Come To Wisconsin, See Our (Possibly) Fat Running Back

A new Wisconsin Tourism spot starring native Kansan Jordy Nelson spoofs the Wizard of Oz and promotes the state’s lovely fall colors besides green and gold.

Nelson might need a bigger role on the field for the Packers this season if Randall Cobb can’t cure the dropsies that plagued him last year and are once again in camp. It’s seemingly the only thing that can take the shine off last year’s rookie star.

You can’t say the same for 2013’s touted offensive rookie, running back Eddie Lacy. It’s got nothing to do with his play, though, and everything to do with his controversial girth, which may or may not be inappropriate for a man paid to carry the ball in the National Football League.

There’s no such angst over the Packers’ most watched defensive rookie, first-round pick Datone Jones. The defensive tackle/end is wowing teammates with his athleticism and potential through the first few days of full-pad work in camp.

In a very key position battle, kicker Mason Crosby and challenger Giorigo Tavecchio are even in accuracy, with Crosby showing more leg strength.

In a much less key position battle, BJ Coleman is being giving every chance to beat out Graham Harrell for the backup quarterback job.

All will be on display Saturday at Family Night. The first preseason game is at home against Arizona on Aug. 9. Tickets on the official Packers ticket resell site start at $74.

In non-playing Packers news, Ted Thompson gushed about Brett Favre and said he was eager to see the quarterback’s number retired. Greg Jennings sort of gushed about Aaron Rodgers, or at least just said he’s been kidding for the last month.