The Green Bay Packers were without linebacker Quay Walker and rookie defensive end Javon Bullard to begin on-field preparations for their game against the New Orleans Saints during a snowy Thursday in Green Bay. according to Wes Hodkiewicz from the band’s official website.
Both starting guards are dealing with ankle injuries heading into Week 16. Walker injured his ankle in the first half against the Seattle Seahawks last Sunday night and did not return to the field, while Bullard suffered an ankle injury in Detroit and missed last week’s win in Seattle.
Coach Matt LaFleur acknowledged that both players are struggling with injuries “week after week.”
There was one gigantic positive in Thursday’s game: Cornerback Jaire Alexander, who had missed four straight games, was back on the field. He trained fully last Wednesday and Thursday, but sat out on Friday and missed Sunday’s victory in Seattle. He’s trying to come back from a sprained knee ligament.
The Packers will host the Saints at Lambeau Field on Monday night. LaFleur’s team will practice again on Friday and Saturday before issuing a final health report.
Last week without Bullard, the Packers moved Keisean Nixon back to the starting spot and started Eric Stokes and Carrington Valentine at cornerback. Dealing with Walker’s potential absence would likely involve more snaps of Edgerrin Cooper and veteran Eric Wilson alongside Isaiah McDuffie.
