You’ve heard this one before, right?
Green Bay Packers linebacker Clay Matthews says he’s playing. He said it two weeks ago and then he didn’t play.
He’s now been out three consecutive weeks and four overall with some kind of hamstring injury. Matthews has practiced on a limited basis this week. And yes, he says this is the week he plays again.
“But I feel good about where I’m at right now. It’s unfortunate. You don’t ever want to miss any games in this league, but like I said, I feel good. I feel healthy, and I plan on being out there, barring any setbacks.”
Barring any setbacks is obviously the key there. The last time Matthews said he was going to play, he had one of those dreaded setbacks.
Is this the week for Matthews?
We’ll believe it when we see it.
Without Matthews, the Packers’ pass rush has been dormant. Although Matthews has just three sacks this season, he still provides a matchup problem for the offense. That, in turn, frees up guys like Nick Perry to make plays.
If the Packers plan on winning in Washington, Matthews’ presence will be key.