Packers’ Offensive Line Faces Challenges Ahead of Showdown with Cowboys
In the lead-up to an anticipated clash between the Green Bay Packers and the Dallas Cowboys, both teams are grappling with injury concerns, particularly along the offensive line. However, Dallas received encouraging news in its defensive backfield, which could prove pivotal on game day.
Injury Concerns Mount for the Packers
As the Packers prepare for their Sunday night matchup, the status of three of their top seven linemen raises significant questions. Right tackle Zach Tom and left guard Aaron Banks have both missed practice for a second consecutive day. Both players exited last week’s loss to the Cleveland Browns due to injuries that have now kept them sidelined during crucial practice time.
Adding to the uncertainty, rookie offensive tackle Anthony Belton, who could potentially step in for Tom, was limited on Wednesday due to an ankle injury and did not participate on Thursday. This means that the Packers could be without two-fifths of their starting offensive line heading into a crucial game.
If Tom, Banks, and Belton are unable to suit up, the Packers may field a makeshift line featuring Rasheed Walker at left tackle, Jordan Morgan at left guard, Elgton Jenkins at center, Sean Rhyan at right guard, and Darian Kinnard at right tackle. The lack of continuity on the line is evident, with each of these players having shared snaps together this season, including during the game against the Browns.
“It’s got to be the same across the board, no matter who’s in there,” Rhyan stated, acknowledging the challenge of maintaining cohesion with multiple players rotating in and out. “It’s a hard thing to accomplish, having that same feel and technique across multiple guys, but this is the NFL, and if that’s expected of us, we need to be able to accomplish that.”
A Silver Lining for the Packers
On a positive note, safety Javon Bullard has returned to practice, albeit while still in the concussion protocol. His participation in padded practices signifies progress toward potentially being ready for Sunday’s game. Coach Matt LaFleur praised Bullard’s tenacity, highlighting his competitive spirit and physical play style.
“I think he’s done a hell of a job,” LaFleur remarked. “He is the epitome of what we want in terms of our play style. The guy goes out and competes. He plays hard. He’s physical.”
The Packers’ injury report this week includes 14 players, with a trio of linemen missing practice and several others limited. Tight end Tucker Kraft, who began the week with a knee scare, was also among those listed as limited. Kraft expressed relief after the incident, which he initially feared could be serious but ultimately turned out to be a minor issue.
“It was just a scare,” Kraft said. “I just got caught in a bad position. The thought of not being able to be on the field, it scares you a lot.”
Dallas Fortifies Its Defense
On the other side of the field, the Cowboys are grappling with their own injury issues. Wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, a key offensive player, will not play due to an ankle injury, nor will rookie right guard Tyler Booker. Despite these setbacks, Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer remains confident in his team’s ability to compete.
“We are good enough to beat the Packers without CeeDee, Book and the guys we could be missing,” Schottenheimer stated. “But the only way you do that is if you play well and execute. If you don’t, you put yourself in a tough spot.”
However, a potential concern for the Cowboys at cornerback appears to have been alleviated. Former All-Pros Trevon Diggs and DaRon Bland returned to full participation in practice Thursday, providing a significant boost to the secondary. Backup corner Trikweze Bridges also improved from limited participation to full practice.
Injury Reports at a Glance
Packers Thursday Injury Report
Did not participate:
LG Aaron Banks (groin)
OT Anthony Belton (ankle)
RT Zach Tom (oblique)
Limited Participation:
DT Karl Brooks (foot)
S Javon Bullard (concussion)
TE John FitzPatrick (groin)
RB Josh Jacobs (ankle)
TE Tucker Kraft (knee/elbow)
DE Micah Parsons (back)
LT Rasheed Walker (quad)
DT Devonte Wyatt (knee)
Full Participation:
Nate Hobbs (knee)
QB Jordan Love (left thumb)
CB Bo Melton (shoulder)
Cowboys Thursday Injury Report
Did not participate:
RG Tyler Booker (ankle)
WR CeeDee Lamb (ankle)
Full Participation:
CB DaRon Bland (foot)
CB Trikweze Bridges (knee)
CB Trevon Diggs (knee)
As both teams gear up for their critical matchup, the outcome may hinge on the performance of their respective lines and the depth of their rosters. With injuries playing a significant role, the battle in the trenches will be one to watch this Sunday night.
