It's pretty obvious most are exaggerating Jermichael Finley's comments into the negative realm, but if he chose his words better it wouldn't happen. Every reporter and journalist and wanna be blogger who lacks any journalistic fortitude uses Finley as fodder for page hits. Why? Because his openness makes him an easy target.
When the Packers won the Super Bowl in 2010 without him, I was fine with Andrew Quarless and Co. taking over and the money being allocated else where. Yes, his mere presence opens things up, however, how has that worked this season for the Packers?
The players and coaches say a lot of positive things about Finley. We can say 'what else they gonna say' but keep in mind that Josh Sitton and T.J. Lang have been very blunt about things, even indirectly criticizing their head coach. There are players on this team that are not afraid to speak their mind about other players or coaches. Yet, all things are positive with Finley.
I'm quick to point out that Finley and Jordy Nelson have five drops each. Only because I'm objective where others lack it. ZING! It's not in defense of Finley.
I lost patience for Finley when he got hurt and missed most of the season. Then in 2011 I said okay, he's dropping balls, this is new for him. Worried about contract? Worried about the coach saying he needs to play a full season? Fine, so be it. 2012, new contract and played 16 games, right? I have nothing left to answer for his poor play.
Aside from the easy catches he drops ... the thing that really doesn't sit with me is ... the drops AND his showboating after making a routine play. A 12 yard catch on 2nd down is not a pound your chest moment. It's something you are EXPECTED to do.
I can think of several other players more deserving of this money.
2/22/2012: Signed a two-year, $14 million contract. The deal included a $1 million signing bonus. Another $1 million is available through incentives. Finley is eligible for $300,000 offseason workout bonuses in each season.
2012: $950,000 (+ $3.5 million roster bonus)
2013: $4.45 million (+ $3.5 million roster bonus due in March)
2014: Free Agent