Injuries prevented rookie receiver Danny Davis and converted cornerback Rico Gafford from participating during the Green Bay Packers’ final joint practice with the New Orleans Saints on Wednesday.
Davis and Gafford are both dealing with new ankle injuries. It’s possible the pair could miss Friday’s preseason game against the Saints, providing another big hurdle to eventually making the 53-man roster.
They were the only new additions to the injury list on Wednesday.
Davis, an undrafted rookie from Wisconsin, was carrying a lot of momentum into the start of the week after catching a touchdown pass from Jordan Love in the preseason opener against the San Francisco 49ers. His most likely path to sticking in Green Bay is probably on the practice squad, but he’s been impressive this summer.
Davis’ injury – and the dwindling numbers at wide receiver – is likely why the Packers felt compelled to claim Travis Fulgham off waivers from the Broncos on Wednesday. Fulgham has experience in the offense and should be able to step in and play snaps for Matt LaFleur’s second or third teams right away.
If veterans Allen Lazard, Randall Cobb and Sammy Watkins don’t play on Friday, and Christian Watson (who just came off the PUP list) is held out, the Packers would be down to Amari Rodgers, Juwann Winfree, Romeo Doubs, Samori Toure and Ishmael Hyman, plus Fulgham, against the Saints.
Gafford, who moved from receiver to cornerback this offseason, is attempting to make the 53-man roster as a backup and core special teamer. This injury could severely hurt his chances, especially if he misses Friday’s preseason game. Gafford gave up a touchdown pass but was excellent on special teams against the 49ers last week.
It’s possible Gafford’s injury could open the door for a player like Kiondre Thomas or Kabion Ento to make a run at a roster spot as the sixth corner behind the expected top five of Jaire Alexander, Rasual Douglas, Eric Stokes, Keisean Nixon and Shemar Jean-Charles.
The biggest injury news of Wednesday? Rashan Gary, who briefly exited Tuesday’s practice, returned in a full capacity.
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