An extension of my not so tounge-in-cheek critique of the LB’s (extension of the D-Line review). From the end of last season to the beginning of training camp, something went terribly wrong with the LB’s.

Linebackers

Hawk – Started the year outside and now in the middle. I was one who thought he should be in the middle regardless of Barnett’’s status. So, far he has not performed anywhere near the level expected. Of course, neither did Barnett. AJ is 1. injured,, 2. Not an impact player, or 3. being miss managed by the coaches. Rating – Halfway between OK and Poor

Poppinga – Given a fat contract extension apparently the coaches thought he was a key to Linebacker play in 2008. His overall play has been poor. Using him as a rush lineman elicited more laughs than sacks. His coverage of Vonte Leach exemplified just how bad he plays his position. Rating – Poor

Havner – Who? If I have to go into the Packer Web Site to determine just what he has done, I must rate him accordingly. Rating – Stinks

Chillar – Has played sporadically. Has shown some potential, but has not been consistent enough to grade out at a higher level. Rating – Halfway between OK and Poor

Bishop – A monument to inconsistency! Has shown signs of almost brilliance and then counters it by blowing a game with a stupid mistake. He is responsible for two late game losses with errors. Rating – Poor (This could change with experience – he does show potential)

Lansanah – Occupying a slot because someone showed interest him while on practice squad. If he is that important why in the hell can’t they figure out how to get him in the line-up. It ain’t like they’ve got four All-Pros playing ahead of him. Rating – Stinks

Let’s remember when Barnett left the lineup; his level of play was in the Poor to Stink range. The Packers went into the year with a group of LB’s that were considered a strength of the team. Right now they have to be considered a glaring weakness. Based on last year’s performance, the coaching staff has got to be called on to answer for the performance levels. Just what caused the precipitous decline in performance at these critical positions.