Green Bay - Coach Mike McCarthy said defensive tackle Justin Harrell missed Tuesday's morning practice with back spasms that are related to his chronic back problems.
"He's just fighting through it and we're just treating it," McCarthy said. "So it's a little bit of a setback for him."
This is the third consecutive season Harrell has dealt with injuries since being taken 16th overall in 2007.
He did not participate in off-season workouts before his rookie season as he recovered from surgery to repair the bicep he tore in college. The Packers then brought him along slowly until he was finally active for a game on Oct. 7.
In '08, Harrell injured his back in off-season practices and underwent two surgeries. He was active for the first time on Nov. 2 but then missed the final three games with a hip injury that was related to his back problems.
Harrell thought his back issues were behind him this year after seeing an acupuncture specialist in the Green Bay area.
"On a personal note it's unfortunate," McCarthy said. "Justin's had a tough road dealing with his injuries but he's doing everything and more that we're asking of him. It's part of the game. It's something that as a coach you can't control."