Confessions of a Polluted Mindset - Post Super Bowl

The Weekly Packers Brain Drain from Jersey Al.

Well, the final game of the 2019 season has been played. The Chiefs did to the 49ers what they've done to numerous teams - lull them into a false sense of security (maybe unintentionally) and then rip their opponents' hearts out before they knew what hit them.

I have to admit, it was fun seeing Nick Bosa humbled after taunting the Chiefs players when SF had a seemingly comfortable lead in the 4th quarter. Maybe he'll learn a little humility. Nah, probably not.

How cool was it that the Chiefs went to school on Davante Adams and used the same route Adams beat Richard Sherman on to help the Chiefs come back and win the Super Bowl. Here are both plays:

And here is Watkins giving Adams credit.

You could see how genuinely happy the Chiefs players were for Andy Reid. In the moment, maybe more happy for him than for themselves.

I've said all season, the end game to beat the 49ers is to put Jimmy G into pressure situations. The Packers never forced him to break a sweat in either of their meetings. 

Well, well, wunderkind head coach Kyle Shanahan's reputation is taking some big hits after some questionable play calling decisions in the fourth quarter - somewhat reminiscent of the Falcon's Super Bowl collapse when he was their offensive coordinator.

Zach Kruse (a former CHTV writer) did a nice job over at PackersWire scoping out the 2020 Free Agents that likely fit what the Packers are looking for. You can see the full list here, but what struck me most was the list of free agent interior defensive linemen:

Chris Jones (KC)
D.J. Reader (HOU)
Javon Hargrave (PIT)
Leonard Williams (NYG)
Michael Pierce (BAL)
Danny Shelton (NE)
Andrew Billings (CIN)
Jarran Reed (SEA)
Jordan Phillips (BUF)
Quinton Jefferson (SEA)
A’Shawn Robinson (DET)
Maliek Collins (DAL)
Sheldon Day (SF)
Austin Johnson (TEN)
Hassan Ridgeway (PHI)
Tyeler Davison (ATL)

As I've expressed several times, I rate Defensive Line up there with WR as a critical area where an upgrade and depth is sorely needed. The last Packers - 49ers game just solidified that thought. There isn't a lot of help available at inside linebacker in free agency, so I think it would make great sense to pluck one of the mid-priced names on this list to move Tyler Lancaster to a backup role.

If the Packers can get Jared Veldheer to re-up for another year or two, I'm getting more and more pragmatic about the prospect of having to let Bryan Bulaga walk if he wants a big payday. 

I really want Tramon Williams and Mercedes Lewis back for one more year - teams need a few veterans like that - as much for their locker room presence and leadership abilities as their on-field performance. 

 

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__________________________

"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

__________________________

14 points
 

Comments (89)

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

February 05, 2020 at 06:51 am

Michael Pierce from The Ravens May fit nicely and maybe Z Smith will give him a call .

7 points
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Guam's picture

February 05, 2020 at 07:11 am

Excellent summary of the Packer needs in 2020 Al! Like you, I think the best value in free agency this year is defensive tackle and I would love to see the Packers sign at least one if not two DT's. I believe both Lancaster and Lowery need to be rotational players, not starters. I am concerned that there only seems to be two FA ILB options - Littleton and Schobert - and Littleton could be extremely expensive.

I hope the Packers can resign Bulaga in the $10-12 million range, but if he wants a $15 million payday then the Packers must resign Veldheer and draft an OT high. I would also like to see Marcedes Lewis back on the same sized contract he had this year. I am concerned that Father Time is going to catch Twill soon - 37 is ancient for a CB. If the Packers can get Twill at $2 million or less I would like to see him resigned. If he wants more than that, let him walk and develop the younger players like Sullivan and Jackson.

5 points
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PeteK's picture

February 05, 2020 at 07:39 am

Agree with you on Tramon. His lack of tackling showed his age.

4 points
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stockholder's picture

February 05, 2020 at 07:25 am

For Gods Sake just sign somebody off the list. I'll take Veld before Bulaga. Sorry, but if it's between Williams and another ILB. I'd go for the ILB. I Believe Gute looks for another TE. You know what they say- Wear And Tear comes with the loses.

-2 points
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CAG123's picture

February 05, 2020 at 07:59 am

I hope taking Veld over Bulaga is just price reasons and not any delusions of him being healthier or more available. That's the whole reason he retired in the first place.

8 points
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stockholder's picture

February 05, 2020 at 10:24 am

Veld will be just as rested as Bulaga. Remember all those Times he was held out? We must change the RT position. People are scared because of Spriggs. But Spriggs was a LT when drafted. Bulaga doesn't protect Rodgers blind side. This is a good draft for RTs!

1 points
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CAG123's picture

February 05, 2020 at 11:09 am

I mean he was sick in one game that’s not something he can help and if you’re referring to the totality of their careers Veld has missed 31 games and Bulaga 29. If it’s for money reasons and using Veld as a backup then cool but to think a guy that’s 33 with injury concerns of his own can be a 16 game starter then no. I do agree with drafting their next RT though.

7 points
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Coldworld's picture

February 05, 2020 at 12:28 pm

Veld and Bulaga together makes for 3 tackles and better in game cover on both ends of the line. Veld on his own would be a perhaps cheaper, more banged up version of Bulaga. Since we are on the Rodgers train, pay your tackles. We aren’t finding better options in the draft for next season and FA is seldom a realistic option. Keeping both gives cover and keeps our line intact. In the meantime, we need to draft at the position.

5 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

February 05, 2020 at 10:13 am

Why even think about signing Veldheer? The guy was retired and came out for a chance at a playoff run. They have to either throw their chips on Bulaga for a 3 year deal or commit to Bhaktiari. My money goes to the ALL PRO guy. Draft an OT in the first or high second round. Tramon was a step late. The greenhorns are now veterans in the secondary. Draft a CB in the 3rd round or bag a value guy in free agency/ cut downs. Sullivan is there and decide if Jackson can pick it up or cut bait. They have to decide if Turner can play the guard position without getting Rodgers killed with the pressures and sacks he gave up. I would get another guard in play asap. Madison will not be ready to start the season.
WR and OT are priorities in the draft and bag a couple of ILBs. A power running back is needed. Re-sign Lewis and draft a TE in the 5th. The D line can probably get two from the FA list with fair value guys. Danny Shelton is the big nose guy, why overpay for some of the top tier?

1 points
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JerseyAl's picture

February 05, 2020 at 10:34 am

"Why even think about signing Veldheer?" Because if the Packers have to commit BIG money to Bulaga, then it would be downright impossible to do even half the things you are suggesting. Saving money is the only reason. Veldheer did just fine and would be a good stopgap option until a drafted OT is ready.

6 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

February 05, 2020 at 10:44 am

I understand his value as a veteran backup, but what is his price? Clifton and Tauscher started as rookies and Bulaga filled the spot when he came on board after Tauscher's injury. I would look a Veldheer later, if he still wants to play. No doubt, Light is not the guy.

1 points
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flackcatcher's picture

February 05, 2020 at 11:37 am

Clifton and Tauscher were special. What they both did (Clifton at the start, Tauscher at mid season) is rare even in the NFL. Packers tried to replace Tauscher twice and cut him in the later half of his career over salary, only to resign him early in 2008? over his replacements on the field failure. (One of the few times Ted Thompson admitted to his mistake.) Packers tried with Spriggs and that ended in failure in replacing Bulaga. Al's right, Signing Veldheer is the right and smart move, as is signing Bulaga. As things stand, Veldheer has a lot less tread on his wheels than Bulaga and starting him over the course of a full season is a high risk move for a team gunning for the Superbowl.

4 points
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flackcatcher's picture

February 05, 2020 at 11:42 am

Agree with on Light. But he was one of three OL that the Packers carried on their active roster who were developmental guys. Rebuilding does carry some risks.

1 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

February 05, 2020 at 12:08 pm

The Spriggs reach was a major cause of cardiac arrest at the time of the pick and also moving up and wasting a four.
No Fear. The talent at the OT position in this draft in the top two rounds is solid. The second round run on OTs in the draft last year gave teams four starters at RT with Ford going to Buffalo, Juwan Taylor, Risner, Greg Little and of course that let Jenkins fall to The Pack. Remember, all the savants from press row and RAS freaks trashing Orlando Brown Jr? He started for Ozzie right off the bat and made the ProBowl, 2019. The talent is there.

4 points
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BBlake's picture

February 05, 2020 at 03:45 pm

I think more rookie OL are succeeding in the NFL because more college teams are playing pro style offensive schemes.

1 points
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Coldworld's picture

February 05, 2020 at 12:46 pm

Signing Veld if we can get him gets us a quality number 3 tackle. It does not, in my view, represent a viable alternative to Bulaga on a season long basis. Without that Turner not a rookie is the most likely third tackle. That would mean we need another guard, even if he proved adequate. I just don’t see the odds of a starting tackle in 2020 being available at 29. Yes, miracles can happen, but only the desperate rely on them.

2 points
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PeteK's picture

February 05, 2020 at 01:29 pm

Turner is not a T, that's been proven already. He hasn't even solidified the G position yet. LT might be a stretch at 30, but a RT not so much.

6 points
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Leatherhead's picture

February 05, 2020 at 02:15 pm

Without Bulaga OR Veldheer, we have 8 pretty good linemen under contract: Bakhtiari. Jenkins. Linsley. Taylor. Turner. Patrick. Light. Madison, but no real starting right tackle, IMO. Put me down as passing on both Bulaga and Veldheer and drafting a tackle kind of high in the draft.

Any FA money we want to spend on offense would be best used at TE. Keep Lewis AND get a guy who can block his man and catch a few passes every game.

If we would do those moves at RT and TE, and add a short yardage pile mover to the backfield, we’d be a better running team next year

2 points
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CAG123's picture

February 05, 2020 at 05:31 pm

Have we seen anything from Madison to even warrant him as pretty good? He rightfully took a mental break from football and he was hurt this past year throwing Light in that group might be a stretch as well. That's two guys that are virtual unknowns at this point.

2 points
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Leatherhead's picture

February 05, 2020 at 07:42 pm

Madison is listed as backup center, and this is probably Linsleys last year here. I think that as a general rule, 27 year old OL are stronger and more experienced than youngsters, so I’d expect him to challenge for a gameday roster spot. I think 2021 will be the year where he’s got to be replaced if he’s not starter caliber.

0 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

February 05, 2020 at 09:29 pm

Cole Madison went under the kniife in November for the ACL. He more than likely gets the PUP designation to start next season. He may have to try to make his bones in 2021.

0 points
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jeremyjjbrown's picture

February 05, 2020 at 07:44 am

I really hope they can sign an FA ILB and DL before the draft. Something like Pierce and Kwiatkoski. Not too expensive but just to give some flexibility in the draft. Then grab another ILB high, a OT on day 2 and another bunch of WRs.

I don't think the 49ers are going to have another Cinderella year. Too many FAs and pending FAs to resign.

5 points
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PeteK's picture

February 05, 2020 at 08:04 am

Sign Chris Jones and let Martinez and Bulaga go? Laurel and Hardy could play ILB with Jones and Clark dominating the Dline. Sign Hooper, Veld and draft T, ILB, and WR.

3 points
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CAG123's picture

February 05, 2020 at 08:15 am

Man Chris Jones is going to command so much money it would be terrible for a guy that put in work for another team get a fat pay day before KC does.

4 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

February 05, 2020 at 10:24 am

They would franchise him before letting him go.

0 points
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PeteK's picture

February 05, 2020 at 03:13 pm

Maybe not because they might put big money in extending Mahomes.

0 points
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CAG123's picture

February 05, 2020 at 07:09 pm

Theyre more likely to do what they did with Dee Ford which is franchise him then trade him for picks. You don't let a guy like that get away for nothing.

Side note: I hope these players get a little control over their careers in this new CBA make it so teams can only use the franchise tag once and if you're a first rounder they can't use it once they've picked up the 5th year option. That gives teams 5 years to decide what they're going to do.

1 points
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Guam's picture

February 05, 2020 at 08:38 am

I'd love it if we could get Jones and Hooper, but I just don't think we have the salary cap room to do so (see TGR's article on cap space). Maybe Gute pulls a rabbit out of his hat...….

2 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

February 05, 2020 at 12:15 pm

It would cost close to 28-30M to sign both.

1 points
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PeteK's picture

February 05, 2020 at 06:19 pm

We could if we let Bulaga and Martinez go, which translates into Jones' contract.

0 points
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RCPackerFan's picture

February 05, 2020 at 08:11 am

I thought it was cool that Watkins gave Adams props. While watching the Super Bowl I had felt like they were setting Sherman up for something. And it didn't come, didn't come, and then I forgot about it and then they throw it to Watkins.

I was rooting for Reid as much as anyone in the game. I honestly didn't really care who won, but I was pulling for the chiefs more.

I said the same thing about the way to beat the 49ers is to make Garrapolo beat you. That means the offense has to score points. Our offense just couldn't do that. And then the run defense got gashed.

Honestly I didn't think there was much wrong with Shannahan's play calling in the 4th quarter. His QB just didn't make the plays he needed. I question his 1st half decision to not try to add points before half time. That to me was the bigger mistake.

I agree we have a need at IDL. I think our top 3 true needs are WR, ILB, and DL. Lowry is a decent-good player. A little inconsistent. Lancaster looked great his rookie year. He definitely took a big step back in his 2nd year. At this point I don't think we can count on him being the guy and we need to upgrade over him. Adams never really did much this year either. We need to upgrade our DL.

The one guy on that list that stands out to me is Michael Pierce. One of the main reasons is just like last year when they brought in Za'Darius Smith, is Milt Hendrickson. I could see them looking hard at former Ravens players for the next couple of years.

I personally want Bulaga (if the price is right) back, Veldheer also. If they can come away with both of those guys resigning on good deals, it is a major win IMO.
I think they can get back Williams and Lewis back cheap if they want to. I hope they come back. You can't replace good veteran leadership very easily.

9 points
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Guam's picture

February 05, 2020 at 08:40 am

I would not resign both Bulaga and Veldheer. They are of similar age and injury history and signing both could be expensive. I would sign one and draft a young OT in the early rounds. The draftee could be the backup in 2020 and with Bahk's contract coming up in 2021, provide some young insurance for both of our aging tackles.

1 points
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RCPackerFan's picture

February 05, 2020 at 10:23 am

For me its all about the price. If its a reasonable deal I would definitely resign Bulaga. And then follow that up and resign Veldheer if the price is right.
Veldheer is a proven veteran player at a premier position. At his age I could see him willing to be a backup swing tackle. If we are 1 game away next year and we have an injury to one of the OT's do you want a guy like Veldheer in the game or a rookie? That could literally be the difference in going to the super bowl or not.

I'm ok with drafting a guy, but for a good OT you are likely spending a 1st-3rd round pick on one. Just my opinion but for this draft I would much rather use those draft picks on WR's, ILB's, DL, CB's. Other positions that can make a difference.

3 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

February 05, 2020 at 10:27 am

The drafted guy should be your starter.

0 points
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Jonathan Spader's picture

February 05, 2020 at 06:47 pm

Would you have started Spriggs year 1? Depends on the ability of an OL to transition to the NFL not everyone can be Jenkins. Wondering what we have in Madison.

2 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

February 05, 2020 at 11:39 am

Ted has left the building. I trust Gutekunst's evaluation process, especially in a draft loaded with top-end talent @ the OT position. Spriggs was a major reach as a converted TE for Indiana and never handled the run game or bullrush in college.

0 points
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flackcatcher's picture

February 05, 2020 at 08:35 pm

Spriggs main problem was the mental breakdowns he suffered in games. Physically he was fine, all the tools were there, and then he would lose it usually in the third quarter and fall apart. It's the difference between those who play in this league, and those who are cut. Especially for offensive linemen. Spriggs is that rare athlete teams want in their O line. He had all the tools. Someone will give him another chance...

0 points
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Coldworld's picture

February 05, 2020 at 12:49 pm

Historically more guards have started successfully as rookies than Tackles. Tackle requires greater athleticism and a broader skill set, which is why it’s a premium position.

3 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

February 05, 2020 at 01:56 pm

Well, recent history shows nine OTs drafted in the first two rounds of the 2019 draft and eight of them became starters.
Williams, McGary, and Tytus Howard went out with injuries. Houston started both rookies at the start of the season. This year's class is just as solid. Hoping a four pick turns out like Bhaktiari is the low probability play. Lindstrom was the guard going high and went to IR right away as well.

4 points
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dobber's picture

February 05, 2020 at 03:20 pm

The BETTER guy should be the starter.

2 points
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murf7777's picture

February 05, 2020 at 09:47 am

I agree Shannahan’s biggest coaching blunder was not calling a time out. He showed no confidence in his Offense. He stated the reason is that KC had 3 TO’s left and didn’t want them to get the ball back. So, in addition to not showing confidence in his Offense he didn’t show confidence in his D. I can only wonder how the players felt going into halftime.

I disagree with his 4th quarter play calling, especially on 2nd and 5 after just running 5 yards on first down. Run again is the answer, do what got you there! Why would you put it into Grapollo hand when you already showed you didn’t trust him with 2 TO and what would’ve been 1:30 left in the first half if you called a TO when you stopped KC on 3rd and long. Grapollo proceeded to throw 2 incompletions, thus stopping the clock and no first down. There’s a great chance SF missing the playoffs after this difficult loss IE: Atlanta and LA.

0 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

February 05, 2020 at 10:33 am

In the fourth quarter Chris Jones batted down two of Garappollo's passes. That was the difference on those play calls and intense pressure from Clark. Pennell had a great rush on the Breeland pick. They don't play the game in a vacuum.

0 points
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murf7777's picture

February 05, 2020 at 11:45 am

Exactly my point. By throwing you have many perils to navigate such as INT, batted down passes, sack, incomplete passes which stop the clock. They just got 5 yards on first down, There was less then 6 minutes remaining and a 3 point lead. They were averaging over 6 yards per carry with a loaded box all game and needed 5 yards with 2 downs to achieve that. The odds were in their favor that they would get a first down with 2 rushing plays. At worst, sans no fumble, they spend another 1:10 + seconds of the clock. At best they run the clock and continue a long drive and score.

My main point thou is do what got you to the SB and that is Run the damn ball. At least if you lose you do it by doing what you do best. I certainly understand play action and there are good arguments for that thought. It is easy to play arm chair QB and nic pic plays, it’s just my opinion for what it’s worth.

0 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

February 05, 2020 at 12:23 pm

That's what Mccarthy tried to do in the Seattle debacle and we know how that worked out. Shanahan stated he wanted to maintain the WCO to move the chains w/out the risk of getting 3 and outs killing the clock, thereby giving Mahomes more chances to put the dagger in them. Spags was adjusting his run looks by the fourth quarter. The 49r wide receivers were open, butgreat plays by Jones. jimmy G has the same issues as Brees sometimes getting the ball through the LOS.

0 points
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murf7777's picture

February 05, 2020 at 01:09 pm

That’s apples vs oranges. GB didn’t have anything near the SF running game. Like I said, I can see either side but your throwing examples that don't compare.

0 points
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RCPackerFan's picture

February 05, 2020 at 12:49 pm

The play calling was fine honestly. It was the execution.

The deep throw to Sanders was there. Just the execution was off.

I get it. Its easy to question the pass vs throw type of stuff. But the play as it was designed worked. The plays were open, but they didn't execute it for whatever reason.

If anything I would question why they didn't use Moshert more.

1 points
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CAG123's picture

February 05, 2020 at 08:12 am

So lets say by the time the Packers pick at 30 Kenneth Murray, Marlon Davidson and Justin Jefferson are all there who do you guys think the Packers should take?

1 points
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HankScorpio's picture

February 05, 2020 at 08:43 am

From those 3...Murray.

The only way I would draft WR at 30 is if Shenault was there. Of course that applies to Lamb, Ruggs or Jeudy. But none of those 3 will be there. Jefferson is worth #30 but doesn't rank far enough ahead of options that are available later.

For the DL help, I'm looking much later for a mountain of a run stuffer like Davon Hamilton, Benito Jones or Leki Fotu. Nearly all of my draft sims include one of those three, most often Hamilton in round 4.

2 points
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stockholder's picture

February 05, 2020 at 10:38 am

I disagree Hank. And the combine will change that. Keep an eye on Ailuk. over Jefferson. I wouldn't draft a DL. I'd take Harrison or another ILB first, depending on the combine. And any edge player over the DL. That Being Fackrell won't be signed.

2 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

February 05, 2020 at 10:48 am

Ailuk is better than Harry and his YAC is solid. He can return punts and has the RB moves in space. He is moving up boards. Jefferson is a quick twitch guy and smooth, also good YAC.

2 points
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CAG123's picture

February 05, 2020 at 11:26 am

Man Shenault is like a mini Derrick Henry at the WR position he’s a bit raw but he has game breaking potential. Remember what Deebo Samuel did to Savage in the open field this kid can do that too.

2 points
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fthisJack's picture

February 05, 2020 at 08:54 am

Depending on who's available at 30, it might be a good year to trade out of the first round and pick up an extra third or fourth. a really good WR or 2 can be had in the second or third round.

1 points
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HankScorpio's picture

February 05, 2020 at 05:56 pm

I'm always good with trading down as long as the return is there.

0 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

February 05, 2020 at 10:39 am

Jefferson, more upside. The use of the running game by successful teams has targeted the small ILB/safety with the inside zone and trap schemes. Look at the injury reports for some of these smaller/quicker LBs. Not worth the investment. Score points and move the chains.

1 points
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CAG123's picture

February 05, 2020 at 03:20 pm

Murray is 6’2 240 though which is probably 5-10 pounds heavier than a lot of the small LBs. The LB everyone wants Littleton is 6’3 225 so Murray has good size to be able to move the way he does. I’ve watched games where he’s holding contain one minute and as soon as the QB starts looking down field he’s closing in.

2 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

February 05, 2020 at 05:17 pm

240# is OK. I've seen some sight listing him at 230# and claiming he gets run out by O lineman. Have not seen enough of the Oklahoma games this year s to scope him out. The scouts are pushing a couple of their D linemen.

1 points
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murf7777's picture

February 05, 2020 at 12:10 pm

I’d take KJ Hamler. You will argue he is only 5’9” and 176lbs. And had ACL injury, which he is two years removed from. But, if you want a true game changer, a quick twitch, fast (predicted to run sub 4.3 at combine) who will possibly lead the league in all purpose yards (receiving, running, PR and KR) someday that’s your man. Sure, there are many speedy WR ala MVS, but not many with both speed and quick twitch, this man has both. Before you down vote me, think Tyreek Hill.

-1 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

February 05, 2020 at 12:30 pm

Might as well target Reagor if that's the case. Just a little bigger guy and just as fast. Gute would have to go up in the first for Reagor as teams will be clawing for speed guys. Hamler is a great player, but the injury bug mayhurt him.

0 points
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murf7777's picture

February 05, 2020 at 01:27 pm

Your right both speedsters, just a guess on my part I believe KJ will be special, his highlights are great and he averaged 16 and 18 YPC which is very impressive. In addition to his returning ability. I’d be fine with either. Of course the draft it’s a bit of a crap shoot.

I want to see the Packers O get more speed and quickness. I also think they should draft Jalen Hurts, 4.48 speed, in the 2nd or 3rd round they would probably have to reach into the 2nd thou. This guy has great potential and can sit behind Arod and learn the position. In the meantime, the pack could use him in situational plays with or without Arod in the backfield. Just imagine the plays they could design with Hurts, Arod, Adams, Jones, Hamler and MVS(if he progresses).

-1 points
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HankScorpio's picture

February 05, 2020 at 08:13 am

On defense, it is all about fixing the run. I'd like to see some DBs drafted but just for roster maintenance. I think the top of the DB depth chart is pretty well set for 2020 with Sullivan and Jackson stepping up to CB3 and CB4. Obviously everything can be improved and should, if the opportunity arises. But the focus must be run defense and pass catchers.

They cannot fix ILB in free agency. Speedy LBs that can play do not appear in FA and if they do, they cost an arm and leg. Assuming Martinez walks as too expensive (as I am), they have nothing of any kind of value left. Maybe Summers or Bolton can make a big jump. But that's a longshot. I think they need to spend a pick before day 3 starts and another on day 3. Patrick Queen, Akeem Davis Gaithers, Troy Dye and Jordyn Brooks are some names I've been grabbing in draft simulations. For the day 3 guy, Julian Bernard is interesting to me. I'd love to hear from others on draft options.

Fixing the DL is a matter of getting one mountain of a player--a 330 lb run stuffer that can play between 40-50% of the snaps, IMO. That can take some of the load off Kenny Clark and really shore up the run defense. The best way to find one is to add two. A cheap vet FA and mid-level draft pick would give two shots at fixing without a heavy investment in cap or draft capital. Davon Hamilton is the guy that keeps ending up as my 4th in draft simulations.

7 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

February 05, 2020 at 11:48 am

deleted

0 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

February 05, 2020 at 11:35 am

I like the 2-4-1 idea. Get a FA value @ DT/DE and draft a guy in the mid to late rounds. Leki Tofu from Utah and Khalil Davis from Nebraska are quick guys.

-1 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

February 05, 2020 at 12:35 pm

deleted, redundancy

0 points
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Coldworld's picture

February 05, 2020 at 12:38 pm

Agree with almost all that you said except that regarding ILB.

If we are not going to be able to get a true speedy vet in FA (I agree unlikely to be available and likely very expensive even if I’m wrong), then letting Martinez go is nigh on impossible.

Doing so would mean starting a rookie with only Burke’s and Summers behind him. Not enough! we need one good 3 down backer and one competent 2 downer, not two rookies, a raw 7th rounder and Burkes, who looks like he can’t make the grade.

We may also need someone to support Greene. Perhaps Campbell will be better this year and was not fully back from injury, but let’s be honest, the hybrid backer safety position was thin too.

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jannes bjornson's picture

February 05, 2020 at 01:35 pm

i wouldn't mind keeping Goodson as the two down guy. Getting better at the DE/DT should help the LBs. KC had Hitchins, Ragland and the kid from the Gophers inside. The Packers need to get away from finesse defense. Gary should be on the field as a starter in 2020.

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stockholder's picture

February 05, 2020 at 08:51 pm

I think they need to spend a pick before day 3 starts and another on day 3. Patrick Queen, Akeem Davis Gaithers, Troy Dye and Jordyn Brooks are some names I've been grabbing in draft simulations.??/. Queen isn't Roquan Smith of the bears. He is fast. I see Burks! I keep coming up with Harrison, Evan Weaver, Jordyn Brooks. Quarterman. So I hope they do fix it in Free agency.

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CAG123's picture

February 05, 2020 at 10:18 pm

Also instead of Pettine relying on small DBs for his dime package why not invest this draft theyre two guys that would fill that role perfectly without giving up too much size and they could be available in later rounds Kyle Dugger is a 6'2 220 pound safety or he could go with Akeem-Davis Gaither whos a 6'2 215 LB both are substantially bigger than Raven Greene and Campbell.

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albert999's picture

February 05, 2020 at 08:15 am

Take Murray

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Swisch's picture

February 05, 2020 at 08:46 am

Gotta stopped getting pushed around; gotta start pushing back.
So, yes, defensive line as priority for the Packers; and, second, continual upgrading of the offensive line.
I like keeping guys as long as possible, but increasing injuries tend to collide with increasing salaries -- as seems to be the case for Bulaga. It may be time to move on from him, sad to say.
While Martinez is appreciated as durable, and a tackling machine, at ILB, it seems he is neither particularly physical against the run nor particularly agile in coverage against the pass. It seems we need at least one guy at ILB who is a pounder.
I agree that guys like Marcedes and Tramon are invaluable if they are still capable of playing close to their levels of last season.
Overall, I don't want the Packers to be loud and boastful and preening; I don't want them to be dirty players taking cheap shots; but I do want our guys to stand up to teams like the 49ers with some clean hard impactful hits, even as we try to outrun and outsmart them.

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Bearmeat's picture

February 05, 2020 at 08:56 am

I hate to say it, AL, but I think Gute doesn't agree with your (and my) assessment of the DL. He seems to be counting on Keke stepping up big time. Then why couldn't he get on the field?

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jeremyjjbrown's picture

February 05, 2020 at 10:42 am

Either that or he knows Pettine doesn't want a lot of IDLs on the field on mosr downs.

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jannes bjornson's picture

February 05, 2020 at 11:15 am

LaFleur may have something to say about that idea after the 2x San Fran ass-kicking. Pettine will have to modify his scheme or go the way of Rex Ryan.

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flackcatcher's picture

February 05, 2020 at 09:01 pm

Gee, you think so.////// Selective memory on MLF going to the pass early, Jones getting what? 8 carries in the run game first half. More than enough fail on both sides of the ball...

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Coldworld's picture

February 05, 2020 at 12:57 pm

What was more perplexing and concerning was the absence of M Adams. I think Keke was seen as more of a Daniels role type. We needed a runstuffer. Lancaster couldn’t do it consistently and M Adams offered nothing. We need to find a player capable of spelling Clark too. It is not purely for the two big heavy sets. Clark can’t go on playing this many snaps.

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Bearmeat's picture

February 05, 2020 at 01:51 pm

Would really like a mid-tier FA run stuffing DT... much cheaper than a cover ILB.

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jannes bjornson's picture

February 05, 2020 at 02:04 pm

Like to see Clark with more three tech or five tech looks. Get a guy like Shelton and use Lancaster strictly as a backup NT.

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Handsback's picture

February 05, 2020 at 09:09 am

Thanks for all the articles this year JerseyAl!
Call me crazy, but if Green Bay lets Martinez go...who will be the ILB? You can draft one, but that's like drawing to an inside straight in poker. Hard to do and not much chance of it being successful. They must have a plan, or think someone on the roster can be that run stopper on the inside.
The Dline is top priority in MHO. The 49ers have a pretty good Oline, but the way they pushed Green Bay around was embarrassing. The help is needed like yesterday so I suspect FA is the way to go and think Williams might be the guy they need to go the distance. Play him inside or out and he's a good run stopper and takes up a lot of space.
The ILB position is either fixed internally, maybe keeping Martinez, or by FA...don't see them trusting it to a draft pick.
In the SB the one thing that was very obvious to me was that the Chiefs had 8 men in the box, but those DE/Edge guys maintained their run discipline. (Unlike the Packers) The 49ers could still run the ball and maybe could have done it more, but the Chiefs were attacking the LOS to stop them.
I thought the 49ers would win, but was rooting for the Chiefs. It has been a good year and hope everyone stays healthy.

Last comment...watch for Cole McDonald, QB from Hawaii in the later rounds of the draft.

4 points
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packerbackerjim's picture

February 05, 2020 at 11:21 am

If Dolphins draft Tua as expected, Josh Rosen is expendable and may be available for not too steep a price. I’d feel much better about our backup QB situation.

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PeteK's picture

February 05, 2020 at 03:34 pm

Not a bad idea. I thought that Miami made a great move getting him, but was surprised he didn't start in Miami.

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packerbackerjim's picture

February 05, 2020 at 08:29 pm

He was gifted with two crappy O-lines in AZ and Miami. He might do well to sit behind AR.

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pacman's picture

February 05, 2020 at 09:16 am

After waking up in the middle of the night to watch the miserable NFC championship game while on vacation in Europe, I haven't bothered posting on how disappointing it was. So we have no choice but to wait to see how MLF deals with the lack of fire the team had on defense. I was a fan of Pettine last year but not so much this year with the bend but don't break defense of the Caper era. And then of course there is the issue of AR still unwilling to go for the short pass unless Adams isn't playing (or something like that).

I think this team has the talent to get to the playoffs as is. It is their mental state and coaching that are the problem, lack of ability to adjust, etc. Yes, some better players will help any team. That's Gute's job and he has been the best of the current management. Not perfect but very good. Everyone knows now that Rodgers isn't carrying the team to the Superbowl anymore. Maybe Gute should have spent the money on a one year deal for one more receiver. We will never know.

So I hope after getting totally embarrassed in 3 games last year (and it could have been much worse with those last minute wins against bad teams), MLF does some soul searching and figures out that the problems of this team are more mental than physical and figures out how control things. He seems to have said as much after the NFC debacle. When is the last the Packers out-schemed a good team like that. The challenge to Murphy is how do you put a rookie coach with a 13-3 record on the hot seat? Well, that's his job. Just like it is MLF's job to get Linsey and AR to take 100 practice snaps at the beginning of training camp (or something like that). It would be nice if they did it on their own just like how we heard how the defense got together to review tape at the beginning of the season.

Ok, hopefully I've unpolluted my mind now.

3 points
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dobber's picture

February 05, 2020 at 09:53 am

When you have a team that seemed to be punching well above its weight on a weekly basis, you can expect that you're going to fall hard from time to time. I'm not saying that's not fixable, but there were weeks when this team won when it played poorly (Detroit). There were no weeks when this team played pretty well and lost. That being said, it's a tribute to coaching, resilience, and team chemistry for a team to win ugly on a regular basis. Some might say luck, but over the last two seasons, when there were games that this team could have seized and pulled out, they couldn't do it.

3 points
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dobber's picture

February 05, 2020 at 10:04 am

My thinking is that there's not going to be a meaningful defensive scheme switch in the short term (e.g. 3-4 to 4-3), so if it were me, I'd be looking for prototypical 3-4 DEs either through the draft or in FA. Guys on this list who seem to fit that kind of 5-tech mold are guys like Jones, Phillips, Williams and Johnson. Jones, Phillips, and Williams are all pocket-pushers, too. I think Jones and Williams will get big $$--Jones moreso than Williams. Phillips has a reputation for not playing hard all the time so I'd be wary of him. Johnson is more of a lunchpail type run-stopper than a pass-rusher (a better Tyler Lancaster).

The Packers have already put money into Lowry. He has a $2M roster bonus that kicks in at the beginning of the league year. I anticipate he's staying put. He was better with a disruptive player (Daniels) at the other DE spot. Guys who are like Daniels (Billings, Day, Hargrave) might fit into that spot, too.

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13TimeChamps's picture

February 05, 2020 at 12:11 pm

I think this is going to be a very important year for Gutekunst. While 2019's offseason was very successful on several fronts, let's face it, 2018's was very forgettable. For some reason he gets very little criticism for that. Signing an aging, slow Graham and making him the highest paid TE in the league was a huge mistake. Then the draft. 1st round (Alexander) excellent. 2nd round (Jackson) seldom plays. 3rd round (Burks) rarely plays and is close to being a bust. 4th round (J. Moore) out of the league. 5th round (Madison) hasn't played a snap. 5th round (Scott) very inconsistent punter that could have been taken later. And then MVS and EQB. There's a very good chance that draft will end up producing ONE player contributing on a regular basis. Hopefully 2019 was more what we can expect from Gutekunst than 2018. 2020 should clarify that. I'm optimistic.

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Crazedcamel's picture

February 06, 2020 at 09:05 am

2019’s draft was much improved over 2018, but the Gary pick may haunt the Pack in the future, given the timeframe with Rodgers. Gutekunst could have traded that 12th pick back a little in the first round while picking an additional mid round pick. Savage would’ve still been there between 18-21 in the first round. Gute would’ve saved both fourth round picks and still had the 30th in the first round. Debo Samuel, DK Metcalf, and AJ Brown were all available at 30. Those 2-3 additional mid round picks could have added depth at positions that were lacking talent.
I realize that hindsight is 20/20, but the Packers would be in a better position to fill holes in the roster and retain needed players .

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jannes bjornson's picture

February 06, 2020 at 06:55 pm

How many 6'-4 guys were lined up at #12 weighing 277# with 4.58 40 speed? His reps were limited on the down lineman spots because they didn't want to aggravate his shoulder-let it heal. He should have bben used more in the combos with Za and Preston especially during the playoffs. Fackerell was getting nowhere. His foot speed off the line has to be utilized and he will show in 2020. Guy just turned 22.

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BBlake's picture

February 05, 2020 at 02:36 pm

If anyone is looking at FA names to consider, there's really only a handful of teams ( Falcons, Bears, Jaguars, Steelers & Vikings) that may let their players see FA. That's because 22 teams have more salary cap money to spend than the Packers, 16 of them have twice as much money to spend and 5 of them have at least 3 times as much salary cap space this offseason. That means that many teams will throw a lot of money at good players and still have plenty left over.

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AgrippaLII's picture

February 05, 2020 at 03:20 pm

I totally agree...It means the Packers are probably going to lose Bulaga and Martinez. Bulaga is on what will most likely be his last contract. He'd be crazy not to sign for the max somewhere else. There is no way the Packers can pay Martinez his current market value but someone else will. Gutekunst just doesn't have enough cap to play with in free agency. He's going to have to get it done in the draft.

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CoachDino's picture

February 07, 2020 at 12:53 am

I'm with ya brother other than the Jared V. If you draft a start ready OT and then Have JV as the back-up. Could Start for the 1st x games then have The Rookie come in.
Bryan B at the right price/years is still a risk due to injuries, scary,, Tough call...If there's a "window" now with AR it may tilt it too
'keep him". The OL is a strength.
DL,WR,OT - top draft picks depending on best value. I agree the DL FA has some great deals...

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