Packers make final roster moves ahead of Sunday

The Green Bay Packers have announced another roster move ahead of Sunday’s critical game against the Los Angeles Rams. The Packers will elevate linebacker La’Darius Hamilton to the active roster for Sunday and he will be elevated as a COVID-19 replacement. This is the second time in as many weeks that the second-year linebacker has been called up by the Packers. 

Hamilton is an undrafted free agent from the 2020 NFL Draft out of North Texas. He spent the 2020 season as a member of the Dallas Cowboys practice squad. This year he’s split time between Tampa Bay and Green Bay’s practice squads. Aside from last week, he was activated one other time before by the Packers for their Week-5 victory against the Cincinnati Bengals but did not appear in the stat column.

Packers moves from earlier in the week

The Packers have listed running back Aaron Jones (knee), linebacker Rashan Gary (elbow), and receiver Allen Lazard (shoulder) as questionable for Sunday’s game.

Additionally, the team has ruled out tackle David Bakhtiari (knee) and receiver Malik Taylor (abdomen), while cornerback Kevin King (hip/knee) is doubtful after not practicing this week.

Clearly, there are several key questionable players, most notably Jones in the backfield, creating anxiety for Green Bay Packers fans until the team takes the field.

Aaron Rodgers (toe) didn’t practice this week but is expected to start Sunday against Los Angeles, according to the official report. He relayed calls to backup quarterback Jordan Love during Friday’s practice, according to Head Coach Matt LaFleur.

“It’s just making sure the communication is on point in terms of making sure he’s comfortable with everything we put in the plan and how we’re going to attack LA’s defense,” said LaFleur of Rodgers’ preparation without practice reps.

Green Bay down a coach as well

Green Bay Packers assistant offensive line coach Luke Butkus will not be at Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Rams due to COVID-19 protocols. Offensive quality control coach Tim Zetts will assume his responsibilities.

COVID-19 has been running through the Packers organization over the past couple of weeks. Linebacker Jonathan Garvin tested positive this week as well. His vaccination status is unknown, meaning he could miss an additional game due to NFL protocols.

A lot more than a win and a loss will be up for grabs on Sunday. The Rams need a victory to stay on course in the NFC West. However, both will be trying to stay afloat for the No. 1 seed and the bye in the NFC. With the new playoff format, being on top has never been more important.