The Green Bay Packers re-signed running back James Starks to a two-year deal worth a little over $3 million earlier this week. In the process, they made something pretty clear — Starks is the man.
The man behind Eddie Lacy, anyway.
Lacy is obviously the clear-cut No. 1 back for the Packers after racking up more than 1,200 yards during his rookie season. Starks had his best statistical season as a pro in 2013, rushing for 493 yards while averaging a gaudy 5.5 yards per carry.
And why wouldn’t you want a guy like that as your No. 2 back?
Well, because you don’t need him. We were sure the Packers would let Starks sign elsewhere in free agency. We were also sure Starks would want to go somewhere where he had the chance to get more carries, if not start.
Maybe that opportunity never presented itself for Starks. But for the Packers, running back is one of their deepest positions with or without Starks.
The Packers have 2013 fourth-round pick Johnathan Franklin and former starter DuJuan Harris waiting in the wings. They could have saved some money instead of paying Starks and been just fine.
Now, those other two guys have to wonder when or if they’re going to get a shot. The pecking order has been set — Lacy, Starks, everyone else.
Our bet is one or both of those guys are going to end up getting their shot on another club.
Franklin will be our kick returner. Anyone know if he can do punts too? I look at Eric Weems and think he’s an improvement over everyone we’ve got (except Cobb).
And only a year ago, to the day, Packers fans and haters were sure we had a run game that was doomed. Now its the best in the league.
“In Ted Thompson we trust, ho.”
And with equal credit due MiMac:
“We are going to run the football. Write it down.”
Then Ted pulled the gun out of his back.
I liked what wesaw of Harris in 2012 and think he is the better all-around back after Lacey. He has shown power, elusiveness, catchs well, and can take it to the house with a small mistake by the defense. Guesst hat all depends with his leg injury. Franklin looked good, but fumbles, and looks timid on KOs.
Franklin’s next job? Taking the WASHOUT.
I don’t think the Packers will be apologizing for having a stacked backfield. Lets enjoy that while we can.
also – remember those nasty hamies
Put yer money where your mouth is…
A concussion is waiting to happen on every play for RBs. You need to have at least three that can tote it.
Franklin and Harris can both fit the role of the 3rd down/scat back, and therefore can serve a role even if they don’t start.
Starks showed last season that he excels in the platoon role.
RBs in this CBA are completely screwed. Its pretty amazing that a guy who averaged 5.5 yards per carry last season, and is still on this side of 30, can’t get a decent contract.
You need a balanced offense even with a great QB. Ted is brilliant. Where did he find Harris? Selling used cars. He got Starks from nowhere for almost nothing. And they are now both seasoned power runners whatever their faults. This is the first time in years I’ve felt good about the depth of our running game. It needs to be kept credible if we’re to get our money’s worth from Aaron. Neither Harris nor Starks cost much against the cap. So it’s time to trade up—or down as the case might be—in the draft.