Don't blame Capers for the defenses struggles

It was a disappointing season for the Green Bay Packers as they just barely made the playoffs with an 8-7-1 record, and fell in their first round matchup against the San Francisco 49ers.  Although many fans might place the blame all on Dom Capers, he does not deserve all of it.

While the Packers defense ranked 25th in the NFL, allowing 372.3 yards and 26.8 points per game, the struggles of the defense go beyond coaching.

First the defense suffered an immense amount of injuries, as at times it seemed like almost every player was on the injury report at some point throughout the season.  Casey Hayward, who was regarded entering the season as a top-10 cornerback in the NFL, was limited to only three games with hamstring injuries.

Clay Matthews had to also deal with injuries missing five games this season after receiving a massive contract extension to be the playmaker on defense.

Another problem the Packers' defense had was players struggling to make plays.  It was a common site to see players, especially the secondary, getting burned on a regular basis.  Although Capers job is to make sure the defensive players are prepared for the game, he cannot be out their playing for them, and making sure they do everything correct.

Sure the defense struggled this season, but in five years with Capers at the helm, it has been ranked 15th in total defense in the NFL.  The Packers need to add players this offseason to the defense who can make a positive contribution, but firing their defensive coordinator is not the answer.

What Should the Green Bay Packers Do With Johnny Jolly?

Troubled Green Bay Packers' defensive linemen Johnny Jolly has been reinstated by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.  Johnny Jolly has been suspended indefinitely by the NFL since 2010 for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy.  When he was suspended in 2010, the Packers had tendered Jolly, a restricted free agent, with a one-year $2.521 million.  His salary will remain the same this season, and the Packers have to decide if they want to bring him back at $2.521 million or restructure his contract.  The Packers also have the option of just releasing him.  

Jolly was with the Packers for four seasons before he was suspended, and he started 39 of 48 games that he played in.  In 2009, the first season of Dom Capers' defense, he was disruptive at defensive end and tackle, with a sack, interception and two fumble recoveries.

The Packers have a need for defensive linemen this offseason, and Jolly would be a great fit for the Packers if they can restructure his contract, and if he is in decent shape.  The Packers should restructure his contract, so it would pay him the league minimum salary with incentives that would pay him up to $3 million.  This would be a great deal for the Packers because he is a veteran, who has experience, and if it does not work out, they would hardly lose any money.