I came into this thread wanting to read the positives; there is enough negativity out there already. So:
1. Richard Rodgers - he will never be a speed receiver, but he has been better as a blocker and has proven his sure hands. Rodgers can be a very good red-zone TE going forward, and would be great in twin-TE packages if we get a Finley-esque player at Te.
2. Mike Pennel - he has shown flashes, which show progress by making plays throughout the season. Even if Raji returns, having a big body like Pennel who can handle and shed double-teams is a positive. I'd say Pennel has actually shown up more on "flashier" plays than Guion.
3. Jeff Janis - he has blossomed as a special teams gunner. His speed is always noted, but he has consistently used it on special teams this season. Makes his case for playing time on offense a lot stronger since it gives you hope he can grow and develop if given time.
4. Mike McCarthy taking back play calling. It's easy to criticize, but we've had great success with McCarthy as a play caller. McCarthy is a great play caller. Should bode well for our offense next year.
5. Datone Jones - he still has consistency issues, but at least he flashed potential of the pass-rushing problems he can create. He looks
worthy of being a first rounder, which is more than can be said of some of Ted's other first rounders.
6. Jayrone Elliot - he has had his moments. For a young player, you want to see progress on the field when he gets chances. He has shown flashes of production. He is still raw, but a potential OLB rotation of Peppers, Clay, Neal, and Elliot is something to build on. (assuming Neal is resigned and Clay is moved back to OLB)
7. Rollins and Randal - like someone else said, they have potential and have looked capable. Shields / Rollins / Randall / Hyde is a solid CB rotation.
The NFL: Where Greg Jennings Happens.