The Green Bay Packers upgraded linebacker Quay Walker from non-participant at Wednesday’s practice to limited on Thursday, suggesting the second-year defender is progressing through the concussion protocol and has a chance to play Sunday against the Atlanta Falcons.
Matt LaFleur could only confirm that Walker was still in the concussion protocol, but returning to the practice field — even in a limited capacity — is a sure sign that Walker has taken a step forward in the league’s return to play protocol.
Buy Packers TicketsWalker, who had the game-clinching pick-six in Week 1, suffered a concussion at the end of the touchdown run when Bears offensive tackle Darnell Wright hit him as he entered the end zone.
The Packers will practice again Friday before providing official injury designations on Friday afternoon. It’s possible Walker will be listed as questionable while he attempts to clear the final stages of the protocol.
If Walker can’t go, the Packers would start Isaiah McDuffie next to veteran starter De’Vondre Campbell at linebacker.
However, having Walker available would provide a boost to a Packers defense that must contend with Falcons running backs Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier and tight end Kyle Pitts on Sunday. Walker’s speed and playmaking ability could be vital for handling the run and clogging up passing lanes in the middle of the field.
The only other changes to the Packers injury report on Thursday was the addition of punter Daniel Whelan, who practiced fully despite a new finger injury. Running back Aaron Jones and receiver Christian Watson did not practice and might be trending towards missing Sunday’s showdown in Atlanta.
Falcons linebacker Troy Andersen, who is also in concussion protocol, did not practice on Thursday.
