It looks like the Packers’ starting line will be back together in time for week 10. After missing the last three games, it appears that Green Bay Packers left tackle David Bakhtiari will be ready to go this coming Sunday.
Last week, Bakhtiari was listed as a limited participant on all of the Packers ’ actual and estimated practice participation reports, and he did not play in Thursday’s game against the San Francisco 49ers . But with a few extra days to rest up this weekend and the Jacksonville Jaguars on deck, Bakhtiari was a full participant on Wednesday’s report.
This is a great sign, even as the Packers’ offensive line has held up well in his absence. While Bakhtiari appears good to go, Rick Wagner — who has started at right tackle in each of the last three games with Billy Turner moving to the left side — was a non-participant. Wagner left last week’s game midway through with a knee injury, forcing the Packers to move Turner back and slide Elgton Jenkins out from left guard to left tackle.
Aside from Bakhtiari, much of the news is good on the injury front. running backs Aaron Jones and Tyler Ervin were both full participants, as was linebacker Preston Smith. The other Smith Brother, Za’Darius, missed practice but for a non-injury reason.
The most concerning injury on the report is to cornerback Jaire Alexander , who has been playing at an All-Pro level so far this season. Alexander suffered an apparent concussion last Thursday and removed himself from the game, and he appears to still be in the concussion protocol. He will still have a few more days to work through the protocol, but in the meantime, the Packers would be looking for help at corner should he be unable to play.
Thankfully, starter Kevin King also looks to have a good shot at returning on Sunday after a four-game absence of his own with a quadricep injury. King practiced on a limited basis and his availability will be important should Alexander have to miss this weekend’s game. If King can go and Alexander cannot, look for King to start opposite Josh Jackson with Chandon Sullivan remaining in his normal position in the slot. If both cannot suit up, however, Sullivan would likely man the boundary in base alignments and kick inside in nickel or dime groupings, with Ka’Dar Hollman lining up outside.
Stay tuned this week for further updates on these players’ statuses.
Continue Reading @ Evan "Tex" Western
Evan "Tex" Western wrote: