Matt LaFleur Dismisses Halloween Distractions Ahead of Panthers Showdown
As the Green Bay Packers gear up for their Sunday clash against the Carolina Panthers, head coach Matt LaFleur made it abundantly clear that Halloween festivities have no bearing on their preparations.
Focus on Winning
In a candid moment before Friday’s practice, LaFleur emphatically stated, “I don’t give a sh** if it’s Halloween. We’re trying to win a game, period. It’s a Friday in the National Football League. That’s what day it is.” This unwavering focus reflects the urgency and determination that drives the Packers as they look to secure a pivotal victory.
Injury Update: Quay Walker’s Status
A key concern for the Packers is the health of linebacker Quay Walker, who is leading the team in tackles. Walker missed practice on Thursday due to a minor issue, raising questions about his availability for the game. LaFleur noted, “He was feeling a little something, so we were a little bit cautious with him. The plan and goal is he’ll be going through today and just see how he feels.”
Walker’s performance has been noteworthy, even in challenging situations. Last week against Pittsburgh, he recorded a season-low five tackles but also broke up two passes. LaFleur highlighted Walker’s growth, praising his restraint when faced with provocation from receiver D.K. Metcalf. “He’s done a hell of a job. I think his play speaks for itself,” LaFleur said. “But just the things you guys don’t always get a chance to see, there’s a reason he was voted as captain.”
Additional Injury Concerns
The injury report reveals more challenges for the Packers. Linebacker Nick Niemann (pectoral), defensive end Lukas Van Ness (foot), and receiver Dontayvion Wicks (calf) did not participate in practice this week and are likely to be ruled out. Niemann’s situation appears serious enough to warrant a move to injured reserve. The team is weighing whether to promote Kristian Welch from the practice squad or simply elevate him for the game, potentially opting for a 52-man roster due to a relatively healthy lineup.
Other players, including starting offensive linemen Aaron Banks (shin), Jordan Morgan (illness), and Zach Tom (back), all participated in practice but were limited. Running back Josh Jacobs (calf), receiver Christian Watson (knee), defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt (knee), and quarterback Malik Willis (ankle) also showed limited participation, with Wyatt expressing his eagerness to make an impact upon his return. “I’d just say my energy and like just trying to be a game-changer,” he remarked.
Panthers’ Quarterback Situation
The Panthers, meanwhile, are preparing to reinstate their starting quarterback Bryce Young, who missed last week’s disastrous 40-9 loss to the Bills. Young expressed his readiness to return, saying, “It’s been great being able to be back out there. I definitely missed it, so it’s been great. I felt good today. I continue to feel better and better.” His return could be pivotal for a Panthers team struggling with offensive consistency, particularly after yielding seven sacks last week.
Injury Reports Ahead of Game Day
As both teams finalize their preparations, injury reports released after Friday’s practices will provide a clearer picture.
Packers Injury Report
Did not participate:
– LB Nick Niemann (pectoral)
– DE Lukas Van Ness (foot)
– LB Quay Walker (calf)
– WR Dontayvion Wicks (calf)
Limited participation:
– LG Aaron Banks (shin)
– RB Josh Jacobs (calf)
– RG Jordan Morgan (illness)
– RT Zach Tom (back)
– WR Christian Watson (knee)
– QB Malik Willis (ankle)
– DT Devonte Wyatt (knee)
Full participation:
– K Brandon McManus (quad)
Panthers Injury Report
Placed on injured reserve:
– RG Brady Christensen (Achilles)
Did not participate:
– WR Xavier Legette (illness)
– C Cade Mays (ankle/knee)
– OLB Princely Umanmielen (ankle)
Limited participation:
– QB Andy Dalton (right thumb)
– G Damien Lewis (oblique)
– RT Taylor Moton (knee)
– S Nick Scott (groin)
– LB Trevin Wallace (shoulder)
Full participation:
– DE Derrick Brown (knee)
– WR Jimmy Horn Jr. (shoulder)
– QB Bryce Young (ankle)
– RG Chandler Zavala (knee)
As the Packers and Panthers prepare for their critical matchup, all eyes will be on the injury reports and how each team’s key players respond as game day approaches.
