We already knew the Green Bay Packers would play the Tennessee Titans without linebacker Clay Matthews. He was ruled out Friday morning. The main points of interest on the official Friday injury report are that defensive back Micah Hyde and running back James Starks are questionable.
Starks was back at practice this week four weeks after having knee surgery. Whether he plays or not probably isn’t that important for the Packers, considering they’ve become almost exclusively reliant on the pass and Ty Montgomery now appears to be their No. 1 running back. However, we do expect Starks will be on the field likely get some touches.
Hyde injured his shoulder last week against the Colts and was a limited participant in practice this week. He has been an important player for the Packers with all of their injuries at cornerback. Hyde has moved from safety to fill the nickel corner slot and he’s played pretty well in that role.
Meanwhile, it appears tight end Jared Cook’s long-awaited return will have to wait another week. Cook, who hasn’t played in five weeks because of a high ankle sprain, is listed as doubtful.
Cornerback Damarious Randall and center J.C. Tretter join Matthews in being listed as out. Randall did return to practice this week after having groin surgery, but wasn’t expected to play against the Titans.
The good news for the Packers is receiver Randall Cobb will be full-go this week after being limited against Indianapolis. Other formerly injured players who were removed from the injury report are cornerback Quinten Rollins, guard T.J. Lang and defensive tackle Letroy Guion.
Clay Mathews should go back to inside linebacker. At least he stays healthy there. It doesn’t matter how good your guy is at one position if he can’t stay on the field.
I’m excited to see Rollins in the #1 spot. I think he’s capable.