A.J.

Hawk

He’s reportedly been less impressive than fellow rookie Abdul Hodge. Hawk’s biggest problem is just learning the coverage schemes, which will come in time.

Like every Ohio State player, Hawk was prevented from practicing with his NFL team until the school held it’s graduation. Hawk worked with the first unit right off the bat.

“If he would’ve landed at the No. 5 pick, I’d still be dancing in the streets of Green Bay,” McKenzie said. Implicit in his praise for Williams is that AJ Hawk, the player the Packers did select, isn’t that type of player.

Asked if Hawk would be returning, coach Mike McCarthy replied, “A.J.? I have no reason to think he wouldn’t be.” Hawk reportedly drew derisive whispers from teammates after what was arguably the worst season of his career, and McCarthy suggested that 2011 sixth-rounder D.J. Smith will “push” for a starting job this season. Hawk’s salary may be revisited in August.

We’d say this was an upgrade for the Giants’ running game if the Giants had a running game. They don’t. The Packers are expected to start rookie D.J. Smith and practice squad type Robert Francois in Sunday’s game versus New York.

Signed to a new five-year, $33.8 million deal last March as Nick Barnett was allowed to walk, Hawk tallied just 84 tackles and 1.5 sacks while failing to force a turnover in 14 games this season. He graded out as Pro Football Focus’ 35th best 3-4 inside linebacker. A favorite of GM Ted Thompson, Hawk is unlikely to be released despite his 2012 base salary of $4.4 million.

Both players missed the entirety of the second half. Bishop’s injury is considered the more serious of the two. He was sporting crutches after the game and will head for an MRI on Monday. Rookie D.J. Smith replaced Bishop while Rob Francois filled in for Hawk.

The Packers have lost both their starting inside linebackers to calf injuries in this game. Robert Francois replaced Hawk and promptly picked off Matthew Stafford.

Although Smith impressed as an impact run defender in Weeks 12-15 last season, the 2011 sixth-rounder expects Robert Francois to back up “buck” ILB Hawk while he plays behind “mack” ILB Desmond Bishop. “It’s still a middle linebacker, but one position (Hawk’s) has more responsibility than the other,” said Smith. DC Dom Capers is confident, however, that Smith can play either position if needed.

Hawk was soft against the run and didn’t make his usual impact in coverage last season, but apparently still maintains an edge over 2011 sixth-rounder D.J. Smith, who played well down the stretch. Hawk’s $4.4 million salary could have something to do with that, though it’s possible he’ll be asked to take a pay-cut.