New Green Bay Packers additions, running back Josh Jacobs and linebacker Edgerrin Cooper, are questionable for Saturday’s Family Night practice at Lambeau Field.
Jacobs, the 2022 NFL rushing leader who joined the Packers via free agency, missed Thursday’s practice due to a groin issue.
“I wouldn’t call it an injury,” he remarked, describing it instead as a “tweak.”
“It’s nothing serious,” Jacobs assured. “If we had a game today, I’d be playing. I could’ve practiced today but we’re being cautious to prevent worsening it. It’s August 1st. We’ve got time to sort it out.”
Jacobs is uncertain about Saturday’s participation.
“They’re protecting me from myself because I tend to practice hard,” he said. “I might feel the atmosphere and want to do everything. We’ll see how it goes.”
Cooper, a second-round draft pick vying for a starting spot, suffered a “little hip injury” during Wednesday’s practice.
“We’ll see,” he responded regarding his availability for Saturday.
Cooper is competing with veteran Eric Wilson for the third linebacker position alongside Quay Walker and Isaiah McDuffie.
“I think I’m doing really well,” he said. “Just taking it day by day, trying to improve and do what I can. Things happen, you just push forward.”
Cornerback Carrington Valentine, attempting to challenge Eric Stokes for his spot, missed his second consecutive practice.
“We’re being very cautious,” said coach Matt LaFleur. “It’s the nature of camp. Injuries are bound to happen. He’s been performing well, tried to push through, but sometimes it’s best not to fight through it.”
Four veterans had the day off: defensive ends Rashan Gary and Preston Smith, guard Elgton Jenkins, and tight end Tyler Davis.
“Rest day’s good for me,” Smith said. “The coaches take great care of us, from warm-ups to workouts and meetings, ensuring we’re well taken care of.”
Smith, the team’s oldest player at 31, along with Jenkins (2021), Gary (2022), and Davis (2023) all have ACL injury histories.
“Days like this are rare,” Gary noted. “I took full advantage today, giving tips to the young guys. It was fun to watch.”
Gary and Smith are the starting defensive ends, with Lukas Van Ness and Kingsley Enagbare taking first-team reps in their absence.
Gary expressed his excitement for Family Night.
“Every time you step in Lambeau, it’s a blessing,” he said. “Practicing in front of our fans gives us the energy to push through camp.”
