How much gas does Chad Clifton have in the tank?

Being the General Manager of a professional sports team involves making cold cut-throat decisions based on what’s best for the future.  The GM’s that make decisions with their heart don’t stay employed for long.  What a player did for you should never outweigh what you think they’ll do in the future.  Packers general manager Ted Thompson’s track record shows sentimental moves aren’t part of his plan.  Left tackle Chad Clifton’s contract expires after the 2009 season.  Based off what you’ve seen this season what would you do? 

Clifton has been a starter since his rookie season of 2000.  He missed time in 2002 after suffering a hip injury on a cheap shot by Warren Sapp.  From 2003-2008 he missed only 2 games, one in each 2006 and 2008.  His 2007 campaign merited a Pro-Bowl selection.  All that football started to take its toll as he had multiple surgeries this past offseason on his knee and shoulders.  It looks like he lost his punching power against defensive ends this season.  His mobility is a concern as speed rushers have also given “Big Cliff” fits this year.  His body has broken down this season with ankle and hamstring problems.  Clifton’s knowledge of the game makes him a valuable commodity, but the body doesn’t seem capable.   

Daryn Colledge has proven without a shadow of a doubt that he isn’t a starting caliber left tackle.  T.J. Lang has held his own when given the opportunity to protect Aaron Rodgers blind-side.  Maybe this is a just a bad year for Clifton, but at age 33 I don’t see his career on an upward trend.  How much he can contribute the rest of this season remains to be seen.  Maybe this year was just a fluke and he still has some good football left.  Clifton’s six year deal signed in 2004 is up after this season.  Ted Thompson will have to ask himself would I rather let go of a player a year early, than a year too late?

Tags: Chad Clifton, Packers