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The Packers' defensive line is suddenly back to full strength. With the reported deals for both Letroy Guion and B.J. Raji being reported yesterday, the necessity of finding a big body in the early rounds of the 2015 NFL Draft has reduced significantly.
Plus, the coaches are expecting big things from the returning players, with the head man talking up the unit even before the signings were reported.
Guion, Raji should supply good bang for buck | Packersnews.com
The position here is that even though the deals came in at higher-than-expected dollar values, it's worth it to solidify the middle of the line and both players could outplay those contracts.
Big expectations for big men | ESPN Wisconsin
Those expectations for the defensive line start with the head coach, Mike McCarthy, who said that he thought both lines (not just the offensive line) has a chance to be excellent in 2015.
Green Bay Packers re-sign Letroy Guion, B.J. Raji to fill D-line needs - ESPN
We alluded to this yesterday - now the Packers aren't locked into taking a defensive tackle early on in the draft and can focus on both drafting other positions early and finding a long-term project at nose tackle instead of looking for someone to step in immediately.
Iowa Defensive Linemen Represent Long-Term Options in NFL Draft | Cheesehead TV
Then again, if Ted Thompson sees a good opportunity to improve the defensive line through the draft, he's sure to take it. Carl Davis and Louis Trinca-Pasat could very well be options for him.
'Packers Ticket Takeover Contest' underway | Packers.com
Want your photo in the hands of everybody in Lambeau Field for one day in the 2015 season? Check this out and submit your pictures.
Why the NFL loves college basketball players - SBNation.com
Why indeed? Here's a look at why those skills translate (also a video of Julius Peppers throwing down an alley-oop dunk).