Ryan Pickett Franchised, Long Term Future with the Pack In Doubt?

General Manger and Director of Football Operations, Ted Thompson yesterday confirmed that the Green Bay Packers used their franchise tag on nose tackle Ryan Pickett.

Pickett made it known to the Packer organisation that he would love to stay in the Green Bay area.

“Hopefully we can get something done because I love it here.'

'My oldest is 5, and she's in kindergarten. We've got a good feeling for the whole area. Moving is a big-time pain and right now everybody's comfortable. Hopefully, I can stay.”

The Packers have certainly met the short term need of the Pickett family; however the franchise tag, which earns him $7.003 million next season, only adds questions about his future in Green Bay.

Pickett just completed his ninth season in the NFL, fourth with the Packers. In 2009, he recorded 47 tackles (25 solo) with one pass deflection. Pickett’s numbers are by no means outstanding or flashy; however he was an integral part in the Packers obtaining the number one ranked run defence.  

Pickett’s value to the franchise was realised in the defeat to the Arizona Cardinals in the NFC wild card game. On average the Packers were giving up 83 rushing yards in 2009, however in the wild card shootout with the Cards, the Pack were carved up for 156 yards.

Green Bay used their first selection in the 2009 draft (ninth overall) on Boston College NT, B.J Raji. Raji showed glimpses of his potential; however missing time at training camp and early season injuries certainly hampered any further development.  He recorded 36 tackles (24 solo) and also recorded one sack.

The production of Raji next season will play a huge part in Pickett’s future with the Packers.

Raji is set to make $28 million over five years, $18 million of it guaranteed. The Packers next season will be paying Pickett $7.003 million, to inevitably share snaps with Raji.

In the long run the Packers are not going to give Pickett that big dollar contract. For Pickett to remain in Green Bay beyond 2010, he would have to take a pay cut.  If not he will probably get released and find a new franchise to call home.