McCarthy: We have a lot of work to do
Green Bay Packers coach Mike McCarthy spoke with media after Tuesday afternoon’s organized team activities, the first open practice of the 2016 season. Here are some highlights of the conversation.
On first impressions: Well, second impression, we practiced yesterday and today, frankly we look like a team that took the field for the second time. I think the positives of our football team, the conditioning, the strength levels, we reflect like a team that’s come off five weeks of the strength and conditioning program. I think we’re very in shape, athletic. Those are the big things. I’d say we’re a little ahead of years past in terms of what we’ve been able to install. So those are the goods things, but not all the things are there. We have a lot of work to do.
On Eddie Lacy: I think he’s like a lot of our team. We have a lot of work to do, and he’s been here the whole time. We have six more installs.
On Eddie Lacy’s weight target: Every player has a body composition, so that’s what we’ve focused on. All the things that go into that, that’s an everyday focus and evaluation.
More on Eddie Lacy’s conditioning: Yeah. So far, so good. Eddie will be fine. He’ll hit the target we’re all looking for.
On Jared Cook first impressions: Jared looks good. Big target, very athletic. Any time when you’re just purely throwing the football, it’s good to have big targets like him. He’s been what we thought he would be, a good addition.
On Jordy Nelson easing back into things: He’s sticking to the plan. You have to be smart at these times and make sure you’re going about it the right way.
On Jordy Nelson workload in OTAs: Can’t really answer that question. I know this week, we’re going to stick to the individual.
On turnover with roster: Definitely. It happens every year. I think it’s very obvious with our team. Our team is 20 percent rookies every year. It’s definitely different to see Aaron interacting with new faces.
On John Kuhn’s status with Packers: Player acquisition is year-round, so I would never say doors are closed on any of our players, especially with John Kuhn. I think we’re still focused on the players we have right now. As far as John and his future, those are probably questions for other people.
On Datone Jones at OLB: Datone Jones playing the elephant, I think it’s a position that reflects the way you have to use him. It’s an ability to play a 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 technique. Datone was very productive with his opportunities last year. He’s kind of found his niche here. I think it’s the right position for him.
On Clinton-Dix: I think Ha Ha Clinton-Dix is one of the finest safeties in the NFL. He and Morgan Burnett. I’m real excited about our secondary, including our corners. Excellent young player.
On Julius Peppers: Julius Peppers is ageless. I agree with that. He’s just an impressive athlete, the way he keeps himself in great shape. His path through OTAs will be similar to last year.