Sunday, August 31, 2008

Herron and Morency released among Packers' cuts

One or the other was expected to be part of the running back corps. Actually, the likelihood seemed to be that both would make the club. In the end, both veterans Noah Herron and Vernand Morency were cut as the Packers got down to their 53-man roster. Along with DeShawn Wynn, released earlier in the week, these three backs were beaten out by undrafted rookie free agent Kregg Lumpkin. As part of their backfield decisions, the Packers kept two fullbacks -- a rarity in the league these days -- in the persons of Korey Hall and John Kuhn.

The roster at this time contains no long snapper, although that will likely change soon. Rookie snapper, J.J. Jansen, was one of three players placed on the injured reserve list after his knee injury in Thursday night's final preseason game. The Packers are expected to put in a claim on Thomas Gafford, who was waived by the Bears a few days ago. Gafford was in the Packers' '06 training camp and again this summer, before being waived Aug. 3 because the team needed a roster spot. The Packers reportedly are also holding tryouts today for at least three long snappers...so, if you happen to be driving near Green Bay today...what the heck...stop on in...especially if you can precision snap a football five to fifteen yards. For more on the snapper situation, check out this story.

The Packers did keep seven linebackers...for now. One of those players, possibly special teams standout Tracey White, might be the odd man out when the Pack adds a long snapper.

There will be a few more moves likely made this morning. Teams have until 11 a.m. to make claims on waived players. Teams will be informed by the league in early afternoon whom they have been awarded as part of the process.

For a story on the running backs and other moves, check out this article. For commentary on the players kept, check out this article.

For the Packers official notice of cuts, etc., check it out here. If you prefer to get the same news here, the following is from the official notice:

"The Green Bay Packers released 19 players and placed three on injured reserve. Ted Thompson, Executive Vice President, General Manager and Director of Football Operations, announced the transactions Saturday.

Released Saturday were wide receiver Jake Allen, cornerback Scorpio Babers, defensive tackle Conrad Bolston, center Brennen Carvalho, safety Tyrone Culver, linebacker Spencer Havner, tight end Joey Haynos, running back Noah Herron, guard Ryan Keenan, linebacker Danny Lansanah, defensive tackle Alfred Malone, running back Vernand Morency, defensive tackle Daniel Muir, cornerback Joe Porter, wide receiver Johnny Quinn, wide receiver Taj Smith, wide receiver Brett Swain, tackle Orrin Thompson and fullback Corey White.

Defensive tackle Rodney Allen, center Junius Coston and long snapper J.J. Jansen were placed on injured reserve."