Bob McGinn of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel writes that the Packers decision to re-sign A.J. Hawk over Nick Barnett was one of Ted Thompson few decisions that turned out poorly.
McGinn’s refers to Hawk as “just a guy” and mentions that “his contract is by far the worst contract that Thompson has ever enacted.”
Hawk’s 2011 season showcased his lack of ability. He was even out-shined by rookie D.J. Smith and Robert Francois during their brief opportunities to fill in for him.
“It’s beyond me how [G.M. Ted] Thompson can come back with Hawk as the starter next season,” writes McGinn. “There even have been whispers among Hawk’s teammates. They know better than anyone else how little his game has to offer.”
If that’s true, it’s hard to image that the coaching staff will be able to sell his abilities or justify starting him when he’s outperformed by younger players. Green Bay may have waited too long to start Desmond Bishop over Nick Barnett but they should be wise enough to not make the same mistake twice, especially when you consider how bad their defense was this year.
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Hawk gets off blockers worse than any LB I have ever witnessed…with his speed he should have only ever been an OLB
I couldn’t agree with you more. Hawk is the best at making tackles after the player has picked up the first down!