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Packers face uncertainty at two offensive-line spots before Minnesota opener

Green Bay could be without starting right tackle Zach Bako-Bewele or left guard Aaron Banks in Sunday’s season opener against the Vikings. Both remain questionable after limited practices, while Minnesota enters the game without anyone on its injury report.

Packers face uncertainty at two offensive-line spots before Minnesota opener
GREEN BAY — The Packers may have to adjust their starting offensive line for Sunday’s regular-season opener against the Minnesota Vikings in Minneapolis, with right tackle Zach Bako-Bewele and left guard Aaron Banks both listed as questionable. The two players have dealt with knee problems during training camp and were limited during all three practices this week. Their availability could affect 40% of Green Bay’s projected starting offensive line, although coach Matt LaFleur said both showed encouraging signs by taking part in practice. “It’s good to have them out there,” LaFleur said, while cautioning that the team still needs to evaluate how ready they are for game action. Neither Bako-Bewele nor Banks played a full complement of first-team 11-on-11 snaps during the summer. LaFleur said the Packers could rotate their replacements into the game to manage the workload, even if both starters are cleared to play. Bako-Bewele is returning from a partially torn patellar tendon in his right knee that ended his 2025 season after a Dec. 14 loss at Denver. He said this week that he feels as prepared as possible, while acknowledging that the game itself will provide the clearest test. “I think with where we’re at right now, I’m about as ready as I can feel to play a game,” Bako-Bewele said. “Obviously, we’re not going to find out until we actually go out and play, but I feel good about where I’m at.” Banks has been managing knee tendinitis after an injury-filled first season with Green Bay in 2025. He said his status could remain unresolved until kickoff. “We’re taking it day by day right now. I’m getting better,” Banks said. “It’ll probably be a game-time decision.” If Banks cannot play, rookie fifth-round draft pick Jager Burton is the likely replacement at left guard. Banks said the uncertainty has been frustrating but that he has focused on taking as many practice repetitions as possible while working toward full health. The Packers also listed linebacker Ty’Ron Hopper as questionable with an Achilles’ injury. Defensive tackle Warren Brinson was ruled out because of a calf injury. Green Bay received better news about left tackle Jordan Morgan. After being limited Wednesday with a knee issue, Morgan practiced fully Thursday and Friday and was removed from the injury report. He is expected to play. The Vikings have no players on their injury report, leaving every member of their 53-man roster considered available for the opener at U.S. Bank Stadium.

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