The Green Bay Packers opened OTA workouts this week and the media had access for the first time on Wednesday. Here's an update as to what's happening with the Packers.
Defensive tackle Justin Harrell isn't practicing again, after missing time last spring and summer with injuries. This time, Harrell hurt his back lifting weights and underwent minor back surgery. He's watching from the sidelines as the Packers are being cautious. Mike McCarthy said he anticipates Harrell to be back and ready to go by training camp.
Running back Ryan Grant is without a contract and isn't participating in workouts. Grant hasn't signed his exclusive rights tender and is instead hoping to get a long term deal from the Packers. He has little or no leverage and his hoping based on last years performance, that the Packers will give him a long term deal.
Allen Barbre is rotating with Daryn Colledge at left guard as the Packers look for the best man to be their starter. Colledge has faced several challenges in the past and even lost his starting job for a short time. But he started all but 3-games last season and looks to fend off all challengers once again.
Despite originally saying yesterday's workout would be held outdoors and be open to the public, the Packers took their workout inside the Don Hudson Center and Packers coach Mike McCarthy said they'll stay there for the rest of the offseason practices and the June mandatory minicamp.
McCarthy said a consistent practice environment and the condition of the practice fields is the reason for staying inside.
Veteran corners Charles Woodson and Al Harris were both absent from workouts so far this week and aren't expected to make much of the OTA's, prior to the June mandatory minicamp.
