Two Packers O-Line Starters Out of Practice Before Bears Clash Due to Mysterious Illness

Jan 8, 2026

Green Bay, Wisconsin – As the Green Bay Packers prepare for their crucial NFC Wild Card matchup against the Chicago Bears, an unexpected concern has emerged in practice that could impact the team’s offensive stability.

For Wednesday and Thursday’s sessions, right tackle Zach Tom and nickel defender Javon Bullard were held out or limited in practice due to a lingering illness, leaving two key starters unavailable as preparations intensified for Saturday night’s showdown at Soldier Field.

Tom, the Packers’ most reliable lineman, was given a “rest day” on Thursday, while Bullard, who sustained a knee injury during Week 16 against the Bears, participated in a limited capacity throughout the week. Coach Matt LaFleur acknowledged the caution but emphasized that both players would be evaluated right up to gametime.

“Zach looked good in practice,” LaFleur said. “We’ll give him until game time, and if he’s ready, he’ll be out there.” Bullard, meanwhile, downplayed concerns about his injury. “I’m straight. I’m looking forward to Saturday,” he said. “Just a little football bump—it’s nothing that will keep me off the field.”

In addition to Tom and Bullard, four other players were limited during the week: WR Dontayvion Wicks (concussion protocol), LB Nick Niemann (recently activated from IR), rookie DT Warren Brinson (foot), and backup QB Malik Willis (shoulder/hamstring). The team hopes their return to full health will provide depth and flexibility against a Bears squad coming off a strong finish to the regular season.

Despite the absences, the Packers remain confident in their preparation. Running back Josh Jacobs, who missed Week 18, is fully healthy and expected to carry a significant workload in the backfield. Special teams coordinator Rich Bisaccia praised Niemann’s versatility: “He can play multiple roles on kickoffs and punts, and his experience as a personal protector is invaluable. We hope he’s ready to contribute this weekend.”

On the Bears’ side, several key starters are returning, including WR Rome Odunze and D.J. Moore, while C.J. Gardner-Johnson remains sidelined with a concussion. Coach Ben Johnson expressed optimism about the Packers’ matchup readiness: “It’s good to have our guys back. They’re moving well, and we’ll see how they help us out this weekend.”

The Packers’ final injury report ahead of the Wild Card Round: Questionable – DT Warren Brinson (foot), S Javon Bullard (knee), LB Nick Niemann (pectoral), RT Zach Tom (back/knee), WR Dontayvion Wicks (concussion), QB Malik Willis (right shoulder/hamstring).

With playoff margins razor-thin, the availability of these key starters could be the difference between advancing and elimination. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as Green Bay heads into one of the most intense divisional rematches of the season.