GREEN BAY – The Packers are facing some injury challenges ahead of their game against the Cleveland Browns this Sunday. Tight end Tucker Kraft (knee) and tackle Zach Tom (oblique) are both questionable. Receiver Jayden Reed has already been ruled out due to shoulder and foot issues.
Tucker Kraft struggled with a knee injury he picked up on Thursday and didn’t practice on Friday. Head Coach Matt LaFleur is hopeful, saying he doesn’t expect this to be a long-term injury, but it’s still unclear if Kraft will play. “It’s unfortunate. It is what it is,” LaFleur noted. “I don’t think it’ll be long term, so that’s a positive. But he will not be out there today.”
If Kraft can’t play, Luke Musgrave, another tight end from the 2023 draft class, is ready to step in. Although this second-round pick has faced some injury struggles himself, he has caught three passes for 36 yards this season. “We know the player he can be,” LaFleur remarked. “His availability has held him back, but we’re confident he can perform well for us.”
Zach Tom missed his first game in two years due to the oblique injury he sustained against Detroit. He returned to practice Wednesday but mentioned, “It’s kind of hard to run,” adding that lateral movements aren’t an issue, but sprinting is painful. He’s working through it, hoping to return to form soon.
On a positive note, left guard Aaron Banks is back after missing a game due to a groin issue. He reassured reporters he will play against the Browns and was officially cleared from the injury report on Friday. Other players expected to be available include cornerback Bo Melton and quarterback Jordan Love, among others.
On the Browns’ side, defensive tackle Mike Hall has been ruled out with a knee injury. Four players are marked as questionable: guard Joel Bitonio (back), receiver DeAndre Carter (concussion), tackle Jack Conklin (elbow), and kicker Andre Szymt (calf). Key players like cornerback Denzel Ward and safety Grant Delpit are set to play, which could be crucial for their defense.
This match could also be pivotal for both teams as they aim for playoff positions. Recent statistics show that teams overcoming injury challenges often rely heavily on the depth of their rosters. The Packers will need their younger players to step up if the starters are sidelined. As the season progresses, watching how these dynamics unfold will be intriguing.
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