Inbox: That’s the energy you’re looking for

[Cheesehead]

Jorge from San Juan, Puerto Rico


This season feels different and it’s refreshing! What should we expect this year from this team?


Creativity and a lot of fun. I know fans are antsy to see the starters on the field, but for me, it all adds to the anticipation. Like I said Thursday, I can’t wait to see how it all fits together. Good morning!


Tony from Chanhassen, MN


Dexter asked if anyone remembers anything from a preseason game. I definitely remember Desmond Howard returning a punt for a touchdown in the preseason, and knowing he just made the team. I felt the same way about Ty Summers yesterday. They don’t happen often, but that’s why we watch, right?


I don’t know what today holds for Ty Summers, but that was a cool moment for the rookie linebacker and also the crowd. The enthusiasm in the stadium was infectious Thursday night. It was a fun atmosphere to be a part of and it was never any louder than when Summers crossed the end zone on that return. The bar has been set. That’s the energy you’re looking for. It also was a reminder meaningful football is right around the corner.


Jonathan from Paducah, KY


I am so glad someone asked if anyone has had a memorable preseason moment. I will never forget the summer filled with all the Favre controversy and being nervous about what might happen during the first home preseason game. I got goosebumps when the Lambeau crowd gave Rodgers an ovation as he took the field for his debut as "The Man.” The play of the game was when James Jones finished the catch and run to the end zone after getting hit and losing his helmet. DD was hyped on the sideline!


When factoring all the off-the-field distractions, that probably is the most important Packers preseason game I can remember. There was no letup with Rodgers that summer. He started all four preseason games and completed 37-of-54 passes (68.5 percent) for 436 yards, three TDs and one INT for a 103.6 passer rating. “The Man” had arrived.


Lori from Brookfield, WI


Are you more intrigued to see the outcome of competition between Crosby-Ficken or Kizer-Boyle? Any predictions?


I’m more intrigued with backup quarterback and whether the Packers keep two or three. And where does Manny Wilkins fit into everything? Tim Boyle impressed me with how he protected the football and his ability to finish drives to the end zone, but DeShone Kizer has a lot of experience, too. Both have value. I’d keep three, but that obviously doesn’t mean much. We’ll see soon enough if Gutekunst agrees.


Karl from Fort Collins, CO


It is a tribute to BG and his staff that so many hard decisions will have to be made on the 53 and practice squad. How many people will be in the room when the discussions are held?


Ted Thompson weighed the opinions of his scouting department when setting the initial 53, so I’d imagine Gutekunst takes a similar approach with his scouts. At the end of the day, however, it’s his call to make on whom the Packers will take into Chicago.


Rob from Buckinghamshire, UK


Of the inactives from Thursday, which ones were non-injury related? I would assume they are almost guaranteed a place on the 53.


As far as non-starters, Jake Kumerow, Tony Brown, Raven Greene, Josh Jackson, Tramon Williams, Kyler Fackrell, Rashan Gary, Lucas Patrick, Alex Light, Elgton Jenkins, Geronimo Allison, Robert Tonyan, Marcedes Lewis and Tyler Lancaster were all healthy scratches to the best of my knowledge.


Sal from Hailey, ID


The only things I remember from preseason are the injuries. I wish they'd just play guys vying for a spot instead of sending star wide receivers out to tear their ACLs. What's the main reason we play seasoned vets before game day?


Davante Adams played seven snaps in the preseason. Marquez Valdes-Scantling had like two dozen. I’d say the Packers were pretty safe with their top three wideouts.


Nick from Plainwell, MI


Hello Insiders! I have a two-part question here. Do you think there’s a possibility to trade one of our kickers just like Baltimore did to recoup a fifth-round pick? With us opening the season this Thursday night, do you see an urgency for practice starting Sunday for a shortened week?


I think the Packers would be happy to strike a deal with a team in desperate need of a kicker, but as always, it takes a willing trade partner. The urgency is there with the veterans on this team. They’re champing at the bit to get going. Several guys talked in the locker room this week about already having an eye on the Bears.


Shaun from Whitefish Bay, WI


I assume the GM has the final say come cut-downs but how much does LaFleur’s opinion on defensive players come in to play? He is the head coach but he is mainly offensive-oriented.


Gutekunst keeps LaFleur in the loop on every roster decision. LaFleur said it at the podium on Friday afternoon that Gutekunst frequently pops into his office to bounce ideas off him. I doubt the position has anything to do with it.