Green Bay Packers offensive tackle Zach Tom, sidelined in Week 2 by an oblique injury, may be cleared to suit up against the Cleveland Browns, according to head coach Matt LaFleur.
If Tom rejoins the lineup, the Packers will lean on him to help contain defensive end Myles Garrett as they chase a 3-0 start after last week’s 27-18 win over the Washington Commanders.
LaFleur noted that Tom feels far better now than he did during last week’s preparation for the Commanders.
“Matt LaFleur says Zach Tom feels “a lot better than he did” last week with his oblique injury, but #Packers will see how the week goes. Important to have him back this week against Myles Garrett in Cleveland,” Packers beat writer Ryan Wood wrote on X(formerly Twitter).
The Packers prepare to face Garrett on Sunday in Cleveland, with LaFleur describing him as a “game wrecker.” Green Bay’s offensive line must step up to keep Garrett from dominating, which makes Friday’s final injury report even more critical. The first update of the week will be released Wednesday.
The Packers playing without Zach Tom
With Tom sidelined in Week 2, the Packers leaned on Anthony Belton, their second-round pick out of NC State. The rookie logged 51 snaps, avoided surrendering any pressure, and held his own in the run game. His lone costly mistake came on the opening drive, when a holding penalty erased a touchdown pass to Jayden Reed.
Belton shared snaps with Darian Kinnard, who logged 17 plays, and LaFleur noted that the pair “handled their responsibilities” while filling in at a critical spot.
Against the Commanders, the Packers rolled out an offensive line of Rasheed Walker, Jordan Morgan, Elgton Jenkins, Sean Rhyan, and Belton from left to right. Walker, Jenkins, and Rhyan provided years of starting experience, while Morgan joined the group as a 2024 first-round pick.
Packers quarterback Jordan Love went 19-for-31 with 292 yards and two touchdowns in the Week 2 victory. Running back Josh Jacobs powered his way to 84 yards on 23 carries and added a score, while Tucker Kraft hauled in six passes for 124 yards and a touchdown.
The Packers face a major test against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday.
