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Packers may turn to Pierre Strong as struggling ground game faces Bears

With Chris Brooks ruled out and Green Bay averaging an NFL-low 58 rushing yards per game, Pierre Strong could get his first Packers game action Sunday. Veteran guard Kevin Zeitler also appears closer to making his team debut.

Packers may turn to Pierre Strong as struggling ground game faces Bears
GREEN BAY — The Packers could have two new contributors for Sunday’s rivalry game against the Chicago Bears: running back Pierre Strong and right guard Kevin Zeitler, both of whom appeared on track to play after Friday’s practice and injury report. Strong, signed to Green Bay’s active roster from the practice squad, could get an opportunity as the Packers look for answers to a running game averaging 58 yards per game — the lowest mark in the NFL. The team ruled out Chris Brooks, who hurt his ankle in last Sunday’s win over Tampa Bay. Green Bay’s other two backs, Kaleb Johnson and MarShawn Lloyd, each fumbled against the Buccaneers. Johnson lost the ball near the goal line; Lloyd’s fumble went out of bounds. Coach Matt LaFleur warned this week that players who fail to secure the ball could lose playing time. Strong had 15 carries for 58 yards, one catch for minus-4 yards and a 68-yard kickoff return during the preseason. He spent the final 16 regular-season games and the Packers’ playoff loss to Chicago last year on the practice squad, but did not play after being elevated to the game-day roster three times. LaFleur typically activates three running backs, making Strong’s debut likely with Brooks unavailable. Strong said he prepares as though he could be called up at any time. “Whenever my number’s called, I’m going to be ready,” he said Friday. Zeitler, a 15-year veteran, was inactive for his first possible game with Green Bay last week after the coaching staff judged that three practices were not enough preparation. He said he had taken a couple of 11-on-11 practice reps this week and felt he had improved. The 36-year-old did not confirm whether he would play, leaving that decision to the coaches. The Milwaukee-area native and former University of Wisconsin first-team All-American said joining the Packers for a game against Chicago would be meaningful. “It’s a very heated rivalry for obvious reasons and you’ve got to bring your A game,” he said. Green Bay also ruled out receiver Savion Williams, who remains on injured reserve while beginning a return-to-play practice period. Guards Aaron Banks, with knee and toe injuries, and Jacob Monk, with a quadriceps injury, were listed as doubtful. Guard Jager Burton, defensive tackle Anthony Campbell and defensive tackle Javon Hargrave were listed as questionable. Chicago ruled out running back Kyle Monangai, who had 146 yards and two touchdowns on 30 carries in the Bears’ win over the New York Jets. D’Andre Swift practiced fully Friday and was removed from the injury report. Quarterback Caleb Williams, returning to practice after a hamstring injury suffered in Week 2, was listed as questionable; backup Tyson Bagent was still expected to start.

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