Green Bay adopts cautious approach
The Green Bay Packers are taking a wait-and-see approach with several key players as they prepare for Saturday’s NFC North matchup against the Chicago Bears. While linebacker Micah Parsons was officially placed on injured reserve on Wednesday, the team remains hopeful that other contributors could return in some capacity.
Wide receivers Christian Watson and Dontayvion Wicks, along with defensive lineman Lukas Van Ness, returned to practice on a limited basis after being listed as non-participants during Tuesday’s walkthrough. Their availability remains uncertain but their return to the field offered encouragement for the coaching staff.
Christian Watson provides optimism
Watson’s presence at practice was a notable development after he suffered a hard fall on his chest and shoulder during Sunday’s loss to Denver. The fourth-year receiver was taken to a local hospital for evaluation due to concerns about possible rib injuries.
Watson was cleared to travel home with the team and said he is pushing to play against Chicago. He noted that he avoided a more serious injury and is improving daily, emphasizing that this point in the season often requires players to push through discomfort.
Key starters remain day to day
Running back Josh Jacobs, safety Evan Williams and right tackle Zach Tom did not practice this week due to knee injuries and are being evaluated on a day-to-day basis. Their status for Saturday’s game will likely come down to late-week assessments.
Williams suffered a sprained medial collateral ligament during the Denver game and said he did not immediately realize the severity of Parsons’ injury until trainers surrounded him on the field. Zayne Anderson finished the game at free safety and could start if Williams is unable to play.
Offensive line and backfield concerns
At right tackle, Tom’s knee injury forced Darian Kinnard into action for the final 39 offensive snaps. Jordan Morgan is also a potential option if Tom cannot go. Tom said the injury is more about avoiding further damage than pain tolerance.
Jacobs continues to manage a knee issue but remains determined to contribute. Despite the injury, he recorded 92 total yards and two touchdowns against Denver. He reiterated that rest is the primary need, though that is difficult during the season.
Next man up mentality
With Parsons ruled out for the remainder of the season, the Packers are leaning on depth and team culture to carry them forward. Players emphasized the importance of stepping into larger roles as the division race tightens.
Saturday’s game carries major implications, with Chicago holding a narrow lead in the NFC North standings. Green Bay’s ability to overcome injuries could play a decisive role in shaping the outcome of the division.
