The Green Bay Packers' first battle of the week isn't with the Detroit Lions but against the dreaded injury report. Several key players missed practice on Wednesday, including Jordan Love, Jaire Alexander, Josh Jacobs, and Evan Williams.
While none of the Packers' injured stars are dealing with long-term issues, there is plenty of concern over their status for Week 9. Love's availability is the No. 1 question for this team with the Lions coming to Lambeau Field on Sunday.
Love suffered a groin injury that forced him out of last week's win over the Jacksonville Jaguars. Standout rookie safety Evan Williams left the game due to a hamstring injury, while All-Pro cornerback Jaire Alexander landed awkwardly late in the game and suffered a knee injury that required an MRI on Monday.
While Alexander avoided a serious injury, his status is also up in the air for Sunday.
Running back Josh Jacobs stepped up once Love left the game, scoring two touchdowns in the Packers' win, but he is dealing with an ankle injury and also missed practice.
Head coach Matt LaFleur addressed the injury concerns, his confidence in Malik Willis, and more. Here are the notable takeaways.
Everything Matt LaFleur said about Packers' injury situation entering Week 9
Will Packers test Jordan Love on the field this week?
"He's moving around better. We'll take it one day at a time. Certainly, we'll push the envelope with that. He wants to play, but we'll see where he's at by the end of the week."
LaFleur added that Love could "potentially" play without practicing.
On reshuffling the secondary after Jaire Alexander and Evan Williams injuries
"We want to rotate all those guys," said LaFleur. "What transpired in that game, Evan kinda felt something pregame. He tried to go out and play, and it set off a chain reaction in terms of how do you go about putting who you feel like gives you the best chance to win."
" Bullard didn't practice any at safety all week, then he's got to go play safety. I think that's tough on a young player. Then you kick Keisean inside. Obviously, I think our corner depth is pretty good, so that led to and Stokes getting more opportunities."
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On Packers' injury concerns ahead of Week 9
"It is what it is. It's no different to what happened the other day. When you've installed a game plan, you've got to be ready to adjust. Bottom line is, you've got to put in whatever plays or schemes you're trying to attack somebody with, whether it's on offense or defense, that gives you the best chance to win."
On Josh Jacobs' injury
"It's just his ankle."
Note: Jacobs told reporters he will be "good" by game time.
On how comfortable he is with Malik Willis
"A lot more. He's got a good understanding of what we're trying to get accomplished, of the techniques and fundamentals. I'd say much more confident," said LaFleur. "I think it showed in the game, too. It's not like we weren't going to run anything—everything was live that we had installed. He's done a really nice job."
Other notes from LaFleur's press conference
- Quay Walker has cleared the concussion protocol and will start in Week 9.
- LaFleur didn't reduce the team's practice reps despite the injuries, but he was pleased others got the chance to get reps.
The Lions are also dealing with multiple injuries. They've lost several key contributors for the season, including star pass-rusher Aidan Hutchinson. Ten Lions didn't practice on Wednesday, including quarterback Jared Goff due to an ankle injury, although the MVP candidate is expected to play.
Lions head coach Dan Campbell wanted to give some players additional recovery time, but it's something to monitor throughout the week.
Neither team is close to full strength, making it a tough battle for first place in the NFC North.