Injury to star receiver may have just screwed Malik Willis ahead of Packers debut

The Green Bay Packers need everything to go their way to win without Jordan Love.

If Love is ruled out, Malik Willis will start at quarterback against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 2. Jeff Hafley's defense has to improve, the offensive line must hold up to give Willis time, and the run game needs to find rhythm to support their young quarterback.

Injuries also play a part. The Packers' injury report has steadily gotten worse throughout the week. Running back Josh Jacobs hasn't logged a full practice all week due to a back issue, while linebacker Quay Walker was added to the injury report on Thursday with a groin injury.

The bad news continued on Friday, raising more concerns for the Packers in Week 2.

Jayden Reed added to Packers injury report for Week 2 vs. Colts

Jayden Reed starred in the Packers' season opener, catching four passes for 138 yards and a touchdown while adding a 33-yard run. He led the league in receiving after Week 1.

However, the Packers added Reed to the injury report on Friday due to shin and calf injuries. He was a limited participant at practice, placing his status for Week 2 in doubt. Reed is officially questionable for the game.

Losing Reed would be bad news in any game, even if Love was available. But his loss could have an even greater impact with Willis under center. Making only his fourth career start, Willis needs a receiver he can easily get the ball to. Reed can catch passes out of the backfield and take jet sweeps, and Matt LaFleur likely has specific plays designed to get the ball in Reed's hands to let him pick up yards after the catch.

Reed can stretch the Colts' defense horizontally and prevent them from loading up the box to take away inside runs.

Along with Jacobs and Christian Watson, Reed is the one skill-position player the Packers can't afford to lose. Jacobs is also on the injury report, adding even more concern entering the weekend.

Love overcame wide receiver injury problems last season and connected with Bo Melton and Malik Heath.

It's a big ask to expect the same from Willis, who is still learning the playbook. Reed allows LaFleur to get creative and can help simplify the game plan for Willis.

Without him, the Packers could be screwed. Hopefully, they get good news between now and kickoff.

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