Earlier this summer, in training camp, Packers cornerback Nate Hobbs had knee surgery with the goal of returning in time for Week 1 against the Lions. While Hobbs is back on the field, his Wednesday practice activity suggests that his “questionable” tag on the injury report will remain firmly in place for now.
Hobbs has made good progress, but he isn’t in the clear
Observing the Packers’ practice session, ESPN reporter Rob Demovsky posted the following notes on Hobbs:
Packers CB Nate Hobbs (knee) went through stretch and eventually came outside to do some work but was not in pads like the rest of the team.
WR Jayden Reed (foot) the only other player who didn’t appear to be practicing. pic.twitter.com/xSru0KN2mg
— Rob Demovsky (@RobDemovsky) September 3, 2025
Dinged up veterans not practicing is a common NFL sight; it’s not as though this confirms Hobbs won’t suit up Sunday. The Packers might just be employing caution.
That said, it’s not encouraging either. Four days before the game, it would be reassuring to see Hobbs participating in full form, or close to it. That’s not the case, though, and his Week 1 status could be in jeopardy.
Aside from Hobbs, the Packers will rely on Keisean Nixon and Carrington Valentine at cornerback this season. Farther down the depth chart, there isn’t much cushion. Bo Melton, converted from receiver, could see extra reps if Hobbs sits out. After Green Bay’s shocking Micah Parsons trade, cornerback is the roster’s thinnest position on defense. Missing a projected starter would not help.
Unfortunately, injuries have been a significant factor in Hobbs’ career, something the Packers knew when they signed him this offseason for four years and $48 million. Injury concerns played a large part in Jaire Alexander’s release; ironically, both Alexander and his de facto replacement are dealing with health issues ahead of Week 1 action.
In Las Vegas over the past three years, Hobbs missed 16 games; in Green Bay over the past two, Alexander missed 20.
As for Jayden Reed, he plans to play through a broken foot bone rather than opt for surgery that would sideline him for months. Keeping him off the practice field is just a matter of course to ensure he can put the pads on against Detroit. Nagged by back issues, Parsons is also listed as questionable. Hopefully Hobbs’ lack of participation signals similar caution to Reed’s case rather than something that will hold him out of the season opener.
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