The BJ Raji story just gets more interesting the deeper it goes. Earlier today, it seemed like a simple retirement story…now we find that BJ has the team’s best in mind. I have a lot of respect for a guy who turned down an offer sheet because he was not sure his heart was 100% into the game any more. So many players would take the check and play as hard as they felt like, but that does a disservice to the team.
I remember when BJ Raji was drafted, it was almost a necessity pick with a relatively new 3-4 defensive scheme and not quite the “right” line for it. Raji was a big, low beast who could take up two blockers and free the linebackers to do their job.
While Raji didn’t turn out to be a perennial pro-bowler or anything, he was responsible for some really sweet Packer plays, on offense as well as defense.
Now, the team turns to the draft and once again needs to seriously consider picking up another prototypical 3-4 nose. This draft is deep in defensive linemen and I wouldn’t at all be surprised if that is where our first round pick goes.
Regardless, the Packers look like a team that is in need of some re-tooling. We still have no answer at inside linebacker, and didn’t pick up a field-stretching tight end via free agency either. With Raji’s hiatus, we now have yet another need.
This is a team and coaching staff that has fought through injuries and absences/holes before. We can still get it done. I can’t wait until the draft roles around and we get a chance to welcome in some new blood.
In the meantime, “Thanks BJ” I always like ya…and not just because we share the same initials”.
Go Pack!
Best wishes, Mr. Raji.
Respect to B.J. But he should have said something much earlier so we could have looked to replace him through free agency. But with Thompson nothing ever gets done in free agency. Wake up Packers get someone to replace Thompson.
What do,I do with my jersey?
Wear it PROUDLY & with RESPECT!
How is this any different from the article anout him retiring? How did that story get any more interesting?
I love BJ Raji, I will miss him, and continue to wear his jersey…..for years to come!!!!