Inbox: It's the longest day of the year

[Cheesehead]

Derek from Eau Claire, WI


It is going to be hard to predict the 53-man roster this year because of the strategy that goes into who might clear waivers. How much do you think the Packers will play those games compared to previous years?


I don't know if it'll be any more or less than other years. Brian Gutekunst still wants to build the best 53 possible going into the regular-season opener in Minnesota. As I mentioned earlier this week, the only thing I wonder is how many special-team stalwarts, league-wide, end up on practice squads to make room for developmental draft picks.


Dale from Palmyra, NE


You've stated a team which claims a player off waivers has to put them on their 53. How soon can that player be sent down to the practice squad?


The player must clear waivers again before signing to a practice squad. For example, the Packers claimed Tim Williams last year and then released him a few weeks later. He was subject to waivers before eventually signing to Green Bay's practice squad.


Sal from Hailey, ID


Based on your practice observations, which defensive player looks most likely to have Pettine's voice in his ear on the field?


It's Christian Kirksey. I don't think that's a big secret.


Abiegail from Santa Clarita, CA


What's happening in the photo of an airborne Tim Boyle with Aaron Rodgers?


Isn't it obvious, Abiegail? Tim is clearly attacking from the top rope! Nah, those two have been wrestling in practice all week long. On Friday, the two playfully tussled all the way to the ground before stretching. The UFC/WWE/AEW fan in me was all for it. Lucas Patrick seemed to enjoy it, as well.


Jessica from Tucson, AZ


I just tore up my knee for the second time dismounting my horse. Waiting on an MRI, the doctor thinks it's an MCL/ACL tear. How do athletes that have had a knee injury have enough confidence ever to go 100% again?


I'm very sorry to hear that, Jessica. It comes down to trusting your rehab and your body. I remember hearing that over and over again when Jordy Nelson was working his way back in 2015 – strengthen your lower half, get the confidence back in your knee and press on. All the best to you in your recovery.


David from Florence, AZ


I have always wondered when a receiver runs a route a specified number of yards how they determine when they are there. Do they count steps, seconds, look at yard markers, pick the spot before they start?


Footwork, footwork, footwork. I don't know if it's as specific as "I need to take four steps to reach my route," but it is an exercise in field awareness. Receivers must know their leverage and when to break off the route.


Tom from Scranton, PA


Am I the only person in the world that thinks Robert Tonyan should be the starting tight end?


But what is a starter anymore? The guy who takes the first rep of the game? I care more about snaps played and Jimmy Graham's departure vacated nearly 800 of them. I think a healthy Robert Tonyan has earned the right to see a good chunk of that work.