The Green Bay Packers kick off their 2017 “mandatory” minicamp on Tuesday at Clarke Hinkle Field. They’re set to practice Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, with all three practices being open to the public.(And the media.)

But as it turns out — much like last year — the minicamp won’t be mandatory for the veterans. Head coach Mike McCarthy told ESPN Wisconsin that players with six or more years of NFL experience will not be required to show up for the three sessions.

Last year, 15 veterans were excused. This year, 16 veterans have five or more seasons of NFL experience.

On the bright side, we’ll get to see the Packers’ first draft pick (Kevin King) for the first time since Rookie Orientation. King has been away from the team since Rookie Orientation because of the combination of 1) the academic calendar at the University of Washington, and 2) an archaic rule in the NFL which prevents players from, you know, joining their employer.

So if you’re planning on watching practice this week, maybe leave the Aaron Rodgers jersey at home, and throw on the Joe Callahan replica instead.

We’ll discuss this (and more) on SportsLine (4-6) on Sports Radio 107.5 & 1400 The Fan. (Stream the show online at TheFan1075.com)