Packers May Have Stolen One In Adrian Hubbard

Alabama linebacker, Adrian Hubbard was told he could be picked between the 2^nd and 4^th rounds in the recent NFL Draft.  Instead, he was picked up by the Green Bay Packers as an undrafted free agent.  Hearing all those names and endlessly waiting must’ve been demoralizing for the two-time National Champion.  Nevertheless, he’ll start his NFL career with a chip on his shoulder.

And it’s not where you start, but where you finish.

The 6’6, 257 pound edge rusher is an obvious standout physically.  His 34 ½ inch arm length is the longest of any outside linebacker at the combine.  Hubbard can bull rush and beat tackles around the corner.  It’ll be exciting to see his growth fully applying his length and athleticism.

The Packers missed out on Alabama’s highest rated linebacker C.J. Mosley, but Hubbard is the next best thing from the Crimson Tide and came cheap as an undrafted free agent.  Still recognizing his talent, Hubbard is one of four undrafted players to earn the Packer’s highest signing bonus this year: $5,000.  The rest, he’ll have to earn.

Anything’s possible.  Remember Sam Shields.  Shields is a perfect example going from the league minimum as an undrafted free agent to recently signing one of the biggest contracts for a cornerback in the entire league.

But the question still lingers, if he’s so talented, why did Adrian Hubbard fall so far as to not even getting drafted?  Some speculate it could have to do with a minor heart abnormality that occurred at the combine causing him to not participate in every drill.  Others believe there is a concern of consistency.

Frankly, I can’t see that making sense from a Nick Saban coached player.  Maybe going undrafted humbled him.

But whatever scared off 31 teams doesn’t matter anymore.

Even if there is an incident where the coaching staff doubts Hubbard is playing hard every down, he’ll be pushed.  The good news is that he’s sharing a locker room with former teammates.  Eddie Lacy, reigning Rookie of the Year, and first round selection, Ha Ha Clinton-Dix will be sure to have Hubbard’s back.