The Green Bay Packers began on-field prep for the Seattle Seahawks without rookie defensive back Javon Bullard, but Matt LaFleur’s team was otherwise near full capacity in terms of participation — a good sign considering the list of injured players coming out of Week 15.
Per Mike Spofford of the team’s official site, Bullard was not participating but cornerback Jaire Alexander, receiver Romeo Doubs, linebacker Edgerrin Cooper, safety Evan Williams and cornerback Corey Ballentine were all on the field during Wednesday’s padded practice.
Bullard injured his ankle on Thursday night against the Detroit Lions. LaFleur said it wasn’t a significant, long-term injury but more week-to-week, meaning Bullard will likely be out this week against the Seattle Seahawks.
But reinforcements in the form of returning players could be on the way.
Alexander has missed three consecutive games with an aggravated knee injury. Doubs has missed back-to-back games while in concussion protocol. Cooper has missed three straight games after injuring his hamstring in practice. Williams exited last Thursday night’s loss in Detroit with a concussion. Ballentine missed last week with a knee injury.
It’s unclear if Doubs and Williams are still in concussion protocol. As of Monday, Doubs hadn’t cleared. However, participating in football activities is part of clearing the protocol. Both players need to be cleared by an independent consultant.
It’s possible both Alexander, the team’s best corner, and Cooper, the team’s playmaking rookie linebacker, could return from multi-week injuries. The Packers could use both in a matchup against Geno Smith and a talented Seahawks offense.
The Packers will put out an initial injury report with participation results later on Wednesday.
The Packers also returned tight end Luke Musgrave, who was designated for return from injured reserve. He’s been out since Week 4 after needing ankle surgery. With an open roster spot, the Packers could add Musgrave at any point between now and Sunday’s trip to Seattle.
