The only mandatory portion of the Packers off-season program wrapped up today with a to-the-point 90 minute workout on Clarke Hinkle Field. Aside from the Aaron Rodgers “situation” only the weather was more disagreeable this week as the team practiced in mid 80 to low 90 degree temperatures each day.
Linebackers in the sun.
Head Coach Matt LaFleur offered this summary of the week and answered my query into how the new players interacted with veterans not only on the field but in the building spending their first significant time together.
As for the final practice, Jordan Love was coming off perhaps his strongest on-field work yet but we were all reminded about how it’s a day to day, even play to play proposition with a young quarterback. Last year’s number one pick gave this year’s top choice a jolt of confidence when Eric Stokes picked off Love on a sideline route on what the defense celebrated as a pick six.
New linebacker De’Vondre Campbell dressed but worked only fundamental drills. He stayed on the sidelines when the defensive unit was on the field, just getting brought up to speed on Joe Barry’s scheme.
Tight end Issac Nauta, who caught a TD from Blake Bortles in a a two minute drill this week, was held out of practice after suffering what appeared to be a minor pull Wednesday.
Four players opened camp isolated because of Covid protocols and only Za’Darius Smith returned. Preston Smith, Elgton Jenkins and Dean Lowry, never were able to clear protocols and practice. LaFleur was asked about Covid issues and said most of the Tier 1 and Tier 2 employees and staff have been vaccinated but “we’re not quite there with players”. He said the team will continue it’s education efforts for not only the players but the community as a whole.
The Packers offered a contract to tryout quarterback Jake Dolegala and the free agent from Central Connecticut signed a deal that gives the Pack five QB’s under contract. So which four do you think will be here when training camp begins July 27? To make room for Dolegala, the Packers waived defensive lineman Anthony Rush.
Third year tight end Jace Sternberger has had another setback. Sidelined by a concussion his rookie year, covid last year, the NFL is stepping in this time. The league announced Sternberg is being suspended for the first two games of the 2021 regular season for violating the league’s Policy and Program on Substances of Abuse. Sternberger will be allowed to practice through the summer and play in pre-season games.
Post practice comments were delivered by Smith, Campbell and Rashan Gary.
Rashan Gary sporting his alter-ego on his visor.
Gary made a noticeable jump in play style and production as his second year moved along and the former number one pick from Michigan is expected to be a major contributor this year in Joe Barry’s defense. Rashan also explained the name across the top of his visor, Bane Gary is his alter-ego. Why choose the ruthless villain in The Dark Knight Rises?
Za’Darius Smith believes Gary is going to have a big year for the defense and is excited about what Joe Barry’s energy will bring to the unit. Campbell is very happy to land in Green Bay after starting all 16 games for the Arizona Cardinals last year. He came into the league as a 4th round pick from Minnesota, taken by the Atlanta Falcons when LaFleur was that staff. Even though he worked the other side of the ball, Campbell said he talked regularly with LaFleur and that was one of the draws that led him to say yes when the Packers called.
The best news was saved for last. The Packers announced late Thursday afternoon that fans will be welcomed back to Lambeau Field this fall. Matter of fact, full capacity is expected for all home games and railbirds will be welcomed back to watch training camp that opens July 27. Vaccinated fans won’t need to wear masks but those without a shot will be asked to follow CDC guidelines.
Even though the mini-camp is in the books, the team still has one final week of organized team activities next Monday through Wednesday with a final media open practice on Tuesday. LaFleur will understand if his numbers decline but is still expecting a solid turnout before putting his third off-season program to bed.
