KEEPING UP WITH THE JONESES
A quick look at what our NFC North foes did on Day One of the NFL Draft:
CHICAGO BEARS
The Bears owned the 19th pick and, despite the presence of Julius Peppers, decided that pass rusher Shea McClellin was their guy. With the incredible offensive line talent that was available at that time, I was a bit surprised to see Chicago choose a defensive end that many argue wasn’t even the best guy available at his position. Meanwhile Chicago’s miserable offensive line is still, well, miserable. Even so, it is hard to argue with a pass rusher considering that they too have to play Aaron Rodgers and Matt Stafford multiple times each year.
DETROIT LIONS
After years of harping from the media and some fans, the Lions may have finally invested into Stafford’s health by investing significantly into the tackle position. Iowa tackle Riley Reiff was an incredible value for the Lions and Jeff Backus should finally be replaced for good with this addition. Great pick for the Lions who just seem to get better and better under their new regime.
GREEN BAY PACKERS
By taking USC pass rusher Nick Perry, the Packers may have finally found a consistent compliment to Clay Matthews, and NFC North quarterbacks are surely taking note. Perry was not widely regarded as a 3-4 type of player, but I think he has all the tools to be just fine no matter what the scheme. It will be interesting, as the years to go by, to see the Pack ends up regretting their decision to pass on Harrison Smith and allow the Vikings to move up and snag him with the next pick.