Coming off a win over the Detroit Lions, the Green Bay Packers enter what could be a brutal stretch, with a trip to Denver in between two games against the Chicago Bears. To come out of the next few weeks with a shot of finishing at the top of the NFC, Green Bay will have to be at full strength. Unfortunately, the latest injury news questions the availability of a young Packers defender.
After being listed as a limited participant on Wednesday, Javon Bullard did not practice on Thursday or Friday. Head coach Matt LaFleur explained the situation during Friday morning's press conference.
"[The injury] was from the game. He was having some lingering effects, so we thought it would be best to shut him down and see how he progresses." LaFleur said. "As far as [Sunday's] game is concerned, I would say it's up in the air."
Javon Bullard's injury update is a major concern ahead of Packers' huge game vs. Bears
While Bullard hasn't played more than 70 percent of the defensive snaps since Week 9, he's still had some impressive defensive outings, allowing an average passer rating of 75.8 when targeted. He also has the second-highest PFF grade among slot defenders since the Week 5 bye.
"The style of play we're looking for, you have to look no further than what he does." LaFleur continued. "Just playing physical, playing fast. He does a great job."
The former Georgia Bulldog is part of the talented young secondary that has allowed the second-fewest passing yards per game in the NFC. And if he's able to take the field on Sunday, Bullard will be part of the effort to limit Caleb Williams, who ranks last in the league in completion percentage among eligible quarterbacks. The Bears will be without star wide receiver Rome Odunze.
If Bullard can't go, free-agent signing Nate Hobbs may line up in the slot, if he's able to return from injury. Keisean Nixon can also play inside, but it could leave the Packers thin on the boundary.
They need their 2024 second-round pick available in such an important game.