Packers and NFC North News: Thomas Released, Peprah Signed, Harris in Chicago

 - A couple days ago it was announced that the Patriots released LB Adalius Thomas. Another big free agent signing turns into a bust. Despite the fact he'll be 33 next season, he might have something left in the tank, and his release has a lot to do with the battles he waged against Bill Belichick (which itself might not be a good reason to pursue him). There's been a couple good Fanposts here and here discussing whether the Packers should sign him. But it seems unlikely he'll end up anywhere else other than with the Jets (plus his agent is Favre's agent, Bus Cook), which in turn might signal the release of DE Vernon Gholston despite his transition to defensive end (which might then require another Fanpost as the Packers could consider signing him). 

 - According to Packers.com, they've resigned S Charlie Peprah. I wasn't surprised when he was released after last preseason. He had done little in three seasons with the Packers and it felt like his time with them had run it's course. He'll never become a starter and he wasn't a huge contributor on special teams. They just drafted S Morgan Burnett in the 3rd round so it's not like they're desperate for depth. Maybe they just need another body in training camp and he'll only stay if someone else is placed on I.R. It also meant the release of TE Devin Frischknecht who suffered a bad leg injury last preseason. He might have had a chance to make the team last season, but not now with the emergence of TE Spencer Havner and the draft selction of TE Andrew Quarless. 

 - The front office shakeup in Chicago continues as college scouting director Greg Gabriel is now gone, and it apparently clears the way for former Seahawks GM Tim Ruskell. He did some good things in Seattle, so this might be something that helps the Bears.

- But what really helps the Bears is the trade of backup LB Jamar Williams to the Panthers for SS Chris Harris who was a member of the Bears in 2005 and 2006 before he was traded to Carolina for a 5th round pick. This might seem like a minor trade, but it could have a major impact. The Bears have been desperate for help at safety for the past couple seasons and Harris immediately improves a very weak position. Bears fans are very happy to welcome him back while Panthers fans are livid that he's gone.