DE DeVon Hicks is an interesting rookie free agent that the Packers signed after the draft. He's been described as an outside linebacker for a 3-4 defense but appears to have added weight to play defensive end. He is making the giant leap from junior college to the NFL, but is coming onto the team at a position without a lot of depth. Hicks recorded 10 sacks during his last season in junior college and could fill a need as a pass rushing defensive end. DE Cullen Jenkins played a lot of defensive end down the stretch last season, but he will probably inside on passing downs. DE Aaron Kampman is one of the best in the NFL, but DE Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila has lost a lot over the past two seasons. Behind them is only DE Mike Montgomery who showed some promise as a rookie in 2005, but was not a factor in 2006. Hicks might find a spot on the roster as a backup defensive end in place of Montgomery.
At least one person thought Hicks was the best player at Saturday's minicamp practice.
I was contacted by Hicks' agent, Arlo Henderson, who offered to provide some additional information about his client.
There are two people that deserve a lot of credit for making this happen. Alonzo Highsmith for his scouting and information gathering. Randy Pippin his college coach that helped him develop as a person and a player. DeVon stayed with him during training. Coach Pippin would be a great scout for an NFL team.