The questions started soon after the Packers signed linebacker Brandon Chillar to a long-term contract. Could A.J. Hawk, no longer a three-down player, be on the way out?
The answer for 2010 will be no according to Hawk's agent.
"They're not going to ask [for a pay cut]," Mike McCartney told the Green Bay Press-Gazette Monday. "They think A.J. is a very important part of their football team. I have full confidence that A.J. is going to have a big year next year, and I think they have the same kind of confidence."
Hawk is due $4.6 million next season, and he often sits on passing downs for Chillar. The team also have a promising backup in Desmond Bishop.
The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel believes Hawk could lose his starting job, but NFL teams rarely give up players that can help them win. Hawk is still a solid player for them, if overpaid.
So while the Packers expected Hawk to provide more than quality depth, it looks like he'll remain in Green Bay for at least one more season.