According to
Bob McGinn these are some bad decisions by the Packers in 2011.
Barnett started all 16 games and played almost every down for the Buffalo Bills, leading them in tackles with 130 and notching four turnover plays. He never missed a day of practice due to injury. His three-year contract averaged $3.8 million.
Hawk started 15 games, playing almost every down. He finished third in tackles with 109 and didn't have a turnover play. His contract averaged $6.75 million.
Bob McGinn wrote:
He says signing A.J. Hawk and letting Nick Barnett go was a mistake. Barnett did have a fairly decent season last year, but I think it brings up a good question. Would it have been better to have Hawk or Barnett? I'm not sure and haven't thought much about it.
He says relying on Mike Neal to replace the oft injured Cullen Jenkins was a mistake. And that Jenkins should have been brought back. I agree, but Jenkins asking price was pretty high and didn't drop until only the Saints and Eagles got involved. Either way, I always wanted Jenkins back, just didn't want to break the bank for him. I think $6 million a year is good, but reports were he wanted $8+ per.
He says the 32nd selection should have been used on Jabaal Sheard, Brooks Reed or Da'Quan Bowers instead of Derek Sherrod. I don't know enough about the players mentioned to have an opinion.
He says "The Packers' last chance to reinforce their rush ended when they took Randall Cobb over outside linebacker Justin Houston at No. 64. A part-time starter as Kansas City's pick at No. 70, Houston posted 5½ sacks.". I think selecting Randall Cobb was a good selection.
He says selecting Ricky Elmore in the 6th round was his worst pick ever. How is this worse than Justin Harrell? lol
Anyhow, read the whole article, it's riddle with bitterness and well done.