The Green Bay Packers are gearing up for their Thanksgiving Day showdown against the Miami Dolphins, and the injury report has given fans a lot to ponder. With no practice on Monday, the Packers released an estimated list showing some key players potentially sidelined.
Romeo Doubs, a standout wide receiver, is looking doubtful for the game. His concussion from the win over the San Francisco 49ers means a quick return seems unlikely. The Packers need to be ready without Doubs and a few other players who didn’t take part in practice, even if this was more of a forecast than fact as no practice went down.
On defense, cornerback Jaire Alexander and linebacker Edgerrin Cooper, who were absent from the 49ers clash, also didn’t show at the start of the week. Their injuries hint that they might not suit up by Thanksgiving. This could leave the Packers short-handed against Miami’s dynamic wide receivers, featuring the likes of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, and the rejuvenated Odell Beckham Jr.
Here’s the lay of the land for the Packers’ injury list:
Jaire Alexander (CB) has a knee issue and didn’t participate. Kenny Clark (DL) took limited rest. Edgerrin Cooper (LB) is sidelined by a hamstring injury. Romeo Doubs (WR) is in concussion protocol and did not participate. John FitzPatrick (TE) is dealing with a back injury and was absent. Josh Jacobs (RB) took a limited rest day. Elgton Jenkins (G/T) has a limited day for rest. Isaiah McDuffie (LB) is nursing an ankle problem. Josh Myers (C) has a pectoral issue with limited practice. Rasheed Walker (T) is on a limited practice with a knee injury.
There’s a possibility the Packers will have to dip into their depth, especially in the linebacker position. With Isaiah McDuffie added to the injury report alongside Cooper, rookie Ty’Ron Hopper might see some action. Fortunately, Quay Walker is coming off what could be called a career-best performance, providing a silver lining for the defensive unit.
Josh Jacobs’ listing as non-injury related brings relief, given his persistent battle with various injuries this season. It looks like the Packers might lean heavily on Christian Watson, Dontayvion Wicks, and Jayden Reed to step up at receiver. Malik Heath, who made an impressive catch with a touchdown on Sunday, might also be asked to contribute more.
The Dolphins present a formidable challenge with their high-flying offense, now in full swing with Tua Tagovailoa at the helm. Tight end Jonnu Smith is having a breakout season, adding another layer to Miami’s offensive arsenal. Green Bay’s defense, led by Jeff Hafley, needs to strategize to contain this potent Miami team.
With the tight turnaround between games, Packers’ head coach Matt LaFleur and his team are burning the midnight oil. Playing back-to-back home games gives the Packers some advantage, while Miami faces the fatigue of cross-country travel. As the Packers prepare for this crucial game, fans can expect some spirited football on Thanksgiving Day.