The Facts: Following up on the ongoing story. ... Listening to HC Mike McCarthy speak Friday afternoon at the NFL Scouting Combine, it’s almost impossible to imagine the Packers releasing Finley in an effort to save themselves from the $8.25 million they owe him in 2013. Finley is due a $3 million roster bonus next month, and while general manager Ted Thompson was typically coy – “I expect all of our guys to be on the team,” the GM said when asked about Finley – McCarthy spoke as if it’s a no-brainer that Finley will return.

Diehards Line:Finley caught a franchise tight end-record 61 passes and didn’t drop a single pass over the final six games (including playoffs) after dropping nine passes in his first 12. After missing three games in 2009 and seeing his 2010 season end in Week 5, Finley also played in every game for the second straight year. “I thought he played much better with the ball in his hand after the catch. I think it was clearly his best year, particularly on the 2-yard drag routes and things like that. I was very pleased with the way Jermichael played there in the second half and he improved a number of different areas of his game. ..." With Greg Jennings expected to depart in free agency, McCarthy spoke as if the attention Finley draws from opposing defenses is too valuable to lose. “When you look at Jermichael and you go on the other side of the ball or you talk to any of the defensive guys that played against him, he’s a matchup challenge for defenses,” McCarthy said. “I think his best routes are when we’re attacking the middle of the field with him. I think he’s unique that way. Big target, excellent in the red zone. ..." All true. And after disappointing Fantasy owners who bit on him early last summer, Finley could be a nice value play this time around.