With Sam Shields allowed to escape from the Packers' grasp without so much as a tag or offer, some Packers fans are already on the verge of panic. It's time for a healthy dose of reality...and patience.
The Packers can't afford to hope and pray J.C. Tretter emerges as the starting center in Green Bay like they did with McMillian at safety this past season.
The Packers have four defensive linemen set to become free agents: B.J. Raji, Ryan Pickett, Johnny Jolly and C.J. Wilson. Not all four figure to be back.
The future of the tight end position in Green Bay is in question with both Jermichael Finley and Andrew Quarless are scheduled to become free agents in March.
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.