[Packers] Packers LB A.J. Hawk Dealing With His Diminished Role

Packers linebacker A.J. Hawk has spent more time on the sideline during the last two games, including being in just nine plays during last Sunday's shutout win over Detroit. "It's obviously not my ideal situation of what I'd want to be doing," said Hawk, who was pegged to be a cornerstone of the Green Bay defense when the team selected him with the No. 5 overall pick in the 2006 draft. Hawk has started every game since he broke into the league, but the coaches are using an abundance of depth at linebacker in Dom Capers' new 3-4 defensive scheme and Brandon Chillar has replaced Hawk as an inside linebacker when the Packers have employed their nickel package. "Regardless of how many reps I'm getting right now, I still want to be here," Hawk said. "I'd much rather not be playing as much as I'd like on a winning team and a solid organization than starting and going 2-14. I'm not satisfied with the way I've played. The last couple weeks, I haven't really gotten a whole lot of reps in the games, but I've got to make those count."

Source: Associated Press