The Green Bay Packers were without linebacker Quay Walker and rookie defensive back Javon Bullard to start on-field preparations for the New Orleans Saints during a snowy Thursday in Green Bay, per Wes Hodkiewicz of the team’s official site.
Both starting defenders are dealing with ankle injuries entering Week 16. Walker injured his ankle in the first half against the Seattle Seahawks last Sunday night and didn’t return, while Bullard injured his ankle in Detroit and missed last week’s win in Seattle.
Coach Matt LaFleur considered both players to be dealing with “week to week” injuries.
One big positive on Thursday: cornerback Jaire Alexander, who has missed four straight games, was back on the practice field. He practiced in full last Wednesday and Thursday but sat out Friday and missed Sunday’s win in Seattle. He’s attempting to return from a knee ligament sprain.
The Packers host the Saints at Lambeau Field on Monday night. LaFleur’s team will practice again Friday and Saturday before issuing a final injury report.
Without Bullard last week, the Packers moved Keisean Nixon back into the slot and played Eric Stokes and Carrington Valentine out wide at cornerback. Dealing with a potential absence from Walker would likely include more snaps for Edgerrin Cooper and veteran Eric Wilson next to Isaiah McDuffie.