The Green Bay Packers think rookie RB James Starks may have the athletic ability to force his way onto the field at times this year, reports Pete Dougherty, of The Green Bay Press-Gazette. Running backs coach Edgar Bennett said Starks is explosive, has a good change of direction and good hands coming out of the backfield. How he handles pass protection may go a long way into his playing time. The team is also looking at him as a possible long-term replacement for RB Ryan Grant, who has two years remaining on his contract.
Mancini’s Take: Grant is a serviceable back, but the Pack needs some sizzle. Backup Brandon Jackson is just average. Yeah, he picks up the blitz well, but he has never developed into a dynamic change-of-pace option that’s a big play threat. The 6-2 Starks is long and lean, and doesn’t really look like a running back, but