Addition By Subtraction Packers Rid Themselves Of Dead Weight
The trade deadline has passed and the Packers made headlines before the deadline, but probably not the way we thought they would if anyone would have asked us before the season started.
Ty Montgomery has been traded to the Baltimore Ravens for a 7th round draft pick in 2020 while Ha Ha Clinton-Dix has been traded to the Washington Redskins for a 4th round draft pick in 2019.
I guess the timing of the moves was surprising, but both of these players have given the team headaches both in the locker room and on the field. Ha Ha stated publicly that he didn’t envision himself being with the team next year while Ty had his antics on the sideline, and more importantly, his fumble last Sunday cost them any realistic chance they had of coming back in the game and defeating the unbeaten Rams.
With the moves, I think this solidifies the backfield. Aaron Jones is the feature back with Jamaal Williams giving him a breather every now and then and perhaps at the goal line. The safety position is where the depth takes a hit. Do they move Josh Jones to free safety or Kentrell Brice? I think they seriously have to address this position on the field.
The reason for these moves is simple. This is a team that stresses team chemistry, and both of these players were a problem. No matter who you are, if your heart is not in the game or in Green Bay, the team is better off with you gone. Even though Ha Ha was having a decent season after a down year in 2017, it was clear that he didn’t want to be here in Green Bay, so you might as well get rid of him and get something in return. As for Ty, we can’t afford someone who makes boneheaded decisions like running the ball out when taking a knee is the best bet, especially when they fumble the ball and the game away. Players were furious at him and his decision, and the fans wanted him gone. He needed to be out of Green Bay.
I don’t think the front office has given up on the season quite yet. I think Brian Gutekunst still may have a move or two up his sleeve. Also, with these picks, I think they have a decent shot at using them in a trade package in order to move up in the draft. Mike McCarthy knows his job is on life support right now. If they miss the playoffs, he is likely gone. Even if they make the playoffs and they bow out meekly, that still might get him kicked out of Green Bay. That game against the Rams that slipped away did not help his cause at all. He needs wins in the worst way right now.
Aaron Rodgers is not getting any younger. The Super Bowl window will not stay open forever. It’s all about getting the right mix of players and putting them in a position to succeed. A huge part of that is making sure they are all on the same page. With these moves, that opens up two roster spots. The players who will end up occupying those spots may not be as talented, but if they show a willingness to compete and have a good attitude, the team will probably be better off overall.
Unless your name is Aaron Rodgers, your roster spot is probably not safe. If those two can get shipped out, it can happen to almost every other player on this roster. It’s time to get serious and go out there ready to compete and start winning games again.
All of this happened before their huge battle with the New England Patriots on Sunday night. Everything is right in front of them, but nobody will give it to them; they have to take it. They missed out on getting a signature win last Sunday, but if they get this win at New England, they will be in good shape. Let’s have this trade deadline be the turning point of our season.
Go Pack Go!
@DieHardPackrFan #DHPF #GregGoshaw @gg901
