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AP Story: Packers Come From Behind To Edge Titans, 21-20

Fri, 30 Aug 2002 23:29:33 CST

Third-string quarterback Craig Nall solidified a roster spot by leading the Green Bay Packers on three second-half scoring drives in a 21-20 victory over the Tennessee Titans.

Billy Volek threw a 13-yard touchdown pass to Eddie Berlin with eight seconds left in the game to pull the Titans to within a point, but the 2-point conversion failed when the ball went off the hands of Berlin wide open in the end zone.

Nall completed 12 of 19 passes for 182 yards.

A fifth-round pick from Northwestern (La.) State who had been erratic all preseason, Nall led the Packers on scoring drives of 73, 46 and 82 yards after rookie John Simon returned the second-half kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown that gave Tennessee a 7-3 lead.

It was the second TD return allowed by the Packers this week. Cleveland's Andre Davis had a 93-yarder on the opening kickoff Monday night.

Nall threw TD passes of 16 and 25 yards to Charles Lee after an initial series in which he co..

Packers Notebook - Another Champ Visits

Jason Bellamy, Packers.com — Thu, 29 Aug 2002 15:37:04 CST

Another Champ Visits

Having already received a visit this preseason from one of the best boxers of all time, Smokin' Joe Frazier, last weekend the Packers welcomed to Green Bay one of the greatest basketball players of all time, Bill Russell, as an honorary guest for Monday night's game against the Cleveland Browns.

Russell, a member of the NBA Hall of Fame who earned 11 league titles and five MVP awards throughout his career with the Boston Celtics, met with Packers players and posed for photographs prior to the game and then joined the team on the sideline during the contest.

Also In Attendance

A shoulder injury forced him to retire, but nothing could keep longtime Packers safety LeRoy Butler away from Lambeau Field for the preseason home opener. Often caught on camera during ABC's Monday Night Football broadcast, before the game Butler stood in the tunnel exchanging pleasantries with the Packers' offensive starters as they waited ..

Training Camp Report - August 29, 2002

Thu, 29 Aug 2002 14:38:49 CST

On the eve of their final preseason game, the Packers orchestrated their customary walkthrough practice at Lambeau Field Thursday morning.

Although the practice was closed to the public, several members of the Lambeau Field construction crew chose to take their lunch break at 10:00 a.m., and watch the Packers from the bleachers while enjoying their sandwiches and a cloudless sky.

After completing his final preseason practice, rookie wide receiver Javon Walker shared his thoughts on his inaugural NFL training camp.

"It was long," the first-round draft pick said. "It was challenging, it was exciting. Just being able to catch a ball from Brett (Favre) is exciting. I'm looking forward to taking everything I've learned in practice to the regular season."

Starting next week, Packers practices will be moved to Ray Nitschke Field, with tarps lining the fences to provide a private atmosphere for the business of the regular season. While seclusion will h..

Training Camp Report - August 28, 2002

Wed, 28 Aug 2002 19:26:00 CST

Wednesday marked the final open-to-the-public training camp practice of 2002. While the day is probably a relief to players long tired of two-a-days, it no doubt brings a hint of sadness to devoted Railbirds who can no longer line the fences at Oneida Street to watch their beloved Packers up close.

"Oh yeah, this is great," said Jim, a Packers fan from Milwaukee. "I can't get my hands on tickets to the game, so this is the next best thing."

Brett Favre was welcomed to the last practice with a huge round of applause, and GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman closed the practice by walking back to Lambeau Field, signing autographs along the way.

Wednesday's practice was also noteworthy for wide receiver Terry Glenn, who saw his most significant action since spraining the medial collateral ligament in his left knee August 7.

"It feels a lot better," Glenn said of his knee. "Obviously I've had a lot of time to get it better, and getting treatment and rehabbing..

Brookins' Absence An Oddity

Jason Bellamy, Packers.com — Wed, 28 Aug 2002 18:38:24 CST

With only a few days of the preseason remaining, the turn of events that resulted in running back Jason Brookins being placed on the Packers' reserves list today happened just in time to stand as the most bizarre story of training camp.

One day after the Packers trimmed their roster by 15 per NFL rules to reach the required 65-man limit, it seems that Brookins misinterpreted a posting on the omnipresent video messaging system inside the Packers' new facilities at Lambeau Field and came to believe that he was among the cuts.

Consequently, Brookins left camp. And while the Packers are allowed to retain his rights, it doesn't appear he'll get a warm welcome to return.

"In our new facility we have a nice in-house communication process that's foolproof and he misread the foolproof communication on our video monitors," GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman said. "He thought he was cut and he wasn't cut."

According to Sherman, Brookins had been among the many play..

Packers, Coca-Cola Spread Team Spirit

Tue, 27 Aug 2002 16:00:58 CST

As the Green Bay Packers and the Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Wisconsin announced a five-year partnership Tuesday, both organizations spread the team spirit to youngsters from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Green Bay and Appleton, holding a flag-football game at Clarke Hinkle Field.

Former Packers linebacker Brian Noble played quarterback for each team, while John Jones, Packers Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, acted as both coach and motivator.

Jones said the football game provided an illustration of the importance of teamwork, the same teamwork that the Packers and Coca-Cola hope to employ to ensure that visitors of Lambeau Field receive the ultimate fan experience.

Before taking to the field, Noble echoed Jones' remarks, telling the youngsters, "When I was a Packer, I got to learn what tradition is all about, what community is all about."

Packers Lend Weight To Fight Against Hunger

Jason Bellamy, Packers.com — Tue, 27 Aug 2002 14:56:41 CST

It might not have looked like it from afar, but Packers players Gilbert Brown and William Henderson had charity in mind when they sat atop the handle-end of a giant soupspoon scale in the northeast parking lot of Lambeau Field Tuesday morning.

Taking part in the 'Campbell's Chunky/NFL Tackling Hunger' program, Brown and Henderson had their weight measured in cans of Campbell's Chunky soup. Campbell then made a donation of 10-times the players' combined weight in cans to Paul's Pantry of Green Bay, a local food bank.

With this summer's record by an NFL player standing at 34 cases, Brown shifted the scales at 30 cases of soup, which made for a nice donation and also for a little peace of mind concerning his playing weight.

"Anytime you can help out in any way, it's a good thing," Brown said. "I don't want to get (any) record in this. That means I'm weighing too much and I'm not doing my job. I tried to put a couple things in my pockets so I could bring (m..

AP Story: Returns Help Packers Rally Past Browns

Mon, 26 Aug 2002 23:09:49 CST

Renovations at Lambeau Field are 70 percent complete, and the Green Bay Packers' own makeover remains very much a work in progress.

Despite beating the Cleveland Browns 27-20, the Packers culminated a week of sloppy practices with an ugly performance by their starters.

Plus, Terry Glenn failed to make his much-anticipated Packers debut in the first game at the "new" Lambeau Field, which is halfway through a two-year, $295 million refurbishing.

The Browns returned the opening kickoff for a touchdown and took a 14-0 lead by the time Brett Favre had taken his fourth snap.

"The kickoff return for a touchdown is not the way we want to start. Plus, they're killing us on screens," a fuming Packers coach Mike Sherman said at halftime.

Last week, Sherman was so disgusted with sloppy practices that he forced his players to return for a full-pads workout.

Browns quarterback Tim Couch took advantage of the Packers' missing starting corn..

Training Camp Report - August 25, 2002

Sun, 25 Aug 2002 16:30:33 CST

As the Packers put a few finishing touches on their formations and plays, the Lambeau Field construction crew was putting their own final touches on the seating bowl and luxury boxes, all in preparation for Monday night's game against the Cleveland Browns.

The aroma of popcorn floated through the air as the team walked through plays that will be used in the match-up. Wide receiver Terry Glenn, who missed the first two preseason games due to a knee injury, stayed after practice with quarterback Craig Nall to rehearse a few routes and further evaluate his knee.

Glenn did not wear the heavy knee brace that he wore during Saturday's brief practice appearance, but was heavily taped. GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman and assistant trainer Bryan Engel closely monitored Glenn's participation.

One day after suggesting that he wouldn't play against the Browns, Glenn opened the window of possibility slightly after practice, saying it would be "a game-time decision." Whi..

A Humbling Experience

Jason Bellamy, Packers.com — Sat, 24 Aug 2002 20:46:51 CST

Exactly whose idea was this anyway?

That was just one of my thoughts last week as I stood at the Packers' equipment counter and hovered pen over injury waiver. I'd agreed to this pursuit months ago at the suggestion of a member of the public relations department who figured that it might make an entertaining, if not enlightening story if the 'Internet Guy' was put through the gauntlet of a Packers tryout.

Sure, I'd go for it, I'd said. I mean, what was there to do? Get timed in the 40-yard dash, maybe run a few pass routes? How bad could that be? Break a little sweat, write a little story . . . no problem.

I'd be a target for a lot of jokes, I knew that, but why not? I mean, if nothing else it would give my friends back home something new to laugh about. Stories of my athletic ineptitude in high school have to get old sometime, right?

Or at least that's what I was thinking then. But as I contemplated signing away my injury rights, this wasn..

Training Camp Report - August 24, 2002

Sat, 24 Aug 2002 20:20:08 CST

Legendary coach and television personality John Madden observed practice Saturday in preparation for the Packers' preseason home opener against the Cleveland Browns on Monday Night Football. Madden's presence was accompanied by a drive-by courtesy of the Outback Cruiser, the enormous bus the announcer takes from stadium to stadium.

Although the Packers do little game planning for preseason games, defensive coordinator Ed Donatell had to like what he saw of his defense against the mock Cleveland offense, with Darren Sharper coming up with two interceptions, and rookie safety Marques Anderson adding another.

GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman is looking forward to Monday night's game against the Browns, and expects his defense to be tested.

"They have shown in practice and in those (preseason) games that they're playing at a high level," Sherman said of the defense. "(Cleveland has) a good offense, it's the No. 2 offense in preseason, their quarterback rating colle..

Glenn Expects To Be Ready For Opener

Jason Bellamy, Packers.com — Sat, 24 Aug 2002 20:17:43 CST

When wide receiver Terry Glenn injured his left knee twisting to make a catch during practice August 7, it first appeared that only his participation in the preseason opener would be in jeopardy. More than two weeks later Glenn has seen limited time on the practice field and the Packers must be beginning to wonder if he'll be ready to go come the regular season opener September 8.

According to Glenn, Monday's game against the Cleveland Browns is out, but the preseason game against the Tennessee Titans the following Friday is still within the realm of possibility.

"We'll just see how it goes," Glenn said Saturday in regard to the Tennessee game. "I'm definitely not going to miss the (regular season) opener, but we'll see . . . We've still got two preseason games left and then the opener to start it off and we're not counting anything out."

GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman also said that Glenn could see time in the Tennessee game next week, but only under the con..

Training Camp Report - August 23, 2002

Fri, 23 Aug 2002 16:57:21 CST

An intense two-minute drill got the Packers' practice rolling in the Don Hutson Center Friday morning. During the first drive, Brett Favre unloaded a 50-yard bomb, one at which both wide receiver Donald Driver and cornerback Antuan Edwards had an equal shot. Both players went up for it, got tangled in the air, and Driver ultimately came down with the reception.

Later, Favre, rolling right, hit a diving Javon Walker for a first down. But on the next play, a high pass slipped through Walker's hands and into those of Edwards, ending the drive. Always vocal offensive line coach Larry Beightol expressed his pleasure with the protection throughout the drive.

As the second-stringers took their turn at the two-minute drill, rookie safety Marques Anderson was seen calling out plays and advising newcomer Jason Suttle, a third-year safety out of the University of Wisconsin.

Rookie wide receiver Brian Haugabrook shaked and baked after catching a pass from fellow ro..

Edwards Returns, Could Play Monday

Jason Bellamy, Packers.com — Fri, 23 Aug 2002 16:55:33 CST

He was supposed to be solidifying his role as LeRoy Butler's replacement at strong safety, instead Antuan Edwards has spent the preseason sidelined by injury. Friday he returned to the practice field saying he's healthy and anxious to contribute.

"I feel really good," Edwards told the media after his first practice back. "I've been working for this all offseason. The time has come, I'm ready to go."

Edwards' injury-plagued stretch dates back to the third regular season game of 2001, when he suffered a torn ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) in his left knee while on punt coverage. This summer, he rehabbed the knee, but had his progress delayed by an injured groin.

Now, with roughly a week of training camp remaining, Edwards said he's prepared to compete both physically and mentally.

"When I'm healthy, I can play, when I'm not healthy, it's tough," Edwards said. "That's what I waited on, I waited until I was ready to go and I'm ready to go . . . ..

Ex-Packer Wayne Simmons Dies In Car Crash

Fri, 23 Aug 2002 13:17:30 CST

Former NFL linebacker Wayne Simmons, a first-round pick in 1993 who won a Super Bowl with the Green Bay Packers, was killed in a single-car wreck Friday, police said.

Simmons, 32, was speeding and weaving through traffic when his car went off Interstate 70 about 2:45 a.m., witnesses told police.

The car rolled several times and landed in the ditch, with its engine catching fire, and witnesses tried to pull out Simmons, who was alone in the car, but they could not undo the seat belt.

Firefighters arrived, put out the fire and pulled Simmons out. He was taken to Independence Regional Health Center and later pronounced dead.

Simmons' identity was confirmed by police Sgt. John Passiglia. An autopsy was planned, the medical examiner's office said.

Simmons, a 1993 first-round pick out of Clemson who won a Super Bowl ring with the 1996 Green Bay Packers, was traded to Kansas City in 1997.

The Chiefs cut him the day after a 30-7 Mon..

Training Camp Report - August 22, 2002

Thu, 22 Aug 2002 18:07:48 CST

Cloudy skies and a cold, brisk wind that made it feel more like October 22 than August 22 welcomed safety Darren Sharper and running back Ahman Green back to practice Thursday morning. Sharper sat out Wednesday afternoon's practice with back pain, and Green has been nursing a sore groin since the Arizona game.

Wide receiver Donald Driver did his best to warm up some ill-prepared Railbirds dressed in just shorts and T-shirts. After making a leaping one-handed grab, Driver celebrated by tossing the ball into the air and giving fans an instant replay of his spectacular catch.

Several other Packers generated some heat of their own on the practice field.

A tipped Craig Nall pass landed in the hands of cornerback Todd Franz, prompting defensive line coach Jethro Franklin to yell, "Now that's something to get excited about!"

In a 7-on-7 drill, backup quarterback Doug Pederson hit wide receiver Robert Ferguson for 35 yards. Later, linebacker Hardy Nicke..

Sharper, Green Back At Practice

Jason Bellamy, Packers.com — Thu, 22 Aug 2002 18:05:17 CST

There was finally a bit of good news for the Packers secondary Thursday, as starting free safety Darren Sharper returned to the practice field just one day after being sidelined with back pain.

Wednesday, Sharper was said to have "jammed" his neck while making a tackle during the morning practice, resulting in discomfort in his lower back. Although he was only expected to miss a day or two, Sharper felt the need to get back on the field as soon as possible.

"Your peers want to see you on the field, especially the safety," Sharper said. "You're making the calls and keeping everyone on the same page. To have that guy not be there, you lose some continuity that you might have with him out there. So as a leader and also as a guy that's trying to keep everyone together, you need that guy out there."

Sharper's injury, however minor, was just another to hit Packers safeties. This training camp, Sharper, Marques Anderson (hamstring), Antuan Edwards (knee) and ..

Tyrone Williams: A Knack For Winning

Luke Sacks, NFLplayers.com — Thu, 22 Aug 2002 13:17:55 CST

There are athletes that have long, wonderful, Hall of Fame careers in their respective sports, but never achieve the ultimate team goal of winning a championship. World-class players such as baseball's Ernie Banks and Barry Bonds, former Miami Dolphin Dan Marino, and the Utah Jazz's tandem of Karl Malone and John Stockton have never experienced the joy of hoisting over their heads the hardware acknowledging their team as the best.

Packers' cornerback Tyrone Williams is just the opposite. Williams, 29, is the only football player in history to win back-back national championships in college followed by a Super Bowl victory in his first NFL season. In fact, Williams found himself playing in a championship game five years in a row.

"There has always been a competitive spirit in me and I always fought as hard as I could to win the game," Williams said of his winning record. "I know a lot of people say winning isn't everything, but when I go out there, I go out there t..

Back Pain Sidelines Sharper

Jason Bellamy, Packers.com — Wed, 21 Aug 2002 17:38:22 CST

The Packers' injury-plagued secondary took another hit Wednesday, when safety Darren Sharper was forced to leave practice with pain in his lower back.

Sharper "jammed" his neck while making a tackle in the team's 9-on-7 drills, GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman said after the morning practice. Although the injury is not expected to be serious, Sherman said Sharper could miss "a day, or two" of practice.

Even though that timetable would have Sharper back in time for the Packers' Monday night preseason home opener against the Cleveland Browns, it won't make the team's practices run any more smoothly in the meantime. Sharper's primary backup at free safety, Matt Bowen, has been spending a considerable amount of time at the strong safety position, while Antuan Edwards and Marques Anderson battle back from injuries of their own.

Thankfully Anderson's sore hamstring appears to be improving. After sitting out the Arizona game last weekend, Anderson has participated in..

Training Camp Report - August 21, 2002

Wed, 21 Aug 2002 17:26:56 CST

Beginning under overcast skies at Clarke Hinkle Field, the Packers' morning practice Wednesday looked different from the norm.

While their teammates battled on the field, veteran running back Ki-Jana Carter scribbled formations on a piece of athletic tape to instruct fullback Joey Dozier on blocking assignments. In the middle of the lecture, starting fullback William Henderson stopped by to lend his expertise.

On the field, 12th-year quarterback Brett Favre showed that he still has some life in his legs, rolling left out of the pocket and sprinting for a 10-yard gain before the defense could tag him off.

Unfortunately, the Railbirds' view of practice was short-lived, as ominous roars of thunder sent the team inside the Don Hutson Center around 10:30. While only a few drops of rain had fallen up to that point, the relocation proved timely, as blankets of rain pounded the area soon after.

Because the Hutson Center's FieldTurf surface eliminates a p..

Davenport Returns To Practice

Jason Bellamy, Packers.com — Tue, 20 Aug 2002 18:36:14 CST

Packers fullback Najeh Davenport was back in practice Tuesday, having sat out a significant portion of training camp recovering from a foot injury incurred previous to the Packers drafting him in the fourth-round of the 2002 NFL Draft.

While GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman has stressed all along that he was prepared for Davenport to have to miss the entire season if surgery became necessary, he was clearly happy to see the former Miami Hurricane on the practice field.

"I'm not going to stress him too far on that foot, but he was out here this morning returning kickoffs (and he) looked very good, very fast," Sherman said. "He did a good job of blocking here (in the afternoon practice). He was a little bit rusty on some things.

"We're going to just take it a day at a time and try to bring him along. I'm confident it will work that way, I hope it does."

Sherman said there was a "good chance" Davenport would be able to play in Monday night's preseason ho..

Training Camp Report - August 20, 2002

Tue, 20 Aug 2002 18:30:41 CST

After a short special teams practice Tuesday morning featuring Najeh Davenport and Hurley Tarver as the recipients of Ryan Longwell's and Louie Aguiar's kickoffs, and Robert Ferguson and Charles Lee catching Josh Bidwell's punts, the entire Packers squad hit Clarke Hinkle Field for their first full practice since their victory against the Arizona Cardinals Saturday night.

Former Packers GM Ron Wolf was on hand to take in Tuesday's afternoon practice.

Not even the deafening sound of construction taking place on nearby Oneida Street and Packer Drive could break the concentration of Green Bay wide receivers, as they ran routes without allowing a single ball to hit the ground throughout the 20-minute drill.

The first-string defense was a presence against the run early, not allowing running backs Ki-Jana Carter or Rondell Mealey beyond the line of scrimmage on any of the first four plays of the afternoon. But minutes later, the starting offensive line reconve..

Training Camp Report - August 19, 2002

Mon, 19 Aug 2002 21:21:02 CST

Fully recovered from the jetlag caused by a successful trip to Sun Devil Stadium in Arizona Saturday, the Packers practiced under the bright lights of Lambeau Field Monday night, one week prior to their preseason home opener against the Cleveland Browns.

With the veterans receiving the night off, Monday's practice was a significant opportunity for those players still trying to earn a spot on the roster. The Packers used the majority of the practice time for scrimmage situations which included live tackling.

Among those suiting up were wide receivers Terry Glenn and Robert Ferguson, along with safety Marques Anderson, all of whom had missed previous practices due to injury.

Glenn, who was asked to participate only in the skills portion of practice, was excused early. Ferguson looked as though he hadn't missed a beat, leaping to grab a pass from rookie quarterback Craig Nall. Ferguson said afterward that he felt 90 percent healthy.

Anderson l..

AP Story: Packers Defeat Cardinals 29-21

Sun, 18 Aug 2002 01:04:21 CST

Vonnie Holliday and Green Bay's defense turned up the heat on a sweltering Saturday night as the Packers beat the Arizona Cardinals 29-21.

The temperature at kickoff for Arizona's first home game of the preseason was 105 degrees, the fifth-hottest game in the Cardinals' 15 years in the desert.

Arizona wants to have a big-play attack this season, but the first unit's lone touchdown came after a Packers turnover deep in Green Bay territory. The Packers scored the next 29 points.

Holliday had one sack and recovered a fumble for the Packers, and Brett Favre played nearly the entire first half, completing 9 of 17 passes for 125 yards and a touchdown.

Donald Driver, starting because of injuries to Terry Glenn and Robert Ferguson, caught five passes for 73 yards, including a 21-yard touchdown.

Fourth-string quarterback Preston Parsons rallied the Cardinals to two fourth-quarter touchdowns against the Green Bay reserves. He connected with fel..

Training Camp Report - August 16, 2002

Fri, 16 Aug 2002 11:16:21 CST

In preparation for their showdown in the desert with the Arizona Cardinals Saturday night, the Packers took practice inside Lambeau Field for the second Friday in a row.

The purpose of these light pre-game practices is to review formations that will be utilized in the upcoming game. Veterans take the field for the first half-hour, and then are excused to change and eat lunch before heading to the airport. The first-year players stay behind for an extra half-hour of practice before joining the veterans.

The Packers square off against the Cardinals Saturday, August 17, at 9:00 p.m. CT. The game will be televised statewide. The team will practice inside Lambeau Field Monday, August 19, and that practice will be closed to the public.

The Packers' next open-to-the-public practice will be Tuesday, August 20, from 8:45-9:30 a.m., and from 2:15-4:15 p.m., at Clarke Hinkle Field, weather and field conditions permitting.

-- by Leslie Ricker

Tauscher Hopes To Play Saturday

Jason Bellamy, Packers.com — Thu, 15 Aug 2002 18:38:37 CST

Starting offensive tackle Mark Tauscher is hoping to play in Saturday night's preseason contest against the Arizona Cardinals, he told the media Thursday, just two days after injuring his left arm during practice.

"You're not doing any good being on the sideline," Tauscher said. "If you have to be there, you have to be there, but if you can get back and get back in the swing of things it only helps you and the rest of the (offensive line)."

Tauscher said he was pushing to be in the lineup Saturday not to live up to a tough-man's working code that tends to exist among linemen, but to provide the unit -- which is already without starting center Mike Flanagan due to a broken thumb -- with as much continuity as possible.

"I just don't want to miss anything, I think when you step out you lose some stuff," Tauscher said. "We pride ourselves on showing up to work every day and you take a beating (from your teammates) when you're not in there. That's the way it ..

Training Camp Report - August 15, 2002

Thu, 15 Aug 2002 18:12:02 CST

The lives of the Railbirds are not easy. Yes, they've got the day off work to sit under a cloudless sky and watch their heroes in action from just a few yards away, but can you imagine the agony, the inner struggle these fans must endure? Who should they root for, the Packers' offense or the Packers' defense?

Sure, it's great when Donald Driver catches a perfect 20-yard pass from Brett Favre in the end zone, like he did Thursday. But it's equally superb when Mike McKenzie has an outstanding read on a play and intercepts Favre. Railbirds must have faced immense turmoil as they witnessed Thursday's practice, because it was full of big plays on both sides of the ball.

Backup quarterback Doug Pederson stole the spotlight Thursday morning, excelling in the Packers' red zone and seven-on-seven drills.

His two favorite targets were wide receiver Kerry Hood and running back Ki-Jana Carter. Pederson and Hood connected for a pair of 40-yard bombs, in addition ..

Practice Times Rescheduled

Jason Bellamy, Packers.com — Thu, 15 Aug 2002 14:04:30 CST

Packers fans hoping to catch a glimpse of practice Monday, August 19, will be out of luck due to recent changes made to the team's practice schedule which were announced Thursday.

Although the original schedule called for a pair of open-to-the-public practices Monday, those workouts have been eliminated and replaced by one evening practice inside Lambeau Field, which is closed to visitors.

The practices scheduled for Tuesday, August 20, have also been altered, with the original 8:45-11:25 a.m., morning practice switching to a special teams practice from 8:45-9:30 a.m., with the pads practice being moved to the afternoon from 2:15-4:15 p.m. Both of those practices remain at Clarke Hinkle Field, weather and field conditions permitting, and are open to the public.

The training camp schedule returns to its original layout Wednesday, August 21, with a morning pads practice from 8:45-11:25 p.m., and a special teams practice from 2:15-3:15 p.m., both on Clarke Hi..

Packers Notebook - A Visit From The Champ - August 14, 2002

Jason Bellamy, Packers.com — Wed, 14 Aug 2002 17:47:34 CST

A Visit From The Champ

There's no guessing who might show up at the Packers' hotel in Arizona this weekend, but chances are good that the players won't be thrilled by a visitor quite like they were in Philadelphia last Friday.

That's when, among routine team meetings, GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman surprised the team not only with a video about one of the greatest boxers of all time, but with an appearance by the man himself: Smokin' Joe Frazier.

Frazier, 58, took the player's questions, posed for pictures and signed countless autographs, much to delight of an audience that for the most part wasn't old enough to have really remembered even his 1981 farewell bout with Jumbo Cummings, never mind his illustrious years as heavyweight champion from 1970-73.

Of course, when you hold the distinction of having been the first man to defeat Muhammad Ali, which he did in 1971 in what has been called "The Fight of the Century," people needn't have seen you,..

Training Camp Report - August 14, 2002

Wed, 14 Aug 2002 18:08:55 CST

Green Bay's defense seems to pick up more enthusiasm and momentum with every practice, every drill and every punishing hit. Wednesday's events at Clarke Hinkle Field were no exception.

It all began with the nine-on-seven drill, when linebacker Hardy Nickerson hunted down running back Rondell Mealey and stopped him at the line of scrimmage. Teammates and coaches thunderously voiced their approval, and the tone for the remainder of practice was set.

Quarterbacks Brett Favre and Craig Nall both led their offensive units to score in the two-minute drill. Favre's drive featured a 15-yard pass to wide receiver Donald Driver for a first down and a touchdown pass to wide receiver Charles Lee from 10 yards out.

During Nall's drive, running back Ki-Jana Carter reached out and made a one-handed catch for a first down. This was followed by a 25-yard pass from Nall to wide receiver Karsten Bailey for another first down. The drive ended with a 30-yard field goal by ..

Training Camp Report - August 13, 2002

Tue, 13 Aug 2002 17:57:55 CST

After a full day off Sunday followed by the removal of pads for both of yesterday's practices the Packers were back in pads engaged in 'thud' contact Tuesday.

With veteran wide receiver Terry Glenn out nursing a knee injury in hopes of being ready for the first home preseason game, the Packers decided to add size to the diminishing wide receiver corps. GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman announced that the Packers have signed Andy McCullough, a 6-3, 211-pound free agent and former NFL Europe standout who will likely take some of the pressure of off veterans Donald Driver and Charles Lee as well as second-year pro Robert Ferguson and rookie Javon Walker, all whom have been seeing an increase in practice reps.

After routine warm-ups and position drills all receivers headed to the north end zone to work on one-on-one coverage in the red zone with quarterbacks Doug Pederson and Craig Nall.

A leaping snag gave Driver a would-be touchdown reception from veteran Pederson,..

UPDATE: Tauscher's Injured Elbow Better Than Feared

Jason Bellamy, Packers.com — Tue, 13 Aug 2002 17:15:13 CST

The Green Bay Packers can sleep a bit more soundly in their dorm rooms at St. Norbert College tonight, as the elbow injury suffered by third-year offensive tackle/guard Mark Tauscher during Tuesday's morning practice was deemed not as significant as once feared.

"He has a contusion of his forearm, it's not (ligament related) like I originally said it was, that's why I don't like to jump out there and say those things," GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman said following the afternoon practice. "It's just a bruise on his forearm. It hit a nerve and went up to his arm and scared him a little bit, scared us, but he's going to be fine.

"I don't know the length of his injury just yet, we'll have to wait and see. Knowing Tauscher, it won't last very long."

Tauscher's injury was suffered during the team's four-minute offense period Tuesday morning, when he took an inadvertent helmet to his elbow, according to Sherman. Originally described as a hyperextension or sprain, ..

Tauscher Injures Elbow

Jason Bellamy, Packers.com — Tue, 13 Aug 2002 12:00:16 CST

The Packers' already lengthy injury list grew even longer Tuesday, when third-year offensive tackle/guard Mark Tauscher was forced to leave practice with an injured elbow.

"We were in the four-minute offensive mode and he took a helmet to the back of the elbow and either hyperextended or sprained his elbow as far as we know," GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman explained. "What we anticipate is maybe an MCL (medial collateral ligament) sprain of the elbow, very similar to Terry Glenn's knee."

Tauscher was undergoing tests during the latter half of the morning practice to assess the actual extent of the injury.

While the initial prognosis did not suggest that Tauscher would be unavailable for the regular season opener, certainly his participation in Saturday's preseason game at Arizona is in question.

The loss of Tauscher would only further deplete an already thin offensive line, which lost starting center Mike Flanagan to a broken thumb August 2. Ten-year..

Training Camp Report - August 12, 2002

Mon, 12 Aug 2002 17:20:24 CST

With one preseason game under their belts, the Packers brought a renewed passion to practice Monday. However, thanks to the thunderstorms that passed through Green Bay Sunday night and soaked Clarke Hinkle Field, the team practiced inside the Don Hutson Center for the first time this training camp, much to the dismay of would-be Railbirds.

Even though the team missed having fans nearby to cheer them on, the Green and Gold maintained a high level of intensity that made for a productive practice. The linebackers and defensive linemen were seen bumping chests before taking on the offense in 9-on-7 drills, and the entire defensive unit ended the first huddle of each new drive with an energetic chanting and jumping ritual.

It was such intensity that propelled linebacker Nate Wayne all the way across the field from the weak side to put a hard hit on running back Rondell Mealey. Later, fellow linebacker Na'il Diggs dove to grab a tipped ball. Safeties Darren Sharper an..

Player Profile: Doug Pederson

Luke Sacks, NFLplayers.com — Mon, 12 Aug 2002 16:41:15 CST

Packers quarterback Brett Favre has started the last 173 games (including playoffs), a record for the position. But his backup, 10-year NFL veteran Doug Pederson, is prepared to get the call at any time.

"I'm excited for Brett that he can have a streak like that because it's not often, especially for quarterbacks, that you can get a streak going," Pederson said. "But you never know when your number is going to be called."

Pederson, who first played for Green Bay from 1996-98, rejoined the team last season after one year with the Eagles and one with the Cleveland Browns. He started 17 games in those two seasons, but returned to the Packers in 2001 and without missing a beat, reassumed his role as backup to one of the NFL's most durable players.

Watching Favre do his thing on Sundays for four seasons, Pederson has seen some close calls where he wasn't sure if number 4 would be able to get up off the turf. "It can be pretty nerve-racking at times seeing Bre..

Packers Injury Update

Jason Bellamy, Packers.com — Mon, 12 Aug 2002 16:02:54 CST

Javon Walker was back on the practice field Monday morning, despite having left Saturday night's game with a sprained left ankle. Walker indicated after the Eagles game that he could have played on had the situation called for it, but was removed from the game only as a precaution.

True to his word, Walker displayed no ill effects of the injury as he went through the morning practice. If anything, Walker's reps were up Monday, as Terry Glenn (knee) remained sidelined and Robert Ferguson started practice, but was removed because of his sore groin.

Glenn, who twisted his knee in a practice last Wednesday (Aug. 7) and was expected to perhaps be available for the Eagles contest, now may have to miss this weekend's game at Arizona as well.

Said GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman of Glenn, "During the game (in Philadelphia), he's on the sideline watching the game, and I found out afterwards, he just seemed to digress during the game, get sore and so forth. Flying in t..

AP Story: Packers Fall To Eagles 20-13 In Preseason Opener

Sat, 10 Aug 2002 21:58:39 CST

Green Bay's Brett Favre outplayed Donovan McNabb, but Philadelphia's Tim Hasselbeck was the best of the backups.

Hasselbeck was 4-for-5 for 57 yards and one touchdown, leading the Eagles to a 20-13 victory over the Packers on Saturday night in the preseason opener for both teams.

Dorsey Levens had an impressive debut for the Eagles against his former team, Rod Smart -- who wore "He Hate Me" on the back of his jersey in the defunct XFL -- caught a 31-yard TD pass and Pro Bowl kicker David Akers picked up where he left off, converting both of his field-goal attempts.

Favre, a three-time NFL MVP, and McNabb, a two-time Pro Bowler, each played three series.

Favre led the Packers on one touchdown drive, finishing 6-for-10 for 52 yards and one interception. He was back to his old form after throwing six interceptions -- three returned for TDs -- in a 45-17 playoff loss to St. Louis seven months ago.

McNabb, who was 52 yards away from leading the..

Lombardi Named 14th Annual Pete Rozelle Trophy Winner

Fri, 09 Aug 2002 13:57:42 CST

More than 30 years after his death, the honors continue for Vince Lombardi, the former Green Bay Packers coach who won five NFL championships.

Lombardi was named the 14th annual Pete Rozell Trophy winner by the New Orleans Touchdown Club on Wednesday. Packer executive John Jones is to represent the Packers when the award is formally presented at a luncheon on Aug. 29.

Lombardi, who died in 1970, coached the Packers from 1959 to 1968, years during which the Packers won five NFL championships, including the first two Super Bowls. Lombardi was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1971.

The New Orleans Touchdown Club established the Rozelle award in 1989 to honor NFL commissioner when he announced his retirement. Rozelle died on Dec. 6, 1996. He was commissioner for 29 years.

-- Associated Press

Training Camp Report - August 9, 2002

Fri, 09 Aug 2002 11:27:25 CST

Pre-game preparation included much more than trying cleats on for size, with Friday morning's practice taking the form of a game 'walkthrough.' The hour-long morning practice inside Lambeau Field had the players in shorts, jerseys and helmets, and included a light team stretch followed by 11-on-11 formations that will be seen Saturday night.

The run-through of plays was old-hat for most veterans but likely answered some questions for rookies, who will see significant playing time against the Eagles.

The players hustled from spot to spot in the quick, efficiently-run practice that ended right on time and allowed the veterans to leave halfway through.

The Packers face the Philadelphia Eagles Saturday night at 6:30 p.m., CT. The game is covered statewide. The Packers' next practice will be Monday, August 12, from 8:45-11:25 a.m., and 2:15-3:15 p.m., at Clarke Hinkle Field, weather and field conditions permitting.

-- by Sarah Sherman

Ferguson Learning On The Job

Jason Bellamy, Packers.com — Thu, 08 Aug 2002 18:50:06 CST

During Thursday's morning practice, Brett Favre flashed a bit of the magnificence that has made him a three-time MVP.

With his receivers covered and the play breaking down, Favre rolled right out of the pocket before gunning a pass across his body, over defenders and into the arms of a receiver who was streaking down the center of the field some 50 yards away.

Like a wealth of Packers fans, second-year wide receiver Robert Ferguson had seen such passes from Favre before, but until Thursday, he'd never caught one.

"I didn't think he was going to throw that ball and when he threw it my eyes got as big as those (camera) lenses right there," Ferguson told the media afterward. "I kind of understand now that no matter if you're on the back side or front side (of a play), just keep running, because he'll find you."

It was the kind of thing he might have known last year had his rookie campaign not been plagued by injuries. After a breakout 58-reception j..

Training Camp Report - August 8, 2002

Thu, 08 Aug 2002 18:35:24 CST

For those Railbirds curious about the massive net-on-wheels adorned with three colored pockets that sits against the Don Hutson Center at Clarke Hinkle Field, their questions were answered Thursday.

The equipment, used as a tool for passing accuracy drills, was included in one of many exercises quarterbacks Doug Pederson, Craig Nall and Marcus Brady went through during practice.

With more than a full week of two-a-day workouts and a team scrimmage under their collective belt, the team took the pads off for Thursday's practices, but removing the 'thud' contact didn't reduce the pace of play. With Friday's morning practice to serve as a game walkthrough inside Lambeau Field, the majority of Thursday's reps went to non-starters.

"When I took the pads off this morning, I hoped we wouldn't have a downer practice," GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman said. "I thought we did a good job. The defense came alive a little bit today and made some turnovers."

Just ..

Glenn Twists Knee; Prognosis Positive

Jason Bellamy, Packers.com — Wed, 07 Aug 2002 17:09:06 CST

The Packers experienced a few moments of uneasiness Wednesday when wide receiver Terry Glenn tumbled awkwardly to the ground while trying to catch a pass during the morning practice.

Having twisted his left knee, Glenn stayed on the ground while being examined by the Packers' medical staff before walking off the practice field under his own power.

Although held out of the remainder of practice as a precaution, there was no early indication of significant injury. In fact, GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman even managed to chuckle during his update of Glenn's status.

"A little scare there," Sherman admitted. "(Glenn) got bent over backwards and I think we were more scared than anything, I know he was. He's going to be fine. He wanted to go back (into practice, but I) just kind of held him out. He's going to be fine."

Earlier this training camp, Glenn was sidelined briefly with a hyperextended right knee. There was no word on whether he would be withhel..

Training Camp Report - August 7, 2002

Wed, 07 Aug 2002 17:07:15 CST

If you look at the southeast corner of Clarke Hinkle Field, you'll notice the grass is a bit worn, a little less green than the rest of the field. That's because the southeast corner represents the site of daily battles amongst the biggest Packers of them all, the linemen.

"One chance, that's it," barked coach Larry Beightol to his O-line as they took on the D-line. "If you get beat, too bad!"

And so began Wednesday morning's practice, with an hour of position-specific drills -- the offensive line forging holes for the running game, the wide receivers running routes and the defensive backs looking to secure 'interceptions' on balls thrown by Assistant Head Coach/Defensive Backs Coach Bob Slowik.

Next, the team came together for a hard-hitting sequence of running plays. Rookie Tony Fisher was able to bust through the solid defensive line on his first carry, but later, 2000 first-round draft choice Jamal Reynolds came up with two big stops.

"I t..

Training Camp Report - August 6, 2002

Tue, 06 Aug 2002 17:57:49 CST

Tuesday, Packers training camp was all about precaution with the morning practice reduced from a pads-practice to shells-only and Brett Favre taking an impromptu day off at the request of the coaching staff.

"The last two days had been very physical practices," GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman said. "We are pretty sore as a football team, and I think that's part of my job is to recognize the time when you should back off a little bit. If we didn't have two very good physical practices the last two days, I probably wouldn't have opted to go this way."

Favre, who has battled elbow tendonitis in the past, said his elbow feels fine, but that the coaches wanted to reduce his reps, rather than risk enflaming an old injury unnecessarily. In his place stepped up veteran Doug Pederson, as well as rookies Craig Nall and Marcus Brady.

Pederson's increasingly sharp play on the field helped wide receivers Javon Walker and Terry Glenn to a drop-free morning during individu..

Random Questions With Tony Fisher

Tue, 06 Aug 2002 17:19:15 CST

For those of you who have ever wanted to peek inside the mind of a Packers player, here's your chance. For those who wish they knew more about a player than his statistics and position on the depth chart, this is for you.

It was with those desires in mind that Packers.com peppered several Packers players with a series of Random Questions. Here's what happened when we put running back Tony Fisher in the hot seat:

What's your favorite TV show?
"Simpsons."

What's your favorite midnight snack?
"Pizza. I don't have a favorite kind, just pizza."

What was your favorite toy as a child?
"Remote control cars."

What's your favorite holiday?
"I'd say Christmas, or my birthday."

Can you cook? What's your specialty?
"Yeah, I had a pretty nice apartment at school and I got to cook a little bit. I can cook spaghetti."

Who would you like to see match-up in an e..

Training Camp Report - August 5, 2002

Mon, 05 Aug 2002 17:41:44 CST
After a short morning practice that focused on special teams, the Packers made their way to Clarke Hinkle Field at 2:15 p.m., for another day of practice Monday. With Saturday's first preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles looming on the horizon, there was a new sense of urgency among players and coaches.

"I always look at the preseason as an opportunity for the coaches to practice game week in getting ready for a football game," said GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman. "Even though we'll spend the bulk of our time looking at ourselves and making ourselves better, we will spend some time formulating a game plan based on our studies this offseason . . . We do want to go out there and have our guys be well-represented and put forth our best effort."

The afternoon began with the team divided up by position, warming up for the intense running plays that were soon to follow. Linemen battled in the trenches as running backs Ahman Green, Jason Brookins, Tony Fisher and ..

Training Camp Report -- August 4, 2002

Sun, 04 Aug 2002 22:55:06 CST
With less than a week to go until their first preseason game, the Packers took further steps to simulate that game-day feeling Sunday, holding an evening practice under the new lights at Lambeau Field.

Although the team played to empty stadium bleachers for the first time this training camp, the cheers were still plentiful thanks to outspoken offensive line coach Larry Beightol, who bellowed his well-known catch-phrases such as 'That's the way to work,' and 'Way to follow through,' as players ran through routine drills.

At the south end zone, three-time MVP Brett Favre and rookie quarterback Craig Nall worked primarily with the tight ends and running backs, while veteran backup quarterback Doug Pederson and rookie quarterback Marcus Brady occupied the north end zone with the wide receivers.

Rookie running back Tony Fisher, acquired as a free agent after the NFL Draft, continued to impress in pressure situations, finding the holes and making plays on the gr..

Random Questions With Jared Tomich

Sun, 04 Aug 2002 22:21:37 CST
For those of you who have ever wanted to peek inside the mind of a Packers player, here's your chance. For those who wish they knew more about a player than his statistics and position on the depth chart, this is for you.

It was with those desires in mind that Packers.com peppered several Packers players with a series of Random Questions. Here's what happened when we put defensive lineman Jared Tomich in the hot seat:

What's your favorite movie?
Fight Club. I like the twist in the end, the outrageousness of it, of that actually going on nation wide, it's wild. I'd have to say that in that particular movie, (Brad) Pitt is better than (Ed) Norton, just because he's so nuts."

What's your favorite book?
"Lately all I've been reading is financial books, they aren't all that exciting."

What's your favorite TV show?
"I'd have to say right now Scrubs is great. It's kind of like the Seinfeld..

Training Camp Report - August 3, 2002

Sat, 03 Aug 2002 18:31:06 CST
It wasn't an official scrimmage, but the Packers took another step closer to the real thing with Saturday's afternoon practice, which was predominantly made up of scrimmage situations, albeit without live tackling.

Quarterback Brett Favre, who was plagued by incomplete passes throughout the first drive, later redeemed himself by leading a drive that resulted in a 38-yard Ryan Longwell field goal. Along the way, running back Ahman Green had a nice 13-yard run, and tight end Bubba Franks caught a rocket from Favre for a 22-yard gain. Cornerback Darrien Gordon broke-up a pass intended for Donald Driver.

During the second drive, Doug Pederson completed a 25-yard pass to Javon Walker, setting up a touchdown run by rookie running back Tony Fisher from three yards out.

Rookie quarterback Craig Nall didn't waste any time impressing the largest contingent of Railbirds to attend a Packers practice this training camp. Nall needed just two plays to complete his firs..

Random Questions With Robert Ferguson

Sat, 03 Aug 2002 17:48:29 CST
For those of you who have ever wanted to peek inside the mind of a Packers player, here's your chance. For those who wish they knew more about a player than his statistics and position on the depth chart, this is for you.

It was with those desires in mind that Packers.com peppered several Packers players with a series of Random Questions. Here's what happened when we put wide receiver Robert Ferguson in the hot seat:

What's your favorite TV show?
"I don't watch much TV but I'd say my favorite is anything dealing with animals, like Animal Planet. In particular though I like this channel I subscribe to about pit bulls and other dogs, it's not 24-hours a day, but it's good when it's on."

Can you cook? If so what's your specialty?
"I cook way better for my dog than I ever do for myself. My specialty would probably be steak and browned burger, but I won't eat my food."

What's your favorite midnight snack?
"I..

Packers Battle Via Video

Jason Bellamy, Packers.com — Sat, 03 Aug 2002 17:43:50 CST
There was no early practice, yet Packers training camp wasn't without fierce intrasquad competition Saturday morning.

Instead of mixing it up on Clarke Hinkle Field, more than a dozen Packers players visited the new Packers Pro Shop in the northeast corner of Lambeau Field to sample some of the latest football video games from EA Sports, including the soon-to-be-released Madden NFL 2003.

In one corner, Tod McBride, who controlled the Oakland Raiders, matched up against Torrance Marshall, who played with the Packers.

With McBride out to a 7-0 lead and running back Jason Brookins looking on, Marshall mounted a comeback drive that ended with a touchdown scored by Brookins' videogame persona.

"See, that's proof of the pudding right there," Brookins said with pride. "Man, that No. 39, he's good!"

Trash-talking was an integral part of the videogame sampling and nowhere was that more evident than in the duel between Donald Driver and Rond..

Packers Scrimmage Stats

Sat, 03 Aug 2002 18:11:15 CST
Official Statistics
Packers Intrasquad Scrimmage
Aug. 3, 2002

Team Statistics

First Downs: 4
Rushing: 0
Passing: 4
Penalty: 0

Third-Down Efficiency: 9-16
Fourth-Down Efficiency: 0-0

Total Net Yards: 433
Total Offensive Plays: 81
Avg. Gain/Play: 5.3

Net Yards Rushing: 116
Total Rushing Plays: 31
Avg. Gain/rushing play: 3.7

Net Yards Passing: 317
Times Sacked/Yards Lost: 5-32
Gross yards passing: 349

Pass Att/Comp/Int: 50-29-0
Avg. gain/pass play: 6.3

Individual Statistics

Rushing Att Yds Lng TD
Goodman 8 33 11 0
Fisher 9 27 7 1
Green 4 21 13 0
Carter 3 10 4 0
Pederson 1 7 7 0
Brookins 3 7 4 0
Favre 1 6 6 0
Jackson 1 4 4 0
Dozier 1 1 1 1
Totals 31 116 13 2

Passing Att Cmp Int Yds TD
Fa..

Brett Favre: Still Going

Jason Bellamy, Packers.com — Fri, 02 Aug 2002 18:06:05 CST
Wednesday, Brett Favre was asked how much longer he thought his training camp roommate, offensive lineman Frank Winters, could keep playing football.

"Maybe a week, two weeks," Favre replied, before breaking into a grin.

It was one of the rare times this offseason that a question about career longevity made Favre the analyst instead of the subject, or both. And when you look down the Packers roster and see that only Winters and linebacker Hardy Nickerson -- both approaching their 16th seasons -- have logged more years in the NFL than Favre's 11, it's easy to understand why.

While curiosity abounds in Titletown about acquisitions like Terry Glenn or draft picks like Javon Walker, not even pontifications about the Packers' Super Bowl chances have been floated as often this offseason as questions about Favre's future.

For Packers fans, knowing that they have Favre for 2002 just isn't enough. What they want to know is, when will it all end?

..

Training Camp Report - August 2, 2002

Fri, 02 Aug 2002 17:56:34 CST
The close proximity of the bleachers to the hard play on Clarke Hinkle Field is known to create a close player-to-fan interaction that generates an incentive for Packer enthusiasts to make their way to training camp, and while things were no different at Friday's training camp practices, there were both positive and negative things to see.

Wisconsin's favorite 'gravedigger' had an especially appreciative fan section amidst the bleachers on the south end zone with an animated cheer to accompany a painted sandwich board, indicating that they were indeed defensive tackle Gilbert Brown's 'No. 1 fans.'

The slimmed-down 339-pound Brown was nicknamed 'The Gravedigger' in honor of his celebratory dance following a sack or thunderous tackle, and continues to be a fan favorite in his ninth NFL season.

The Packers' regular-season opener against Atlanta will mark the gentle giant's 100th NFL game, spanning nine seasons with the Packers.

Although Brown only pla..

Flanagan Breaks Thumb

Jason Bellamy, Packers.com — Fri, 02 Aug 2002 17:54:27 CST
The Packers suffered their first significant injury of training camp Friday, when center Mike Flanagan broke his right thumb during the morning practice.

Coming up on his seventh NFL season, Flanagan is expected to be out 2-6 weeks, although GM/Head Coach Mike Sherman suggested that the Packers faithful could help speed up the healing process.

Said Sherman, "Two is very optimistic, that means if everyone is going to church and saying their prayers, two weeks. If we have some guys who are skipping Mass, then six weeks to eight weeks."

Beginning Monday, Flanagan will begin a trial at snapping the ball left-handed. In the meantime, he will be replaced by veteran Frank Winters, who is entering his 16th NFL season.

"We have a 16-year vet behind Mike Flanagan that started a bunch of games and helped us win a Super Bowl, so there's a lot of comfort there with Frank Winters, I guarantee you," Sherman said. "We just have to play football regardless and F..

Training Camp Report - August 1, 2002

Thu, 01 Aug 2002 16:41:43 CST
A particularly spirited crowd lined the fences surrounding Clarke Hinkle Field for Thursday's morning practice. Organized chants of "Go Pack Go!" could be heard amongst the wild cheers and screams that followed every caught ball.

Led by NFL referee Bill Carollo, in town to discuss rule changes for the coming season, league officials made their debut at practice today, first overseeing running plays, during which fullback William Henderson earned a pat on the back from virtually every coach in the vicinity for his outstanding blocks. Guard Marco Rivera, who has started in 66 of the Packers' last 67 games, also performed well, helping blaze trails for the running backs.

Pro Bowl tight end Bubba Franks was a popular target today for both Brett Favre and backup quarterback Doug Pederson. Favre, under pressure from defensive end Vonnie Holliday, made a desperation pass over the middle to Franks, who fearlessly left his feet to snag it.

Like Tuesday, Thursday'..

Random Questions With Darrien Gordon

Thu, 01 Aug 2002 09:52:45 CST
For those of you who have ever wanted to peek inside the mind of a Packers player, here's your chance. For those who wish they knew more about a player than his statistics and position on the depth chart, this is for you.

It was with those desires in mind that Packers.com peppered several Packers players with a series of Random Questions. Here's what happened when we put recently acquired punt returner/cornerback Darrien Gordon in the hot seat:

What's your favorite movie?
"I've got a bunch of them, I'm kind of a movie buff. I like Malcolm X, Godfather, Godfather II - not, Godfather III - Goodfellas. I like all of those mob flicks I've seen about all of them."

What's your favorite book?
"I like The Invisible Man. It's about a fictional character, they never tell you the guy's name, but he grows up in the south, goes to college, gets kicked out and moves to New York. It's basically ..