After a CBA-mandated day off for his players, Packers head coach Mike McCarthy discussed the team's return to practice.
- McCarthy announced that Morgan Burnett, who missed most of Wednesday's practice, tweaked his ankle and was held out as a precaution. The coach didn't sound too concerned about Burnett missing much additional time, but if he does the Packers will get a longer look at rookie Ha Ha Clinton-Dix with the 1s.
- Discussing the team's two-minute drill, McCarthy stated, "I thought it was very good. A little ahead of the game because we've been doing no-huddle since Day 1."
- Cornerback Davon House has earned praise from the coaching staff. "Davon House is clearly having his best year as a pro, coming off his offseason. He's a big, long, strong cornerback. Love that whole secondary." When asked a follow up regarding what may have held House back in prior seasons, McCarthy argued, "I wouldn't say Davon was held back. It's just his progression of growth."
- When discussing running back Eddie Lacy, McCarthy said the coaching staff isn't putting more on his plate. Rather, the coach sees "the growth of him in all aspects of his game." McCarthy highlighted pass protection as a particular area of improvement, suggesting that the team might leave Lacy in on big passing downs more often this year.
- One area where the Packers' performance has dipped, albeit slightly, over the past two years is red-zone efficiency. Thus far in training camp, the head coach likes how his team has improved there. "I thought this was a good red zone day today. The short-yardage, we'll have some good video."
- McCarthy commented on B.J. Raji's fast start to camp. "B.J.'s in great shape. Role helping him, too. Does those things naturally." Raji beat center J.C. Tretter in one-on-one drills again today, which McCarthy noted. "If you ever want to get a center ready, B.J. and Josh Boyd are your guys."
- The coaching staff is pleased with the way tight end Brandon Bostick has returned from the foot injury that ended his 2013 season prematurely. "Bostick is still kind of a young player, but he's done an excellent job coming off his injury." Bostick caught a touchdown pass from Aaron Rodgers today in practice.
- The head coach wouldn't elaborate on why rookie wide receiver Jeff Janis has yet to participate in training camp. "Jeff Janis is a little different. Couldn't even explain it. I think [his return] will be sooner rather than later."
That's a wrap for McCarthy's presser. Keep your internet machines tuned to Acme Packing Company for the latest Packers news and developments.
Jason Hirschhorn covers the Green Bay Packers for Acme Packing Company. He also serves as a contributor at various publications. His work has previously appeared on Hook’em Headlines, Beats Per Minute, and Lombardi Ave.