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Generally, the Green Bay Packers expect their top draft picks to contribute a little bit early on while they get used to the speed and complexity of the NFL before expanding their roles late in the players' rookie seasons and into their second year.
This year, however, the team has thrown its rookie class into the fire, and they have performed remarkably well so far.
Furthermore, while injuries are responsible for a lot of the playing time afforded to rookie corners Damarious Randall and Quinten Rollins as well as wideout Ty Montgomery, it's clear that Ted Thompson expected these players to have opportunities to contribute early even if the team were healthy. That much was certain from the selections of the cornerbacks after Thompson let a pair of veterans depart in free agency, and Montgomery was picked with a clear eye on the return game.
Still, this group of draft picks has been all one could ask for and more so far, and they're a focus of today's curds.
Packers rookie class looks like a winning group | JSOnline.com
Here's a look at each of the Packers' rookies over the first six games, and if the early returns are signs of future production, there's a lot to look forward to.
Denver Broncos must be ready for Packers' Aaron Rodgers to push pace - ESPN
The no-huddle offense that the Packers run helps keep defenses in a tough place as far as substitutions and stamina go, and they'll likely run a lot of it against the Broncos' strong pass rush.
Healthy outlook | ESPN Wisconsin
While Monday's practice showed positive signs on the injury front, Wednesday's session and the associated injury report should help shed some more light on which players will be available for the Packers on Sunday.
Cobb refreshed, relaxed and ready after Packers' bye | Packersnews.com
Randall Cobb discusses the Packers' renewed focus coming out of the bye week. He also is asked about Jared Abbrederis, and praises his football IQ and his ability to get open.
Winston Moss might be a Miami candidate but not a top one | 247sports.com
The Packers' assistant head coach and linebackers coach has a history with Miami, playing on a championship team there in the 80s, but he's probably not going to be the Hurricanes' first choice.
Kawann Short and the Panthers defense are showing Carolina is more than Cam Newton - SBNation.com
The former Purdue defensive tackle is playing at an elite level, and he'll likely cause plenty of problems for the interior of the Packers' offensive line in week nine.