Packers Show Unusual Aggression 
Posted Apr 26, 2009 1:05PM By BRUCE CISKIE

Ever since Ted Thompson took over as the Packers' general manager in 2005, he has developed quite the reputation. In four drafts since he got the job, Thompson became known as the master of the trade-down.

In his defense, Mike Sherman didn't exactly leave a loaded roster behind when he got canned. Because of that, Thompson felt the need to stock up on extra picks to build depth. Now that Thompson has built some depth with the Packers, he appears to be more comfortable being aggressive in the draft.

Thompson has talked about the importance of building depth in the past, but appeared to target impact players in this one.

Despite reports that wide receiver Michael Crabtree was the top player on his draft board, Thompson decided to make a pick to fill a significant need, taking Boston College defensive tackle B.J. Raji with the ninth overall pick.
"He's genuinely a powerful, powerful man, especially in his lower body," Thompson said. "The good Lord just didn't make many people like this."

... "When you watch Raji he is not necessarily just a guy who eats up space," defensive coordinator Dom Capers said. "I think he is a guy who can stunt and move things, which is rare for a guy of his size."
The surprise was still to come. While Packer fans were waiting for the second round, the Packers decided not to wait their turn. Thompson swung a deal with the New England Patriots for a player they targeted. That player was USC linebacker Clay Matthews, and the Packers traded back into the first round to make it happen.
"The more you watched him the more natural he looks as a player," Thompson said. "He's always on his feet. He has great hips and balance. He can use his hands effectively against offensive linemen and running backs. He can run. He can move in space. He plays the game remarkable."
The move left Green Bay without second- or third-round picks, but in a way, Thompson was doing exactly what he was taught. His mentor, former Packers general manager Ron Wolf, always believed in giving up value to get value you wanted. After all, it was Wolf who was ripped in Green Bay for his decision to trade a first-round pick to Atlanta for a little-known backup quarterback.

Sometime around 2012, we'll be able to fairly judge these moves. Right now, they look downright genius. Thompson believes in the young players he has brought in, and it was time to pick up some impact players. Since the Packers are generally a non-factor when it comes to free agency, this was the only way to pick up guys who could make a difference on the 2009 team.

Surely, those fans who have had their way with Thompson in recent years are thinking a little differently after Saturday. It is tough to criticize the decisions he made, and it appears the defense is on the right track.