The Packers and Bears will play for the NFC North title on Sunday and injuries will likely play a significant role in the game. Green Bay is still waiting for Aaron Rodgers to return, but he isn't the only key player nursing an injury. The Bears are healthier, but still have some issues.
NFL injuries, Week 16: Clay Matthews unlikely to play in Week 17
The Packers continue to battle injuries with the status of Aaron Rodgers, Eddie Lacy and Clay Matthews in question for the showdown with Chicago.
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Here’s a look at the latest injury news from around the division.
Chicago:
Brandon Marshall and Lance Briggs both entered the game on Sunday with injuries and both were able to make it through the contest. Briggs played more snaps than expected, which could help him work back into game shape after an extended absence. Safety Chris Conte left the game with a head injury, but was cleared to return.
Detroit:
Calvin Johnson was limited against New York due to knee and ankle injuries. Jim Schwartz said he doesn't think Johnson will need offseason surgery on either issue. The injuries could, however, keep Johnson from playing in Week 17, especially with Detroit eliminated from playoff contention. Corner Bill Bentley suffered a concussion and sat out the rest of the game. Tight end Dorin Dickerson said he suffered a concussion in the fourth quarter but played through the injury and didn't tell team doctors until overtime.
Green Bay:
The Green Bay injury report will garner plenty of attention this week. Rodgers' status will again be the main topic of discussion. He isn't the only injured Packer on the bubble. Running back Eddie Lacy re-aggravated his ankle sprain and could miss practice time. Clay Matthews is unlikely to play in Week 17 after he re-injured his thumb. Matthews missed a month after undergoing thumb surgery earlier this season and Coach Mike McCarthy said it's a similar injury. Randall Cobb will practice more and could be activated from the short-term injured reserve if all goes well.
Minnesota:
Adrian Peterson played on Sunday despite foot and groin injuries, but didn't see much playing time in the second half. Peterson said his body isn't responding well. With nothing to play for, it doesn't make much sense to push Peterson into Week 17 duty. Toby Gerhart re-aggravated his hamstring injury early against Cincinnati and played just two snaps. Linebacker Audie Cole will not play in Week 17 because of an ankle injury.
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