The Green Bay Packers lost rookie defensive ends Evan Williams and Javon Bullard to injuries in Thursday’s loss to the Detroit Lions at Ford Field.
Williams was evaluated for a concussion in the first half and ruled out of the game in the second half. Bullard suffered an ankle injury in the second half and was taken back to the locker room. For ESPN’s Rob DemovskyBullard left the locker room on crutches Thursday night.
Without Williams, the Packers played it safe and sound with special teamer Zayne Anderson. With Bullard out, the Packers moved Keisean Nixon to the slot and Eric Stokes and Carrington Valentine played outside.
On Thursday night, the Packers played without cornerbacks Jaire Alexander (knee) and Corey Ballentine (knee). Starting defenseman Edgerrin Cooper (hamstring) also missed his third straight game.
The good news is that the Packers – who just played their third game in 12 days – won’t play again until Sunday, December 15. A weekend of rest and recovery could be exactly what Matt LaFleur’s team needs ahead of their final four games, which include road games against the Seahawks and Minnesota Vikings. Green Bay won’t return to the field in an official capacity until next Wednesday.
Defensive end Lukas Van Ness briefly left the field with a thumb injury, but returned. Right back Sean Rhyan left with an undisclosed injury but also returned. It’s possible LaFleur will provide an update on several players during the post-game news conference on Friday in Green Bay.
