Packers Release Injury Report Ahead of Thursday's Game vs Eagles With Za'Darius Smith Questionable
By Jerry Trotta
Heading into Wednesday, Green Bay Packers fans probably though that they would have their full compilation of defensive playmakers at their disposal for Thursday night's clash against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Well, that may not be the case as star linebacker Za'Darius Smith popped up on the injury report today with a knee injury and has officially been labeled questionable for the game.
Uh-oh. Za'Darius Smith questionable for tomorrow night vs. the Eagles because of a knee issue that popped up yesterday. Here's the full Packers injury report: https://t.co/TfV1ieUENe pic.twitter.com/LNjzMgHYGv
— Rob Demovsky (@RobDemovsky) September 25, 2019
It's reassuring that the Kentucky product hasn't been ruled out, but it goes without saying how worrisome the term "questionable" is on a short week.
Smith obviously doesn't have much time to recover, so stay tuned for updates throughout Thursday to see if Smith is well enough to give it a go. He's been an absolute stalwart for Green Bay thus far, logging 11 combined tackles, three sacks, and seven quarterback hits.
Elsewhere, tailbacks Aaron Jones and Jamaal Williams were upgraded to full participants on Wednesday. The same can be said for starting tackle Bryan Bulaga and rookie linebacker Rashan Gary, who could play a significant role if Za'Darius were to miss out.
Potentially a big opportunity available on Thursday night for rookie Rashan Gary. Even if Za'Darius Smith does play, it's possible the Packers will limit his snaps. Chance for the Packers' top pick to build on his breakout performance in Week 3.
— Zach Kruse (@zachkruse2) September 25, 2019
Further, keep an eye on the status of starting LB Blake Martinez, who was limited on Wednesday with a shoulder ailment. The 25-year-old has been a ball magnet through the first three weeks, recording 32 tackles (23 solo), three tackles for loss, and one sack.