In our best-case scenario, Julius Peppers is named to the Pro Bowl in his first season in Green Bay, but in our worst-case scenario, Nick Perry barely receives any playing time.
The Packers' defense needs a change next year, and won't have cap room or high draft picks to waste on the front seven. But a schematic change to Wade Phillips brand of 3-4 might be just enough to bring about the positional (and attitude) change this team needs.
Clay Matthews missed four full game, Nick Perry has missed five, and the Packers defense has struggled without both of them in the lineup at the same time.
With Clay Matthews, Nick Perry and Mike Neal all dealing with injuries, the Packers will have a pair of rookies playing big roles against the Browns on Sunday.
With seven inside linebackers currently on the roster, and most of them mediocre players at best, the Packers are preventing themselves from improving the position.
It's easy to see how the 49ers are in the Super Bowl with a linebacker group that's probably the very best in the NFL. Comparatively, the Packers are behind the curve.
A.J. Hawk is having arguably his best season in the NFL in 2012. His fiery play and recent weight loss are factors, as is the coaching staff's decision to limit the linebacker's playing time.
In the best-case scenario, D.J. Smith makes nearly 150 tackles in 2012. But in the worst-case scenario, it's another disappointing season from A.J. Hawk with few sacks, interceptions and forced fumbles.
Fans like to cite the team's track record of success when it comes to finding offensive line talent later in the draft but that doesn't mean the Packers will ignore premium talent if its available on Day 1.
On today's show, Andy is joined by PFF's salary cap expert - Brad Spielberger to discuss the expectations for Jordan Love's new contract, Green Bay's new contracts from the offseason, and what to expect from Eric Stokes' fifth-year option. Don't miss it!