Packers Place Coston On I.R.

Well the bye week isn't going to help Junius Coston recover from an injury to his calf suffered in last week's win against the Detroit Lions. The loss of Coston for the rest of the season is a serious set back to the Green Bay offensive line. Although Coston is only in his third year with Packers, and has only started seven games this season, the loss of Coston this late in the season is a devastating blow. The offensive line is a frequently overlooked aspect of every football team, nevertheless they are the most critical unit on every team. Without a solid offensive line you will be unable to stop the pass rush or get a good push to open holes for running backs. Offensive lineman Daryn Colledge will take Coston's position at left guard. Junius Coston and Colledge had been competing in practice and rotating during games since the Dallas contest, but after the injury suffered against Detroit Coston will be out for the remainder of the season.

With a pocket passer like Brett Favre the loss of an offensive lineman this late in the season may upset the chemistry which the team has struggled to develop all season. The Packers signed Orrin Thompson from the practice squad to fill the open roster spot created by Coston going on the IR.

Daryn Colledge will have large shoes to fill as the team which Green Bay faces off against next week in the NFC Divisional Playoffs. Whichever team is unfortunate enough to travel to Lambeau will seek to exploit the addition of Colledge to the line. There is no doubt the opposing defensive coordinator will single out Colledge, attacking him with stunts and blitzes that will no doubt lead to sacks.

We are entering a new era in the NFL where offensive linemen are becoming more respected and valued, (look no further than Steve Hutchinson's $49 Million Dollar Contract) as people now realize that skill players are useless if the pocket collapses before the quarterback has the opportunity to take a three step drop, or hand the ball off. The free agency market will see another unprecedented contract as Alan Faneca of the Steelers will test of the waters. Hopefully the loss of Junius Coston will be offset by Brett Favre's experience.