Packers enter Week 18 Bears matchup short-handed due to several key injuries, but there's reason for optimism
The Green Bay Packers will play their starters against the Chicago Bears. Or at least those who are available, and that’s a key difference. The Packers have handled several injury issues late in the season, and it doesn’t make sense to overload these players in an almost meaningless game in Week 18. Therefore, the injury […]
The Green Bay Packers will play their starters against the Chicago Bears. Or at least those who are available, and that’s a key difference. The Packers have handled several injury issues late in the season, and it doesn’t make sense to overload these players in an almost meaningless game in Week 18. Therefore, the injury report for the Chicago Bears game is full of pieces who won’t play.
At least, wide receiver Christian Watson has a shot. He returned to practice on Friday, on a limited basis, and is officially listed as questionable because of a knee injury he suffered against the New Orleans Saints two weeks ago.
"He was limited. It was good, really. It was good getting him back out there, kind of get him back in the flow of things," head coach Matt LaFleur revealed. "It was encouraging. You gonna have to wait until gametime. It's up in the air."
Edge defender Brenton Cox Jr., who led the team with four pressures against the Minnesota Vikings, is also questionable because of a foot injury. Even though the door is open, Cox did not play all week.
Furthermore, five players have already been ruled out after missing practice the entire week: Safety Zayne Anderson (concussion), cornerback Jaire Alexander (knee), tackle Andre Dillard (concussion), linebacker Quay Walker (ankle), and safety Evan Williams (quadricep).
The situation is particularly problematic at safety. Without Williams and Anderson, Javon Bullard will have to move to deep safety alongside Xavier McKinney. The only other option on the active roster is rookie Kitan Oladapo, and rookie Omar Brown will probably get elevated or promoted from the practice squad.
The good
Meanwhile, running backs Josh Jacobs (wrist) and Chris Brooks (ankle), safety Javon Bullard (ankle), defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt (concussion), left guard Elgton Jenkins (rest), and tight end Tucker Kraft (rest) are off the injury report and are expected to play against the Bears.
Other side
Meanwhile, the Chicago Bears have ruled out safety Elijah Hicks (ankle/foot), running back Travis Homer (hamstring), and left guard Teven Jenkins (calf). The other players on the injury report, including tackle Larry Borom (illness), are off the injury report and good to go.
The coach who helped Aaron Rodgers get his last two MVP awards is back with the Packers
Luke Getsy was at practice ahead of the Bears game
