Green Bay Packers inside linebacker Quay Walker is trending in the right direction ahead of the team's matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 8.
Walker suffered a concussion after a scary hit in last week's win over the Houston Texans. Head coach Matt LaFleur confirmed that Walker remains in the concussion protocol, but he returned to practice on Thursday. His status for this week's game remains uncertain, but it's great to see that Walker is making progress in the protocol.
LaFleur praised Eric Wilson, who stepped up brilliantly as Walker's replacement in the middle linebacker role, making two sacks, two quarterback hits, and four tackles for loss versus Houston.
On Thursday, center Josh Myers also returned to practice. He is dealing with a wrist injury. Defensive lineman Devonte Wyatt practiced for the second day in a row, boosting his chances of returning after a three-game absence.
Here is the Packers' updated injury report for Week 8:
Player | Position | Injury | Wed. | Thu. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Jaire Alexander | CB | Groin | LP | LP |
Corey Ballentine | CB | Ankle | DNP | DNP |
Kenny Clark | DL | Toe | LP | LP |
Elgton Jenkins | G/T | Glute | LP | LP |
Josh Myers | C | Wrist | DNP | LP |
Keisean Nixon | CB | Hamstring | LP | LP |
Jayden Reed | WR | Ankle | LP | LP |
Quay Walker | LB | Concussion | DNP | LP |
Christian Watson | WR | Ankle | LP | LP |
Colby Wooden | DL | Knee | FP | FP |
Devonte Wyatt | DL | Ankle | LP | LP |
Packers trending in the right direction entering Week 8 vs. Jaguars
Like last week, the Packers are relatively healthy. They don't have too many long-term concerns despite having 11 players on the injury report. Cornerback Corey Ballentine was the only player not practicing on Thursday, likely ruling him out of this week's game.
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The Packers must avoid a "trap" game against the Jaguars, but as fans, it's hard to ignore the upcoming matchups against the Detroit Lions, Chicago Bears, and San Francisco 49ers. Winning this week to improve to 6-2 is priority number one, but beyond that, they hope to keep getting healthier.
Friday's final injury report will give us a clearer picture of which players will be available. Outside of Ballentine, it seems like the Packers could be close to full strength in Week 8. It won't be surprising if Walker and Wyatt receive questionable injury designations.
Even if they are unable to go, they are progressing and will have a great chance to play in next week's crucial divisional showdown with the Detroit Lions.