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The Pre Season Stretch Run

Surprise cut kicks off final week

by Mark Daniels

This hasn't been a good summer for former second round draft picks.

The Packers opened the final week of training camp practices by releasing safety Josh Jones.   It was the third year veteran who broke the news himself announcing via twitter that the Packers have asked for his release.  The move by General Manager Brian Gutekunst was made official after the team came off the practice field late Sunday afternoon.

Jones was the second round pick out of North Carolina State in 2017, taken right behind Kevin King.   He had difficulty getting regular playing time in his first two seasons and didn't help himself this past off-season by staying away from the team's voluntary workouts and organized team activities, making overtures about seeking a trade.   When he did show up for camp, he was kicked out of an early practice by Head Coach Matt LaFleur for an overly aggressive hit.

He's the second former second round draft choice of former GM Ted Thompson released before the only cut of camp.   Tackle Jason Spriggs was released two weeks ago.    The second round pick in 2016 had a few fill in starts during his career which was more often than not, derailed by injury.

The Jones cut wasn't the only roster move of the day.  Running back Darrin Hall, claimed off waivers from the Bengals earlier in camp was also released.

The Packers added two players for a final week look-see, rookie linebacker James Folston out of Pittsburgh and cornerback Jocquez Kalili, an undrafted rookie from UNLV.

(Brian Gutekunst and Matt LaFleur chat at Sunday's practice)

The Packers are short an inside linebacker but Folston started on the outside today.

Fifteen players say out today's padded practice, Equanimeous St. Brown, Curtis Bolton and Rashan Gary were all nicked up in Winnipeg last week.  Also on the sidelines were Kevin King, Jimmy Graham,  David Bakhtiari, Alan Lazard, Mike Tyson, Malcolm Johnson, Cole Madison, Kabion Ento, Reggie Gilbert and Oren Burks.   Ibraheim Campbell and Greg Roberts remain on the PUP list.

Fullback Danny Vitale returned to the practice field.

LaFleur had hoped to split practice time giving the team reps for both Kansas City and the pre-season finale this Thursday night and the season opener against the Bears in Chicago in 12 days.  The number of injuries prevented that.

(Running backs pop the sled at camp)

The team has two more closed workouts before wrapping up camp on Tuesday.  The roster will have to be cut to 53 players by Saturday.

Mark Daniels

I’ve got Green and Gold in my blood having grown up in Titletown and it’s been a treat watching and covering sports from the Packers to the preps for you in Green Bay for Midwest Communications.
As a kid, I chased Packer players for autographs, I’m still chasing ‘em now for quotes on the big play or big game. I’ve had the opportunity to cover Super Bowls, the World Series, Stanley Cup Finals, NBA playoffs and major championship golf over the years but I get just as much enjoyment following the college scene at UWGB or St. Norbert, the Green Bay Gamblers and high school sports.
Our prep coverage was honored as the best of 2007 reinforcing our commitment to give these hard working boys and girls their due.
My work has also been recognized by the Associated Press and Wisconsin Broadcasters Association with several achievement awards.
Outside of the studio, off the field or away from the gym, I’ve had the pleasure of helping dozens of organizations over the years. I’ve served as race announcer and master of ceremonies at the Bellin Run almost from it’s beginning, spoken to various service clubs and hosted charity golf events or team banquets.
My wife Kari and I have raised two active children which has kept us involved in both school and club athletics for nearly 15 years. Chances are you’ll see me on a golf course when the weather’s nice. My roots are deep and that’s why I’m so enthusiastic about this area’s sporting scene, and as I often say, “Watching kids play games helps keep me young!”
Thanks for listening and see you at the game.