Green Bay Packers head into their Week 16 showdown against the Chicago Bears facing significant uncertainty, with injuries set to play a major role in Saturday night’s rematch at Soldier Field.
While final inactives will be confirmed roughly 90 minutes before kickoff, Packers’ injury situation is already shaping the outlook for this crucial divisional clash.
Season-ending losses reshape Packers’ lineup
The most significant blow to Green Bay’s roster came last Sunday, when Micah Parsons suffered a season-ending injury and was subsequently placed on injured reserve. His absence removes a major defensive presence for the Packers at a critical point in the season.
Parsons is not alone on injured reserve. Tight end Tucker Kraft, center Elgton Jenkins, defensive lineman Devonte Wyatt, special teamer Nick Niemann, and running back MarShawn Lloyd are also sidelined, leaving Green Bay short-handed across multiple position groups.
Tight end Josh Whyle has additionally been ruled out after entering concussion protocol, further thinning the depth at the position.
Key Green Bay Packers cleared to play
Despite the lengthy injury report, Green Bay did receive encouraging news ahead of the Bears matchup. Quarterback Jordan Love, who had been dealing with a left shoulder issue, does not carry an injury designation and is expected to start. Receivers Matthew Golden and Savion Williams, along with defensive end Lukas Van Ness, are also good to go.
Wide receiver Jayden Reed, who missed practice earlier in the week due to a personal matter, returned on Thursday and will be available Saturday night.
Green Bay Packers also activated defensive end Brenton Cox Jr. from injured reserve on Friday, giving the defensive front an additional option.
Extensive questionable list adds uncertainty
While several players are cleared, Green Bay still has 10 players listed as questionable, creating uncertainty on both sides of the ball.
The list includes running back Josh Jacobs, wide receiver Christian Watson, right tackle Zach Tom, safety Evan Williams, and wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks.
Defensive lineman Kingsley Enagbare, running back Chris Brooks, offensive lineman Darian Kinnard, and Brenton Cox Jr. are also listed with various ailments.
With so many contributors facing game-time decisions, Green Bay Packers’ final inactive list could significantly alter their approach against Chicago.
Injuries loom large in rematch
Packers and Bears met just two weeks ago, but the rematch figures to look very different due to Green Bay’s injury situation.
How effectively Matt LaFleur’s squad adapts to the absences and questionable statuses may ultimately determine whether Packers can navigate adversity and secure a key divisional win.