It’s Not The End Of The World That Greg Jennings Left, But Damn
So Greg Jennings is a Viking…
Greg Jennings reached agreement with…the Vikings.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 15, 2013
A source tells me that Greg Jennings got a 5-year deal with a max value of $47.5 million, $18 million guaranteed. #Vikings
— Josina Anderson (@JosinaAnderson) March 16, 2013
This makes me sad, but I understand.
Let’s first look at this from the Packers’ perspective. There are salary cap constraints and you have to allocate your resources toward fielding the best possible 53-man roster. With Randall Cobb, Jordy Nelson, and James Jones, is wide receiver a position of need? $18 million guaranteed is a lot for a luxury purchase, especially as the team must extend BJ Raji, Clay Matthews, and Aaron Rodgers. After that, there are much more pressing needs–the team could get stand to improve everywhere besides QB and punter.
(And I’m more than aware that Ted Thompson has not signed any of those other positions up to this point. I would like to make a ‘splash’ as much as the next guy, but do still trust this front office to do the job as well as any other in the League. It’s easier to think this way than to micromanage every single decision as if we are actually better at evaluating tape and workouts.)
But now put yourself in Greg Jennings’ shoes. You contribute mightily to an organization for seven seasons. You listen to the coaches, run precise routes, and lead by example on and off the field. You were a crucial part of an unforgettable Super Bowl run.
Wouldn’t it personally bother you that this organization doesn’t view you core player? Wouldn’t you feel disrespected and undervalued? Wouldn’t you want to prove them wrong and capitalize most financially? Where you’re wanted?
It sucks for us as Packers fans–it always sucks to get stuck in the crossfire of these disputes. Obviously, this doesn’t hurt anywhere near as much as Favre as a Viking did, but I shudder to think what it would be like to lose a game where Jennings torches the Green Bay secondary. Ugh.
I feel better already though:
Packers player in text to me: “I don’t blame Greg at all. I just think he made a mistake. He went from prime rib to Burger King.”
— mike freeman (@realfreemancbs) March 15, 2013
I just can’t be mad at @gregjennings.Great friend and person.But I hope you enjoyed your last win at Lambeau!! Lol
— TJ Lang (@TJLang70) March 16, 2013
Go Pack Go.