The Green Bay Packers, sitting at 6-2, are in the thick of the NFC North race, with the Detroit Lions leading the division at 6-1. As both teams vie for supremacy at the season’s halfway mark, this game could significantly impact playoff standings.
However, both teams face critical injuries to key players. The Lions lost Pro Bowl pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson for the season due to an ACL tear sustained against the Cowboys, and defensive linemen Brodric Martin and Josh Paschal are also out.
The Packers have injury issues too, with one player officially out.
Green Bay Packers’ Rookie Safety Evan Williams Won’t Play Against the Lions
On Friday, the Packers confirmed that rookie safety Evan Williams, who has been starting alongside Xavier McKinney, will miss Sunday’s game due to a hamstring injury from their win over the Jaguars.
Fans were disappointed by the news:
Fortunately, reports indicate Williams’ injury isn’t severe. With Green Bay on a bye after Week Nine, he’s expected back for their Week 11 matchup against the Bears.
In his eight games this season, Williams has recorded 28 tackles, an interception, three defended passes, and a forced fumble. Opposing quarterbacks struggle against him, completing only 50% of passes with a 45.8 passer rating.
With Williams sidelined, rookie safety Javon Bullard is expected to start.
Other Packers Players Who Might Miss the Lions Game
While others are on the injury report, only Williams has been ruled out. Starting center Josh Myers is doubtful due to a wrist injury.
If Myers is out, it would disrupt the offensive line. Elgton Jenkins, typically the left guard, could replace Myers at center, with Sean Rhyan potentially moving to left guard and rookie Jordan Morgan filling Rhyan’s spot.
Quarterback Jordan Love practiced but will be evaluated until game time after a groin injury forced him out of the Jaguars game.
Cornerback Jaire Alexander is also questionable after sustaining a knee injury, though tests show it isn’t serious. If he misses Sunday, he is expected back after the bye.
