Packers make a shocking offensive line decision before huge NFC North showdown against the Lions
Aaron Banks is back from injury, so the Packers made veteran Kevin Zeitler a healthy scratch for Week 7.
The Green Bay Packers are not ready to play Kevin Zeitler at all, and they let it clear by making him a healthy scratch against the Detroit Lions on Sunday in Week 7. Left guard Aaron Banks is back, so the Packers decided to inactivate Zeitler, Donovan Jennings, and rookie Jager Burton along the offensive line.
The other inactives are cornerback Benjamin St-Juste and linebacker Zaire Franklin, both injured, and running back Kaleb Johnson.
Aaron Banks is back from knee and toe injuries
Left guard Aaron Banks is finally back. After missing five and a half of the first six games this season because of knee and toe injury, the veteran offensive lineman is officially active. Head coach Matt LaFleur had already mentioned that Banks was progressing well in his recovery, even though his ability to stay healthy has been a major issue throughout his NFL career.
The question now is if Banks will start or not. Veteran Laken Tomlinson started the past four games at the left guard spot, and has been solid especially in run blocking. The fact is that Kevin Zeitler won’t be the option at right guard.
More questionable players who are active
If the Packers are without Skyy Moore, on injured reserve with an ankle injury, at least fellow depth receiver and special teams ace Bo Melton will play. Melton hadn’t practiced on Wednesday and Thursday with a back injury, but he returned to practice on a limited basis on Friday, giving a positive indication that he would play against Detroit. Melton and rookie J. Michael Sturdivant have been the primary kickoff returners in Moore’s absence.
As expected, defensive tackle Jordon Riley is also active. He started the season on the physically unable to perform list (PUP) after suffering an Achilles rupture late last year, but was activated from PUP on Saturday. He was listed as questionable, but the activation was already a strong indication that he would play on Sunday.
Depth problems on defense
Depth at cornerback will once again be a concern for the Packers. Backup Benjamin St-Juste is officially inactive and will miss his second consecutive game with a hamstring injury. St-Juste was limited at practice throughout the week and is not ready yet.
Without St-Juste, the Packers’ options at cornerback are Keisean Nixon, Brandon Cisse, Carrington Valentine, and Kamal Hadden. Javon Bullard also helps as a starting nickelback.
Other side
