As the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears prepare for their pivotal NFC Wild Card encounter, both teams face notable lineup shifts due to player health. The Packers will be without key offensive lineman Zach Tom, whose recurring knee issues have kept him off the field, while the Bears welcome back prominent cornerback Kyler Gordon, who has recovered from a groin ailment. These personnel decisions are poised to influence the strategic approaches and overall intensity of this playoff showdown.
Packers Grapple with Offensive Line Injury
The Green Bay Packers' offensive line takes a hit as right tackle Zach Tom remains sidelined for Saturday night's NFC Wild Card game against the Chicago Bears. Tom, a crucial component of their blocking scheme, is dealing with a knee injury that has kept him out of commission for the last three regular-season contests. His absence forces the team to adjust its protection strategies against a formidable Bears defense, potentially impacting their run game and pass protection in this high-stakes matchup. Tom's consistent presence throughout the season has been vital, having started all 12 games he participated in this year, contributing significantly across his four NFL seasons.
Zach Tom's injury woes date back to December 14th, when he sustained the knee injury against the Denver Broncos, leading to his subsequent absence from the remaining regular-season schedule. At 26 years old, Tom has been a reliable starter for the Packers, accumulating 51 starts over 55 career games in his four years in the league. His unavailability creates a significant void on the offensive line, compelling the coaching staff to implement contingency plans to maintain offensive efficiency. The team's inactive list also includes receivers Dontayvion Wicks and Jakobie Keeney-James, defensive lineman Collin Oliver, and cornerback Jaylin Simpson, further testing the depth of the Packers' roster. Desmond Ridder will serve as the emergency quarterback for Green Bay.
Bears Welcome Back Key Defensive Back
In a contrasting development for the Chicago Bears, cornerback Kyler Gordon is set to return to the field for the Wild Card game, a timely boost for their defensive unit. Gordon had been out for the previous five games, nursing a groin injury, but his activation signifies his readiness to contribute. His return strengthens the Bears' secondary, providing a much-needed experienced presence against the Packers' aerial attack. Gordon's ability to create turnovers, with five interceptions in his career, could be a game-changer in this critical playoff clash.
Kyler Gordon, also 26, has had a challenging season with injuries, including a prior hamstring issue that limited him to just three appearances before his recent groin setback. Despite the interrupted season, his impact when healthy has been undeniable, making his return particularly significant for the Bears. Over his four seasons in Chicago, Gordon has started 35 of 45 games, consistently showcasing his playmaking ability. The Bears' inactive list for the game includes receiver Jahdae Walker, offensive lineman Luke Newman, defensive lineman Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, cornerback C.J. Gardner-Johnson, and linebackers Amen Ogbongbemiga and Ruben Hyppolite II. Case Keenum is designated as the emergency quarterback for Chicago, ensuring they have coverage in unexpected circumstances.