Green Bay Packers safety Nick Collins is not participating in the team's off-season conditioning program, but it's unclear whether it's a protest over a lack of negotiations on a new contract extension.
According to a source familiar with the situation, Collins is home in Florida with his wife, waiting for the birth of their third child. The club is aware why he is not there. Collins is expected to report for the off-season conditioning workouts after his child is born.
However, Collins and his agent have been frustrated by a lack of interest on the Packers' part to negotiate a contract extension and it's possible Collins will take his time before reporting to the workouts. During the team's Fan Fest last week, Collins said he intended to take part in the off-season conditioning program so that he could begin learning the 3-4 system.
The Packers have put Collins, whose contract expires after this season, on hold, setting the re-signing of receiver Greg Jennings as a higher priority. It appears the Packers have put at least two other players ahead of Collins on the list of those whose contracdts need to be addressed. More than likely one of them is cornerback Tramon Williams.