The Green Bay Packers are dealing with numerous injuries ahead of their upcoming clash against the Denver Broncos. In total, the Packers have listed 10 players on their latest injury report. Inside linebacker De’Vondre Campbell is doubtful to play due to an ankle injury that has kept him out of the last two games. The remaining nine players are all listed as questionable.
Among the questionable players are running back Aaron Jones, cornerback Jaire Alexander, left guard Elgton Jenkins, inside linebacker Quay Walker, safety Darnell Savage Jr., defensive lineman Devonte Wyatt, cornerback Eric Stokes, offensive tackle Yosh Nijman, and safety Zayne Anderson. The team had hoped to get healthy during their bye week, but it seems injuries have persisted.
Head coach Matt LaFleur understands the challenges posed by the injuries and maintains a next-man-up mentality. He emphasized the need to prepare the next player in line so they can perform at their best. LaFleur expressed concern over Alexander’s status for the game, particularly given his importance to the defense. Alexander missed Weeks 3 and 4 due to a back injury but played all 64 defensive snaps against the Raiders in Week 5.
If Alexander is unable to play, rookie seventh-round pick Carrington Valentine is likely to take over his starting duties. Eric Stokes, the Packers’ 2021 first-round pick, may also be activated for the first time since his foot injury last November. However, it is expected that Stokes will be on a limited basis and primarily contribute on special teams and in dime packages.
Defensive coordinator Joe Barry’s unit may struggle without Alexander, who plays a crucial role in preventing opponents from reaching the end zone. Alexander’s absence could require the defense to raise its own standards to compensate for the team’s young offense, according to Alexander himself. However, cornerback Rasul Douglas disagreed with this notion, stating that the defense should focus on its own performance rather than concerning themselves with the offense.
The Packers will likely be without inside linebacker De’Vondre Campbell again, although he has not been placed on injured reserve. Campbell’s absence will give rookie Isaiah McDuffie another opportunity to showcase his skills. McDuffie has played 165 defensive snaps this season and has impressed the coaching staff with his play style and tenacity.
As for the other injured players, LaFleur believes Elgton Jenkins’ absence from practice is merely a precaution as he continues to recover from a sprained MCL. The Packers have until early next week to activate Stokes, who has been practicing since October 3, or else they must sideline him for the rest of the season.
In conclusion, the Packers face a challenging situation with multiple players listed on the injury report, including key contributors like De’Vondre Campbell and Jaire Alexander. The team will look to other players to step up and fill these roles as they prepare for their upcoming game against the Broncos.
