The Green Bay Packers need to win their final two games of the season to make the 2023 NFL Playoffs. If they win their next two games against their division rivals (Minnesota Vikings and Chicago Bears), Green Bay has a 95% chance of making in the postseason. Of course, it all starts with beating the Vikings on Sunday night. That might be easier said than done given Packer’s health.Unfortunately, health issues aren’t the only factor keeping certain players out of action against the Vikings. Two-time Pro Bowl cornerback Jaire Alexander has been suspended by the Packers for conduct detrimental to the team.
Coach Matt LaFleur and general manager Brian Gutekunst said Alexander will be a part of the team for years to come, but his absence Sunday couldn’t have come at a worse time. In addition to Alexander, the defense could be without All-Pro linebacker De’Vondre Campbell, who is dealing with a neck injury. Interior defensive lineman TJ Slaton is also dealing with an injury and has yet to practice this week.
As has been the case in recent weeks, there is good news on the offensive side of the ball. Wide receiver Jayden Reed returned to practice Wednesday, bolstering Jordan Love’s group. Meanwhile, Love reorganized much of the offense in Thursday’s practice. Christian Watson and Dontayvion Weeks did not practice Thursday, while left tackle Elgton Jenkins returned to practice after missing Wednesday.
According to the Packers’ injury report, Jenkins is dealing with a shoulder injury and knee issues. Having Jenkins on the field has a huge impact on Love and the Packers offense. According to PFF, Jenkins has the team’s highest pass-blocking grade (79.3) this season. His overall offensive grade of 65.9 is second only to Zach Thome (76.5) among Packers offensive linemen.
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