Green Bay Packers’ Week of Preparation: Optimism Ahead of the Wild Card Round

As the Green Bay Packers prepare for their wild card round matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, they received a boost of positive news during the first day of practice. Quarterback Jordan Love, who left the Week 18 game against the Chicago Bears early due to an elbow injury, was back on the field on Wednesday, fueling hopes for his availability in the upcoming game.

Jordan Love’s Recovery: A Positive Sign

Jordan Love’s return to practice marks a crucial step forward for the Packers, who are focused on securing a win against the Eagles. While the Packers opened only the stretching portion of practice to the media, preventing reporters from seeing Love throw the football, his presence on the field remains an encouraging sign. As the team releases its first injury report of the week on Wednesday, the level of Love’s involvement in practice will provide further insight into his condition and readiness for the postseason showdown.

Additional Good News: Key Players Return to Practice

The positive momentum didn’t stop with Love’s return. Several other key players were also spotted at practice, signaling good news for their availability in the wild card game. Wide receiver Romeo Doubs, who had been sidelined with an illness, safety Evan Williams (quadriceps injury), linebacker Quay Walker (ankle injury), and defensive end Brenton Cox (foot injury) all participated in practice, after missing the Week 18 game against the Bears. Backup quarterback Malik Willis, who suffered a thumb injury during the game, also returned to the field.

Injury Updates: Who Didn’t Practice?

While the Packers received several boosts, not everyone was able to participate. Wide receiver Christian Watson, who sustained an ACL injury, will soon be placed on injured reserve and did not practice. Additionally, safety Zayne Anderson (concussion) and defensive tackle TJ Slaton (undisclosed injury) were absent from Wednesday’s session, though their status will continue to be monitored as the week progresses.

Philadelphia Eagles: Jalen Hurts Returns to Practice

Across the field, the Eagles also received positive news regarding their star quarterback. Jalen Hurts, who has been sidelined since suffering a concussion against the Washington Commanders on December 22, was back at practice for the first time in weeks. Hurts had missed the Eagles’ past two games against the Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants. Although he remains in concussion protocol, the fact that he was able to practice four days before the game is a positive sign for the Eagles’ chances as they prepare for their playoff opener.

Looking Ahead: Playoff Optimism for Both Teams

With key players returning to practice and both teams focused on making a deep playoff run, the Packers and Eagles are gearing up for an exciting and high-stakes wild card game. While the Packers are focused on overcoming recent challenges, including injury concerns, the Eagles are optimistic about Hurts’ recovery and their ability to contend for a Super Bowl berth.