Ahead of the Green Bay Packers’ Week 18 win-and-in showdown against the Chicago Bears, there have been both good and bad health updates. Matt LaFleur and company know that they will need to put together a nearly perfect game to secure a win against their massive rivals.
Fortunately, the offensive side of the ball has received great injury news. Christian Watson, Jayden Reed, and Dontayvion Wicks all appear ready to go for this week. On the defensive side of the ball, there is a major concerning issue that is glaring right at Green Bay.
Preston Smith went down with an injury against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 17. At this point in time, it is very unclear what his status for playing against the Bears will be this week.
Green Bay Packers Reveal Concerning Preston Smith Injury Update
On Thursday, LaFleur spoke out about his star pass-rusher and the update wasn’t ideal. It definitely seems like Smith is in very serious danger of missing this week’s pivotal game.
“Anytime he’s not out there, it’s real.”
Preston Smith returned to game in Minnesota with his ankle injury, but given he's a model of consistency throughout his career, Matt LaFleur says Smith's lack of practicing this week is concerning: "Anytime he's not out there, it's real."
— Ryan Wood (@ByRyanWood) January 4, 2024
Smith has been the heart and soul and leader of the Packers’ defense this season. The unit as a whole has not been great under the leadership of defensive coordinator Joe Barry. Without Smith, it seems they would take a big hit that could be catastrophic about a surging Justin Fields and Bears’ offense.
So far this season in 16 games for the Green Bay Packers, Smith has racked up 46 total tackles to go along with eight sacks, two forced fumbles, and four defended passes.
If Smith is unable to go this week, it opens up a major opportunity for 2023 first-round pick Lukas Van Ness. The rookie has performed well in a limited capacity this season, recording 30 tackles, three sacks, and a defended pass. He’s no Preston Smith, but he’s a quality player.
Expect to hear more news and updates on Smith in the near future. Hopefully, he can push hard and get healthy enough to face the Bears.
