What Injuries Are the Packers Facing Heading into Their Week Eight Matchup?

As the Green Bay Packers prepare to face Aaron Rodgers and the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week Eight, the team continues to work through a mix of injury returns and ongoing injuries that could shape both the game plan and the depth chart. Star wide receiver Christian Watson, who has been out since last season with an ACL injury, has been in the recovery process and is now at the turning point of making his first game-day appearance of the 2025 NFL season. Watson was a full participant in practice this week; however, head coach Matt LaFlur and the coaching staff have yet to confirm whether or not he will start in the game. His presence on the field alone provides a boost to the Packers’ receiving options. Watson’s size, ability to run down the field, and his deep-threat capability could add another layer this week to Jordan Love and the Green Bay offense, testing the defense and creating space for other playmakers like Tucker Kraft and Matthew Golden. His possible season debut is one of the most anticipated storylines for Green Bay as they attempt to build momentum after a very gritty Week Seven win over the Cardinals.

In addition to Watson’s potential return, the Packers will also welcome back veteran kicker Brandon McManus. He sat out due to an injury. During McManus's absence, the Packers called on Lucas Havrisik, who stepped in over the past couple of weeks and delivered a perfect performance, including a franchise-record field goal kick from 61 yards. With McManus back in the lineup, Green Bay will regain its experienced kicker, adding stability in both field goal attempts and extra points. The return of the veteran kicker allows the coaching staff to maintain confidence in special teams while also giving Love and the offense reassurance that scoring opportunities can be accomplished in tight situations. How McManus works back into the game plan after Havrisik’s recent success with the team could prove to be an interesting story to follow for the rest of the season.

Josh Jacobs will remain as one of the Packers' key focuses heading into Pittsburgh, as he continues to manage a combination of calf soreness and lingering effects from an illness that limited him earlier in the season, as in last week's win over Arizona, with Jacobs not touching the ball or coming onto the field as often. The former Raider’s RB has been practicing at almost full capacity this week, and the fans and team expect him to be ready to go for the Steelers game. Even if his snap count is limited, Jacobs’ ability to contribute in short-yardage and goal-line situations could be a deciding factor for Green Bay’s run-heavy sets. His health will be crucial not only for offensive balance but also for keeping defenses on their toes. This could also be a good time when Watson makes his return, as it gives Love the chance for more open options. This time last year, Jacobs started to break out on runs as well.

Other players are working through minor injuries as well, including tight ends and offensive linemen who have been dealing with the usual small injuries coming from the early-season grind. The Packers have highlighted that these issues are being looked at carefully in order to avoid any further setbacks and maintain overall depth as the season progresses. The coaching staff is clear on keeping the roster healthy and flexible while supporting Love with the support and protection he needs to execute the game plan well. Heading into Week Eight, the Packers are balancing optimism with caution. Watson’s potential start could completely change the receiving group of the Packers. McManus’ return brings back the missing leader to the special teams unit, and Jacobs’ strength and availability create a balance of attack and power in the backfield. While questions remain about snap counts and play calling, Green Bay looks to be heading in the right direction in terms of health and readiness. If the team can successfully weave in these returning players while continuing to maintain execution, the Packers could showcase a more dynamic and powerful offense against the Steelers, setting the stage for a pivotal matchup in the early part of the season.