Sophia
GREEN BAY, Wis. – The Green Bay Packers are staring down a significant challenge as they prepare to face the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday night. For the second consecutive day, three of their top seven offensive linemen were sidelined, raising serious concerns about the team’s ability to protect quarterback Jordan Love and establish a running game against a formidable, albeit recently struggling, Cowboys defense.
Key Linemen Sidelined
The Packers’ offensive line depth is being severely tested. Right tackle Zach Tom (oblique), left guard Aaron Banks (groin), and rookie offensive tackle Anthony Belton (ankle) all missed Friday’s practice, casting a long shadow over their availability for Sunday’s crucial matchup. Their absences could force Green Bay to field a patchwork unit against Dallas.
- Zach Tom: Suffered an oblique injury in Week 1. After sitting out Week 2, he attempted to play in Week 3 against Cleveland but managed only a single snap. He is not expected to play against Dallas.
- Aaron Banks: Sustained a groin injury late in Week 1, missed Week 2, and played only the first half of Week 3 before being sidelined. His status remains doubtful.
- Anthony Belton: The rookie, who stepped in for Tom in Week 2 and played the second half last week, suffered an ankle injury during Wednesday’s practice. Coach Matt LaFleur confirmed, “I don’t think it’s long-term, no, but will not be playing this week.”
Potential Starting Lineup & Depth Concerns
Should Tom, Banks, and Belton be unavailable, the Packers could be forced to start Rasheed Walker at left tackle, Jordan Morgan at left guard, Elgton Jenkins at center, Sean Rhyan at right guard, and Darian Kinnard at right tackle. Kinnard, a fifth-round pick in 2022 acquired just before final cuts, would be making only his second career start, though he has performed “reasonably well in 36 snaps this season,” according to Coach LaFleur.
“I think he’s done a nice job,” LaFleur praised Kinnard. “I think he gets better every day. He gets more comfortable with what we’re asking him to do. Even in the limited snaps he’s played for us, I think he’s done all right.”
The depth behind this potential starting five is alarmingly thin. The only reserves would be Donovan Jennings, an undrafted free agent from last year, and Brant Banks, an undrafted free agent promoted from the practice squad this week. Practice squad members Dalton Cooper and Lecitus Smith offer little immediate relief, with only Smith having played in a regular-season game.
Offensive Coordinator Adam Stenavich emphasized the team’s mindset: “The thing is, you can’t make excuses. Because winning and losing, that’s what it’s all about. And these guys just go out there and the expectation is for the position.”
Cowboys’ Defensive Threat and Emerging Talent
While the Cowboys’ pass rush has been described as “lackluster” without star Micah Parsons, rookie Donovan Ezeiruaku has been making strides. Dallas defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus noted Ezeiruaku’s rapid improvement: “He’s getting better and better in this system and in our style. He’s improving and really ask the question: what is he improving? He’s doing a really good job of working on the edges. He’s getting closer and learning how to rush in this league, and I’m excited about his future.” This emerging talent could pose a significant threat to Green Bay’s vulnerable offensive line.
Positive News on Defense for Green Bay
Amidst the offensive line woes, there is some good news for the Packers’ defense. Safety Javon Bullard, who suffered a concussion last week, practiced for a second consecutive day. While he remains in the concussion protocol, his participation is a positive sign for his availability on Sunday. Defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt (knee), who left last week’s game early, practiced all week and is expected to play.
Cowboys’ Injury Report: Key Absences and Returns
The Cowboys are also dealing with significant injuries. Wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and right guard Tyler Booker will be out with high-ankle sprains. However, cornerbacks Trevon Diggs (knee) and DaRon Bland (foot) progressed to full participation on Thursday and are expected to be ready for the game. This means the Packers’ receivers will still face a challenging secondary.
Final Injury Reports
Here’s a detailed look at the final injury reports for both teams:
Packers Final Injury Report
- Out: OT Anthony Belton (ankle), RT Zach Tom (oblique)
- Doubtful: LG Aaron Banks (groin)
- Questionable: S Javon Bullard (concussion)
Cowboys Final Injury Report
- Out: RG Tyler Booker (ankle), WR CeeDee Lamb (ankle)
The full scope of these injuries and their impact on Sunday’s game will be a major storyline. While the Packers face an offensive line crisis, the Cowboys are also missing key playmakers. The team that manages its injuries and depth most effectively could emerge victorious in this pivotal early-season contest.
For more insights into the Packers’ challenges, including the exceptional performance of Micah Parsons despite double teams and the struggles of the run game, follow Bill Huber’s analysis on Packers On SI.
