The Green Bay Packers didn't have to wait too long for A.J. Hawk to sign on after training camp started. The Packers signed Hawk to a six-year deal on Saturday, and reports say the deal may be worth $37.5 million. The Packers were in need of a strong linebacker after a relatively poor showing last season.

"I'm really excited to get it done, just because it seemed like they said they were 'close' forever and it just took a little longer than expected to get the language worked out and to get all the lawyer stuff that they need to after they agreed on the terms," said Hawk.

At 6-foot-1 and 248 pounds coming out of Ohio State, many feel that Hawk was the best defensive player in the draft, even beyond Mario Williams, the first overall pick. Hawk will become a starter right away for the Packers. Hawk was considered the best linebacker and defensive player in the draft. He was the staple for OSU's defense throughout his college career, making a name for himself as a player who is always on top of the football. He could have entered the draft last year and gone in the first round, but now he'll be drafted even higher after another outstanding season.

When you're a linebacker that's gifted with tremendous physical ability, you will do well in the NFL. However, it's rare that you have a linebacker with that ability plus the natural instincts to attack the football. On almost every single play, it would seem like Hawk would be involved. When a running back gets to the football, he is able to chase him down behind the line of scrimmage numerous times in a game. He knows how to tackle, and he takes down players hard. The only negative to Hawk's aggresive nature is that he will sometimes overrun the ball carrier once they make a quick change of direction. Although this could be a problem in the NFL, it is something that can be worked on through his intelligence and willingness to give it his all on every single play.

"I just want to come in and try to have an impact somehow, somewhere on the field," Hawk said. "Wherever that is, I don't know. Whether that could be playing the (weak side) or playing special teams, whatever it is, I want to come out and just show the coaches and the team that I'm going to come out and play hard just like I did in college. I just want to help the team however I can."

Hawk's college teammate, Bobby Carpenter, just signed with the Dallas Cowboys yesterday.