The Packer’s annual Family Night scrimmage is more than just a family-friendly night for fans.
For many young players, primarily rookies, Family Night is somewhat of an introduction to the NFL.
While it is mostly just a practice for most players, for the new players it is the first time running out of the tunnel and taking the field in front of 70,000 Green Bay fans.
Former Offensive Lineman for the Green Bay Packers Evan Smith explained on this week’s episode of the On the Line Podcast, “It’s one of those deals that really gives you the first experience of the energy of an NFL stadium when fans are there to watch you play. It’s different.”
Smith went on to say that in today’s NFL with new rules around practice schedules and one less preseason game, the young guys of the league have it the hardest.
The complexity of football and NFL playbooks take time and experience to pick up and this night allows them to get a preliminary look into what it’s like to play in Lambeau Field.
He also mentioned it to be a chance to prove what kind of player these newcomers will be.
“It’s a good thing because when the energy is turned up a little bit, you get to see if guys come out of their shell a little bit more or if they are going to go into it more,” Smith said. “When the lights turn on, are you a practice guy? Are you a gamer? Can you actually lock it in?”
Fans, coaches, and players will all be in attendance for this introduction to the NFL on August 3rd at Lambeau Field.
The full episode of the On The Line podcast with Evan Smith and Ryan Brahm can be found on SeehaferPodcasts.com.
