In Sunday’s game against the Falcons, the Packers will be missing two of their most dynamic skill players.
Due to hamstring problems, both wide receiver Christian Watson and running back Aaron Jones are listed as out.
In last week’s 38-20 victory over the Bears, Green Bay’s unexpectedly effective offense performed at its peak when directed through Jones. 11 touches for 107 yards and two scores were recorded by the seventh-year pro. On a 35-yard reception that resulted in the second of two touchdowns, Jones pulled up in the end zone with a strained hamstring and left the field.
Since he didn’t practice all week, Jordan Love will need to find another way to weaken Atlanta’s defense, which appears to have significantly improved since 2022.
AJ Dillon, who only gained 19 yards on 13 attempts in Week 1, must perform much better with increased volume. Emanuel Wilson and Patrick Taylor will probably substitute for him in an effort to mimic Jones’ performance as the lightning to Dillon’s customary thunder.
Due to Watson missing his second straight game, Green Bay deploys a group in the passing game that is very similar to the one it used last week.
Although the quick wide receiver did participate in his first limited practice of the year on Friday, there is reason for hope that he will be able to play next week. However, Sunday’s game will center on tight ends Luke Musgrave, Jayden Reed, Samori Toure, and Romeo Doubs, who led the team in receptions and scored twice in Love’s debut.
Without his normal blindside protection, Love will also need to find those pass catchers. David Bakhtiari, the left tackle, will not play on Sunday as he manages his workload following his 2020 ACL tear, similar to Jones and Watson.
A greater challenge than the one Love faced when he first took over as the Packers’ starting quarterback is playing without all three.
The two sides will face off at 1 p.m. ET, and he will try to miraculously pass the Falcons with flying colors.