Green Bay Packers release final injury report ahead of Bears matchup
The Green Bay Packers have faced a barrage of injuries, ailments and COVID issues this season, forcing Matt LaFleur and his staff to constantly adapt on a weekly basis.
Even though the Minnesota Vikings’ win over the Steelers on Thursday makes the Packers’ chance to clinch a playoff spot with a win over the Chicago Bears far more difficult, it’s still possible.
Though it will take a ton of help, there are a few scenarios for a Week 14 playoff guarantee, which starts with Green Bay handling its business and other teams losing.
On Friday, the Green Bay Packers released their official injury report ahead of the Monday Night Football divisional clash.
The biggest news by far?
Aaron Rodgers practiced on Friday for the first time since Nov. 19, as the Packers’ quarterback continues to make progress with the toe injury he’s been dealing with for the past month.
Rodgers has been fully transparent about the severity of his broken toe, and multiple NFL sources confirmed he’s had a strict routine as he attempts to recover, while still suiting up and delivering wins when Sunday rolls around.
“He was limited and took as many reps as he could,” said Head Coach Matt LaFleur after practice. “I thought he did a really nice job. It was good to have him back out there.”
The Green Bay Packers will be without tackle David Bakhtiari (knee) and receiver Randall Cobb (core).
While the Bakhtiari saga continues to mystify Pack fans, the coaching staff has adjusted and protected Rodgers for the most part. Cobb is a bigger blow at this point in the year. He’s clearly a safety net for the Packers’ QB and had four catches for 95 yards and a touchdown before going down vs. the Rams last week.
One surprising note is that De’Vondre Campbell (illness) is listed as questionable after returning to practice in a limited capacity Friday. On a defense that lost so many star players early on, Campbell has emerged as a consistent playmaker and leader for the Green Bay Packers defense.
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In addition to Rodgers, the following Packers players didn’t receive a game status and are expected to be available: receivers Davante Adams (hamstring), Marquez Valdes-Scantling (back) and Malik Taylor (abdomen), cornerback Kevin King (hip/knee), and tight end Marcedes Lewis (veteran rest).
Bears injury report vs. Green Bay Packers won’t hinder Rodgers’ confidence
Aaron Rodgers isn’t concerned about the opposing personnel beyond ensuring the offense is prepared with a game plan that takes away the Bears’ top defensive threats.
Chicago listed defensive lineman Akiem Hicks (ankle) and defensive lineman Mario Edwards Jr. (ribs) as questionable.
The Bears also ruled out linebacker Cassius Marsh (knee), and listed quarterback Andy Dalton (left hand) and receiver Marquise Goodwin (foot) as doubtful.
The Green Bay Packers have had plenty of success against their divisional rival with Rodgers at the helm. Earlier this week, the reigning MVP doubled down on his statement about “owning” the rival Bears.
“I don’t know if you can question a whole lot of what I said,” Rodgers said. “We’ve had a good record over the years against them and won a lot of games.”
Rodgers’ record against the Bears is 21-5, so his sentiment is not misplaced. Additionally, the future Hall of Famer beat the Bears in the 2010 NFC Championship game on the way to a victory in Super Bowl XLV.