The Green Bay Packers have reportedly made a risky decision on the status of two injured players before their Wild Card contest with the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday afternoon. The Packers had several key starters on Friday’s injury report that had a questionable or doubtful status.
The Packers listed running back AJ Dillon as doubtful to play due to neck and thumb injuries. Cornerback Jaire Alexander (shoulder/ankle) and Christian Watson (hamstring) were considered questionable to play. Alexander sustained a “freak” injury in practice this week.
The Packers have been without Watson since their Dec. 3 contest against the Kansas City Chiefs. They need Watson and Alexander to play the NFC’s second-seed Cowboys, if at all possible, on Sunday.
The Green Bay Packers take a risk
According to a report Sunday morning by Ed Werder of ESPN, Packers head coach Matt LaFleur is expected to take a “risk” on playing Watson and Alexander due to the high-stakes nature of the win-or-go-home Wild Card game. LaFleur reminded the players to be truthful about how they’re feeling because the Packers need healthy bodies on the active roster:
“Because of their value, #Packers HC Matt LaFleur seems inclined to take the risk in playing Christian Watson and Jaire Alexander if they can contribute. He’s reminded them to be honest because they’re taking a jersey from a healthy player and could leave team short handed.”
Because of their value, #Packers HC Matt LaFleur seems inclined to take the risk in playing Christian Watson and Jaire Alexander if they can contribute.
He’s reminded them to be honest because they’re taking a jersey from a healthy player and could leave team short handed.
— Ed Werder (@WerderEdESPN) January 14, 2024
The Packers need their best and most explosive players on the field Sunday. Watson’s speed can stretch the Cowboys’ defense. Alexander will need to shadow one of the wide receivers in the league this season, CeeDee Lamb.
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