Preseason Game 2 Packers at Colts Game Thread

[gopkrs]

I thought a couple of the rookie? receivers looked very athletic. Haven't seen enough of them to make any kind of statement about them other than that. I'm thinking Heath makes the team though. He's very familiar with the playbook, catches the ball very well and I guess he's a decent blocker. Personally, I think we put too much emphasis on w/o blocking. But they should be able to get in the way of a would be tackler imo. I'll take the receiver who can get open and catch the ball every time.

 

[OldSchool101]

I thought a couple of the rookie? receivers looked very athletic. Haven't seen enough of them to make any kind of statement about them other than that. I'm thinking Heath makes the team though. He's very familiar with the playbook, catches the ball very well and I guess he's a decent blocker. Personally, I think we put too much emphasis on w/o blocking. But they should be able to get in the way of a would be tackler imo. I'll take the receiver who can get open and catch the ball every time.

One of the only reasons that Have not totally discounted Malik as in (ship him out of here sentiment) is his Junior season at Ole Miss. he put up nearly 1,000 yards at the SEC level, which isn’t easy. Also he had requisite size as a blocker. I’m not sure a slim hope of elevating to that level one day or just blocking is enough. I’ll trust the process if they choose him, but just from reports in day to day thus far and preseason? He’s on the outside looking in and really at this point he shouldn’t be.

 

[Heyjoe4]

Oh I agree. There’s no clear cut front runner at what I’d call WR6 or Practice Squad signing. Sure, each have had moments of highlight reels, but high level consistency is what the goal is.

Now trust me I’m fully aware that our outside, low level FA signings are not as “popular” as our own homegrown guys. Although you’ve probably recognized my stubbornness doesn’t align with the popular choices. I’d rather be different and wrong than popular and right (not directed at you just a general opinion I have) ANYONE can take the easy path of blending in and playing it safe.

If we had to be honest with ourselves, Mecole Hardman since Camp started is a clear front runner. The rest of the guys have dabbled a nice play or three. Some look intriguing. Heath just dropped a perfectly thrown ball yesterday and I saw it with my own eyes. Might not seem like a Hardman fumble, but that was MUCH easier to catch than a PR with a couple of bad hops. It’s too late in the season to be dropping easy 5 yard passes. Heck I can go call up J'mon Moore if that’s acceptable.

Yeah and WRs dropping very catchable balls will be under a microscope. And I'll defer to you as far as Hardman having a better camp then Heath.

The one thing I do like about keeping Hardman is his PR/KR ability. Reed and Nixon are too important to the offense and defense, respectfully, to risk injury on returns. And Hardman is an ok guy for a WR 6 spot.

I still predict Heath will get the nod over Hardman, but it really is a tossup. I wouldn't be surprised either if both are waived and Gluten adds a guy like Johnson after cut downs.

We're really down in the weeds here. 99% or more of the final 53 has been decided. But until we get to real games, this gives us something to talk about.

On the topic of drops, or catches, how have the other WRs been doing? I don't pay a lot of attention to the PS anyway. Sounds like Golden has great hands, as advertised. I haven't seen a rant from MLF on drops, so hopefully that hasn't been a huge problem. The receivers have to do a much better job at catching balls this season. Last season was bad in that regard.

 

[gopkrs]

One of the only reasons that Have not totally discounted Malik as in (ship him out of here sentiment) is his Junior season at Ole Miss. he put up nearly 1,000 yards at the SEC level, which isn’t easy. Also he had requisite size as a blocker. I’m not sure a slim hope of elevating to that level one day or just blocking is enough. I’ll trust the process if they choose him, but just from reports in day to day thus far and preseason? He’s on the outside looking in and really at this point he shouldn’t be.

He's been here what, 3 years? I doubt they are thinking about his college days. And I hope they have learned to stop doing that with high pick players that haven't been able to make it on other teams after several years.

 

[Pkrjones]

Sounds like Golden has great hands, as advertised. I haven't seen a rant from MLF on drops, so hopefully that hasn't been a huge problem. The receivers have to do a much better job at catching balls this season. Last season was bad in that regard.

With 4 of our top 6 WR's (Wicks, Reed, Watson, & S. Williams) nursing lower-body injuries I certainly hope these guys are chained to the jugs machine and catching many-hundreds of balls/day...they could use the work.

GB can't afford easy drops, they KILL drives. This Love offense needs to be a juggrrnaut this season so the D can get take-aways and stay off the field.

 

[Heyjoe4]

With 4 of our top 6 WR's (Wicks, Reed, Watson, & S. Williams) nursing lower-body injuries I certainly hope these guys are chained to the jugs machine and catching many-hundreds of balls/day...they could use the work.

GB can't afford easy drops, they KILL drives. This Love offense needs to be a juggrrnaut this season so the D can get take-aways and stay off the field.

Yep, spot on. The injuries among the WR group is certainly concerning. So yeah, dropped balls will kill momentum and lead to losses. I am encouraged by what I'm reading about Musgrave. MLF loves his two TE sets and that's what we should see.

But having 4 of 7 WRs hurting is a real problem. I hope most of this is just MLF ****ing with the heads of opposing HCs.

 

[OldSchool101]

Yep, spot on. The injuries among the WR group is certainly concerning. So yeah, dropped balls will kill momentum and lead to losses. I am encouraged by what I'm reading about Musgrave. MLF loves his two TE sets and that's what we should see.

But having 4 of 7 WRs hurting is a real problem. I hope most of this is just MLF ****ing with the heads of opposing HCs.

True. The injuries imo are a mixture. I think the bulk of players are back in 2 weeks. We do however almost like to put a mashed pinky on injury reports. It’s almost psychological like they want the opposition to lower their expectations by thinking we’re going into a fight wounded.

I’m not opposed to some psychological trauma to our opponent when the real starters show up.

 

[Heyjoe4]

True. The injuries imo are a mixture. I think the bulk of players are back in 2 weeks. We do however almost like to put a mashed pinky on injury reports. It’s almost psychological like they want the opposition to lower their expectations by thinking we’re going into a fight wounded.

I’m not opposed to some psychological trauma to our opponent when the real starters show up.

All HCs do this. It actually gets worse during the regular season, as the HCs try to make opponents guess what to (and what hot to) prepare for.

 

[Voyageur]

Oh I agree. There’s no clear cut front runner at what I’d call WR6 or Practice Squad signing. Sure, each have had moments of highlight reels, but high level consistency is what the goal is.

Now trust me I’m fully aware that our outside, low level FA signings are not as “popular” as our own homegrown guys. Although you’ve probably recognized my stubbornness doesn’t align with the popular choices. I’d rather be different and wrong than popular and right (not directed at you just a general opinion I have) ANYONE can take the easy path of blending in and playing it safe.

If we had to be honest with ourselves, Mecole Hardman since Camp started is a clear front runner. The rest of the guys have dabbled a nice play or three. Some look intriguing. Heath just dropped a perfectly thrown ball yesterday and I saw it with my own eyes. Might not seem like a Hardman fumble, but that was MUCH easier to catch than a PR with a couple of bad hops. It’s too late in the season to be dropping easy 5 yard passes. Heck I can go call up J'mon Moore if that’s acceptable.

I think people are too into Hardman as a receiver. I don't think that's why they snapped him up in free agency. His forte will be returning kicks and/or punts where we've been weak.

I posted the information on this in another thread.

 

[OldSchool101]

I think people are too into Hardman as a receiver. I don't think that's why they snapped him up in free agency. His forte will be returning kicks and/or punts where we've been weak.

I posted the information on this in another thread.

Oh no question he’s a classic PR. I 100% agree with that. That said it’s a + when you factor in total contributions also.

Something I brought up earlier. One of the primary concerns I saw last April when we signed Hardman last April was that he missed time and this he can’t produce anymore. After all look at 2024. If he was so good why didn’t KC retain him? He’s washed up.

Hardman completely and thoroughly put that concern to bed this Camp.

 

[Deleted member 18607 aka in gute we trust]

I think people are too into Hardman as a receiver. I don't think that's why they snapped him up in free agency. His forte will be returning kicks and/or punts where we've been weak.

I posted the information on this in another thread.

I want him no where near special teams if there are chances he is going to be muffing kicks. Have seen him do it in preseason and at camp. I don't want to expose Kei and Reed to injuries returning kicks and punts, but I don't trust Hardman. I want no issues, and Hardman is a liability. Don't get me started on Bisaccia. I've wanted him fired for a while now. Not pleased with special teams at all. Tell me when Rich Bisaccia has ever had a top 5 special teams unit in his whole career? Never. People think he is a good coach because he is old, and was a interim HC when someone got canned. Who cares, he is not a good coach. The end .

I keep 6 WRs: Rome, Golden, Reed, Wicks, Heath, and Savion Williams.

Watson coming back in early November.

 

[Heyjoe4]

Oh no question he’s a classic PR. I 100% agree with that. That said it’s a + when you factor in total contributions also.

Something I brought up earlier. One of the primary concerns I saw last April when we signed Hardman last April was that he missed time and this he can’t produce anymore. After all look at 2024. If he was so good why didn’t KC retain him? He’s washed up.

Hardman completely and thoroughly put that concern to bed this Camp.

What has he done in camp that's been so impressive, as a kick returner and WR? I thought I read he muffed a punt, and haven't seen any articles about him having a "great camp". Just curious about where you read he's been a stand out in camp. Seems to me he's very much on the bubble and in no way a lock for the 53.

 

[OldSchool101]

I want him no where near special teams if there are chances he is going to be muffing kicks. Have seen him do it in preseason and at camp. I don't want to expose Kei and Reed to injuries returning kicks and punts, but I don't trust Hardman. I want no issues, and Hardman is a liability. Don't get me started on Bisaccia. I've wanted him fired for a while now. Not pleased with special teams at all. Tell me when Rich Bisaccia has ever had a top 5 special teams unit in his whole career? Never. People think he is a good coach because he is old, and was a interim HC when someone got canned. Who cares, he is not a good coach. The end .

I keep 6 WRs: Rome, Golden, Reed, Wicks, Heath, and Savion Williams.

Watson coming back in early November.

Hardman has a career returning Punts for KC. Nothing suggests your claims are accurate. His large sample size denotes nothing of the sort.
If we sent everyone packing because of a Preseason Game1 mishap we wouldn’t have a Roster. It’s a total overreaction of what’s been a pretty darn good Camp and Preseason.

Savion Williams could get work in PR if he wasn’t out with injuries. I pray you’re not suggesting Heath at PR. Hardly our answer at PR I’d rather risk injury than have tryouts on PR. Wicks would be a possibility but again, it’s a little too late to be switching positions.

 

[gopkrs]

Melton seems about the right size.

 

[Heyjoe4]

Wow, you literally lied about and/or misrepresented nearly every word I wrote. Too funny!

I attended several training camp practices and obviously you did not. Hardman was far from stellar in camp as a returner or at wide receiver. This is why it's highly possible he doesn't make the team. A not stellar camp, and he has had more mishaps than positive plays in the first 2 preseason games.

I NEVER mentioned Heath or Wicks being P/K returners. You are the ONLY one discussing them. What an absolute pathetic attempt at trying to put words in my mouth. Never try it again, it won't end well for you, that I promise you.

I said I don't want to risk injury to Keisean or Reed, having them be the primary returners. Golden is another option, but I have the same injury risk concerns if he is forced in a returner role. I want the rook to focus only on WR. I would go with Keisean, Reed, or a healthy Savion over Hardman. Hardman has shown nothing in the 9 camp practices I attended, nor in the first 2 preseason games, to suggest he is the guy to be the primary returner.

For some reason, OS is a die-hard Hardman fanboy. I've asked him what Hardman has done in camp, aside from being completely average. No answer. You actually attended practices and are a much better source on what Hardman has (or hasn't) done. Finally, Hardman's stats as a returner for the Chiefs are pedestrian.

And as you experienced, OS has a bad habit of running on and attributing remarks to a commenter that are lies or distortions.

As for Hardman, the only reason I'd be ok with him is to keep Reed and Nixon away from kick returns. But as you note, Hardman has done nothing in camp to suggest he's a reliable returner, and he would contribute next to nothing as a WR.

I think you're right on the 6 WRs who make the 53 - Doubs, Golden, Reed, Wicks, Heath, and Savion Williams.

I wonder if Melton could be the returner, at least on punts. With the new kickoff rules expected to increase kicks returned, Nixon may be the best choice, risks and all.

 

[gopkrs]

For some reason, OS is a die-hard Hardman fanboy. I've asked him what Hardman has done in camp, aside from being completely average. No answer. You actually attended practices and are a much better source on what Hardman has (or hasn't) done. Finally, Hardman's stats as a returner for the Chiefs are pedestrian.

And as you experienced, OS has a bad habit of running on and attributing remarks to a commenter that are lies or distortions.

As for Hardman, the only reason I'd be ok with him is to keep Reed and Nixon away from kick returns. But as you note, Hardman has done nothing in camp to suggest he's a reliable returner, and he would contribute next to nothing as a WR.

I think you're right on the 6 WRs who make the 53 - Doubs, Golden, Reed, Wicks, Heath, and Savion Williams.

I wonder if Melton could be the returner, at least on punts. With the new kickoff rules expected to increase kicks returned, Nixon may be the best choice, risks and all.

Melton should get a chance at punts. The young back that returned ko last game looked good imho. And running the ball. But a roster spot? I dunno

 

[OldSchool101]

Wow, you literally lied about and/or misrepresented nearly every word I wrote. Too funny!

I NEVER mentioned Heath or Wicks being P/K returners. You are the ONLY one discussing them. What an absolute pathetic attempt at trying to put words in my mouth. Never try it again, it won't end well for you, that I promise you.

Interesting. Are you threatening me?

There’s absolutely no excuse for using words of intimidation or idol threats.

 

[OldSchool101]

What has he done in camp that's been so impressive, as a kick returner and WR? I thought I read he muffed a punt, and haven't seen any articles about him having a "great camp". Just curious about where you read he's been a stand out in camp. Seems to me he's very much on the bubble and in no way a lock for the 53.

https://www.packersnews.com/story/sports/nfl/packers/2025/08/05/packers-camp-takeaways-mecole-hardman-may-follow-desmond-howard-path/85516784007/

Mecole Hardman makes presence known in Packers minicamp

Veteran’s highlight plays showing what he brings to receiver competition

www.packers.com

 

[OldSchool101]

https://www.packersnews.com/story/sports/nfl/packers/2025/08/05/packers-camp-takeaways-mecole-hardman-may-follow-desmond-howard-path/85516784007/

Mecole Hardman makes presence known in Packers minicamp

Veteran’s highlight plays showing what he brings to receiver competition

www.packers.com

I don’t appreciate that personal attack on my character. I’m far from perfect but I’ve never done anything to you that deserved this. As I reported this new poster to the moderating team (1st time ever) You not only “liked” the post.. you furthered it by joining it and piling on using character insults. It’s uncalled for I’ve done nothing but be kind to you.

Today was supposed to be a positive day of watching our team and discussing football. You’ve done nothing but help to ruin that experience. Quit asking me to do your homework and then insulting me when I help update you.

 

[Deleted member 18607 aka in gute we trust]

https://www.packersnews.com/story/sports/nfl/packers/2025/08/05/packers-camp-takeaways-mecole-hardman-may-follow-desmond-howard-path/85516784007/

Mecole Hardman makes presence known in Packers minicamp

Veteran’s highlight plays showing what he brings to receiver competition

www.packers.com

One is from June 11th, and is obviously not about training camp or the preseason games, since it was before they happened.

And Pete Dougherty is basically talking about the August 5th practice, and saying the preseason games will be crucial for Hardman to show he can make a positive contribution to this team on special teams. He has not done that in the 2 preseason games that occured after Pete wrote that. We will see how your boy does today.

Wish him luck.

 

[OldSchool101]

One is from June 11th, and is obviously not about training camp or the preseason games, since it was before they happened.

And Pete Dougherty is basically talking about the August 5th practice, and saying the preseason games will be crucial for Hardman to show he can make a positive contribution to this team on special teams. He has not done that in the 2 preseason games that occured after Pete wrote that. We will see how your boy does today.

Wish him luck.

Wish him luck. Wish you luck.

Just to let make you aware. You’ve been blocked and reported. You’re the 3rd person in 11 years to be blocked so you’re in rare category. If your intimidation is allowed on this site?
Then I’ll willingly be the first to leave.

This forum is too good to allow your kind here.

 

[Deleted member 18607 aka in gute we trust]

For some reason, OS is a die-hard Hardman fanboy. I've asked him what Hardman has done in camp, aside from being completely average. No answer. You actually attended practices and are a much better source on what Hardman has (or hasn't) done. Finally, Hardman's stats as a returner for the Chiefs are pedestrian.

And as you experienced, OS has a bad habit of running on and attributing remarks to a commenter that are lies or distortions.

As for Hardman, the only reason I'd be ok with him is to keep Reed and Nixon away from kick returns. But as you note, Hardman has done nothing in camp to suggest he's a reliable returner, and he would contribute next to nothing as a WR.

I think you're right on the 6 WRs who make the 53 - Doubs, Golden, Reed, Wicks, Heath, and Savion Williams.

I wonder if Melton could be the returner, at least on punts. With the new kickoff rules expected to increase kicks returned, Nixon may be the best choice, risks and all.

Yeah, something seems off with "OS.". Now he is very upset I am not a person that allows people to spin my words or attempt to put words in my mouth. Not one to try those games with.

I am not sure they want Bo Melton returning kicks, as he has other very important duties on special teams as a gunner. I think they also don't want to put too much more on his plate, as he already is busy learning a new position at CB.

 

[Zartan]

Enough of the threatening comments please.

Also locking this thread to prevent more back and forth under a thread that isn't needed to be open anymore.