Packers get three important offensive players back at practice
It's been a busy Wednesday in Green Bay with the Jaire Alexander suspension, but not everything is bad news. At practice, three important offensive players were back. It’s an ideal moment to have them, with the Packers set to face the Minnesota Vikings in a major game for the NFC playoff picture. Rookie wide receiver […]
It's been a busy Wednesday in Green Bay with the Jaire Alexander suspension, but not everything is bad news. At practice, three important offensive players were back. It’s an ideal moment to have them, with the Packers set to face the Minnesota Vikings in a major game for the NFC playoff picture.
Rookie wide receiver Jayden Reed, who missed the Carolina Panthers game last Sunday because of a toe injury, returned to activities — he's also handling a chest injury for a few weeks. Fellow rookie receiver Dontayvion Wicks, who left the Panthers game early with a chest injury, was also at practice.
Another piece of positive news was regarding tight end Luke Musgrave. The rookie had been designated to return from injured reserve last week, but this was his first practice back with the team since he lacerated his kidney during the Los Angeles Chargers game on November 19.
Now, the Packers have an open roster spot with Alexander suspended for a week, and that spot can be used to activate Musgrave if needed.
Not so great
On the other hand, wide receiver Christian Watson hasn't come back yet. He's already missed three games since he suffered a hamstring injury against the Kansas City Chiefs. He wasn't placed on injured reserve with the expectation that he could miss fewer than four games, but it's not trending in that direction.
Off-ball linebacker De'Vondre Campbell, who missed last game with a neck injury, and guard Elgton Jenkins didn't practice either. The offensive lineman has handled a shoulder injury, and the Packers have been cautious with him — last week, for instance, he didn't practice on Wednesday and was limited on Thursday and Friday.
Game of the season
This is the Packers most important game of 2023. Right now, they have a 28% chance of making the playoffs. It goes up to 60% with a win, and down to 1% with a loss. The Minnesota Vikings are also in the NFC wild card race.
The Vikings will not have quarterback Kirk Cousins and tight end TJ Hockenson, both out for season with major injuries. Rookie Jordan Addison might not play either — he left the Detroit Lions game early with an ankle issue.
What the Packers need to make the playoffs
Check out the playoff picture after week 16
