Lost in the excitement of Jayden Reed's return, Christian Watson's big game, and even Bo Melton's 45-yard touchdown, it's easy to miss the surprising absence of Matthew Golden and Dontayvion Wicks in Week 14.
They were deemed healthy enough to play. Golden, a first-round pick, and Wicks, coming off a career day against the Detroit Lions, were expected to elevate the offense in this game, but the pair played a combined 10 snaps between them. Head coach Matt LaFleur provided the answer in his postgame presser.
"A week ago, Wicks had a heck of a game. He was kind of hindered in this game. His ankle was really bothering him. He wasn't as available as he typically is," said LaFleur. "MG is fighting through his deal."
Matthew Golden and Dontayvion Wicks still dealing with injuries in Week 14 win
Golden overcame a shoulder injury earlier in the season but has battled a wrist injury in recent weeks. While he was finally active, it's clearly still bothering the Packers' first-round pick.
Wicks seemed to hurt his ankle on his first touchdown catch against the Lions. He battled through to finish the game, catching another touchdown before making the crucial fourth-down conversion late in the fourth quarter. However, it's not uncommon for players to tough it out during the game but then feel the impact of the injury later in the week.
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With Reed making a successful return and the Packers having more than enough success in the passing game, the Packers didn't need to risk either Golden or Wicks in Week 14.
Hopefully, neither injury is serious enough to limit them for the rest of the season. Green Bay has a daunting four-game stretch to close out the season, with the 11-2 Denver Broncos and 9-4 Bears up next. They then get a struggling Baltimore Ravens team, but Lamar Jackson is a two-time MVP for a reason. It's not a game the Packers can overlook.
Easing Golden and Wicks back into action makes sense. The Packers will need both receivers down the stretch and into the playoffs.