As the Green Bay Packers begin preparations for their crucial divisional matchup against the Chicago Bears, the team’s practice session came with some notable absences. While the Packers are gearing up for a highly anticipated game against their NFC North rival, the absence of eight key players from the first day of on-field preparations raises questions about their availability and the overall health of the team. With the Packers looking to extend their lead in the division, staying healthy and getting key players back on the field will be critical to achieving their goals.
### The Missing Players
The Packers’ first practice of the week saw several prominent names not participating, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the team’s upcoming game. Here’s a breakdown of the eight players who were sidelined, along with what their absences mean for the team:
#### 1. **Jaire Alexander (CB)**
Jaire Alexander, the Packers’ star cornerback, is one of the team’s most crucial defensive players. A first-team All-Pro in 2021, Alexander is the anchor of Green Bay’s secondary. His absence from practice is concerning, especially given the importance of shutting down the Bears’ passing attack, which features the dynamic Justin Fields at quarterback. If Alexander is unable to play, the Packers will likely need to rely on younger cornerbacks, which could put additional pressure on their defense. The Packers are already dealing with some depth concerns in the secondary, so losing Alexander for a divisional game would be a tough blow.
#### 2. **Aaron Jones (RB)**
Aaron Jones, the team’s explosive running back, was also absent from the first practice of the week. Jones has been a steady force for the Packers, both as a rusher and as a receiving threat out of the backfield. His versatility makes him one of the most valuable players on offense, and his ability to take pressure off quarterback Jordan Love is essential for the Packers’ offensive success. The Packers have a capable backup in A.J. Dillon, but without Jones’ big-play ability, Green Bay may have a harder time establishing a balanced offense. The coaching staff will be hoping that Jones can make a swift recovery, as his presence would be vital for the Packers to control the tempo of the game.
#### 3. **David Bakhtiari (LT)**
David Bakhtiari, one of the top left tackles in the NFL when healthy, has had a turbulent journey back from knee injuries. His ongoing absence raises questions about his ability to contribute on a consistent basis. Bakhtiari’s protection of the quarterback’s blindside is paramount, especially as Jordan Love continues to develop as the starting quarterback. Without Bakhtiari, the Packers may be forced to shuffle their offensive line, which could disrupt the team’s rhythm. The Packers will need to monitor Bakhtiari’s status closely, as his return could make a significant difference in the outcome of the Bears game and the team’s long-term success.
#### 4. **Elgton Jenkins (OL)**
Elgton Jenkins is another key member of the Packers’ offensive line who was not participating in the practice. Jenkins is a versatile offensive lineman, capable of playing multiple positions along the line, which makes him an invaluable asset to the team. If Jenkins is unavailable for the Bears game, the Packers may have to make adjustments to their offensive line, potentially putting inexperienced players in the spotlight. The offensive line has been a mixed bag this season, and any disruption in continuity could have an adverse effect on the running game and Jordan Love’s ability to remain comfortable in the pocket.
#### 5. **Christian Watson (WR)**
Christian Watson, a second-year wide receiver with a promising future, was another player absent from practice. Watson’s speed and ability to stretch the field provide the Packers with a dynamic deep threat. His absence from practice raises concerns about the Packers’ aerial attack, as Watson has been a key piece in stretching defenses and providing a safety valve for Jordan Love. If Watson is unable to go against the Bears, the Packers will need to rely more heavily on other receivers, such as Romeo Doubs and Jayden Reed, to carry the passing game. The Packers can still be effective without Watson, but it would certainly limit their options.
#### 6. **Rashan Gary (OLB)**
Rashan Gary is another important figure on the Packers’ defense, known for his pass-rushing prowess. Gary is coming off a torn ACL and has been working his way back into form. Although he has shown flashes of his pre-injury self, his absence from practice this week is concerning. The Packers will need Gary’s pressure on Bears quarterback Justin Fields, who can make plays with his legs and extend plays outside the pocket. If Gary is unavailable, the Packers may struggle to generate pressure, which would put more strain on their secondary. Fortunately, Green Bay has other talented pass rushers like Preston Smith, but Gary’s presence would provide a significant boost to the defense.
#### 7. **Darnell Savage (S)**
Darnell Savage, the Packers’ starting safety, is another key defensive player who was absent from practice. Savage plays an important role in both coverage and run support, and his ability to cover ground in the secondary allows the Packers to disguise their defensive schemes. Without Savage, the Packers would need to rely on backup safeties to handle important coverage assignments, which could leave vulnerabilities in the secondary. With Fields’ ability to throw deep and extend plays, Savage’s absence would be a significant loss for the Packers’ defensive game plan.
#### 8. **Zach Tom (OL)**
Zach Tom, a versatile offensive lineman, was the final player absent from practice on Wednesday. Tom’s ability to play across the offensive line has been invaluable this season, and his presence provides much-needed depth. If Tom is unable to play, the Packers will need to adjust their offensive line, which has already seen some instability with the injuries to Bakhtiari and Jenkins. Tom’s absence could further complicate the team’s offensive scheme, as the Packers would need to rely on less experienced players in crucial spots.
### What Does This Mean for the Packers?
The absences of these eight players highlight the Packers’ ongoing injury concerns as they prepare for their upcoming divisional showdown with the Bears. While the Packers have depth in many areas, losing key players—particularly on both sides of the ball—will force the coaching staff to make adjustments. The Packers’ offensive line could face significant challenges, and without a full complement of healthy skill players, the team will need to be creative in how they attack the Bears.
Additionally, the Packers’ defense, which has already been hit-or-miss this season, could struggle without players like Jaire Alexander and Rashan Gary. The Bears’ offense, though not always consistent, features explosive playmakers like Fields, who can change the game with his legs and arm. If the Packers are to secure a victory, they will need to be at their best, despite these absences.
### Looking Ahead
The Packers will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on the status of these players over the coming days. With so many key contributors uncertain for the game, Green Bay will need to rely on the depth of their roster and hope that some of the sidelined players can return in time. For now, the team’s focus is on staying healthy and getting as many players back as possible to ensure they have the best chance of securing a critical divisional win against the Bears. If the Packers can weather the storm of injuries, they will be in prime position to continue their playoff push.
