A sick bug hit the Packers locker room ahead of last week’s game against Baltimore, and it’s stuck around for the Week 18 finale. From an injury report perspective, the good thing is that the game versus Minnesota means nothing to the Packers’ playoff position. Provided enough bodies are found to replace them, sick players can take some time to recover.
Wednesday’s report, the last of the 2025 calendar year, features four players with an illness designation: guard Aaron Banks, who also has an ankle injury; receiver Jayden Reed; defensive end Lukas Van Ness (illness, foot); and rookie Savion Williams (foot, illness). All were limited participants in practice.
Packers plan to play at least some starters, but Week 18 is prime opportunity for R&R
Among the above names, ideally, Banks, Reed, and Van Ness can all sit out Week 18 or play limited snaps. A win or loss means nothing to the Packers, and all three are key pieces on the roster. Along with Kingsley Enagbare, Van Ness, already an important reserve, has filled in for Micah Parsons since the latter tore his ACL in Denver.
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Van Ness and Banks have battled injuries all season. Reed just returned back in Week 14 after undergoing surgery on his foot and collarbone. The Packers could use some positive momentum amid a three-game losing streak, but starters should not be jeopardized more than necessary in a game that doesn’t count.
If his foot allows him to, Williams could see reps simply because the Packers will need bodies given all their injuries and the number of regulars held out for the finale.
Head coach Matt LaFleur has said some regulars will suit up regardless. Whether Banks, Reed, or Van Nes see snaps, hopefully the bug has made its course by the time the Wild Card Round rolls around versus either the Bears or the Eagles.
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