Fresh off a most refreshing Sunday, the Green Bay Packers returned to work today and began preparing for the Pittsburgh Steelers. The 20-3 victory over the Los Angeles Rams at Lambeau Field put a four game skid behind them and puts the Pack at 3-5 heading to Acrisure Stadium, still can’t get used to that, to face the 5-3 Steelers in a 12:00 PM kickoff Sunday.
For the second straight week, Head Coach Matt LaFleur had the squad pad up on a Wednesday, the normal Thursday routine through the first two months of the season. LaFleur said the weather didn’t cooperate as rain and even a threat of lightning kept the team inside the Don Hutson Center for practice. After the team stretch and individual drills, LaFleur gave the guys a five minute break to shed layers they were wearing anticipating the outside workout with temperatures in the mid-40’s, and to change foot ware from turf shoes to cleats, but they adjusted well and accomplished the coach’s goal to practice fast.
Only a handful of players didn’t participate and one was a surprise. Jaire Alexander who has been dealing with a bad back, suffered a shoulder injury against Los Angeles and go the day off. Jon Runyan had a sore neck, Yosh Nijman’s back is still tight and Quay Walker stretched but stayed on the sidelines with a groin injury.
Listed as limited on the first injury report of the week were Aaron Jones (hamstring), Elgton Jenkins (knee), Rudy Ford (calf) and Kenny Clark (shoulder). Christian Watson was a full participant, listed with a back injury. After his 37 yard catch in the 4th quarter last Sunday, the Packers said Watson was being evaluated for a chest injury, a back injury and possible concussion.
Christian Watson drinking to good medical fortune today.
In the locker room after practice, Watson, who never entered the concussion protocol, said he was a little light headed after the hard fall. It was painful, but worth it.
It was encouraging to see Clark back at work after leaving the Rams game before halftime with that shoulder injury. Ford’s calf injury had him inactive against Los Angeles.
The Packers announced they’ll be donning the 1950’s era throwback uniforms for next week’s home game against the Los Angeles Chargers. The green shirts and pants are brightened up with yellow numbers and trim.
