Driver 8-0

In the modern sports world, filled with free agency and trades, fans often have to root for the logo and the jersey and not the player. As a Packers fan, I have watched great players come (Reggie White, Keith Jackson, Andre Rison) and go (Antonio Freeman, Doug Evans, and Brett Favre). I have been fortunate to watch Donald Driver grow into one of the NFL’s toughest and most reliable receivers. Late last week, Driver signed a two year extension which virtually assures him that he will end his career wearing the green and gold of the Pack.

Driver had both knees cleaned up in the off season looks rejuvenated during training camp. He is cutting with quickness and speed and most importantly without pain. Driver is 35 years old and may never lead the Packers in yards and catches again (mostly because of the rise of Greg Jennings as the Pack’s number one receiver) but his value extends well beyond his stats. Driver was drafted by the Packers with the 213 overall pick (7th round) in 1999. Through his superior conditioning, tireless work ethic, and toughness he worked his way up the depth chart to being the Packers all-time leading receiver. His leadership on and off the field have helped to mold and shape younger members on the roster (note: he works extensively in the Green Bay and Houston communities and is a former winner of the Walter Payton “Man of the Year”). Yes, he is a leader and a mentor, but the Packers would not have extended his contract if he was not still effective (remember this is the Packers and Ted Thompson). Look for him this season on crucial 3rd downs; you can guarantee that Aaron Rodgers will.

I’ve always been a fan of Driver. I’ve never seen a receiver so willingly sacrifice his body over the middle to make catches (not the biggest receiver in the league at 6-0, 194 lbs). He is one of the smartest and toughest receivers in the league a guy who makes the difficult catch look easy. The media often holds Hines Ward up as the epitome of a tough receiver. Not to take anything away from Ward but I would take Driver and day of the week and obviously twice on Sunday.