Despite a strong finish in 2006 that brought the Green Bay Packers back to an even 8-8 record, General Manager Ted Thompson did little to improve this team from the outside. The Packers were a non-factor in the free-agent market, choosing instead to look to their own young players for improvement.
What's New?
The Packers really had no key additions during the offseason, unless you count second-round draft pick Brandon Jackson. The rookie running back should see a lot of action in the mix with Vernand Morency and Noah Herron but it’s somewhat surprising the team didn’t add any veteran help at the position. Or at wide receiver. Or tight end.
NFL Draft Picks
1st Round - Justin Harrell, DT Tennessee
2nd Round - Brandon Jackson, RB Nebraska
3rd Round - James Jones, WR San Hose State
3rd Round - Aaron Rouse, Virginia Tech
4th Round - Allen Barbre, OT Missouri Southern
5th Round - David Clowney, WR Virginia Tech
6th Round - Korey Hall, LB Boise State
6th Round - Desmond Bishop, LB California
6th Round - Mason Crosby, K Colorado
7th Round - Deshawn Wynn, RB Florida
7th Round - Clark Harris, TE Rutgers
Who's Gone?
The only noteworthy loss was that of Ahman Green, who signed a four-year deal with the Houston Texans as a free agent, leaving a big void at running back. Although his skills were obviously on the decline, he’s still a better back than anyone else on the roster at this time.
What Needs to Change?
If the Packers are going to compete for the playoffs, their defense is going to have to take things up a notch, which they have the potential to do. I’m just not sure, however, they will be able to overcome what appears to me to be the makings of an inconsistent offense. With an aging quarterback whose skills are on the decline and serious questions at running back, receiver, and tight end, it’s going to take a very solid showing by the defense to challenge for the division crown.
Under Pressure to Perform
Brett Favre - In the twilight of his career, Favre knows his chances of returning to the Super Bowl are limited. For this team to get to that level would require Favre to return to playing at an All Pro level, which means better decision making on his part.
Vernand Morency/Brandon Jackson - With Ahman Green gone, the Packers chose not to bring in another proven veteran. It’s a big gamble for a team that was inconsistent in the running game last season. The pressure will be on these guys to not only fill Green’s shoes, but to improve on last season’s production..
2006 Rankings
Overall Offense - 9th (341.1)
Rushing Offense - 23rd (103.9)
Passing Offense - 8th (237.2)
Overall Defense - 12th (320.9)
Rushing Defense - 13th (114.1)
Passing Defense - 17th (206.8)
Prediction - The Packers finished strong in 2006, but what did they do to improve? Sure, they have some nice, young players. So does everyone else in the division. Green Bay may flirt with the .500 mark behind an above average defense, but that’s about it.
Record:7-9 and third in the NFC North
