he well knows might be his last chance ever to make an NFL roster. He was aggressive and got push into the backfield more than a few times, showing that his tank may still have some fuel left after all. Some of his swings and spin moves lacked the obvious savvy of his former
days, but it was encouraging enough to see the big man making his presence felt on the line.

Bakhtiari Shines: With left tackle Bryan Bulaga out for the season already, it was up to rookie David Bakhtiari to show fans why coaches have been so thrilled with the newbie. Bakhtiari blended in, and faded into obscurity. That is to say, that's exactly what an offensive linemen should do— become an invisible wall. His footwork and technique never in doubt, Bakhtiari displayed the strength side of his game, holding up quite well against an opposing team's starting d-line.  

RB Stable Full of Horses: The team erred on the side of caution, sitting RB Eddie Lacy due to a slight hamstring pull. As expected, DuJuan Harris also sat. Johnathan Franklin and Alex Green split the majority of the early snaps. Between the two, it seems the team has a back for every occasion. Alex Green showed encouraging shimmy on the line, cutting like a guy who is no longer favoring a troublesome knee. While Johnathan Franklin struggled to power through the middle of the pack, he was supremely slippery on the outside and in space, darting to and fro like a point guard moving toward the hoop. He showed that he could be most valuable as a screen player, and possibly also as an option at kick returner, if WR Jeremy Ross continues his muffing ways.

No Contest For Kickers: The team would have liked to have a few shots at the uprights to continue their kicking competition. Instead, Mason Crosby and Giorgio Tavecchio were merely spectators. The sole trip to field goal range ended in a turnover on downs at the goal line, as coach McCarthy decided to opt for some fourth-and-goal rehearsal early in the first quarter, and the team never saw another opportunity.

Left to right: Vince Young, Aaron Rodgers
Photo credit: packersnews.com

Backup Bonanza: For only knowing about 12 plays, new arm Vince Young sure seemed poised and out to prove his worth. His series fell flat, but he appeared more in control than the timid Graham Harrell or overzealous BJ Coleman. That's not to say the latter two didn't have their moments, but the battle at backup quarterback still appears to be a game of pick your poison. The word 'yuck' comes to mind...

The Express Dope: Thursday, Aug 8th, 2013

Occasionally, I'll post some quick news hits to summarize the last few days of action. These segments will henceforth be known as 'The Express Dope.'

Tackle Bryan Bulaga is out for the
season again. Photo fred: ESPN

Bulaga officially ruled out: Consider any glimmer of hope subsided. The hobbled tackle had hoped a second opinion would permit him to play the season through on his torn ACL—not impossible for a position like offensive line. Common sense prevailed however, and Bulaga has decided to put himself on the shelf (again). This is clearly the best decision for his career, and his long term health in general. It's arguably the best decision for the team as well, who can now give rookie David Bakhtiari the full necessary tutelage to take over a daunting role. Bakhtiari has already exceeded expectation in camp, and all eyes will be on him during this Friday's preseason opener against the Cardinals.

Vince Young signed: The 30 year-old journeyman QB was brought in for a workout this past Monday and never left. While head coach Mike McCarthy states Young's signing is in no way a reflection on fellow backups BJ Coleman and Graham Harrell, it's hard not to view it as a slight indictment. The two have competed only against each other the past two seasons, and a capable number two slinger has not emerged. Young brings experience, athleticism, and a rocket arm to what had been a tepid backup QB competition. This should get interesting fast.

Cobb Injures Bicep: The Packers not-so-secret weapon, WR Randall Cobb, bowed out of Tuesday's practice early with what was later reported as a bicep injury. Cobb was seen midway through practice with an ice sling over his arm. The ice came off after a short time, but he took no further reps. Cobb returned to practice Wednesday, but was extremely limited and could be seen favoring the arm at times. The coaching staff doesn't seem worried, but keep in mind they have no obligation to discuss injuries in detail at this point in camp.

Nelson's Knee Flares Up: Workhorse WR Jordy Nelson underwent a procedure this week to repair a nerve in his knee, which flared up at the start of camp. The issue dates back to his college days, so it's nothing new. But the rehab period will have the valuable WR sidelined for all of preseason, with an optimistic timetable having him ready for the home opener (slash playoff rematch) against the San Francisco 49ers.

Kicking Contest Heats Up: Kicker Mason Crosby has said he doesn't feel pressure from competing leg, Giorgio Tavecchio. But perhaps he should. Crosby's struggles from last season—he was the NFL's least accurate kicker—have seemingly rolled over into the new year. He struggled at the Family Night Scrimmage, and is routinely tying or losing to Giorgio Tavecchio in kick-for-kick contests. Coaching and management have publicly made it clear that his efforts have not cut it, and Crosby agrees. Crosby's saving grace might be Tavecchio's questionable leg-strength. Though highly accurate, Tavecchio has struggled on kickoffs, many falling flat shy of the five yard-line. If Tavecchio does win the job, the team may have punter Tim Masthay kick off, as he has plenty of leg. Masthay's problem is accuracy and consistency on kickoffs. Then again, he's a punter. Look for a game of musical chairs at the position this Friday against the Cardinals.

Bulaga Tears ACL, Bakhtiari Pressed Into Duty

Rookie tackle David Bakhtiari has
impressed early in camp.
Photo Cred: JSOnline.com

A week ago, David Bakhtiari was nothing more than a pleasant surprise, a D4 tackle vying for a starting gig on the right side of the line. Today he finds himself running with the 1's at left tackle, arguably the line's most crucial position. Bakhtiari replaces Bryan Bulaga, who suffered an ACL tear during Saturday's Family Night Scrimmage. Bulaga had recently been moved from right to left tackle, a move aimed at bolstering a line which surrendered a league-high 51 sacks in 2012. How quickly things change. Enter a rookie tasked with plugging up the NFL's most pourous offensive line. Bakhtiari will look to shed scouts' perception that he is a "finesse" tackle, a nice way of saying he's smarter than he is strong. And so far in camp, the rookie has done just that. He's stood out in one-on-one drills, occasionally besting physical specimens like Clay Matthews and fellow rookie Datone Jones. The young tackle assumes his daunting role beginning with today's padded work. He does so with the blessing of a coaching staff who hopes he can graduate from a finesse tackle and a pleasant surprise, to a steal of a fourth round pick.

OFFICIAL: Desmond Bishop Signs With Vikings.

       In the division known as "black and blue," it seems there's a pipeline going from green to purple. The Minnesota Vikings have made a notable habit of praying on Packer cap casualties—Jennings, Longwell, Sharper, some guy named Brent— and the trend continues as recent ex-Packer LB Desmond Bishop is the latest to trade his cheese for a plate of "hot dish."

      Recovering from a torn hamstring, and with the team having just signed up-and-comer Brad Jones to a multi-year deal, LB Desmond Bishop was released by the Packers last week. Bishop was set to receive $3.464 Million this season. Frugal GM Ted Thompson would have none of that, as he appears not to have made a formal offer to restructure the deal before outright releasing the 28 year-old defender. With desperate swiftness, the LB-needy Minnesota Vikings signed Bishop to a 1 year, $1.4 Million contract. Unconfirmed reports say the Packers may have verbally offered Bishop $1.2 Million. His skills are untested post-injury, but with no starter set at MLB, the Vikes were in a bind. Bishop will play flanked by Erin Henderson and an aging Chad Greenway.

           Many fans were sad to see Desmond Bishop go. But like an adult step sibling—or your weird uncle Frank—you'll still get to see him twice a year.