Sports
Packers List Five Players Questionable for NFC Wild Card Game
GREEN BAY – The Green Bay Packers have listed five players as questionable for Sunday’s NFC Wild Card playoff game against the Philadelphia Eagles. The players include safety Evan Williams (quadricep), linebacker Quay Walker (ankle), defensive linemen T.J. Slaton (ankle) and Brenton Cox Jr. (foot), and offensive lineman Andre Dillard (concussion). The team has also ruled out safety Zayne Anderson (concussion) and receiver Christian Watson (knee).
Starting quarterback Jordan Love (right elbow) and backup Malik Willis (right thumb) are expected to play after being full participants in practice on Thursday and Friday. Love, who left last week’s regular-season finale with elbow soreness, showed no signs of lingering issues during practice. “He did well,” said Head Coach Matt LaFleur. “Today was a good day.”
Evan Williams, who missed the last three games due to a quad injury, returned to practice on a limited basis this week. The rookie safety, who has 49 tackles, an interception, and a forced fumble this season, expressed optimism about his return. “I’m hoping to be back to my hair-on-fire self come Sunday,” Williams said.
The Eagles, meanwhile, ruled out defensive tackle Byron Young (hamstring) and guard Trevor Keegan (illness). Quarterback Jalen Hurts, who missed the past two games with a concussion and a finger injury, is expected to play. Philadelphia also listed several key players, including A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, as available despite minor injuries.
The Packers’ defense could see a boost with the potential return of Walker and Williams. Defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley praised their leadership and communication skills, emphasizing their importance to the team’s defensive strategy. “It’s nice to have the leadership of Quay, and Evan is such a smart football player,” Hafley said.
Sunday’s game will be a critical test for both teams as they vie for a spot in the next round of the playoffs. The Packers will rely on their depth and resilience to overcome injuries and secure a victory at home.