NFC North Watch: Packers Get Rings, Vikings Get Turf, Lions Get Backlash

In a story that continues to sicken me to my stomach yet is part of what passes for news these long, dark offseason days, the Packers got their rings and Charles Woodson's "one mind, one goal, one purpose, and one heart for one more game" speech made its way to the ring itself.

"They wanted big and they wanted bling," [Packers president Mark] Murphy said. "We were successful in that."

Now that they feel good about themselves, I'd like to remind them where they are right now: 0-0 and sitting at home, unable to sign free agents or even draft picks, just like the Bears.

Actually, one of their players is throwing the cold water on the team himself, as cornerback Josh Bell wants to know why he isn't getting a ring. Bell was injured in an intrasquad scrimmage on August 7th last year and placed on injured reserve three days later, yet wanted to rehab with the team.

Ndamukong Suh apparently hasn't shown up to seven straight player-only practices, and when he did show up on Friday, an NFL Network camera was behind him. Memo to Donkey Kong Suh, when you claim 16-0 is a possibility for a team that three years ago was 0-16, yes, the spotlight burns a little brighter. But side memo to Chris McCoskey, be fortunate you don't really know self-promotion.

Linebacker Keith Bulluck wants to play for a twelfth season and listed Detroit along with the Giants and New England as his preferences. He even said he "wants to win." Quick, name the last time you heard Detroit and that phrase near eachother. Exactly.

Over in Vikingland, in addition to a new garbage bag roof, the Metrodome may need to have its turf replaced. The recent exposure to the elements combined with heavy equipment really did a number. Officials believe it can be made playable again, but if not, the bidding process could push the cost of new turf up to $800K. It would be ready in time for the preseason. No word on whether or not the Vikings will be fixed by then as well.

I wonder what's in the Minnesota water. Adrian Peterson said he'd like the team to sign Plaxico Burress, and yesterday Percy Harvin said he wants to play with Plaxico. While Plaxico may be more affordable than Sidney Rice, part of me thinks that despite his belief his migraines are over, there might be something else wrong with Harvin's head.