When the Green Bay Packers 2022 schedule was announced, there were several shut gun reactions. On of which was an outcry that the NFL schedule makers had not given the Packers a Bye Week following their Week Five game against the New York Giants in London. Instead, the Packers will have to wait until Week 14 for their bye. However, new reports indicate that the Packers actually requested a later Bye Week, despite knowing they were playing in London earlier.
Why Did the Packers Ask for a Later Bye Week?
The Week 14 Bye Week is the latest Bye Week in Packers history. Indeed, it’s the latest possible Bye Week for any NFL team. Brian Gutekunst and Matt LaFleur both stated that the team requested that the NFL give them a later Bye Week. But why?
Despite the lengthy flight to and from London, the Packers are fortunate to have home games scheduled before and after the trip. Their Week Four game is at Lambeau Field against the New England Patriots. Following the London game, the Packers play the New York Jets at home in Week Six.
The Packers also are likely looking ahead to their players’ health and team needs later in the season. Undoubtedly, Green Bay will be in the playoff hunt late in the season. The Week 14 bye gives them a chance to rest and recover in mid-December rather than in early October.
It is also noteworthy that Matt LaFleur has coached in London games twice in his career as an assistant. He knows what the trip is like and how it affects players.
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