Confessions of a Polluted Mindset: A Packers Column

Here's the first in what I hope to be a regular column of random thoughts swimming around in the Packers' section of my brain.

While I admit to never having been much of a Jason Spriggs fan (dating back to when I panned him in the CHTV Draft Guide), I still hoped for the best when the Packers selected him (after letting out a blood-curdling "Nooooooooooooooooooooo"). One would hope that with the proper coaching and weight training at the NFL level, he could correct some of his flaws and develop into a good offensive tackle. He was certainly athletic enough, having garnered my coveted "Best in Shorts" Award among offensive linemen at the NFL Combine. 

Alas, playing pickup basketball in shorts with his buddies is likely where he belongs, because he has certainly not progressed enough to belong on the line protecting Aaron Rodgers from getting clobbered. Focusing in on his play against the Steelers (and not against their first team defense) what I saw was alarming. 

Spriggs was the fourth offensive tackle to enter the game. DBAK and Murphy started. After a few series, Bell came in at RT and Murphy moved over to LT. On the following series, Bell moved to LG and Spriggs came in at RT. At the start of the second half, Spriggs moved to LT.

Things I saw:

  • Spriggs with some bad footwork causing him to struggle with and get beat by speed rushers on the edge.
  • Spriggs getting stood up and knocked back on his ass via a one-handed jolt to the chest by well-known Steelers linebacker Farrington Huguenin.
  • Spriggs making the wrong choices on stunts. Ole!  Whoosh... 
  • Spriggs using that athleticism to get downfield and then completely whiffing on blocks. In this case, he was more like the bull that misses hitting the bullfighter's red target and then runs around wondering where that bullfighter went.
  • Spriggs getting away with some holding when it became apparent he wasn't going to be able to stay with the edge rusher.

To be fair, he also did his job on other plays, but there were just too many of these poor reps to be acceptable. I didn't have the time to provide you video clips, but if you are into horror flicks, just go watch it again and keep your eye on Spriggs.

Reggie Gilbert - Boy this is Reggie Gilbert week, isn't it? Everywhere you look, people are writing about Gilbert and the Gilbert Bandwagon is gaining multitudes of new fans. There was no bigger fan of Gilbert's than I (well, maybe Justis Mosqueda - I'll call it a tie). Gilbert showed me enough last pre-season for me to place him on my 53-man roster last year in place of Fackrell. The Packers disagreed, and I thanked the football Gods that no other team claimed him and he made it to the Practice Squad. 

Just recently, Mike McCarthy candidly admitted (I can't believe I just wrote those words), that he regrets not having called Gilbert up sooner last year. Gee Mike, any time you need some advice, just check my twitter timeline. 

In fairness, and despite that admission from Coach McCarthy, it's rather obvious that Gilbert is a stronger player out on the field this year, so perhaps all that time in the weight room did him some good. Still, he should have played last year - the experience gained would have helped him even more.

Jake Kumerow - Let's hope he learned a lesson with that silly dive and shoulder roll into the end zone. In case there is any doubt how he suffered that injury, the TV telecast caught him on the sidelines after the TD grabbing his shoulder with one hand while trying to rotate his arm on that side at the same time. There is little doubt Kumerow deserves to be on this roster - don't risk blowing your shot with such silliness.

The Starting Offensive Line - There was a heck of a lot of pressure on Rodgers during his time in the game, especially from the interior. While everyone is worried about the depth at tackle, perhaps we need to worry about the starting guards instead?

Chris Odom - It was late in the game, but I spotted Odom overpowering his man on the edge a few times and getting some pressure on the quarterback. The first real glimpse of productivity from Odom that I've noticed.

McCarthy making excuses

 

I had a real problem with this comment from McCarthy. Not that he said he had confidence in Spriggs and Murphy - true or not, of course he is going to say that and has to say that. But claiming their play (assuming he was acknowledging it hasn't been great) has been affected by them having to switch sides? That's just weak excuse-making. Both of these players have had plenty of game and practice reps at both tackle spots - with the Packers and very likely at the college level as well. You don't have to rip into them publicly, just say they need to play better - don't baby these guys.

 

PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO OUR CHEESEHEAD NATION WEEKLY NEWSLETTER HERE.

__________________________

"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

__________________________

NFL Categories: 
0 points
 

Comments (115)

Fan-Friendly This filter will hide comments which have ratio of 5 to 1 down-vote to up-vote.
NickPerry's picture

August 22, 2018 at 06:47 am

It's awesome to see I have company when describing the play of Jason Spriggs as a train-wreak for example, especially when the company is someone so distinguished as our own Jersey Al!

I've said more than once I've failed at anytime to see the improvement many of my CHTV friends saw from Spriggs last year. Personally I've never saw any improvement from Spriggs.

To make matters worse Ted "I'm not a GM anymore" Thompson moved UP to draft Spriggs. Thompson felt he needed to move up in front of the Bears (from 56 to 48) to make sure the Packers landed "Spandex Man" when all they had to do is stay put and they could have drafted Cody Whithair. Since the Packers were originally picking at 56 and the Bears at 55 it's reasonable to assume Whitehair would have been there for the Packers IF the Bears had really wanted Spriggs.

Gutekunst is in a tough position because there just isn't many big men available. I for one don't think Spriggs will ever pan out. He's just to BAD after 3 Training Camps and just hasn't improved enough to think he'll ever amount to much. Here's to hoping the Packers starting 5 O-Linemen all start 16 games and Spriggs NEVER plays while 12 is in the game.

0 points
0
0
stockholder's picture

August 22, 2018 at 07:26 am

I didn't like the pick but understood it. Bahk wasn't signed. Whitehair was considered the best guard, but everyone said he needed time. I wouldn't have taken either. I was a Deion Jones fan ILB. And look how they have drafted and patched that position since. Regardless Kenny Clark was TTs best pick. The draft had the best Nts in years. Al Jersey liked Vernon butler more. TT won with Clark. Spriggs No. Frackrell was another mistake. I would have taken Andrew Billings and gambled on the Baylor investigation. (Billigs did get hurt his rookie year) I also would have not taken Davis. And look how that turned out. ILB here again. (J. Brown)

0 points
0
0
NickPerry's picture

August 22, 2018 at 07:54 am

I'm right there with you on Deion Jones and it was a need. Now Ted did draft Martinez in the 4th round that same year so at least he addressed the position. Something he didn't always do...Address an obvious need. They could have had Jones or Vonn Bell the Safety from Ohio St. who's turned out to be a hell of a Safety for the Saints. Hindsight is always 20/20 but I remember screaming at the TV for Jones and if it had to be an O-Linemen then Whitehair.

To throw more gasoline on the fire there's the whole Cole Madison ordeal. I think if Madison could have been here for all of TC and the Preseason he'd be ahead of Spriggs and probably Murphy too.

0 points
0
0
Coldworld's picture

August 23, 2018 at 05:59 am

As a tackle? Not sure. He is more obvious as a guard.

0 points
0
0
JerseyAl's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:09 am

I was also on the Deion Jones bandwagon. Seemed like a sure thing to me... In reality, you should only pay attention to my opinions on OTs in the draft - that's the only position I study extensively (for the CHTV Draft Guide).

0 points
0
0
GBPDAN1's picture

August 22, 2018 at 08:22 am

We gave up a 4th and a 7th to draft Spriggs. Good job, Ted! Ted made so many bad decisions - and bad no decisions -for the last so many years of his career at GM. He had put this team in a hole that BG must now dig us out of.

I like what BG has done so far. There was no way he was going to fix all of Teddy's shortcomings in one off season . He set us up beautifully for next year's draft with 2 # 1s.

BG will land a Quality OLB pass rusher and a couple of Quality O-lineman next year (and a safety) through the draft and FA. He will also build better depth. I think the Packers will be good this year and I think they will be Great next year as they will be playing in the SB.

(I actually had a small party when I heard TT was no longer GM)

What a Godsend that Bulaga is able to start for the season opener. There was a lot of speculation that he would be on PUP for six weeks. I remember some posters on here wanted to cut him. BG knew not to cut Bulaga even after he didn't take a pay cut.

0 points
0
0
NickPerry's picture

August 22, 2018 at 08:19 am

Should have invited me...I'd have catered the entire party at my expense!!

0 points
0
0
Hawg Hanner's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:59 am

Spriggs really looked like a player at the combine but it hurts to see so many mishaps. Another Justin Harrell

0 points
0
0
Oppy's picture

August 22, 2018 at 01:29 pm

That has to be the strangest analogy you could have picked.

0 points
0
0
Savage57's picture

August 22, 2018 at 06:50 am

Couldn't agree more on the Spriggs assessment. When the Packers moved up to take him, I thought they must have seen something no one else did, right after I asked, "Who the hell is Jason Spriggs?"

This guy is missing everything a NFL lineman needs to play the game at this level.

Bye.

0 points
0
0
Maddygirl1's picture

August 22, 2018 at 06:56 am

Didn't Ted actually trade up in the second round to draft Spriggs too? Ugh... Honestly I'm done with him He's had ample time and opportunities to show he belongs. Same with Murphy. I think he's ok at guard but not good enough at tackle, espiecially left tackle. My guessing if DBAK gets hurt, Taylor moves to LT. But I'd guess the scouting staff is looking at other team's back-up lineman and they almost have to pick up another quality depth player there, and cut Spriggs and maybe Murphy.

As for Gilbert, I can't wait to see him against starters. What a great story. On the flip side, what a sad story for Fackrell and Biegel (just too small). Everyone knows coaches get pressure from upper management to play drafted players over undrafted players. So i'm not shocked Mcarthy had to put a guy like Fackrell on the roster while Gilbert gets stashed on the practice squad (I agree we are very lucky no other team claimed him!). So not sure we can put 100% blame on the coach. It's not like Fackrell and Biegel were 7th round picks. I would love for Gilbert to play so well, that maybe the coaches think it'd be best to bump Mathews to ILB, at least on running downs.

I worry Kumerow not only damaged his shoulder but damaged his chances to make the roster. Like I said earlier, draft picks always get special treatment. Even with how poor Moore has been playing, there is no way they cut a 4th round pick and hope no team will claim him off our practice squad. Honestly i'd rather trade Cobb (maybe as part package for either Earl Thomas or K Mack) and put St. Brown in the slot, and keep Kumerow on the roaster as well (probably have to cut Davis as well).

0 points
0
0
JerseyAl's picture

August 22, 2018 at 07:06 am

The Packers' traded their second-rounder, the 57th pick overall, along with picks in the fourth and seventh rounds for the "Privilege" of drafting Spriggs.

0 points
0
0
PackfanNY's picture

August 22, 2018 at 07:49 am

Al, with all this being said, do you see any chance they release Spriggs or Murphy when they cut down the roster? Maybe trade or sign someone else to fill the space to provide depth. I know McCarthy "defended" them but to me that is him trying to coach them up. I just wonder if their is no development or progress from either of these guys it might be time to look elsewhere.

0 points
0
0
JerseyAl's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:05 am

I'd venture to say there will be some better and more experienced tackles than Spriggs cut the final weekend. Your question is hard to answer because we have a new GM and we just don't know how he will operate. I would lean towards no.

0 points
0
0
DraftHobbyist's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:18 am

People overlook/underestimate the differences Gutekunst can be from TT. I'm finding this year's 53-man roster projection much more difficult because I just don't have any history to go off of in terms of Offense-to-Defense ratio, number of QB's, number of players at positions in general, and even things like practice squad strategy. Tough, but fun year.

0 points
0
0
dobber's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:04 pm

Ultimately, TT surely had his favorites that he kept over others. BG might cut ties with those guys easily...and will have his own favorites. Should lead to significant roster turnover during the next couple years.

0 points
0
0
PackfanNY's picture

August 22, 2018 at 10:29 am

Thanks, Jersey Al.. I love player development but their are times I wish we would move on just a little bit sooner if needed. I guess what Gute does here will give us a little window into what we should expect moving forward.

0 points
0
0
Coldworld's picture

August 23, 2018 at 06:04 am

Athletic potential was what they saw. Risk with that is that it is merely possible upside. So far Spriggs is an example of why athleticism alone is not a guarantee of competence and of the cost incurred taking such risks.

0 points
0
0
RobinsonDavis's picture

August 24, 2018 at 04:10 pm

There was increased activity last year after the 3rd exhibition game, so trades are a possibility. This would be the only way the GM and STAFF can be assured that they get what they want.

0 points
0
0
cuervo's picture

August 22, 2018 at 07:20 am

"Even with how poor Moore has been playing, there is no way they cut a 4th round pick and hope no team will claim him off our practice squad. "

I think putting Moore on the PS would be completely safe. In order to claim him a team would have to put him on their 53 man roster, and that isn't going happen given what he's shown this preseason.

I'd keep all three rookies and Kumerow and cut Allison. I've never understood the Allison love, Kumerow has shown more so far than Allison has in his three years here.

0 points
0
0
JerseyAl's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:14 am

I can't disagree with what you've said here. EVERY YEAR, Packers fans overestimate the value of our own marginal players and are convinced they wouldn't make the Practice Squad. EVERY YEAR, they do.

0 points
0
0
DraftHobbyist's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:20 am

That's true, but that's mostly with later round picks. If memory serves me correctly, the Packers only cut one 4th Round pick under TT and that was Jerron McMillian. Double check me on that, though, as I'm going completely off of memory.

0 points
0
0
dobber's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:07 pm

WR Cory Rodgers, 2006.

0 points
0
0
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

August 23, 2018 at 02:51 am

McMillian played for his first 2 years in GB. He played 586 snaps as a rookie (and 179 more on STs), and 191 snaps in his 2nd year in GB, and by coincidence, plus 179 snaps more snaps on STs in his 2nd season in GB. We are talking about cutting a 4th rounder before he plays a single snap in a regular season game for GB. That's very rare. Dobber has it right.

0 points
0
0
Coldworld's picture

August 23, 2018 at 06:05 am

You forget a certain Mr Hill sir.

0 points
0
0
Maddygirl1's picture

August 22, 2018 at 11:08 am

I only say that because a 4th round, fast, tall, quick wide reciever is hard to "hide." Surely teams will know how athletic he is and to get a 4th round athletic talent for nothing, I think it'd be a huge risk. I know he hasn't shown well in these first two games and I'm hoping he turns it around in the next two. But if he doesn't, I think a team would think they can fix his drops/hands. If he was a late round pick, I'd say we'd be safe and could stash him, but a 4th rounder with that type size/speed combo, I don't think so IMHO. I remember when Adams, Jones and Jordy had drops early in their career. I think the Packers coaches can fix him.

0 points
0
0
Coldworld's picture

August 23, 2018 at 06:06 am

He has too much potential and film . He would be taken because his knock was speed and he has shown that was not accurate.

0 points
0
0
Mojo's picture

August 22, 2018 at 01:58 pm

Speaking to cuervo's comment, I'm not positive, but when teams cut down prior to the season starting the cut players all become free-agents eligible to sign with any other team. And I think any team can sign those newly minted FA's to their practice squad not just their 53. I believe in season when you pillage from another teams PS that's when you have to put on your 53.

If true, that's why cutting Moore presents a danger. Tons of drops, but he does get open a lot. He does have some upside and appeal to other teams.

0 points
0
0
cuervo's picture

August 22, 2018 at 02:15 pm

You are correct Mojo,

However if the Packers really want to make sure he stays, they can pay him more than the standard PS salary ( $7500/week I think). In other words, they can keep him if the really want to, unless someone signs him to their 53 (and he accepts).

0 points
0
0
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

August 22, 2018 at 07:09 pm

If a team puts in a waiver claim, the team has to put Moore on their 53 for at least 3 weeks. If Moore goes unclaimed, then any team can sign Moore to their 53 or to their PS.

I realize fans get hung up on fear about getting our own players to the PS but agree that 4th round talents who don't have some real problems seem likely to get claimed. At this point, I will watch the next two games since much could change over the next 2.5 weeks.

0 points
0
0
dobber's picture

August 22, 2018 at 07:50 am

Spriggs had his warts coming out of Indiana, but you don't find players with his athletic chops every day. I understand the pick and you can find instances where GMs move up in the draft for players who don't pan out every year. TT made the pick, but how do we know it wasn't BG lobbying for it?

I'll be honest in that I have no idea what kind of work ethic Spriggs has. When technical flaws (ex: his inability to protect his inside shoulder) don't get fixed, it's either coaching or a serious shortcoming by the player (mental or "wanting it"). I was hoping that Philbin, who cut his teeth as an OL coach, might be able to find a way to move the arrow with Spriggs a little. We've come to believe that Campen's a quality OL coach, so....?

0 points
0
0
JerseyAl's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:16 am

I also question his desire for the game. That would be the best explanation for his lack of progress/development.

0 points
0
0
porupack's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:56 am

Well said, Dobber. GB does its evaluation on desired traits; (athleticism, intelligence) and in the case of Spriggs...was a reasonable decision to pick him (though I was upset at losing 2 picks), it is strangely a flop for a 2nd/3rd round grade pick. But in the case of Bahk and Tretter at 4th round grades, and Lindsley, the packers saw the desired traits and were able to get gems where other teams give up 1st round slots.
Lesson to keep repeating, you just have to have a lot of picks, knowing that a strong percentage turn out to be JAGs or busts. Lots of teams struggle filling an Oline, and plenty of other teams have first round OT's that are JAGs.
Nonetheless, TT was GBP's real bust.

We have been unfortunate this year with Cole Madison, as the whole picture would look fairly rosier if he was a developmental 'find' in the likes of Trettor/Lindsley.

If I were GM, I would study teams cutdowns, for stashed OTs and OLBs. Cowboys, or other teams with currently stacked OLines, probably have a couple developmental talents they are hiding and developing till they have to cut salary cap vets next year.
Rob their nurseries!

0 points
0
0
DraftHobbyist's picture

August 22, 2018 at 10:06 am

Or a small trade. Maybe a player that is getting cut anyways like Randall for Kizer or a late round pick (possibly conditional).

0 points
0
0
Lare's picture

August 22, 2018 at 01:56 pm

The problem with waiting for final cutdown is that with teams keeping 9 or 10 offensive linemen on their 53-main roster, that means the best you're getting is their 11th or 12th best OL.

0 points
0
0
Handsback's picture

August 22, 2018 at 07:58 am

Okay, I'm no expert and while everything written about Spriggs is correct I'm going to argue why the Packers keep him. First off in college he showed he could play left tackle against guys like Joey Bosa. He was very light and while he could move, he wasn't balanced and his form wasn't always very good. I think the Packers never had any intentions of playing him right away. He was a backup that could develop and get stronger while their starters held the fort. Last season when he had to play an extended time he seems to be getting better. His dislocated kneecap put a stop to his modest rise in production. He didn't get the proper development this offseason because his injury takes time to repair and heal. In fact, I doubt he was even close to 100% when TC started.
So this season, he looks like a player using on one and a half legs on the field. So here is what I think the Packer brain trust will do....KEEP HIM! He's an OT and you don't give up on those guys until they absolutely show you they are incompetent and will never be an OT. He's too young to give up on as a player, and may never be a starter but could be a very good backup for the starting OTs. Not what they wanted from a 2nd round pick...but they would take it.

0 points
0
0
JerseyAl's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:19 am

With Dbak and Bulaga, it's pretty obvious the Packers didn't draft him to play right away. But they did trade 3 picks for him, so there's that. You could use the "recovering from injury" excuse for this preseason, but it doesn't look any different than his other preseasons. Having said all of that, I also expect the Packers to keep him.

0 points
0
0
Handsback's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:43 am

Al, agree except he did look differently before he was hurt last year. He actually looked like he had turned a corner and was grasping at what he needed to do to play OT. He wasn't All-World, but he was more than serviceable. He will be needed this year and I bet if it's at the end of the season...he could show up big time! Or not, but I can hope.

0 points
0
0
JerseyAl's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:56 am

I disagree on last year. And hope is all we have!

0 points
0
0
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

August 22, 2018 at 10:26 am

I'll fess up: I liked the Spriggs pick. I thought he had the highest ceiling but was least ready to play (excluding the top 2 OTs who went top 15). We hadn't extended Bakh yet, and I was on the fence about Shon Coleman due to his age (he lost 2 years in his battle against leukemia).

Well, I was right about him being the least ready to play. [I am still seeking advice about the wording of my statement acknowledging being tickled pink after we drafted Carl Bradford. For some reason, it is taking quite a while.]

0 points
0
0
Oppy's picture

August 22, 2018 at 01:34 pm

I have a double whammy confession:

Not only did I like the Spriggs pick and thought we scored a potential LG of the future with a little development...

But before David Bakhtiari was extended, I thought LT was the only spot on the OL where we really needed to actively look for an upgrade.. I though Bakh was a good-not-great LT. Boy, did he take it to another level and prove me a fool.

0 points
0
0
JerseyAl's picture

August 22, 2018 at 01:37 pm

You will be forgiven. Throw two Hail Marys and pray to your QB God.

0 points
0
0
TKWorldWide's picture

August 22, 2018 at 04:45 pm

Agree on Bak. I was unduly influenced due to draft position (how many great LT’s go in the 4th?) as well as his height; I thought 6-4 was too short for OT. Wrong and wrong again, but happy to be pleasantly surprised!

0 points
0
0
RobinsonDavis's picture

August 24, 2018 at 04:13 pm

What all this back & forth proves is that Spriggs' performance has been inconsistent. Jersey Al alluded (and we have all seen it) that Spriggs can make plays at other times. There just seems to be something going on mentally, whether it be a confidence thing or who knows (see Dobber's point above). The issue is, no back-up lineman has (thus far) played better at Left Tackle, either. My guess is if DBAK went down with an injury, we may look at Lane Taylor to fill-in like last year (see Maddygirl above).

So, we approach another season where we failed to seriously address this particular need (Madison was not drafted to be a back-up LT IMO). To me it is so hypocritical to protect Rodgers from injury by limiting his reps during the preseason, but yet do nothing to resolve this. With that stated, I wish with all my heart for Jason Spriggs to excel!! I really do!!. I think he would have a huge fan-club if he can step-it-up. Take it to them Jason!....Your team needs you!!

0 points
0
0
Guam's picture

August 22, 2018 at 08:09 am

The WSJ quoted Gute this morning that he doubted there would be much OL help coming after cuts because good big men were hard to come by. I think that means we are be stuck with Spriggs for another year. Lets hope Bakh and Bulaga stay healthy.

Despite all he has done, I still believe Kumerow is playing a numbers game at WR. Assuming the Packers keep the following: 2QBs, 5RBs, 3TEs, 9OL; that leaves either 6 or 7 spots for WR depending on whether they keep 25 or 26 players on offense.

If the Packers keep Adams, Cobb and the three rookies, that leaves 1 or 2 spots for Allison, Kumerow, Davis and Yancey. Performance to date would suggest Davis and Yancey are gone, leaving Allison and Kunerow to battle for the remaining spot(s). The wild card may be Moore who is struggling with catching the ball despite being a fourth round choice. I doubt the Packers would cut a fourth rounder, but he has two more games to play his way onto or off the roster.

0 points
0
0
Jonathan Spader's picture

August 22, 2018 at 08:48 am

With the 2 game suspension to Jones I'm hoping the Packers can stash am extra WR on the roster. Who are your 5 RBs? TY, Williams, Mays, Jones, Rip?

0 points
0
0
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:24 am

We don't have 5 RBs worthy of the 53. Stick one on the PS.

Have we kept 26 on offense in the recent past? IIRC, we keep 24 or 25.
23 in 2013, 24 in 2014, and 25 in 2015, 2016, 2017. Not sure if they made some adjustments to those numbers before the first game.

The interior of the line is okay, but that is all it is, and that assumes McCray is what I think he is. Stick him at RG now and leave him there.

0 points
0
0
Andrew Lloyd Peth's picture

August 23, 2018 at 10:55 am

I think we keep Mays by putting him on PUP. Montgomery and Williams will open the season as our RB's, with Jones taking over in Week 3. When Mays comes off PUP, someone will surely be hurt at RB or WR to open up the roster slot.

0 points
0
0
dobber's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:16 pm

Has Mays practiced at all? Isn't he ineligible for the PUP if he's practiced?

0 points
0
0
porupack's picture

August 22, 2018 at 10:06 am

near Bullseye, Guam.
But I see 5 RBs as excessive in light of the WR, TE and QB prospects. I'd rather have Kiser and Boyle (3 QBs) than a 5th RB.

Better yet, dangle Kiser for a trade for OLB or OT; keep Hundley and Boyle on 53.

Also, I think Jmon Moore would survive PS, while MVS nor ESB would survive waivers, so I wouldn't think it is a big risk (nor big loss) if JmM doesn't prove worthy of being on the 53, and he is kept on PS.

0 points
0
0
Andrew Lloyd Peth's picture

August 22, 2018 at 10:28 am

Moore would be picked up.

0 points
0
0
stockholder's picture

August 22, 2018 at 01:26 pm

Right! And Mays won't. Mays best shot is still with the Packers.

0 points
0
0
Andrew Lloyd Peth's picture

August 22, 2018 at 01:56 pm

There's simply no reason to cut Mays. Putting him on PUP saves a roster spot while providing depth after Week 6.

0 points
0
0
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

August 22, 2018 at 07:18 pm

Mays practiced during TC and therefore is ineligible for the PUP list.

https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/players/playerpage/2818379/devante-mays

0 points
0
0
dobber's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:17 pm

I should have looked ahead before posting. Thanks, TGR.

0 points
0
0
croatpackfan's picture

August 23, 2018 at 03:17 am

But, they might put him on IR and have the possibility to return him during season if they will need to...

0 points
0
0
Andrew Lloyd Peth's picture

August 23, 2018 at 10:57 am

He practiced? Bummer. I had forgotten.

0 points
0
0
Oppy's picture

August 22, 2018 at 01:40 pm

It's crazy what a few weeks of camp does-before training camp started, I fully expected Jmon and EQ to be the guys making the roster no questions asked (truth be told, I have always felt EQ would end up better than Jmon overall), and MVS would be the guy most likely to be considered for PS (Although I didn't think he'd clear waivers.) Now MVS is running away with it, and Moore is the guy struggling in his (very) early rookie season.

0 points
0
0
snowdog's picture

August 22, 2018 at 11:00 am

With the man-on-man , no wedge blocking on kick offs and the lack of momentum on the tacklers . I'm a firm believer that Davis could tear it up .

Keep Him

0 points
0
0
Oppy's picture

August 22, 2018 at 01:46 pm

Fans around here refuse to look at Davis as a return specialist, and most around here think all you need is a JAG for a return man.

Having a single guy who's the #3 PR man and the #7 KR man in the league in terms of average yards per return is a pretty big deal in a game of inches where field position is a large part of the formula for winning football.

0 points
0
0
croatpackfan's picture

August 23, 2018 at 03:25 am

I do not understand why people likes Jeff Janis and never likes Trevor Davis. He is better gunner, he is better KR returner and far better PR than Jeff Janis ever been. Also, Trevor get some praise from Aaron Rodgers while Jeff never did.

But for some reason people were convinced that Jeff Janis is victim of complot against him and wanted him to broke that complot with his "strength and speed"!

Sometimes there is no way you can convince people on bandwagon in pure facts. So, better is not to try...

I believe that Packers experts (coaches and Personnel department) will make correct decision for the best of Packers team. That does not mean I believe they will keep or cut Trevor Davis. Whatever they decide, I will accept and trust in the best outcome...

0 points
0
0
NickPerry's picture

August 23, 2018 at 05:46 am

Janis was quickly becoming or already was a top 3 gunner in the NFL. Janis WAS the reason the Packers return average was 5.7 yards last season. Davis is just another WR like Yancy, Dupre, Johnson, or Dorsey selected later in the draft who just isn't very good.

0 points
0
0
croatpackfan's picture

August 23, 2018 at 12:15 pm

OK. I read what you wrote. But, for the gunner assessment I tend to believ more to Ron Zook than to you. He claims that Trevor Davis was better gunner than Jeff Janis. Stats also favor Trevor Davis regarding KR, as he was better than Janis in that category. Also, Jeff Janis was never considered to be PR, so Trevor Davis has one more position he can cover. At least he should receive some "love" dor that...

I suggest to see what Jeff Janis will do in Cleveland before we continue this discusiion. Maybe we will get some answers...

0 points
0
0
croatpackfan's picture

August 23, 2018 at 12:18 pm

Double post @/&"#"$&%$/&%$

0 points
0
0
RobinsonDavis's picture

August 24, 2018 at 03:27 pm

Croat, I agree with your point about Davis in the return game. But, Nick is dead-on about Janis' strength as a gunner/tackler.

Five of the last 7 guys that make this team, will do so because of they distinguish themselves on special teams (besides their positional play). Keep your eye on Moore....he has been hustling on special teams. And watch who plays and stands out at the gunner positions these next two games. With Janis' departure and Goodson/Rollins on the bubble, it should gives us a clue on what the coaches are thinking.

0 points
0
0
Oppy's picture

August 23, 2018 at 06:12 pm

Croat,
When you write "complot", I believe the English word you may want to use is "conspiracy".

Complot is a French word and not generally recognized by English speakers in the US.

0 points
0
0
Coldworld's picture

August 23, 2018 at 06:10 am

I can see 4 RBs being a possibility and perhaps one less LB. The back end of those charts will make the PS I believe.

0 points
0
0
Packer Dave's picture

August 22, 2018 at 08:10 am

Spot on article. I hope Spriggs can sort out his mental issues and settles in to his heavier frame yet... How he sticks it up in games to this degree, yet remains undefeated in 1-on-1s in practice doesn't quite jibe. This is why I hope we keep our 2 first rounders and draft not one, but two big uglies for the o-line. Bulaga's legs are probably going to fall off by Thanksgiving, and I suspect Rodgers will play better with two collar bones.

Hope they find a way to put CM3, Perry and Gilbert on the field often this year.

0 points
0
0
Since'61's picture

August 22, 2018 at 08:27 am

Al - spot on article. First thing I look at for an OL is their footwork and I agree Spriggs footwork is terrible. Second if he can't take on and win against guys who probably won't in the league in a few weeks why should we keep him?

To me Murphy can play OK at RT but not LT. I thought he held up well while he was in at RT while Rodgers was playing. The interior of the Packers OL gave up the pressure which fortunately Rodgers was able to avoid.

Your last paragraph was perfect. MM needs to stop coddling these guys. They are professionals and they need to play better or be chucked. Thanks, Since '61

0 points
0
0
Coldworld's picture

August 23, 2018 at 06:12 am

Maybe they should stop switching Spriggs and Murphy’s sides. Let them practice footwork from one end of the line for a bit. Spriggs always looks worse on the right to me and Murphy the opposite.

0 points
0
0
croatpackfan's picture

August 22, 2018 at 08:53 am

While I can agree with you Al that Spriggs looks like complete failure on any OL position - not good as tackle no matter which side, no good as guard no matter which side and surely he would not be good as center,

I think that we can give up vote to Mike McCarthy to acknowledge the mistake. And that was not his first acknowledgement. I would like to remind you on 2 previous times (first after NFCCG when he admitted he was all in play calling that he lost the feeling what is going with the team and second time when he admitted that Tom Clements is not good OC neither is good play caller). You may find more examples when you can hear Mike McCarthy acknowledges his mistakes. So, despite many here thinks Mike McCarthy is stubborn and not willing to admit his own mistakes, facts tells us differently...

Also, I followed your page and this page for quite some time and I can tell that you have eye to recognize a good player and rarely mistakes. But I also remember David Bakhtiari and panic in Packer land when he had to start at LT. I mention that just to point out that it is very difficult to find excellent tackle with certainty. I also knows that many applauded for picking Spriggs...

Regarding Murphy, I believe he has huge problem with speed rusher who is going around him when he is playing LT, but much, much less when he is playing RT. It is obvious that his footwork is much better at RT...

0 points
0
0
JerseyAl's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:24 am

The thought among all the Draft scouts was that DBak should have stayed in school another year and get stronger. What they couldn't account for was his desire to win every play out on the field, whatever it took. No one could have predicted he would start from day one. Guy's a warrior.

0 points
0
0
Donster's picture

August 22, 2018 at 05:56 pm

Yep, Jersey Al, it's hard to measure a guys will and tenacity.

As for Spriggs, from what I have seen this preseason, he is playing like he is afraid of getting hurt again.

0 points
0
0
TKWorldWide's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:10 pm

How about adding “Are you a warrior?” to their interview questions?
Cut to the chase, says I!

0 points
0
0
dobber's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:21 pm

0 points
0
0
Minniman's picture

August 23, 2018 at 04:00 am

Ha Ha - comic gold!

Add to this removal of the doorknob to the interview room - if the candidate kicks the door in, they're drafted!

0 points
0
0
Minniman's picture

August 23, 2018 at 04:01 am

^ with good good footwork though!

0 points
0
0
Jonathan Spader's picture

August 22, 2018 at 08:51 am

Hopefully MM follows his own advice. In another thread ALp and I discussed Spriggs and Murphy playing LT and RT and if those were wasted reps or not. I'd like to see Spriggs play LT and LG and Murphy play RT and RG against the Raiders. Take away the excuse for poor performance and see what they can do.

0 points
0
0
Guam's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:03 am

Jonathan: The five you named seem the likely candidates for RB although I think Mays is on the bubble if someone else shows well in the last two games.

I am more interested in whether the Packers keep 25 or 26 offensive players. That question pits the last WR against the last OLB or DB for a roster spot. That is usually a disadvantage for the offensive player as the OLB or DB in question almost always performs on special teams, but the offensive guy doesn't (Janis being the exception). More pressure for Kumerow/Allison.

0 points
0
0
Andrew Lloyd Peth's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:52 am

I'd put Mays on PUP.

0 points
0
0
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

August 22, 2018 at 07:20 pm

I don't believe Mays is eligible for PUP. He practiced.

0 points
0
0
Coldworld's picture

August 23, 2018 at 06:13 am

He is not. Injured in camp.

0 points
0
0
Andrew Lloyd Peth's picture

August 23, 2018 at 10:59 am

Got it. Thanks for reminding me, TGR.

0 points
0
0
Jonathan Spader's picture

August 23, 2018 at 08:31 am

Guam: the reason I listed those 5 is Jones is in that list. I see the Packers keeping more WR depth until Jones comes back from suspension. Then moving that WR to the PS once Jones returns. I expect to see 3-4 RBs with Williams and TY being locks. Rip and Mays are both on the bubble. Jones is a lock once he returns.

0 points
0
0
DraftHobbyist's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:13 am

I'm wondering if people are overreacting a bit. I mean, I've basically heard most people trash Spriggs, Murphy, and Bell. Some people even want these guys cut. Well, who do you guys like to be our backup OT then? It's easy to hate on OL because you basically only notice them when they mess up, but if Spriggs, Murphy and Bell are all not the guy, then I guess you want Pankey? Or Patrick? Or do you put McCray at OT and then fill in OG with someone like Patrick? I mean, If you don't like any of these top 3 OL's, I really don't know what you want to do at backup OT. Personally, I see Murphy's best OT position at RT to limit speed issues and Spriggs as a LT to limit strength issues. Maybe Murphy could play OG, I don't know, but I feel solid at backup OG.

So, out of the players on the roster, who do you want at backup LT?

0 points
0
0
JerseyAl's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:27 am

what, people overreact???

0 points
0
0
DraftHobbyist's picture

August 22, 2018 at 11:05 am

You know what would be interesting? Trade Jake Kumerow for OL depth. Do you think we could get a team to bite?

0 points
0
0
Leatherhead's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:30 am

I don't think we have a legitimate backup LT, or RT, on the roster.

We should spend less time talking about trading for Khalil Mack, and more time talking about trading for a starting caliber OT. I'd even trade one of our first round picks to get a legitimate talent at tackle.

0 points
0
0
DraftHobbyist's picture

August 22, 2018 at 10:59 am

Okay, but that's a bit of a cop out. Of the players on the roster, who would you go with? It's also quite common for teams to have a relatively bad backup LT.

0 points
0
0
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

August 22, 2018 at 07:22 pm

It isn't that uncommon for teams to have historically bad backup LTs. There is no good answer to your question, only which player or players are the least bad choice.

0 points
0
0
Leatherhead's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:27 am

I'm about to close the book on Spriggs, too. The offseason stories were about how he was bigger and stronger, but he's not handling his guy, period.

The backups on the offensive line are the Achilles Heel of this team. If you can protect Rodgers, you're in every game, but if our backups have to play any kind of serious time, I don't think we can protect him.

0 points
0
0
Andrew Lloyd Peth's picture

August 22, 2018 at 09:56 am

Crazy thought, but if Bak goes down, would we consider putting Bulaga at LT and Murphy at RT?

That blows up both sides, but I just don't see a backup LT on this roster (I'd work Spriggs there exclusively). Of course, we could slide Taylor out to tackle, but that seriously downgrades 2 spots as well.

Any way you look at it, yikes.

0 points
0
0
DraftHobbyist's picture

August 22, 2018 at 10:12 am

I don't think it's crazy at all. Very possible, especially given how LT is the most important position. I think a lot of it depends on how well they think Bulaga (and possibly Murphy) can do at LT, because if he can lock LT down well enough without help, then you can do that. But, if Bulaga needs help at LT basically every play and then we have to help Murphy, we can't help both sides, so then that's a problem. I personally prefer keeping as many guys in the same spots as possible, but in the past, the Packers seemed to have preferred moving guys around more.

0 points
0
0
Oppy's picture

August 22, 2018 at 01:57 pm

On a freshly repaired ACL, I would be concerned about putting Bulaga on the left side.

0 points
0
0
RobinsonDavis's picture

August 24, 2018 at 03:40 pm

Yes, I agree with Oppy and Spader below!

0 points
0
0
Jonathan Spader's picture

August 22, 2018 at 02:24 pm

Taylor played a lot better than I thought he would at LT last year. I hope that Lewis at TE can help mask any warts if Bahkt or Brian get injured.

0 points
0
0
porupack's picture

August 22, 2018 at 10:19 am

Al,
Excellent post, really enjoyed your article and perspective. What a hoot, your observation bullet points.

>>Spriggs getting stood up and knocked back on his ass via a one-handed jolt to the chest by well-known Steelers linebacker Farrington Huguenin.
Spriggs making the wrong choices on stunts. Ole! Whoosh...
Spriggs using that athleticism to get downfield and then completely whiffing on blocks. In this case, he was more like the bull that misses hitting the bullfighter's red target and then runs around wondering where that bullfighter went.<<<<

Also, glad you called out Odom. Nice to see fresh eyes on players who had been on 'stock-down' reports.

I nominate you as OT consultant for Gute. You won me over. Now, when could you report for duty and have a list for Gute on cut-down day of stashed PS OTs? Surely some teams with currently strong OL squads have some future, above-average, prospects stashed for developing when they have salary-cap casualties next year.

Gute needs to rob a few nurseries for OT and OLB (and part ways with Biegel and Fackerall).

0 points
0
0
4thand1's picture

August 22, 2018 at 11:33 am

The biggest disappoint with Spriggs is we drafted him high and gave up picks. The Packers have had great success over the years drafting in later rounds and finding talent and really good value. Seems when we pick an o lineman high it doesn't pan out. Then on top of it the organization doesn't want to look bad, so they keep them around longer instead of cutting their losses and moving on. Spriggs at this point should be a bonified starter and he's clearly not.

0 points
0
0
Qoojo's picture

August 22, 2018 at 11:45 am

It's looking like they have zero depth on the line this year. It's looking pretty dire, then add how MM is slow to give these guys help.

If I am the GM, and given the reinforcement of the message last year that the team is literally Rodgers, I would be picking at least one OL guy every year in the mid or higher rounds of the draft. So the packers are one injury away from Rodgers running for his life on every pass play.

There really is no hope for improvement this year for OL depth because no one cuts serviceable OTs, unless by mistake.

0 points
0
0
cpitt's picture

August 22, 2018 at 12:16 pm

JMon Moore isnt clearing waivers. It would be insane to cut him just because he dropped two passes. He wouldve had just as good of stats as MVS did in that first game if he caught that deep ball. Ill be pissed if they cut Moore.

0 points
0
0
Point-Packer's picture

August 22, 2018 at 01:22 pm

Spriggs is Don Barclay except worse. Why GB holds onto these draft busts for so long is beyond me.

Fackrell playing over Gilbert last year is classic Mashed Potato. Why anyone in their right mind would make that decision is simply stupid.

0 points
0
0
Mojo's picture

August 22, 2018 at 02:45 pm

Responding to some of J. Al's comments:

MM might be the poster-child of coach-speak in action. Rarely gives you anything but hunky-dory nothing to see here stuff. Once in a while he'll say something generic like "we need improvement in that area".

I get why you don't want to take someone to task in public. So since I know I'm not getting anything from Mike, I generally watch his pressers without regard to content, more so to see if he's rocking the beard this year.

I know a lot of people are excited about GIlbert. Hope he does well, but I'll believe it when I see it in real games. So far he's done most of it against other teams versions of Spriggs.

Speaking of Spriggs, I was hoping Madison would contend for one of the backup tackle spots and make Spriggs performance moot. Know they were looking at him as a guard, but height wise he has tackle size (taller than Bakh) but just a bit lighter. Known as a battler, played tackle his entire collegiate career on a pass happy team. Might have been able to fill in in a pinch.

As far as Spriggs future, his only hope is to follow the path of Lane Taylor who looked God awful when he first received significant PT.

And finally after Moores next drop I propose changing his name from J'Mon Moore to C'mon Moore!!!

0 points
0
0
BradHTX's picture

August 22, 2018 at 10:42 pm

Really wish I could post the Orson Welles "Slow Clap Kane" GIF in response to that nickname. Well played, sir, well played.

0 points
0
0
croatpackfan's picture

August 23, 2018 at 03:31 am

You got my upvote for that C'mon...

Excellent nickname! And useful in good and bad situation for young man!

0 points
0
0
PatrickGB's picture

August 22, 2018 at 03:54 pm

I remain a Spriggs hopeful. He does look best as LT and does seem to get better as he gets used to that spot as the season goes on. Perhaps it’s the coaching scheme adjustments that helped last year before his injury?
Disappointing? Yes. Hopeful? Yes as well. I think he needs to get in a rhythm and stay in one spot like LT. Let him get used to the additional weight and recover with confidence from the knee injury. Stick M. Lewis next to him and make quick throws if necessary. And next season draft or trade for his replacement. Besides, he IS JUST a backup.

0 points
0
0
Lphill's picture

August 22, 2018 at 03:58 pm

Cut Perry to keep Odom and Gilbert , trade Monty in a deal for a O lineman . Sounds crazy but I'm sure we will be disappointed in the moves that are made .

0 points
0
0
Bedrock's picture

August 22, 2018 at 08:30 pm

Al, I usually agree with everything you say. This article provides me with a question of semantics. I applaud MM for providing a REASON for the young tackles playing poorly. But this reason doesn’t EXCUSE the coaches and players from a better performance. Now that MM has determined the reason, he needs to correct it.

0 points
0
0
JerseyAl's picture

August 22, 2018 at 08:40 pm

so you believe what he said is the reason? I don't.

0 points
0
0
Bedrock's picture

August 22, 2018 at 11:35 pm

Not the singular reason, no. There’s a few reasons. Some fixable, some not likely fixable. Footwork should be fixable, but apparently these guys need to learn their left and right separately.

0 points
0
0
4thand1's picture

August 22, 2018 at 08:47 pm

There's a rumor that the Packers were shopping Cobb around.

0 points
0
0
croatpackfan's picture

August 23, 2018 at 03:32 am

That might be very true...

0 points
0
0
BradHTX's picture

August 22, 2018 at 10:45 pm

Al,

Really a pleasure to read something from you, hope it will be a regular feature. Opinions that offer thought-provoking insight and are well written are always nice to see!

0 points
0
0
AgrippaLII's picture

August 23, 2018 at 04:13 am

Springs will make the final roster because there is no one to replace him with...it's that simple. Sure glad we drafted three WR's!

0 points
0
0
PatrickGB's picture

August 23, 2018 at 06:05 pm

We need somebody to go in IR, this is too difficult to decide right now.

0 points
0
0
RobinsonDavis's picture

August 24, 2018 at 03:57 pm

Not addressed by many, was Al's comments about the interior o-linemen, which has been shaky to start with. I will be watching this group especially. Love McCarren's comments on o-line play. IMO, any back-up that proves they can play multiple positions in a pinch, improves their odds considerably of being on the roster.

0 points
0
0