Sports Writers

Yesterday in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel had an article praising the glories of Packers' GM Ted Thompson's 2007 draft. Don't get me wrong, Ted Thompson may not be as big of a joke as I once thought (I once called him the "Ned Yost of Footbal GMs"), but I think the jury is still out. Let's see how the Packers finish the year and what he does in the off season (maybe actually sign a free agent??) But I will not say that he had a good draft last year.

Let's take a quick look: (Thompson's grades himself here.)

Round 1: Justin Harrell- bust, has barely played, only active for 4 games. Luckily our defensive line already has 4 starters and a 3rd down back, so we don't need him. Currently listed as our 3rd left defensive tackle behind Ryan Pickett and Corey Williams.

Round 2: Brandon Jackson- bust, currently listed as our #3 back.

Round 3: James Jones- great pick, one of the better rookie wideouts in the league. He's our #3 receiver, but would be many teams #2.

Aaron Rouse- another really good pick, filled in nicely when Nick Collins was out, hopefully a starter next year. Now if he could replace Bigby at the other safety position (Bigby is worst safety in league).

Round 4: Allen Barbre- never heard of him. Filled in on a few snaps at guard. Useless.

Round 6: Korey Hall- good pick. Is basically our starting fullback, but its a fullback position, nothing special. He block well, has few rushing yards, few catches. Is replaceable, but serviceable (like my ex-wife).

Desmond Bishop- a special teams player, nothing special. Gone in a year.

Mason Crosby- Really good pick. 2nd in league in points this year. Quite acurate, hit game winner in first game he played. Hopefully we keep him, but will never replace Longwell. (Why did we let him and Sharper go to Minnesota?)

Round 7: DeShawn Wynn- Useless, currently our #4 running back, in a league when you have 3 listed running backs. Already injury-prone. Can anyone say practice squad.

Overall, an ok draft, maybe B-/C+. We wasted our 1st and 2nd round picks. Had a really good 3rd round, and got Crosby late, otherwise everyone else is replaceable.