The Green Bay Packers returned to the practice field on Tuesday with plenty of optimism following their Week 6 win — but that enthusiasm was tempered by the sight of several key players missing from drills. As the team prepares for its Week 7 showdown with the Arizona Cardinals, four starters were sidelined during practice, raising early concerns about their availability for Sunday’s game at Lambeau Field.
According to multiple team reporters on the scene, the absences included wide receiver Jayden Reed (shoulder), linebacker Quay Walker (knee), cornerback Eric Stokes (hamstring), and offensive lineman Elgton Jenkins (groin). Each player’s situation varies in severity, but with the Cardinals’ improving pass rush and explosive offense on deck, the Packers’ medical updates will be watched closely throughout the week.
Jayden Reed: Shoulder Still an Issue
Reed’s absence was expected, though still concerning. The dynamic second-year receiver has been playing through a lingering shoulder injury suffered during a Week 2 end-zone collision. Despite returning to action in recent weeks, the injury has clearly impacted his workload — and his chemistry with quarterback Jordan Love.
Reed, who has 26 receptions for 312 yards and two touchdowns this season, was limited in last week’s win over Seattle, logging his lowest snap count since his rookie year. Head coach Matt LaFleur said the team is being cautious.
“Jayden’s as tough as they come,” LaFleur said. “He wants to be out there, but we’re making sure he’s smart about it. We need him healthy for the long run.”
If Reed is unable to practice later in the week, expect rookies Dontayvion Wicks and Bo Melton to see expanded roles alongside Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs.
Quay Walker: Knee Soreness Lingering
Linebacker Quay Walker’s knee injury, sustained in Week 6, kept him off the field entirely Tuesday. While the team has downplayed its severity, the former first-round pick has been pivotal in Green Bay’s defensive resurgence.
Walker leads the Packers in tackles (58) and ranks among the league’s top 10 linebackers in defensive stops. His absence would be a major blow against a Cardinals offense that leans heavily on running back James Conner and dual-threat quarterback Kyler Murray.
Defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley said the team is preparing contingency plans. “We’ll be smart with Quay. He’s been tremendous for us, but we’re not going to rush anything. Isaiah McDuffie and Eric Wilson have both stepped up when needed.”
Eric Stokes: Another Setback in His Comeback
Perhaps the most frustrating storyline involves cornerback Eric Stokes, who continues to battle recurring hamstring tightness that has plagued his comeback from last year’s major foot injury. Stokes had only recently returned to the active roster before suffering a setback during conditioning drills.