As expected, the Green Bay Packers have ruled out cornerback Sam Shields and defensive end Datone Jones for Sunday’s game with Carolina.
Shields hasn’t practiced all week after injuring his knee against Miami. Jones practiced on a limited basis earlier in the week, but had a setback with his injured ankle. Jones suffered that injury two weeks ago against Minnesota and it is, of course, worse than the Packers thought.
Three other guys who have been battling injuries are listed as questionable for the game. They are cornerback Tramon Williams, inside linebacker Jamari Lattimore and receiver Jarrett Boykin.
We fully expect the Packers to hold Williams, who also has an ankle injury, out of Sunday’s game. However, Buffoon said today that they’ll give it until game time to make a decision.
On the other hand, we fully expect Lattimore to play. He suffered a stinger in Miami and has practiced all week, albeit on a limited basis. You know what the alternative is if Lattimore doesn’t play.
The devil that is Brad Jones.
Have we not learned anything from Old Yeller?
As for Boykin, he hasn’t played the past two weeks because of an injured groin. He didn’t produce when he was healthy and now Davante Adams has taken his job, so his return is of no consequence.
Without Shields and Williams, Casey Hayward and Davon House will start. Jarrett Bush will play nickel. Josh Boyd will step in for Jones.