NFC North Notebook: Bostick receives death threats; Riddick expected to have expanded role
Every Friday, theScore's NFL editors will bring you a roundup of everything you need to know from around the division with the NFC North Notebook.
Green Bay Packers
Packers release Hawk. After nine seasons with the team, the Packers released inside linebacker A.J. Hawk on Wednesday. Hawk was drafted fifth overall in 2006 by the Packers.
Bostick says he received death threats. In a letter penned for the Monday Morning Quarterback, Brandon Bostick detailed how life changed immeasurably after botching an onside kick in the NFC Championship game.
Boykin could be gone. Jarrett Boykin may not be back with the Packers if the team decides not to offer him a restricted free agent tender. ESPN's Rob Demovsky breaks down Boykin's summer.
Detroit Lions
Lions to sign CFLer Hunt. One year after picking unheralded defensive linemen Darryl Tapp and George Johnson off the scrap heap, the Lions have agreed to sign defensive end Phillip Hunt and are hoping for similar results.
Riddick expected to step up with Bush gone. Third-year pro Theo Riddick is expected to make an even bigger impact in the passing game now that Reggie Bush has been released.
Kiper thinks Lions should pass on RB in first round. The draft guru Mel Kiper Jr. still thinks the Lions should look for an upgrade at the position, just not in the first round. Ameer Abdullah, T.J. Yeldon and Javorius Allen are all options.
Minnesota Vikings
Peterson reinstated by judge, NFL appealing decision. After lifting the suspension of Adrian Peterson at the behest of the NFLPA, the NFL said it has filed a notice of appeal.
Vikings mock draft roundup. Things generally change after the NFL Scouting Combine and mock drafts reflect that. This roundup shows who all of the draftniks have the Vikings taking 11th overall.
Analytics not part of Vikings' approach. ESPN released its analytics power rankings and the Vikings fell into the "skeptics" category. Most of this is due to head coach Mike Zimmer's rant about Pro Football Focus.
Chicago Bears
Forte concerned about trade rumors? Running back Matt Forte appeared dismayed on Twitter about rumors that the Bears are listening to trade offers for him. Don't read too much into it, though.
Wide receiver McBride sleeper option for Bears. In a class of strong receivers, the Bears could look to small-school prospect Tre McBride to bolster their unit. After a strong combine, teams are starting to notice him.
Bears lock up CB Hurst through 2016. The team decided to lock up nickelback Demontre Hurst after a solid showing in 2015. Hurst is excited to work with new head coach John Fox.