Packers’ AJ Dillon says he has a broken thumb and is uncertain about his status against the Bucs.
With a broken thumb sustained in Monday’s loss to the New York Giants, Green Bay Packers running back AJ Dillon’s availability for Sunday’s matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is questionable.
Dillon acknowledged to reporters on Thursday that he had broken his thumb.
“We’ll see,” was the head coach Matt LaFleur of the Packers’ response when asked if the veteran would play against the Bucs.
Regarding the injury, Dillon stated, “I got hit—just routine play.” “That’s how football works. struck with a helmet positioned correctly. After that, we called another run play.”
Throughout his career, Dillon has never missed a game due to an injury. During the 2020 season, he was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list and missed five games.
The Packers would probably have to rely on Patrick Taylor out of the backfield if Dillon is out of the lineup for Sunday’s game against the Buccaneers, as Aaron Jones is out with a knee injury and is not expected to play against Tampa Bay.
If Dillon is ruled out, it’s also likely that Green Bay will promote veteran running back Kenyan Drake from the practice squad. Drake didn’t play in Monday’s game against the Giants despite being elevated.
This season, Taylor has made seven appearances for the Packers, gaining 101 yards through rushes and 54 yards through receptions on eight passes.
Since making his debut in 2020, Dillon has been a vital component of the Green Bay offense, and with Jones out for a few weeks, he has found his rhythm. In 13 games, the 25-year-old has caught 22 passes for 223 yards and ran for 574 yards with one touchdown.
With a 6-7 record, the Packers are third in the NFC North going into their game on Sunday. They are currently in the NFC playoff picture, but if they want to go to the postseason, they will need to finish the regular season strong.
With a fairly favorable schedule to end the season, Green Bay has a 50% chance of making the playoffs. The Packers’ next opponents are the Carolina Panthers (1-12), Minnesota Vikings (7-6) and Chicago Bears (5-8) following their game against the Buccaneers.
