Inbox: He takes nothing for granted

[Cheesehead]

Eric from Erie, PA


I just want to say one thing. If Alex Smith plays just one down this season he should automatically be voted NFL comeback player of the year. I love Aaron Rodgers and it's remarkable the tale of those two QBs, but what Alex Smith is coming back from is unheard of and is truly an incredible story, best of luck to him.


Couldn't agree more on all counts.


Travis from Bremerton, WA


Not a Twitter guy, but you guys may get me to sign up just for the next few weeks.


Wes has always been more active on Twitter with his practice coverage, and I'm trying to up my game this summer.


Smacks from Andover, MN


Spoff/Wes, I love the work you do in II, you both have unique styles that complement each other. I have been listening to the interviews of the players and was very impressed with "Swerve." He was very humble and referenced the team in his responses vs. I or me. I am pulling for this guy in Year 2 and hope he has an impact in both special teams and the offense. Your thoughts on Tyler Ervin?


I love his nickname, as many do. I also appreciate his very even-keeled approach as a fifth-year veteran who just kept plugging away in order to get a chance like this. He takes nothing for granted and truly enjoys being a part of something, whatever part he can play.


Kate from Ravena, NY


"Like the same ol' Mason Crosby." Exactly what I wanted to hear! It's like Christmas in July...or August. Any word on when we might get Hunter Bradley back?


He's been around, not totally absent, so I suspect that means any day now.


Mike from Ames, IA


One-on-one pass-blocking/rushing reps between offense and defense get a lot of publicity this time of year. As an observer of these at practice (and disregarding talent), do you feel like either side has better odds at winning these than the other?


I always feel the offensive linemen are at a disadvantage in that drill because the pass rushers can never get caught up in traffic.


Jeff from Mesa, AZ


Since running backs are often part of the pass-blocking scheme, do they have to be able to hear, understand and react to the signals called by the offensive line?


Absolutely. They need to know which defender the center is declaring as the middle linebacker, because assignments are generally made inside-out based on the protection call and that declaration.


Scott from Lincoln City, OR


Well Mike, at least you didn't get the "That's kind of a strange question" response from Aaron. So you have that going for you.


Which is nice.