The Lass Word: Adams Trade Could Put Pack in Free Agent Receiver Market

Big gap to fill and different ways to do it.

Trains of thought: 

With the blockbuster news breaking last night that the Packers are trading Davante Adams to the Raiders in return for Las Vegas's first and second round pick, Green Bay suddenly finds itself saving the $20 million they were carrying on this year's cap to pay for his franchise tag salary.  ESPN reports the Packers will use the money to re-sign cornerback Rasul Douglas.  There may be enough left over to graze the free agent receiver pasture to bring in at least one established veteran.  There is certainly an interesting crop of pass catchers out there, any of whom would likely salivate to become the immediate favorite receiver of Aaron Rodgers. The list includes Odell Beckham, Mike Williams, Jarvis Landry, Juju Smith-Schuster, Julio Jones and AJ Green. The issue with virtually every one of those names in recent years has been injury.  There might also be enough room to bring back Marquez Valdes-Scantling.  

 

The extra first and second round selections also give the team the chance to draft one or more of an impressive crop of rookie receivers.  Las Vegas currently owns the 22nd pick on day one.  Among the top prospects are the Ohio State tandem of Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave, Alabama's Jameson Williams and John Metchie (both coming off knee injuries),  Southern Cal's Drake London, and Treylon Burks of Arkansas.  Christian Watson is a small school prospect out of North Dakota State that has been rapidly climbing up draft boards.  

 

The most shocking thing about the Adams trade is that it separates the star receiver from Rodgers.  Most everyone simply assumed that one of the assurances the Packers had to give Rodgers to convince him to return was that Adams would be retained.  The two have always been characterized as a package deal.  NFL Network reported that Rodgers knew of Adams' impending departure, and also knew that Adams never intended to play for Green Bay again.  NFL Network further reports the Raiders will make Adams the top paid receiver in league history, with a multi year deal averaging over $28 million per year. ESPN reported the Packers offered to match the Raiders' offer, but Adams preferred to change teams.  In Las Vegas he will reunite with his college teammate, quarterback Derek Carr.  I can't figure out if I am more shocked at the Adams trade, or the fact that Rodgers knew about it and chose to come back to the Packers anyway.  Which brings me to my next train of thought. 

 

•  Let me see if I have this straight (and I’m not at all sure that I do): Under the terms of his new contract, if Aaron Rodgers decides to retire after the 2023 season, the Packers would take a $68 million dead money cap hit in 2024. If he chooses to retire after the 2024 campaign, the dead money figure rises even higher, to more than $76 million. The same applies if he is cut or traded. 

 

If I have that right, then no matter how much the NFL salary cap expands in the next few years, that dead money obligation would be devastating to the roster. The Packers know this, of course, and no doubt their plan would be to renegotiate that arrangement before it could kick in. Here’s the thing. My understanding is that Rodgers would have to agree and accept any reworking of his deal. 

 

It seems to me this gives Rodgers the leverage to literally hold the franchise hostage in order to get anything he wants. All he has to do is threaten to retire, or demand a trade, thereby setting off the dead money nuclear bomb.  

 

I have no problem with bringing Rodgers back. I’m kind of pumped about it. He gives Green Bay a chance to win every game they play. But I’m uncomfortable with giving him what amounts to the power to call all the shots. Rodgers is one of the great quarterbacks of all time, but I don’t want him dictating to the coaching staff and front office.  All of which makes me wonder, once again, how he will react to the trade of Davante Adams.

 

•  The Packers shouldn’t trade Jordan Love. He is fairly low cost in the third year of his rookie contract and he is likely better than any other back-up QB Green Bay could afford to bring in. The team will, however, have an interesting decision to make in the next offseason, as they must figure out whether to pick up the fifth year option on the former first round pick. That fifth year salary becomes a little more pricey, and with the Packers’ new long-term commitment to Rodgers, my guess is they will decline a fifth season for Love and draft Rodgers’ back-up. 

 

•  I truly hated to see Za’darius Smith go, even though I knew it had to happen. I was greatly relieved when he agreed to sign and return to the Ravens, his former team. I had this disturbing vision of one of the other NFC North teams scooping him up, and having to watch him terrorize our quarterbacks for the next several years.  Now comes word Z has changed his mind and won't sign with Baltimore.  Dang.  Maybe the Vikings, Bears and Lions won't find out.

 

•  With the Adams trade, it looks like Green Bay may well be in double digits in their number of draft picks this April. That's a good thing.  Besides having to replace starters MVS, Billy Turner, Rasul Douglas, Chandon Sullivan and Adams, The Packers need to replenish their depth. Fill-in players like Henry Black, Oren Burks, Equanimeous St. Brown, Kingsley Keke, Kevin King, Whitney Mercilus and Dennis Kelly are all gone. The team needs as many darts as they can find to throw at the draft in hopes of hitting on three or four quality reserves. 

 

This will be especially critical if the team is once again hit hard by injuries. These back-ups also figure to be the core players as newly hired Rich Bisaccia endeavors to rebuild the special teams unit, unless the coaches choose to use more starters on these precarious plays. The 28th pick in the first round is really a glorified second rounder anyway. So unless somebody whom the Packers really covet falls to their spot, it makes sense to move down for an extra selection or two. 

 

 

 

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__________________________

Ken Lass is a former Green Bay television sports anchor and 43 year media veteran, a lifelong Packers fan, and a shareholder.

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3 points
 

Comments (187)

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

March 18, 2022 at 06:08 am

One of the mistakes that GB had made for many years, which they seem to be fixing, is that they haven't been building their roster with cold weather games in mind. So I'm not sure GBs focus should be on finding a top WR replacement as much as focusing on say, getting the TE position figured out.

Personally I'd like to add Akiem Hicks to this DL and watch him play in lambeau next January.

6 points
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PeteK's picture

March 18, 2022 at 06:56 am

Yes, Hicks, Clark, Gary, and Smith, now that could send shutters down an opposing team's offense. Couple that with our excellent CBs ( please sign Douglas) and we are on our way.

6 points
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BirdDogUni's picture

March 19, 2022 at 10:02 am

Imagine if you threw Jordan Davis in the mix too... At 6' 6" 340 and a 4.78 40, he could reek some havoc, even as a rookie.

0 points
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HankScorpio's picture

March 18, 2022 at 07:55 am

I'm not sure it is a mistake to not build their roster for Lambeau in January. Last I checked, there was little chance that a SB would be played in Lambeau, meaning the ultimate prize requires a team capable of beating the AFC champ on a good field in decent weather.

I go back to the Vikings of the 70s under Bud Grant. Very tough to beat outdoors in the cold. Not so tough to beat in the Super Bowl. I suppose you can quibble over whether those Vike teams or the recent Packer teams that lost playoffs at home are more disappointing. For my tastes, it does not matter. Both fell short.

The one thing I know for sure I absolutely believe is that the Packers need to upgrade their WR room in the worst way. I've been on that bandwagon for 3-4 years. Trading Davante, their only good player, did not give me any reason to jump off.

6 points
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tincada's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:33 am

Seriously? How well did that "supposed" weather advantage thing work in the playoffs? 0 - 2. The GBP need to realize they have a cheap, ignorant GM, average coach who isn't capable of taking advantage of a great but egotistic QB and and CEO who is clueless about football. I don't see any problems, LMAO again and again!

-9 points
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croatpackfan's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:37 am

Actually, 1-2. They won vs Rams in divisional round last season.

1 points
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Leatherhead's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:39 am

Cubby, the answer is ALWAYS a WR. Always. We go out and throw for 360 yards and 3 TDs in a playoff loss and the answer is ......get another WR. We give up 5 sacks.....get another WR so somebody is open so Rodgers can get rid of the ball. We give up 30 points......get another WR so we can score more points.

Give the ball to Jones less. Give the ball to Dillon less. Throw more. You can take it to the bank that regardless of the problem, the solution is ALWAYS to get another superduper WR.

We absolutely could use a TE who can block and be part of the passing game. We absolutely could use a DL like Hicks. But the priority will always be another WR. And if we get one, then we'll need another, and another. It never stops.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

I'm happy with the Adams trade. Very happy. It looks like that "Davantevision" problem that has shown up in our last two playoff losses has been solved.

We now have a plethora of picks. We can move around in the draft. We have 4 picks in the top 59. 7 in the top 140. An opportunity to seriously increase the overall strength of the roster. Additionally, we could be players in the FA market now because we're $20 million under the cap.

1) Make sure the offensive line can protect the QB and open holes in the run game, even when guys get injured.

2) Get a TE
3) Get a legit replacement for Adams. It's more plausible now that we might take one at #28.

4) Bolster the defense. Our secondary,now that we've added Douglas, is one of the league's best on paper. Fortify it. The defensive line could use a guy. Get another edge player for the rotation.

For quite a while, I didn't understand how the Packers expected to be better this year without trading Rodgers. Now, I think we have a fantastic opportunity to really strengthen the team.

11 points
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murf7777's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:44 am

Right on LH!

0 points
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croatpackfan's picture

March 18, 2022 at 03:47 pm

I did not read that Rasul Douglas sign contract with Packers. Where you found that news?

0 points
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dobber's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:05 am

Not much to add to this.

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greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:01 am

Except laughter & applause.

-2 points
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Crankbait's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:10 am

I do not trust Packers front office to solve this. I just can't.
They will most likely use most cap space to sign the next shiny object..... that being a wide receiver or two.
Where the Packers lack championship caliber is in the trenches and that has always been the case with either Favre or Rogers.

-5 points
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greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:01 am

underrated take.

1 points
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Nate-1980's picture

March 18, 2022 at 04:44 pm

Lh the offensive line is strong, if Gute doesn’t take a wr in the first round and/or doesn’t sign a vet he should be fired(I think we need both).. Plain and simple are “ corps” are dead last in the league and there’s probably college teams that are better.. Last playoff exit wasn’t on the defense it was we only had basically Adams worth a damn, and Rodgers not playing great..

-1 points
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murf7777's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:40 am

Get two more high end draft picks, pick up/sign Douglas and Landry in FA > having Adams on the roster.

0 points
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dobber's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:10 am

Early prediction: AJones catches 80 passes in 2022.

If you're going for a FA WR who isn't a burner, I'd go Juju Smith-Schuster over Landry. Landry is older and fragile, and never really was very fast. Smith-Schuster isn't a burner, but he's a big dude and a good blocker. They both could fit in under the cap number they'd be offering DA...but they'd still need to find a field-stretcher who plays enough snaps to scare a defense on a regular basis.

I'd rather have a TE who can block some and run (and there aren't many available) to go with a WR. Maybe they'd get back to the illusion of complexity...

4 points
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Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:12 am

TEs are notorious for taking a couple of years. We need everything now.

3 points
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Leatherhead's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:54 am

Then let's trade for Hockenson.

1 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:55 am

I would still use the first on a WR and then focus on OT, DE and a TE. If the value is there, bag another WR with the remaining two pick. I like their chances to draft Ruckert as the inline guy. Lewis looks to be on a fair deal, if he chooses to play another year. If Charley Cross fell or Kenyon Green was still on the board it may be tempting to secure another starter upfront.

4 points
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Nate-1980's picture

March 18, 2022 at 04:43 pm

Chiefs nabbed ju ju, not much left..:(

1 points
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zoellner25's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:42 am

Translation: They stink at home in January in cold weather

2 points
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croatpackfan's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:39 am

AR stinks at home in January in cold weather, not, for example, defense. In both losses D played very good to excellent!

4 points
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Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:14 am

Dillon doesn’t and though we never found out, but I doubt Tsylor would have. Maybe it’s LaFleur who stinks in part.

5 points
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greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 01:21 pm

Well, LaFleur himself, admitted he stunk to high heaven in leaving Jordan Love out hanging to dry by himself in his first NFL start. LaFleur isn’t without fault.

He failed to adjust that KC game plan into a run heavy attack (where KC defense was vulnerable), failed to make in game adjustments to add another blocker/OL, failed lazily to adjust from what he normally called with Rodgers under C.

Year prior, he allowed Rodgers to throw all over the place with the formidable Jamaal Williams, Aaron Jones, AJ Dillon trio to run all day with in that elimination game. Eliminated, we were.

Matt LaFleur needs a good self scout, to do better with the weapons he’s been provided, and to control Aaron Rodgers if he keeps ignoring our RBs.

Possibility exists that LaFleur is the one who is pass happy. In TEN, he had a HC in Vrabel who is a Belichick disciple, who likely held his feet to the fire to run the rock 40-50x per game… no joke.

2 points
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rememberWhitehurst's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:54 am

Hicks is 32 years old and he played 9 games last year and 5 in 2019. I don't think he's someone to rely on as a key part of a defense anymore.

9 points
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PeteK's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:00 am

One year contract where he can be part of a rotation and not get constantly double teamed.

2 points
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Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:02 am

He’s a huge injury risk. Unless he’s very cheap, that’s classic paying for a name.

5 points
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dobber's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:11 am

One of those guys you look toward if you feel a significant need and he's still on the market around July 1.

5 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:30 am

Or they could snag Wyatt if he falls into the 20's.

2 points
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Leatherhead's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:57 am

Jordan Davis might still be available at 22, but others will be available a 28 and after, even down into the 50s, where we have another two picks.

I like Leal. Very versatile, which fits with what we do. He's more than likely a mid second round guy.

1 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:27 am

Wyatt's lateral movement and motor keep him on the field all three downs. Somebody will grab Davis in the teens after his 40 timing.

3 points
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Jvschultz's picture

March 18, 2022 at 12:19 pm

I agree with you on cold weather games. It has become painfully obvious over the past several seasons, that getting home field advantage has not been a blessing for the Packers. The teams have been built for warmer weather (regular season). Fixing the tight end position will be huge.

0 points
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Crankbait's picture

March 19, 2022 at 10:30 am

It seems the only time Rogers throws to the tight end is when Adams is out of the lineup. Next year's offense is going to be fun to watch again.

0 points
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NoNonsense's picture

March 18, 2022 at 04:05 pm

Would love to add Hicks but Philly just released Fletcher Cox who would be an awesome guy to add to the Dline as well.

Would also offer Corey Littleton a contract to play next to Devondre if he doesn't want too much dough.

As for WR, I like Beasley, Landry and Ju Ju but if I were Gute I would call the Cardinals about WR Andy Isabella who I heard was available in a trade. That and/or see if Pittsburg wouod trade Claypool. Maybe call the Saints about Michael Thomas since that relationship is a little strained.

2 points
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Bure9620's picture

March 18, 2022 at 07:05 am

I'm surprised Smith-Schuster is not signed yet. Really liked his game and he is a bona fide #1 in my opinion. I would love it if the Packers were able to make that work.

1 points
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Barnacle's picture

March 18, 2022 at 07:27 am

I hope we do NOT spend a lot of money on a free agent wide receiver. Let’s try to draft what we need and have our overpaid diva QB throw to the receivers we have or draft this year.

Get out of cap hell and retain our good players next year.

Remember, We won our last 7 games when Diva Devante did not play.

9 points
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Bure9620's picture

March 18, 2022 at 07:44 am

The longer on the market, the lower the price tag, nor do I want them to spend big money in FA.

4 points
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murf7777's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:42 am

At this point, we are “all-in”, so why save the money? Get the best team you can over the next two years IMO.

2 points
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Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:10 am

Spend what? Remember 20 million is probably the minimum we need to navigate mundane operations from now through the season. We were just under the cap. We probably can’t use all of the 20 in FA, maybe not most of it.

The good here is the draft picks and the lack of as many further mortgaging or releases. Hopefully we can spare some because it’s currently Cobb, Lazard, AmRod and Winfree leading the corps, only one of whom is really a known commodity in terms of both role and durability. Rookies are bad bets to help now, and now is our best chance under the Rodgers structure.

4 points
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greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:36 am

All of this known and true.

Add in Rodgers doesn’t take well to trusting rookies, and it begs the question if Rodgers isn’t also going to be moved in a blockbuster draft day deal as part of a much larger plan?

So much so they’d likely pop for a portion of his salary in exchange for a giant bag of picks. A NY Giant bag of picks.

2 points
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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:32 am

Maybe GB has $10M to spend. Something like that amount sounds likely.

8 points
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greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:38 am

TGR, is a Rodgers trade possible from a cap standpoint? You’re just the guy I was hoping would jump in here!

0 points
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dobber's picture

March 18, 2022 at 02:12 pm

There are still a couple moves coming: what happens to Jaire? What happens to Lowry? There's places to make a couple $ yet if they need to.

2 points
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Bure9620's picture

March 18, 2022 at 03:39 pm

Jaire is hopefully extended and soon..He is not just an elite player but also an extension frees up $10 million on this year's cap

0 points
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marpag1's picture

March 18, 2022 at 07:57 am

Personally, I wouldn't say he's an above average #1, but I'll agree he could help the Packers. Sometimes I wonder if he is a bit of a head case, though...

6 points
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Johnblood27's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:07 am

must be in the water in Pittsburgh...

1 points
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dobber's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:12 am

WRs are thoroughbreds. They tend to be a bit jittery and flaky.

2 points
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PeteK's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:21 am

Scouts believe Shuster has a skill set that is easily found, a tough WR that does not beat CBs for easy receptions down field. Remember he was a free agent last year and signed only a one year deal to return to Steelers after lukewarm interest from league. However, I'll take that skill set that produces an abundance of first downs with an affordable contract. Then draft a WR that can stretch the field.

1 points
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The_Baloney_Stops_Here's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:06 am

I'm not. Juju seems more interested in being an influencer than a football player and yet he still wants top dollar. I wouldnt sign him on someone else's dime.

1 points
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PeteK's picture

March 18, 2022 at 07:24 am

The morning after brings some clearer thinking. My guess would be that the FA and AR decided it was not possible to meet his demands, and MAYBE agreed that they were too reliant on each other to the detriment of the offense.*** Think back to Sharpe injury, Pack offense improved and won a SB 2nd season after he left. Shuster, has had some injury concerns, but is young and has shown great production. Landry would be next in line. One of these along with a draft pick.

4 points
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jeremyjjbrown's picture

March 18, 2022 at 07:27 am

According to his agents Davante had his mind set on being a Raider. He didn't want to be here, Gute did well to get a 1 and 2.

12 points
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dobber's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:13 am

Agree 100%. The Packers were over a barrel and the Raiders let them off the hook.

4 points
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stockholder's picture

March 18, 2022 at 07:06 am

I'm not surprised by Adams Leaving. I'm surprised the packers got a 1 and 2 for him.= Thats the win. Gutey No longer needs to trade down. He can keep that 5th year option now. And who cares if it's a reach.= Another win. Love still needs to be traded. If you thought about it earlier. ( This draft is the draft to do it.) Bench warmers don't need money. And seems Gutey does his best work when his back is to the wall. (Give me a 2 and he's gone. ) If you sign Odell and Landry. The future won't be bright. And MVS isn't sure handed. He can be replaced. Youth is the best way of stretching the Field. Especially in the Cold. Maybe we can get a DL to help clark and replace KeKE? Please.

-1 points
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PeteK's picture

March 18, 2022 at 07:17 am

I do not like Odel's character.

11 points
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Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:57 am

Or his injury history. We need receivers who can stay on the field. We already have Cobb.

At the moment our only other receiver with experience is Lazard. Adding a bunch of rookies isn’t likely to work this year. We need a high pick, high readiness WR in the draft and some experience in FA. One of them needs to have genuine speed.

Still a gamble that we will get much from a receiver picked in the 20s, but 20 million in cap doesn’t go far with established WRs who are good, so youth has to be part of it. We are paying a QB 50 million, he has to have done weapons or we’d be better with a Tyler Huntley type.

I see less logic in this than most here seem to, unless we find gold in FA. Admittedly, it’s better than paying Adams what he got (staggering), but the Rodgers plus what concept beggars common sense. We need WRs and we need to find exceptional value if this is to make sense. We also need a TE. Then we need Rodgers spending time with them before the season.

8 points
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PeteK's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:26 am

Speaking of Cobb, his contract redo pays him exactly what the cap hit would have been if we released him, so that is a win.

4 points
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Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:50 am

Cobb is a good piece when healthy, but it’s foolish to rely on him staying healthy or being a regular down player. The definition of a luxury in a situation where staples are absent.

2 points
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greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:58 am

Hypothetically, if plan all along was to move both Adams & Rodgers via trade, keeping Cobb allows them to pair a WR Rodgers knows well in a 2nd trade.

Maybe it’s nothing more than keeping Rodgers as happy as possible here to finish his career. Both could be possibilities. Agree Cobb is of questionable positive impact on the field for Green Bay. Love the guy, but… harsh realities are evident.

0 points
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Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:20 am

Cobb healthy is still a big plus, but if you can’t bet on health, you can’t rely on the plus. He’s therefore a player one can’t rationally plan around but are happy to have, cheap, if your core is functional first. Then he can still make an impact.

4 points
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greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:36 am

Cobb healthy, today, is still slow. That greatly affects a WR adversely regarding impact on the field, in a much younger man’s game.

The combine numbers recently recorded for the upcoming draft point to this being true. Randall Cobb is not the dynamic player we drafted all those years ago. Far from it. Sadly.

0 points
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Nate-1980's picture

March 18, 2022 at 04:59 pm

Couldn’t agree more with everything CW, we’re in win now mode.. We have essentially 3 years, we need contributors as pass catchers this coming season.. Or at the very least ones that will break out in year two..

0 points
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dobber's picture

March 18, 2022 at 07:24 am

ODB blew out his ACL in the SB. He's likely not going to play at all in 2022.

11 points
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greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:59 am

True.

1 points
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mrtundra's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:17 am

We need to keep Love. He is a cheap alternative to anyone else we could get at QB. Plus, he knows the system. He'll be fine as our QB. How long was it until ARod got good as our QB, once he took over the reigns from Favre? I'd draft a DL early, especially if either Davis or Wyatt, from Georgia, are there or even DeMarvin Leal is there. We will also need another OT. Round two could net us a Falele. Depending on if Gute re-signs MVS, we definitely need to go after a WR, or two. Right now our top WRs are Lazard and Cobb. Olave or London would be good picks for GB. Tyquan Thornton, combine speedster, can be had in the later rounds. He'd be a great gunner on STs, as well.

3 points
6
3
stockholder's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:04 am

I believe Gutey takes Green IOL Texas A&M if there. He can play anywhere. Travis Jones is my DT. Constantly Double teamed , and has the lowest pad level. Gets off blocks. He does get tired. WR sets his draft. I'll say Williams WR Alabama and Green OL are Rd. 1. Love gets you that DL. NO WAITING!!! Because the top 5 DL will be gone by 45. Gutey will trade his 4th rd.picks. But I wouldn't. Love will give him what he needs in rd 2.

0 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:05 am

One of the top tier WRs if w/in reach. If they are poached, Green makes sense and you have a starter. The #28 may be a move up if Wyatt is still about. He fits Barry's need for a movement guy upfront. I like him over Davis.

0 points
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stockholder's picture

March 18, 2022 at 02:45 pm

But they play in the 4-3-4. Were staying with the 3-4-4. So only Travon Walker works. Gutey will have to trade upper him. Remember Davonport? Have to pass on Georgia players.

0 points
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rstain99's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:19 am

I think they had Adams over a barrel, so he doesn't report he had until week 5? under tag seems they could have got more. Knowing the Raiders had him signed maybe squeezed another second rounder out of them. Not much let of FA's either kind of boxed themselves in a corner. Who knows maybe just another Javon Walker situation. Rodgers and Adams really were in tune. MVS hasn't signed anywhere but really he is not the answer Jarvis Landry not really scaring anyone. Well this way Rodgers can't just focus on Adams now in playoff games.

3 points
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Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:01 am

MVS could be part of the answer depending on price, as he’d give defenses pause for thought deep, but no one player is likely to be. We already needed a couple before trading Adams. Cobb is a luxury one can’t rely on for a lot of snaps or availability. Lazard is currently it.

2 points
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dobber's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:16 am

MVS is a play where you make an offer, don't move, and let him do his thing. If he comes back on your terms? Great. If not? Go find another burner.

But they have to find one.

4 points
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PeteK's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:31 am

Move on from MVS. I'm tired of seeing him get over thrown on passes. Whomever was at fault, we need a change.

-3 points
0
3
BirdDogUni's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:06 am

Respectfully disagree. Rodgers likes MVS. That's worth quite a bit right there, plus, AR has missed him in the past, so he'll likely work harder on that relationship now that DA is a Raider. I could be very wrong, but I do believe if MVS comes back this year he's due for a wicked season.

Granted, he needs to have some luck and stay healthy for it to be a truly "breakout" year though.

5 points
5
0
Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:12 am

Darn, agreement again. MVS knows the system and will block as well. Many speedsters can’t block or won’t. Regardless of what people here may think about him, it’s proven that opponents alter defenses to defend him, and we desperately need that. Worth quite a lot for that alone.

6 points
6
0
PeteK's picture

March 18, 2022 at 11:41 am

I guess 4 seasons wasn't enough time. We have about 10 mill to spend after draft, our free agents, etc. If we can sign MVS and a FA like JuJu, then fine.

0 points
1
1
greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 05:59 pm

No. I think you’re right on with your original thinking, PeteK!

There’s no magical connection between Rodgers & MVS, who’s #s were his 2nd worst set posted in his 4 year career.

2021 Season
Lazard in 13 games:
12.8 Y/R, 8 TD, 28 1D, 66.7% Catch%, 513 YDS 40 Rec on 60 Tgts

MVS in 11 games:
16.5 Y/R, 3 TD, 18 1D, 47.3% Catch%, 430 YDS 26 REC on 55 Tgts

Getting a speedster faster than MVS to take the top off a D, the SECOND one we will be adding after drafting a true #1 caliber WR in R1 can easily be had in R2 or R3. We’ll likely get better production from whomever they add there than what we’ve seen from MVS thru his 4 seasons.

Both will be faster WRs than MVS, and likely better WRs than MVS. There is that much speed in this draft at the position.

Our problem has been we’ve only had one not very good WR but a fast WR over these last 4 years or more. That must change this year by adding two in April’s draft. Give that MVS dough to Yosh Nijman, who was reliable as hell last year. Yosh by rights should have started our playoff game vs. SF.

1 points
1
0
BirdDogUni's picture

March 18, 2022 at 06:10 pm

To me, it comes down to price point. If it is for the right price, bring him back. If it isn't, draft Watson and/or Pierce. I'm easy, as long as we have a viable field stretcher, I'm OK, I just think MVS is ready.

He was a 5th round pick. He's had some bad luck and AR missed him at least a couple dozen times in the last 4 years. If AR had hit him on all those, we'd be expecting to pay him well over 10 million a year. Granted, he had drop issues the first 2 1/2 years, but last year midseason he seemed to take a step forward.

Now that DA is gone, MVS would actually get #2 WR looks, along with deep shots. We will see, but if he goes to Denver, Browns, or the Bucs, look out for a breakout year for MVS. Just saying.

2 points
2
0
jannes bjornson's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:23 am

His replacement can be drafted.

2 points
4
2
dobber's picture

March 18, 2022 at 02:15 pm

"I'm surprised the packers got a 1 and 2 for him.= Thats the win..... And who cares if it's a reach."

We agree here, too. WIth that second #1, they can speculate on one of those picks a little more if they want, or use one pick on a prospect they really like who doesn't play one of the traditional "Packer first round pick" positions.

4 points
4
0
egbertsouse's picture

March 18, 2022 at 07:13 am

I just hope they use the $20 mil to get a couple of decent receivers to make up the 100 catches they lost. They should not blow the money signing the same old JAGs like MVS, ESB, Lewis, and Tonyan. Those guys are easily replaceable in Day 3 of the draft for a lot less dough.

5 points
7
2
PeteK's picture

March 18, 2022 at 07:22 am

True, we have gone down that road already. Hooper might be an option since his age and down stats ( could be result of QB) should make for an affordable contract. Just wish he was a better blocker, but at 255 that could improve.

-2 points
1
3
The_Baloney_Stops_Here's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:17 am

At least a quarter of Adams' targets should be redistributed into the run game which doesnt require any personnel additions.

8 points
9
1
Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:19 am

Or a 50 million QB. It doesn’t make sense as a concept to pay that and have no credible catching corps. Even though the run game helps (and I’d like it used more), we still need catchers to exploit that.

5 points
5
0
greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 06:06 pm

Brafuckinvo!

0 points
0
0
Oppy's picture

March 18, 2022 at 07:13 am

Check this out: Last year before the season started, and the "Last Dance" tweet got pushed out..

It was actually all about Davante Adams wanting out of GB because he already knew from prior contract extension talks that the Packers were never going to give him the contract he wanted.

Rodgers probably wanted out as well, as a result of feeling his buddy was being 'disrespected' (hence the first day of training camp speech), but quickly realized that if Davante was going to get paid what he wanted, he'd never play with him again (because Rodgers already knew the contract he'd eventually seek would prohibit pretty much any team from having them both on the same roster) and probably came to realize during the season that GB was as good as anywhere else to get paid $50m a year while not throwing to Adams.

So that last dance schtick really all about Adams' departure.

10 points
10
0
Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:25 am

It’s odd, I read the majority conviction here as clearly being that if Rodgers were to dance again here, Adams was essential. Now it seems the view is it makes more sense without him. I think it makes less. Draft picks are great, but this year?

2 points
2
0
PeteK's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:42 am

A possible scenario: veteran WR 65 catches 6 TDs + draft pick 45 & 5, this = Adams's production but much cheaper with cap relief. I just can't help but reference what happened when we lost Sharpe and last seasons playoff fixation with Adams.

3 points
3
0
Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:54 am

If we can find that player wonderful. Rodgers had become overly fixated in my opinion. So a new cast, if competent would be a plus, as you say. It’s just a question of whether we can cobble one together that is credible in terms of ability and health and we must have a deep threat that teams will take seriously.

2 points
2
0
Oppy's picture

March 18, 2022 at 05:07 pm

My opinion has been Rodgers should have been shipped out this offseason, not retained. My opinion has also been that while I believe Davante Adams is arguably the best WR in the NFL, and has shown no signs of proverbially (or literally) slowing down yet, I don't think any single WR is worth the kind of money he was looking for. I'm legitimately happy that he got what he was looking for, he deserves everything he can get.. I'm just happy the Packers weren't the team to do it.

I know Adams is a great WR regardless who the QB is. You may not get the stats with a lesser QB, but that doesn't change the performance. I also believe Rodgers tunnel vision for Adams coupled with his hypercritical analysis of who's worthy to throw to ("trust") has actually rendered Rodgers as a QB who has actually underutilized the talent around him, as opposed to being the QB who many have painted him to be- the QB who somehow excels despite low talent around him.

We have seen in games missed by Adams that when Rodgers doesn't have to option to only target Adams, the offense looks unstoppable at times. That's not an indictment of Adams, that's an indictment of Rodgers' stubbornly not using the other pieces on the chessboard unless he has to.

So.. 2022, maybe we see a better, more difficult to defend version of Rodgers who make the opposing defense play honest and cover all options.. or maybe we just see a new version of Aaron Rodgers who simply now only throws to whoever he decides is next most "trustworthy" player on the offense.

Either way.. better enjoy what football you can, because things aren't going to be pretty when the bills start commin' due.

0 points
0
0
NickPerry's picture

March 18, 2022 at 07:19 am

The Packers are undefeated without Adams. Are they better without Adams? Probably not. BUT, Aaron Rodger is DEFINITELY better WITHOUT Adams.

In EVERY single game we've seen the Packers play without Adams, Rodgers has done EXACTLY what this MLF offense is designed to do...Spread the ball around. I honestly believe this is a good thing for the Packers. A 30 year WR who has shown time and again he can't run away from anyone and always seems to be caught from behind, ISN'T worth that contract IMO.

The Packers now have four picks in the the first 59 picks, and five in the first 92. Whether you like Gute or not, you HAVE to admit he's hit on his 1st and 2nd round selections. All of you ready to pounce on me about the Jordan Love selection don't know he's a complete bust either. Granted, not the greatest selection in hindsight!

Bring back Rasul Douglas. Draft at least two WR's with those first 5 selections, a D-Lineman for Kenny Clark (and Stockholder), a OLB, and an OT. Perhaps Gute could bring in Smith-Schuster as a possession WR to HELP replace Adams.

Bottom line is the Packers have OPTIONS, and I for one can't wait to see what Gute does.

11 points
13
2
Starrbrite's picture

March 18, 2022 at 07:43 am

I like your thinking NickPerry. And like Stockholder, I too want a D-Lineman in the draft.

4 points
4
0
dobber's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:18 am

I've wanted a DL for years...it's become a running joke around here...

3 points
3
0
croatpackfan's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:49 am

I thought we all wanted ILB first for decade. I must be confused...

1 points
1
0
Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:16 am

I think many of us wanted both. We also didn’t want slow ILBs and light penetration types on the DL. We got none of the above till recently.

1 points
1
0
dobber's picture

March 18, 2022 at 02:18 pm

I've always been in the "Add a stud 5-tech to play next to Clark and everything behind them gets better" camp.

5 points
5
0
greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:34 am

Truth. We need additions of top talent on our DL. Without question. Still, despite TJ Slaton added last April R5, who I believe to be a real gem. The Packers would greatly benefit by adding both a top NT, and a top DT/DE next month.

1 points
1
0
jannes bjornson's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:36 am

Maybe two from their first four selections. 3rd and 8 still is a haunting memory and I would prefer Lancaster stays away from the roster.

3 points
3
0
greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 11:17 am

I couldn’t agree with you more. Defense wins Championships. It’s a maxim for good reasons.

-2 points
0
2
Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:32 am

I agree that Rodgers and Adams had become problematic. Had we the cap to go out and get 2 proven receivers I’d agree with your take, but we don’t.

TGR can correct me, but we need this cap to draft and get through the year. Before we had more moves coming. So we are relying on draft picks to replace Adams this year when this year is our most credible shot? It doesn’t add up to me.

If we still need more moves, the future gets worse and possibly the now. At this point though, no new, proven receivers and no Adams is a farcical result after retaining Rodgers.

3 points
4
1
Guam's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:10 am

I agree that losing Adams in an "all-in" year is a surprise, but the return the Packers got was significantly beyond my expectations. Getting a #1 and #2 and eliminating the "DanteVision" problem from the offence is a win.

2 points
2
0
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:14 am

Draft, PS, 52/53, $5M piggy bank = ~$11M. ~$9M to spend.

GB could spend the $9M on Douglas ($4M to $5M first year cap number for him leaves about the same to spend on ?), but it goes pretty fast. They might generate some more from Lowry on an extension, and Lewis, Crosby by releases mostly, but that isn't tons and the latter two just leave holes.

So those dreaming of Schuster/Landry or Green/Jones, Crowder/Fuller are probably mostly dreaming. I don't really like any of those players all that much anyway - at least there is some questions about all of them, imo.

As a drafter, Gute has been good in the first two rounds. Not much after that: 28 picks in rd. 3-7, and MVS and Runyan to show for it. Maybe Slaton, and Keke physically.

3 points
3
0
Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:26 am

Drafting is not a recipe for success in year one. It can happen, but it’s rare that a WR is a difference maker as a rookie. We could move up now, which might increase the chance of first year contribution, but I feel we really could use 2 first round picks too. Perhaps we could trade a pick for a rental player too (who?). The draft haul could make a difference in years 2 and 3, but the Rodgers deal seems to press for now not later. Conundrums!

4 points
4
0
greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 11:13 am

Thanks, TGR. Agree with you none of the player you mentioned are desirable.

We remain in cap hell for lack of a better term. Mere wiggle room requires throwing huge future dollars on marginal talents. The Packers appear to still be in a tight spot.

Also agree with Coldworld not much is making sense moving forward, begging a lot of questions for 2022-23 season.

1 points
1
0
dobber's picture

March 18, 2022 at 07:25 am

"The Lass Word: Adams Trade Could Put Pack in Free Agent Receiver Market"

With a bazillion-dollar QB and all the cap machinations they've been making, it should be a stronger word than "could".

10 points
11
1
jeremyjjbrown's picture

March 18, 2022 at 07:50 am

The problem is the WR market is bad.

I wonder if the Steelers would swap Jordan Love for Chase Claypool and something like a 5th?

1 points
1
0
HankScorpio's picture

March 18, 2022 at 07:59 am

The bar is so low to upgrade the Packers WR group that a weak market is not a show-stopper. On March 18, I look at the roster and see Juwann Winfree, Randall Cobb and Amari Rodgers as the top 3. Winfree is a street refugee, Cobb is over the hill and hurt a lot and Rodgers stunk on ice as a rookie. It won't take much to provide an upgrade.

1 points
4
3
Bure9620's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:12 am

Lazard?

2 points
2
0
HankScorpio's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:21 am

Lazard is not on the roster, technically. Just for the sake of discussion, he would definitely be the best of the bunch. On what I would call a legit decent group, he's slotting in at 3-5 in the pecking order.

So yeah, Lazard is one avenue of improvement that would seem very likely. But he does little to change the overall calculus, in my book.

1 points
3
2
Bure9620's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:01 am

He was tendered, so he will be on the roster or the Packers get a 2nd round pick. That tender also means the Packers value him higher than 3-5 in pecking order. If offered, and the Packers let him walk that would be another 2nd round pick. 2 1sts, and 3 2nds in that case. More than enough draft capital to find a solid young talent to plug in. WRs are a Dime a dozen.

2 points
3
1
Nate-1980's picture

March 18, 2022 at 05:19 pm

If Lazard is out best receiver we’re in trouble, MY GOD MAN..

1 points
1
0
dobber's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:23 am

This is where you sign or trade for a starting caliber WR, draft 1-2, and say: #12, we're paying you a small fortune because you're a 4-time MVP. Go be a 5-time MVP and elevate these schmucks.

For those who are interested, here's the current market:
https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/free-agents/all/wide-receiver/
They might be able to get a WR in trade or look for one to be a post-draft cap casualty, yet, but who do you chase?

0 points
0
0
Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:38 am

I agree. Though I think Gute could well go with an option like he did with Funchess as well - a post injury vet on a prove it deal. I’d be happy with Funchess on the 90 in fact. He’s still 27. If we can find another, so much the better.

2 points
2
0
The_Baloney_Stops_Here's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:23 am

Packers arent trading Love.

0 points
1
1
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:21 am

Maybe so. While GB won't be shopping in the K-Mart section (I hope), they won't be shopping at Gucci either.

22 and 53 sound better in the abstract than they will when names are attached to those draft slots. OTOH, Gute never drafts the guy I want anyway.

5 points
5
0
Bure9620's picture

March 18, 2022 at 01:10 pm

Pretty well said. The stock keeps dropping on JU-JU. Next week he will likely be Nieman Marcus brand. A good value, maybe 5-7 $mil per year? Depending on how long on the market. He would be a great veteran possession option at a good price. Draft a speedy rookie as well and they are set, even if they cannot close a deal with MVS.

-1 points
0
1
Bure9620's picture

March 18, 2022 at 03:44 pm

Nvmnd......He is a Chief now

0 points
0
0
Packer_Fan's picture

March 18, 2022 at 07:28 am

A good article. It would be nice to know for sure if the team agreed to match the Raider offer. I thought that Rodgers and Adams would be a package deal too. So here are my new thoughts.

First, I am glad this got done quick.

Second, maybe Rodgers will start using all his weapons.

Sign Douglas and Tonyan. Pick up Mercilus on a cheap deal. And another WR vet.

For draft, they have seven picks in the top 140. Gute has to hit on four or five of them. Last year he got three of four. Stokes, Myers and Newman. For draft picks, I hope they draft Leo Chenal of UW. Physically he is a stud with great instincts. A WR and DL. Also an Edge and TE. Then and OL and DB.

0 points
1
1
jeremyjjbrown's picture

March 18, 2022 at 07:51 am

Tae agents confirmed the Packers offered more.

8 points
8
0
BirdDogUni's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:24 am

Then we have Tae to thank. Thank God he wanted to go to Vegas. Packers are better off this way, and Tae is happy.

6 points
7
1
Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:45 am

We agree again. Adams has a staggering contract with a ton guaranteed. He may deserve it (I think we are seeing the coming cap rise start to inflate big deals), but for us the fact that they offered it should set off even more alarm bells about our FO given what they have already done.

As an aside, this just strengthens my suspicion that Gute remains a good GM trapped by a wholly misguided leadership.

2 points
3
1
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

March 18, 2022 at 11:24 am

Here is the thing: the philosophy and direction have been decided. I would have chosen a different vision as I'd have traded AR. Of course I am more likely to view every move they make in furtherance of that vision as doubling down on a mistaken philosophy.

So, we are all-in. Does this move further the vision? No, it doesn't. But offering to match LV's offer definitely fits the vision. So, why be concerned? Because you think it is doubling down, but it has yet to be determined whether GB's philosophy is wrong (this from a person who spent 9 hours writing and researching AR's contract).

Yet I think this was a bump in the road and possibly unforeseen by management. Gute may have thought the notion of playing with AR in GB would make Adams amenable to taking a little less.

I suspect that if Gute had offered $27.6M AAV prior to the start of 2021, Adams would still be a Packer. [It is possible that Adams just always wanted to move to sunnier climes and/or play with Derek Carr. If something like that was in play, getting a first and a second for Adams given GB's cap, All-in vulnerability, the waiting game not being in GB's favor, seems like a coup to me.]

All-in is not the only vision. What is LaFleur's offense? Does AR even fit it? It does not make sense to have the best QB but no weapons, a regret of Ron Wolf's. But Dillon, two swings at TE in the 3rd plus signing and hanging on to Marcedes, and some swings at strong run blocking OL fits with what I think LaFleur wants to do.

Give me a Rib Eye steak (and I don't need no stinking veggies). But my son wants the rib eye to have a mushroom sauce, and my wife wants the sauce, some veggies, and some parsley on the side for reasons that I have never understood. Presentation, she called it.

1 points
2
1
greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 11:37 am

This is awesome. Well said.

0 points
0
0
dobber's picture

March 18, 2022 at 02:22 pm

"Presentation, she called it."

It all looks the same in about 8 hours.

2 points
2
0
Starrbrite's picture

March 18, 2022 at 07:55 am

Good analysis Ken. And I’m with you on Z. Smith—hated to see him depart.
I want nothing to do with Julio Jones, AJ Green, or OBJ…not certain about Landry or JuJu…I’m not for MVS returning either.
Several WR options in the draft and Watson from NDSU is intriguing.
My free agent choices are: 1) Bobby Wagner; 2) Hicks; 3) Fletcher Cox.

2 points
3
1
RCPackerFan's picture

March 18, 2022 at 07:55 am

I view this as Adams got what he wanted and the Packers got what they needed.

Adams apparently didn't want to be in GB anymore and wanted to go to the Raiders. If he didn't want to be here anymore, then it was time to move away from him.

The Packers got a 1st and 2nd round pick this year for him. But also it gives them about $20 million of cap spaces. Which could potentially allow them to sign 2-3-4-5 free agents.
There are reports that they will now resign Douglas. They are talking to MVS. Maybe they look into getting someone like Fletcher Cox or Akiem HIcks. Naglers tweet late last night made it seem like they maybe bringing in Austin Hooper. Maybe they look to bring in a veteran WR also.
Most of these moves are ones they wouldn't have been able to do with keeping Adams.

In terms of the draft if they keep the draft picks they acquired they could come away with 4 really good players.
They also could potentially use the draft picks to trade up or trade for another player.

For trading Adams, they potentially could be bringing back 4-6/7 really good players. While not all will be stars at least for this year, adding that much talent could really improve our entire roster.

5 points
6
1
tincada's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:25 am

Right on man. GB gets to start the rebuild contrary to what the DIVA wanted, LMAO!

-4 points
1
5
RCPackerFan's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:59 am

I don't view it as a rebuild with having Rodgers here.

I just look at it as they can add players that they were not able to with having Adams. While Adams is great they may become a better overall team by making this move.

Just a few examples of that. They now can resign Douglas. Our trio of CB's now will be Alexander, Stokes and Douglas. They played 1 game together and they were dynamite together. The 3 CB's can change the look of the defense.

Lets say they go and get an Akiem Hicks or Fletcher Cox or someone else. They would add another DL that they can put next to Clark. That strengthens our DL. Which helps our ILB's out.

If they sign another Edge player that allows a strong rotation with Gary and Smith. They could potentially sign 2-3 defensive players that makes the entire defense better.

Basically my point is the team itself can become more balanced.

1 points
2
1
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

March 18, 2022 at 11:37 am

I agree and view this as a brilliant save by Gute.

That said, don't get too carried away. GB was banking on signing Adams long term to save $10M on the cap, which would pay for the PS, draft picks, 52/53rd IR, PUP and piggy bank. Getting $20M still means about $11M has to go towards those items, leaving $9M plus anything they generate from Lowry, Lewis, Crosby.

So, probably can sign two $10M AAV guys and give each first year cap numbers of $4.5M apiece. Or some other permutation.

1 points
1
0
Dragon5's picture

March 18, 2022 at 07:58 am

MONKEYS in a TIGER year...likely to be a lot of buyer's remorse as many are / were FAs. Fantasy Football enthusiasts beware.

Carson Wentz
Joe Thuney
Davante Adams
DeAndre Hopkins
Odell Beckham Jr
Jarvis Landry
Robert Woods
Keenan Allen
Tyler Lockett
Darren Waller
Leonard Floyd
Shaquil Barrett
DeMarcus Lawrence
Randy Gregory
Matt Judon
Prestin Smith
Z'Darius Smith
Erick Kendricks
Tyrann Mathieu

-2 points
1
3
greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:53 am

Makes me wonder if Rodgers isn’t on the trading block. Nick spoke of how the Packers now have OPTIONS.

All of NY would lose their shit if Rodgers were to be traded to them for a giant bag of picks/players. NYG could offer #5 and #7 overall picks, plus their two R3s and another R1 next year…

Pure speculation here, but all we’ve seen happen over the past year begs a lot of questions. Just thought I’d throw this option out there, where GB enters a kind of rebuild, with a monstrous bag of top picks in hand and solid defenders under contract.

Getting an R1 and R2 for Davante was brilliant. I just have this feeling they are not done dealing 1 month before the draft.

We have to ask ourselves “Why didn’t Davante want to stay?” Could be there is more in store. Could also be he just wanted to play again with his Fresno St. QB and good friend David Carr - and nothing more.

Keep a keen eye on what Mercedes Lewis decides to do. The reading on that Mercedes Lewis barometer may prove to be telling. If he doesn’t re-sign with GB, it might point further towards the Packers moving Rodgers. Could also be he’s just waiting until after the draft… Who knows? Just throwing it out there.

Nick Perry, I agree this team now has many options.

-1 points
5
6
HarryHodag's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:15 am

I thought of the same thing. The Packers could offer to pay part of AR's salary but they would never trade him to an NFC team.

Tennessee is intriguing. He seems to have a home there now. But I think he'll stay for this year. If it doesn't fly, he retires.

-1 points
1
2
greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:33 am

Yeah, Harry, great point. Maybe GB already has a deal with TEN lined up… a perfect landing spot for a player soon to finish out his football years and embark upon a country music career.

Ryan Tannehill has a couple of $38M+ cap hits TEN is staring at. Maybe a possibility, without admittedly having any grasp of cap implications, but knowing the Packers can make adjustments with the best of teams.

However, TEN doesn’t have the pick load NYG can offer. I honestly don’t think trading to an NFC team will matter anymore. Not with the bevy of selections the Giants have to make a blockbuster deal like that happen.

1 points
1
0
Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:47 am

That would be a truly good day. The current position is so full of contradictions.

2 points
2
0
The_Baloney_Stops_Here's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:32 am

I sincerely hope you're right and that Rodgers does get moved but I dont think its even a possibility with how much dead cap $ they would have to pay him now.

1 points
2
1
greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:40 am

I’m admittedly not cap savvy. Not even close. But, the pulse in NY begs for NYG to make a bold move, and it wouldn’t surprise me if they don’t have their sights firmly upon Aaron Rodgers. They were mentioned as possible trade partners almost a year ago, and they are loaded with the picks to make something happen.

0 points
0
0
Since'61's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:32 am

greengold I think an AR trade is possible however, I'm not sure the Packers want to trade AR at this point. Why?

Their offense will be returning almost intact. They have an opportunity to add speed at WR via the draft and acquire an experienced WR via FA. If they trade Rodgers they won't have a QB to run the offense at least not one with experience in the MLF offense. Also they are building a solid defense especially if they resign Douglas and add a DL and Edge during the draft.

While I think trading Adams was a good move especially with the picks acquired I'm not sure that trading Rodgers would be the right move at this point unless Rodgers wants out or unless the deal is already done except for the timing. We'll see. Stay safe. Thanks, Since '61

0 points
3
3
Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:53 am

Our O will be missing Adams, Turner and Patrick as well as quite possibly MVS and Tonyan. We are missing most of our targets, snaps and yardage providers over the last 2 years.

To say our offense “will be returning mostly intact” is a dubious statement at best in my eyes.

4 points
5
1
Since'61's picture

March 18, 2022 at 11:21 pm

Myers is our Center. Nijman will be the RT. The Packers are working on resigning MVS. Plus we will probably sign an FA WR. Now granted neither MVS or an FA will be as good as Adams but we can draft some excellent WRs in the early rounds now.

Plus we can resign Douglas and extend Jaire on defense.

We can run more, pass less and have Rodgers spread the ball around. we don't necessarily need the best WR in the league to win it all. We need good solid players around Rodgers and a solid defense. We were at least 5-0 without Adams, we can win without him.

Let's see how the remainder of the FA period and the draft playout before we give up on the team. I'm not concerned about the loss of Turner. He had too many turnstile moments. Patrick was good depth but not worth the cap space. Plus he was either pushed around or overpowered on a regular basis. With a healthy Bak and Jenkins our OL will be fine. TE could be a concern, especially if Lewis does not return. As for Tonyan who knows how long his recovery will take or if he will as effective once he does return. Thanks, Since '61

0 points
0
0
dobber's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:25 am

This is why the trade ARod ship has sailed.

3 points
3
0
greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:49 am

Unless the Giants make the Packers an offer they can’t refuse…

R1 #5 overall + R1 #7 overall + two R3s in 2022 + R1 2023? That might be a nice conversation starter. The NYG are desperate to make a bold move. Their fans more so. The gate receipts & merch sales in NY would be off the charts. $$$ talks.

1 points
1
0
PeteK's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:49 am

No way Rodgers agrees to go to a team as poor as Gents at his age.

4 points
4
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Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:40 am

I would have agreed, though since his new deal I think he came back for the money not the surrounding roster. He’d be giving up an awful lot if he refused to show up and he did not insert a no trade clause apparently. I think it unlikely but less inconceivable than a week ago.

3 points
3
0
rememberWhitehurst's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:01 am

Lewis is already signed. His deal last year was two years, with two void years on the end. If he retires, your point holds.

4 points
4
0
greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:15 am

Thank you. Quite honestly, I gave up on following more closely after all the drama of the past 11 months. I mean, all the BS sucked all the fun and excitement out of my fervent fandom, to the point I looked at a mock draft for the first time since last April only last night.

I have not studied a single player, and it’s mid March… normally, I’d have reviewed over 300 by this point.

Appreciate the heads-up, ckoski.

1 points
2
1
Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:43 am

Same here. How to approach the draft with so much unresolved? I’m not one for just deciding who is the best in a sand box and so I have not really started. Yesterday a major change again.

1 points
2
1
greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 11:02 am

Yeah, man. We’re on the same page there for sure.

Last night’s revelation may have stirred me into doing some research, but I’m more inclined to wait and see what happens until after the fact this year.

Side note, I injured myself falling on ice just before Christmas, and am waiting for surgical repair April 29th. Whoosh. Unable to ambulate freely, and my work calls out to be done. Going to have to delegate my remaining energies elsewhere.

I’ll just sit back and hope for the best for our Packers moving forward.

3 points
3
0
Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 11:08 am

Get well soon!

2 points
2
0
Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 11:08 am

Get well soon!

2 points
2
0
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

March 18, 2022 at 12:02 pm

Get well. We'll keep the light on.

2 points
2
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LambeauPlain's picture

March 18, 2022 at 12:03 pm

Ouch! Get well soon, G&G.

In Dec 2020 I took a 7 ft trip off a ladder, landed on my left heel, fractured it and sprained my ankle, foot, and all my toes. Here it is, March 2022 and I am just getting back to some normalcy but will have arthritis in the foot forever.

It is so frustrating not being able to move around. Best of luck on the surgery.

1 points
1
0
greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 02:35 pm

Big thank you Coldworld, TGR & LambeauPlain!

Fell backwards on ice, somehow sticking the landing on my right foot like I just dismounted the balance beam to win the gold. As soon as I did, I felt the rip! Double hernias. Wow. Can barely stand for more 15-30 minutes, nor sit. This is freaking ridickulous. Ha!

I’ll be fine after surgery in 6 weeks, and, I cannot wait! Ho!

Anyhow, really appreciate the kind words. Rock ON, and Go Pack!

0 points
0
0
Since'61's picture

March 18, 2022 at 11:26 pm

Best wishes for a successful surgery and speedy recovery greengold. Thanks, Since '61

0 points
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BirdDogUni's picture

March 19, 2022 at 12:06 am

Damn brother... Stick to curling! God's speed towards recovery.

0 points
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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

March 18, 2022 at 11:40 am

Lewis is signed for 2022 though he might retire. He has a $2M roster bonus due Sunday. Will the Packers pay it? Restructure it? Release him?

2 points
2
0
Cartwright's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:05 am

If it had to be a choice between Davante and Rodgers I'm glad it's number twelve we're keeping and by a country mile. If we get to keep Douglas and pick up Hicks on account of this trade and throw in Mercilus to boot plus the draft picks and a chance to pick three WR's in row to see what sticks like the Packers did a few years back the trade's a win baby! GPG

1 points
3
2
tincada's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:22 am

Your receiving corp is in a BIG time rebuild. The DIVA is not going to be happy trying to develop youngsters.

1 points
2
1
HarryHodag's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:10 am

It's difficult for professional football fans to wrap their minds around the fact that in pro football it's all about the money. Rodgers proved it to an extreme measure. Adams would have lost $10 million dollars this year by playing on the franchise tag. That's a lot of cash. Fans get loyal to a franchise. Players get loyal to the cash.

Pro football athletes put their health on the line each day. Any pro football player is exactly one play away from retirement, possibly with permanent injury. The players are so large, skilled and fast that the sport has a great amount of risk. That risk leads players to want the most cash they can get as soon as possible.

I don't fault Adams for wanting to go where the money is. But reports indicate Green Bay offered the same contract. I think part of this trade was also to get a grumpy player out of the locker room.

I agree that this appears to be only the opening of more moves to come.

5 points
7
2
Oppy's picture

March 18, 2022 at 05:13 pm

I haven't done the math, and frankly, I don't think I'm capable, but when I heard the rumor that the Packers offered Davante the same contract but it was declined, I immediately thought that sounds highly suspect.

In my uninformed brain, I just can't see how the Packers could remotely pull off paying Rodgers what we know they have, and also paying Adams what it's suggested they offered, and still have anyone else on the team worth fielding.

1 points
1
0
frankthefork's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:12 am

Thanks, Ken,
So it's good news in my book. Thanks, DA 17 for the services-knew you wanted to play with Carr 2 years ago-you said so in not so many words as did Carr.

Saving big money and getting 2 lower early-round picks is a huge win for the Packers and its future cap. Now if we could move on from that Rodgers contract, ouch; a serious rebuild could and will commence, but at what cost? Can Gutey strike gold again in FA?

I could see both WR Olave and Burks in the first to GB, with TE McBride in the 2nd along with an Edge, tackle, or DLine adds. Later, a safety, LB, and CB, and or with any trade back, and the Packers are fully reloaded sans experience. With the extra cap coin, a vet or two plus can be had. Sweet!

We know Love is not a future HOF QB now, but he can win games if AR leaves in a year or two, or if a trade is made-don't know how-but it may work. Hell, Eli Manning and Dilfer won SBs as Average QBs.

The Point is the Packers have some breathing room and more choices come the draft...and 2022 is loaded with young cheap talent...a win in my book. GPG indeed!

1 points
4
3
greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:07 am

Frank, I love your take here and agree 100%.

I did not expect the Packers to be able to get R1 & R2 for Davante, and the news last night that Gutekunst pulled that off I found stunning. Options abound. Jordan Love remains an unknown quantity in the NFL, but he has promise, and all GB really requires is a willing, competent game manager who can make some throws to run LaFleur’s system.

Yeah, that can be later down the line in GB. It could also be the case should someone sweep in with a blockbuster offer for Rodgers in a draft day deal.

Also possible Rodgers’ future is indeed cemented in GB for reals, to finish his career in green & gold, and they trade Love for more picks.

Wouldn’t shock me one bit if the Packers snap 2 WRs in R1 next month. Adding WR + DT or a top EDGE wound not suck. We’ll see.

2 points
2
0
Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:58 am

Imagine where we would be if we had traded Rogers too. To me that would be a generational opportunity for truly exciting.

A cheap roster with a question at QB, but a ton of ammo to trade for one in the next couple of years and bring in competition for Love this year.

To me, that would signal a real foundation for genuine hope for multiple years.

2 points
3
1
greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:23 am

Exactly. I’m not an Aaron Rodgers fan. I’m a Packer fan, thru and thru.

There’s no room for drama in football. He is merely a great thrower of the football, mostly. He’s proven to not be a good game manager that instills trust the QB leadership role requires. 11 years of futility point to that, as does his targeting no other WR but Adams for a full 3 Quarters in our last advancement opportunity.

The bag of picks such a trade could potentially bring would set Green Bay up for at least the next decade.

1 points
1
0
tincada's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:18 am

If anybody can't see that T Thompson is still alive and well in GB wake up. This is the most bonehead, move amongst the many others, that the 3 stooges (Murf, Gute and Flower) have made in GB. Have fun trying to sell this "rebuild" to the DIVA. Goodbye NFC N. LMAO!

-16 points
0
16
packer132's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:50 am

Tin, you are lost. This was the best thing for the Packers as was pointed out by most on this site. Getting $20 million and an extra 1st and 2nd pick besides their own gives Green Bay many options. I guess that is over your head. Expect to see Douglas re-signed now along with one or two vet receivers and another FA. Also drafting two top WR's and early DT and OT gives the team a very good roster for many years. Adams will be 30 and let another team pay him $28 million a year.

2 points
3
1
dobber's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:26 am

Don't feed the troll.

1 points
1
0
10ve 💚's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:58 am

As we all know, your team STILL SUCK.

Go back to Chicago and hide under that stone.

0 points
0
0
PeteK's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:47 am

I love when the ghosts of Packer GREATS come back.

2 points
2
0
Handsback's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:24 am

First off a 1, and 2 for a WR...is a steal. Second, the Packers get to strengthen their trenches and bring back some good players. Third, now have space to add a Wideout or TE to the roster.
To be honest, the Raiders were fleeced and Gutsy did a great job doing it.
Right now if I'm reading the tea leaves right there are only 18 to 19 first round graded players...Green Bay has the ammo to move up and grab a special player.

5 points
6
1
greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 09:28 am

Handsback, brother from a different mother take right there!

I’m still in shock Gutekunst was able to pull that off. The Packers are going to be drafting some great players as a result. All for a WR over 30, phenomenal in intermediate zones, best in business, but unable to take the top off a D, and with the biggest WR price tag ever.

Raiders got taken to the cleaners. 100% The Packers win big in this deal.

1 points
1
0
Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 11:04 am

The Raiders needed a splash in their new market, especially after their off field issue last year and given what is going on with their rivals. I’m not sure it’s as bad a move for them as you see it in the wider context, but it’s certain better for us. Thank goodness Adams didn’t accept our responding offer. That would have been cataclysmic!

1 points
1
0
greengold's picture

March 18, 2022 at 11:33 am

OMG, Coldworld. That is EXACTLY my point re: NYG.

The Giants are truly desperate for top QB play. They are perfectly set up with players and picks to make that very same splash that brings excitement from their fan base.

They were also very heavily speculated as trade partners less than a year ago. The potential of such a possibility could get wild.

Meanwhile, the Packers could realize an immense windfall for the future to truly right the ship.

0 points
0
0
Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 12:02 pm

I’m rooting for you to have hit on the real outcome, trust me!

0 points
0
0
LambeauPlain's picture

March 18, 2022 at 12:13 pm

I am not so sure the Raiders were fleeced. If Gutey offered Adams even more...and if Adams had accepted...my goodness! Imagine the salary cap Armageddon with Adams back.

I would like to see when the 2nd rounder was offered by the Raiders....before of after the Packers upped the Raiders offer to Adams.

I don't think Gutey fleeced the Raiders. I think Adams desire to get out of GB saved Gutey and the FO from themselves.

0 points
0
0
Dragon5's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:40 am

I'm a tad surprised Gute couldn't swap spots with LVS in the 3rd & 4th round, picking up 6 spots in each; wasting draft capital to move up has been his achilles.

-2 points
0
2
Coldworld's picture

March 18, 2022 at 11:07 am

Adams is good, but a one and two for a WR hitting 30 and demanding a contract of that size and guarantee level. There is no doubt we came out ahead of expected value

1 points
1
0
LambeauPlain's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:49 am

Here is a fun fact:

During Favre's first 3 years in GB (92,93,94), his "D. Adams" was Sterling Sharpe. Favre locked on him most of the time, Sharpe caught 94-100+ passes and logged at or over 1,000 yards each year. The Packers went 9-7 each year.

Sharpe retired due to a neck injury. Meanwhile Favre won 3 consecutive MVPs spreading the ball around and the Packers appeared in two SBs, winning one while going 11-5, 13-3, 13-3.

Favre and the Packer O Improved after his security blanket WR was no longer on the team. I would even say Sharpe was a better WR than Adams. But Favre was a better QB post Sharpe.

History does repeat.

7 points
7
0
Swisch's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:56 am

Great stuff, LambeauPlain, and I hope that's what happens.
***
My concern is that Aaron Rodgers is in the later part of his career, while Brett Favre was then in the earlier part of his career.
Both of these great quarterbacks were great in the earlier part of their careers, and then corrupted by ego in the later part of their careers.
When Favre won his three consecutive MVPs and a Super Bowl, he was still trying to prove himself. Then with success he stopped listening to his coaches, and the Packers started to decline with heartbreaking losses in the playoffs.
It has been similar with Rodgers. If Rodgers continues to put himself above the coach, he'll still get his stats, but the Packers will fall short in the biggest games.
The greatest need for the Packers this offseason is a change of heart by Aaron Rodgers. Then, all the rest would likely fall into place for a season that is satisfyingly successful, perhaps all the way through the Super Bowl.

1 points
1
0
Oppy's picture

March 18, 2022 at 05:18 pm

All true, but this isn't an apples-to-apples comparison.

Farve was a fledgling QB growing into his own; Rodgers is a fully mature veteran with multiple MVPs under his belt and father time breathing down his neck.

1 points
1
0
Packers0808's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:55 am

My prediction is Adams gets less than half the production next season as he did with Rodgers last year! Carr no where near the passer Rodgers is in accuracy!

-2 points
1
3
13TimeChamps's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:15 am

Go check out Adams/Carr production from Fresno State. No way in hell his production goes down 50%. They were on much the same wavelength as Adams/Rodgers.

But it matters little. Adams plays for Vegas now. I'm looking forward to this draft with more anticipation than I have in years.

0 points
1
1
Packers0808's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:42 am

Disagree will go down at least that or close to it. He will not be a one man target with the other receivers the Raiders have, ball will be spread out much more. Raiders will find out quickly they over spent. Remember Packers won every game without Adams in the line up! Telling!

0 points
1
1
SwedeBayPacker's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:58 am

Well, at least there won't be another season of Rodgers tunnel vision on Adams while ignoring wide-open receivers.

'Where's Adams, where's Adams, is Adams open, I want to throw to Adams, Adams, come on big play, Adams, Adams, why is Cobb waving to me, Adams"

4 points
4
0
Swisch's picture

March 18, 2022 at 10:40 am

I may have missed some big news, but why wouldn't the Packers sign MVS?
That doesn't mean we wouldn't sign someone else -- but not instead of MVS, in addition to him.
I'm a big fan of MVS, who I think has been underutilized. I'm concerned that he'll break out big for another team while the Packers sign a veteran receiver (for more money) who is on the decline.

1 points
1
0
Oppy's picture

March 18, 2022 at 05:23 pm

Interestingly, I also believe MVS has been underutilized.

There's no reason they shouldn't have been using MVS in all sorts of ways, but for whatever reason, Rodgers only throws the deep ball to MVS. Would have liked to see him running routes at all levels of the defense and finding out if he can provide value as more than just a take-the-top-off-the-defense type deep threat.

On the other side of the coin, I don't know that MVS is anything but a deep threat WR, either. Perhaps due to utilization, perhaps due to skill set.. he looks like a one dimensional, more speed than skill type WR. Those guys are easy to find.

1 points
1
0
Swisch's picture

March 18, 2022 at 08:06 pm

If memory serves, MVS did show some versatility at catching various types of passes late in the 2020 season, culminating in a big game in the playoffs against the Bucs.
MVS came up clutch in that game, including a long touchdown reception early, as well as a big gain crossing the field late during crunch time.
It's hard to say if MVS can do this kind of thing consistently, but I'd sure like to see him get a shot at it with the Packers rather than with some other team.
It's a risk to sign MVS, but it seems to not be his fault that he hasn't received more opportunities.
I think signing him is a risk well worth taking, especially as the deep speed is already evident, and he is entering his prime.
It seems to me Marquez will have at least some marquee value going forward, and possibly as a leading star in many appearances.

1 points
1
0
Dragon5's picture

March 18, 2022 at 11:19 am

Antonio Brown will be a bargain relative to production potential as a #1. If he wants a one-year prove it showcase opp, there is none better to fill 'Tae's vacant productivity. He also has a chip against Arians and would relish the opp to destroy the Bucs, who are a '22 opponent, perhaps more than once. The idea of drafting a 1st rd WR and hitting the lotto year one (i.e. Jefferson & Chase) is fools gold, particularly with our QB. No remaining FA WR offers Brown's upside.

-1 points
1
2
LambeauPlain's picture

March 18, 2022 at 12:24 pm

Brown has so many "chips" on his shoulder his arm is ready to drop off.

Complete team cancer. He has mental issues. How many chances has he had to play his chips only to self disintegrate.

Strong pass.

0 points
0
0
SwedeBayPacker's picture

March 19, 2022 at 08:33 am

Ah yes, the mentally ill, alleged rapist that is an absolute locker room cancer that you simply can't trust on any level. Great idea, champ.

0 points
0
0