Packers get the news they were hoping for as standout defender returns right before important Panthers game

Linebacker Quay Walker and kicker Brandon McManus are both active in Week 9.

Wendell Ferreira — NFL News Writer
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Oct 19, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker Quay Walker (7) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium.
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The Green Bay Packers will have their starting middle linebacker against the Carolina Panthers. Despite suffering a calf injury during the week, Quay Walker is officially active and will play on Sunday at Lambeau Field.

Walker wasn’t even listed on Wednesday’s injury report, but popped up on it on Thursday and did not practice with his calf issue. The positive indication came at first on Friday, when Walker was able to practice on a limited basis.

On Saturday, the Packers did promote Kristian Welch from the practice squad, but that was more of a special teams move with Nick Niemann being placed on IR with a pec injury. The linebacker room also has Edgerrin Cooper, Isaiah McDuffie, and Ty’Ron Hopper.

Packers inactives

  • WR Dontayvion Wicks
  • K Lucas Havrisik
  • C Jacob Monk
  • G Donovan Jennings
  • EDGE Lukas Van Ness
  • DT Warren Brinson

Brandon McManus is active as well

Once again, kicker Brandon McManus is active despite being listed as questionable to play — and hopefully for the Packers, the results will be better than they were last week against the Pittsburgh Steelers. McManus was limited on Wednesday, but participated on a full basis on Thursday and Friday, a clear indication that he would be available.

Because of that, backup kicker Lucas Havrisik, who played against the Cincinnati Bengals and Arizona Cardinals, will be inactive once again.

Last week, McManus missed two field goals after returning from two missed games. In his two opportunities, Havrisik converted all of his 10 kicks — including the longest field goal in Green Bay Packers history. 

On Friday, the Packers had already ruled out edge defender Lukas Van Ness (foot), wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks (calf), and linebacker/special teamer Nick Niemann (pectoral).

This article was originally published on A to Z Sports Green Bay, as “Packers get the news they were hoping for as standout defender returns right before important Panthers showdown.”

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