Packers Scale Back Practice Ahead of Family Night Amidst Injury Concerns
Key offensive and defensive players sidelined as team prepares for fan event.
The Green Bay Packers held a shortened practice in shells on Friday, one day before their annual Family Night event. Head Coach Matt LaFleur cited a combination of player injuries and the upcoming fan-focused scrimmage as reasons for dialing back the intensity.
Injury Report Grows
Seven new players appeared on the injury report, prompting the team to adjust their preparation. Cornerback Nate Hobbs (knee), tackle Rasheed Walker (groin), offensive lineman Travis Glover (shoulder), cornerback Kamal Hadden (hip), defensive end Arron Mosby (groin), and receiver Sam Brown Jr. (ankle) did not participate. Additionally, three wide receivers—Jayden Reed (toe), Dontayvion Wicks (calf), and Savion Williams (concussion protocol)—were limited in their activity.
“It would be a combination of both,” LaFleur stated when asked about the practice modifications. “This is kind of what we had scheduled anyways, knowing that tomorrow night those guys will get after it pretty good.”
Running back Emanuel Wilson appeared to sustain a lower-body injury during a team 11-on-11 drill while trying to adjust to a pass from quarterback Jordan Love. Wilson walked off the field with training staff assistance and did not return. The team is already without running back MarShawn Lloyd, who has been sidelined since Monday with a groin injury.
Morgan Steps Up at Left Tackle
With Rasheed Walker sidelined, 2024 first-round pick Jordan Morgan again took snaps with the first-team offense at left tackle. Morgan, who began training camp rotating at guard while Elgton Jenkins and Aaron Banks managed back injuries, is now getting an extended look at the position he played predominantly at Arizona.
“I thought he did a nice job,” LaFleur commented on Morgan‘s performance. “There’s always going to be a couple plays that we just gotta make sure we clean up, and that’s why you practice.”
Despite the adjustment, Morgan expressed his commitment to versatility. “It’s part of the game, honestly. You’ve got to win your spot,” Morgan said earlier in the week. “You’ve got to do everything you can, even if it means playing multiple positions during camp. It doesn’t bother me because I’m getting the work.”
FitzPatrick Making an Impression
Tight end John FitzPatrick, who returned to the Packers in April, has been actively making plays in camp. The 6-foot-7 pass-catcher recorded a couple of impressive sliding receptions from backup quarterback Malik Willis, including one near the sideline and another for a touchdown in the red zone.
“It’s just an easy corner route,” FitzPatrick explained. “Malik put the ball perfect and made a play. We just talked about getting your knee down if it’s even gonna be close rather than trying to drag two feet. Maybe I didn’t need to slide, but made it happen.”
FitzPatrick is vying for the third-string tight end position behind Tucker Kraft and Luke Musgrave. The tight end room is the only position group where Green Bay did not add new personnel through free agency or the draft this offseason, with all six players having been with the team last year.
“I always wanted to be back here,” FitzPatrick added. “I really love it here. I love the people here. When the opportunity presented itself, it was really a no-brainer. It was nice just being able to go through the whole offseason program. The OTAs and the lifting, all the meetings and practices, I think has just helped me a ton.”
Locker Room Designed for Cohesion
Green Bay’s recently unveiled locker room features a new seating arrangement designed to foster team unity. Coaches have intentionally placed offensive and defensive players in alternating lockers throughout the 81-locker space.
“There’s definitely a lot of thought that goes along in it,” LaFleur noted. “For the most part, I do like the format of having an offensive player next to a defensive player. I just think you want guys to get around people other than what’s on their side of the ball or within their position room. So, there’s definitely some strategy.”
Anticipation Builds for Family Night
The Packers are set to return to Lambeau Field for their annual Family Night practice on Saturday evening. The event, which includes fireworks and a laser show, will be streamed live on packers.com.
For players, it’s a chance to perform in front of a large crowd and share the experience with their families. Cornerback Bo Melton expressed his excitement, particularly for his young son. “It means everything, for sure,” Melton said. “My son, he’s getting older so he’s starting to recognize stuff more. I’m definitely hyped to see how he reacts when he sees all these lights and all these people. I’m just happy to be in his presence, with my girlfriend, and to be able to enjoy that moment with him now that he’s getting older.”