Packers vs Bears Injury Report: Key Starters Out as NFC North Hangs in Balance

The Green Bay Packers face the Chicago Bears Saturday night in a critical NFC North showdown. Key players on both sides are battling injuries ahead of the prime-time matchup. The game at Soldier Field will decide first place in the division.

According to team reports, the Packers will be without two defensive starters. However, star running back Josh Jacobs and receiver Christian Watson are active to play.

Significant Absences for Both Sides

The Packers’ inactives list includes important names. Right tackle Zach Tom and safety Evan Williams are out with knee injuries.

Tom is the team’s best offensive lineman. Williams leads the team in interceptions this season. Their absence creates significant challenges.

Rookie Jordan Morgan may start at right tackle. The defensive line will also be thin. Only four defensive tackles are active for the game.

This is a concern against Chicago’s powerful run game. The Bears wore down the Packers defense just two weeks ago.

Offensive Stars Suit Up Despite Injuries

Despite not practicing all week, Josh Jacobs will play. The running back has been dealing with a knee issue since the Giants game.

He aggravated the injury last week but scored two touchdowns. His toughness is not in question, according to teammates.

Christian Watson is also active after a scary injury. He left the last game in an ambulance with shoulder and chest issues.

Watson practiced this week and declared himself ready. He had a huge game against the Bears two weeks ago.

Bears Also Missing Key Weapons

Chicago’s offense will also be shorthanded. Young receivers Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III are both inactive.

Odunze also missed the first matchup against Green Bay. This weakens a developing passing attack for rookie quarterback Caleb Williams.

However, running back D’Andre Swift will play through a groin injury. Star linebacker Tremaine Edmunds returns from injured reserve.

Edmunds’ presence bolsters the Bears’ defense significantly. He covers a lot of ground in pass coverage.

The Saturday night clash promises high drama with a depleted Packers defense facing a limited Bears offense. The NFC North title likely hinges on which team’s backups step up largest in this critical Packers vs Bears confrontation.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is definitely out for the Packers against the Bears?

Right tackle Zach Tom and safety Evan Williams are inactive. Defensive linemen Quinton Bohanna and Nazir Stackhouse are also out.

Why is this Packers vs Bears game so important?

The winner will take sole possession of first place in the NFC North. The result has major playoff seeding implications for both rival teams.

Is Bears linebacker Tremaine Edmunds playing?

Yes, Edmunds is active after missing the last four games on injured reserve. His return is a major boost for the Chicago defense.

How will the Packers replace their injured starters?

Rookie Jordan Morgan may start at right tackle for Zach Tom. Safety snaps will be split between Xavier McKinney, Javon Bullard, and Zayne Anderson.

What was Christian Watson’s injury status?

Watson was questionable with shoulder and chest injuries from last week. He was hospitalized but practiced and is active for the game.

Trusted Sources

Green Bay Packers, Chicago Bears, The Associated Press.