Eddie Lacy’s Timetable Clears Way for Sam Shields

Green Bay Packers running back Eddie Lacy reportedly won’t be able to return from ankle surgery until January, which likely ends his season.

Although he is in team meetings it sounds like the #packers don't expect Eddie Lacy(IR) back until early January following surgery on ankle.

— Mike Clemens (@MikeClemensNFL) November 3, 2016

Lacy went on injured reserve on October 20 after injuring his already injured ankle against Dallas. Although he had surgery, there was some question if the Packers might use their one return from IR designation on their No. 1 running back at some point.

That matter was complicated by cornerback Sam Shields going on injured reserve the same week.

Now it appears Shields, who has been battling a concussion, will get that designation. Although the Packers have one game in January (on the first) and whatever playoff games they get, Shields should be ready to help the team sooner.

If he returns from IR after the minimum eight weeks, Shields could be back in week 15. That’s December 18, when the Packers travel to face the Bears.

With Lacy likely out at least two additional weeks, plus questions about his weight, that likely makes the Packers’ decision pretty easy.