Three injured All-Pro players could return for Packers in Week 14

Green Bay Packers coach Matt LaFleur said Monday the team could “potentially” see three key players return for Week 14. Left tackle David Bakhtiari, edge rusher Za’Darius Smith and cornerback Jaire Alexander all have a chance to play against the Chicago Bears.

“Certainly we hope so,” LaFleur said Monday. “Those guys again are doing everything in their power, but we’ll see where we’re at on Wednesday.”

Bakhtari has not played all season with a knee injury, while Smith (back) played in the season opener but has been out ever since. One of the top cornerbacks in the league, Alexander has been out since Week 4.

At 9-3, Green Bay is well on its way to a playoff appearance and NFC North division title. They are currently tied with Arizona for the third-best Super Bowl odds, according to Bovada. The return of such talented players late in the season could give them an extra push before the postseason.

“These guys love the game. They love being with their teammates, they love competing,” LaFleur said. “So I know that they’re itching to get back as soon as possible. We just want to make sure that there’s no extra risk for a setback or whatnot, because obviously, they’re an important part of this team.”

But these three Packers aren’t the only stars dealing with injuries. Starting quarterback Aaron Rodgers suffered a fractured pinky toe during his COVID quarantine in November. His practice status will be something to monitor closely heading into Week 14.

Linebacker De’Vondre Campbell is also eligible to return from the reserve/COVID-19 list this week. LaFleur suggested signs are pointing toward that as Campbell has been asymptomatic, and the defense’s signal caller would be involved in game-planning meetings throughout the week on Zoom.

However, Green Bay also added backup quarterback Jordan Love to the list on Monday. Kickoff for the Packers Week 14 contest against Chicago is set for 8:20 p.m. ET on Sunday.