Yeah, you know...this might be sacrilege but I was thinking this is unfortunate but possibly a blessing in disguise. Woodson's been in the league at least a year longer than I think he should be. He's been gambling constantly on "Not getting caught" since he can't stop "Getting beat" and I'll be curious to see what these younger, quicker guys are able to do. Woodson's too big a name to ever not start if he's healthy, even if it's his wisdom which trumps his ball play these days.
Originally Posted by: TwinkieGorilla
This is kind of where I am leaning on Woodson going down for 6 weeks. Respectfully, the guy isn't getting any faster, and actually is losing speed. We've all seen it, and it is understandable with a 36 y/o CB. His raw, innate football sense in game situations is like few - no others. That is what has made him so valuable to our team, and this Packers defense, even to this day. I will be thrilled to see him come back from his injury to contribute on what I think will be a better, deeper secondary heading towards the playoffs.
Woodson's injury and 6 week absence is going to create opportunities for many players, like Heyward, House and McMillian, who I think will be seeing far more expanded roles. Add to that MD Jennings and Sean Richardson should be able to see more time actually playing in games. Richardson's biggest asset at Vanderbilt alongside Heyward was his play at the line of scrimmage, with 18 TFL and 3 Sacks. Capers may find a use for the kid.
This injury will also create opportunities for the staff to better assess the younger talent that they have on the roster. We may find Woodson's eventual replacement in these next 6 weeks or more. If in fact he's already on the roster, finding that out would have to be considered a positive. Have to figure, Woodson is so gifted from the raw ability, innate sense standpoint, we may never find a quote-unquote "replacement." We may find we will have to adjust, or, how to adjust our approach with different combinations on D. Again, I consider this a positive too.
I hope Wooodson sees that he can still contribute to the team by participating more as a mentor in the film room and on the sidelines for the younger players while he is healing, as opposed to what I've heard (yesterday on 1250am) as being a more hands off approach by him. If he chooses to actively mentor these players, it would be about as professional as can be. If he stays away, that might kind of suck. He knows retirement is fast approaching. I would hope he decides to mentor these players as best he can, for his team. I think $11M should buy that as a part of his deal, professionally speaking.
I should add, the guy is wired differently from most. I do think his intent by laying back with some of these guys is for them to learn on their own. That I get. I just hope he shows up to help these guys out a bit while he is rehabbing.