Packers coach Matt LaFleur provides update on NT Kenny Clark

The Green Bay Packers had a rough go on defense last week against the Baltimore Ravens. But they could get some much-needed help this week.

Nose tackle Kenny Clark will be eligible to play on Saturday as he works to clear COVID-19 protocols, Packers coach Matt LaFleur told reporters on Wednesday. Clark was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list last week and missed Green Bay’s 31-30 win over Baltimore on Sunday.

#Packers coach Matt LaFleur said that NT Kenny Clark is eligible to play on Saturday. He said there are some protocols he must get through. Said he's hoping he gets through them in time to get back to the facility before Saturday.

— Tom Silverstein (@TomSilverstein) December 22, 2021

Clark has been a big part of the Packers’ defensive line since arriving in Green Bay in 2016. He has 38 tackles and four sacks so far this season, including two tackles last week against the Chicago Bears. He also has 54 quarterback pressures this season — third among NFL defensive linemen.

Last week against Baltimore, Green Bay allowed 30 points for the second straight week. Ravens quarterback Tyler Huntley, who was filling in for the injured Lamar Jackson, went 28 for 40 for 215 yards and two touchdowns in the air and ran for 73 yards and two touchdowns on the ground.

Baltimore could’ve won the game on a two-point conversion in the final seconds, but the attempt failed — giving Green Bay its 11th win of the season.

The Packers are now gearing up to face the Cleveland Browns on Saturday at Lambeau Field on Christmas. Kickoff for that game is set for Saturday at 4:30 p.m. ET.

Green Bay Packers lose receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling to reserve/COVID-19 list

The Green Bay Packers cannot catch a break as they continue to deal with a rash of COVID-19 cases within the locker room. On Tuesday, the team announced that it is placing wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling on the reserve/ COVID-19 list.

Valdes-Scantling helped the Packers defeat the Baltimore Ravens in last week’s Sunday night primetime matchup 31-30. Green Bay’s speedy receiver had one of his best games of the season against the Ravens. He caught five catches for 98 yards and one touchdown.

With the announcement coming on Tuesday, it is unlikely he will be cleared in time to play in the Packers’ upcoming game against the Cleveland Browns. However, there is some hope after the new NFL protocols have made it easier for players to return from the reserve/ COVID-19 list.