Photo Credit: Matt Marton/Associated Press
With almost every single team having at least a week of Organized Team Activities done, it’s the opportune time to give a recap of what happened at each team’s OTAs and to discuss how it will possibly affect a team. First up is the NFC North.
Chicago Bears: After Chicago’s 5-11 record last season and the hiring of Ryan Pace, it was unclear of what OTAs would bring for them. It’s still shaky for the Bears after the loss of Brandon Marshall, but with Matt Forte participating, it’s a little more stable. With Jay Cutler having the second most sacks in his career last year, it’s hard to ignore that he needs some improvement but physically, Cutler is in a great shape.
Detroit Lions: Last year, the Lions had just gotten a new offense, but this year, the Lions are getting comfortable with the line they have. Even though two of their rookies are missing, it has not seemed to affect the Lions much. Stephen Tulloch is making his return this season after a torn ACL and James Ihedigbo is also participating despite contract negotiations. However, rookie, Laken Tomlinson is already making a big impression on the Lions with how intelligence and hard-working he is.
Green Bay Packers: With last year’s season, the Green Bay Packers are in the running towards another Superbowl and this year’s OTA’s are reflecting that already. With a handful of players sitting out due to injuries/surgeries, Jared Abbrederis, Don Barclay, and Andy Mulumba are all back in the Pack uniform and ready to start the season. With Tom Clements now the assistant coach and official playmaker, it is sure to make an impact, but this change has not affected Aaron Rodgers in the slightly. Recovering from his calf injury, Rodgers is out on the field, looking like an MVP.
Minnesota Vikings: Obviously the big news with the Vikings is that Adrian Peterson is not participating in them. However, the biggest surprise of all is Mike Wallace, a pick-up from the Miami Dolphins. All of the coaches have been praising him, but quarterback Teddy Bridgewater has been praising formerly injured TE Kyle Rudolph. Rudolph’s appearance back on the field is exactly the positive publicity that the Vikings need. The Vikings first-round draft pick, Trae Waynes is also making a fairly good impression. While Waynes is not guaranteed a starting spot, head coach Mike Zimmer made sure to stress that if Waynes put in work, he will likely become a starter. With the Vikings dealing with Peterson’s drama, a good OTA is all the team can really ask for at this point.
