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Packers Practice 9 Highlights: Returns, Injuries, and a Breakout Receiver

8/10/2026, 12:48:52 PM

Core Event – Practice 9 Inside the Don Hutson Center

On August 9, 2026, the Green Bay Packers moved their ninth training-camp practice indoors to the Don Hutson Center because of rain. The session featured the return of several players from injury lists, a “mountain of injury news,” and a standout performance by third-round wide receiver Savion Williams, who recorded two touchdowns. The practice also saw the first 11-on-11 reps for defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt and the re-entry of defensive tackle Javon Hargrave and running back Chris Brooks.

Background & Context

The practice followed the team’s “Family Night” scrimmage on Friday, during which the Packers used a full offensive line and gave fans a chance to watch the squad at Lambeau Field. Coach Matt LaFleur indicated that the upcoming preseason opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Thursday will be a “high day” after a “low day” on Sunday, reflecting the camp’s planned intensity cycle.

Data & Statistics

  • Players returning to practice: defensive tackle Javon Hargrave (knee), running back Chris Brooks (hamstring), defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt (ankle), tight end Tucker Kraft (knee), offensive tackle Zach Bako-Bewele (knee), guard Aaron Banks (knee), cornerback Kamal Hadden (ankle).
  • New injuries reported: WR Jayden Reed (ankle), WR Matthew Golden (toe), LB Edgerrin Cooper (foot), LB Zaire Franklin (personal), TE Josh Whyle (neck).
  • Savion Williams’ output: 5 receptions, 2 touchdowns—including a 60-yard score from quarterback Kyle McCord and a second TD on a slant route.
  • Offensive-line adjustments: Jacob Monk started at right guard; Zach Bako-Bewele took his first 11-on-11 snaps at right tackle; Anthony Belton moved to right tackle after previously playing right guard.
  • Defensive back rotations: rookie cornerbacks Brandon Cisse and free-agent Benjamin St-Juste shared snaps with veteran Keisean Nixon on the first-team defense.

On-the-Ground Reports

  • Cornerback competition: The practice marked the first time this summer that Cisse and St-Juste appeared together on the first-team defense, suggesting a possible challenge to the established starter, Keisean Nixon.
  • Linebacker depth: With Cooper and Franklin unavailable, Isaiah McDuffie and Ty’Ron Hopper filled the inside linebacker slots.
  • Special-teams note: Rookie kicker Trey Smack made two of three field-goal attempts (33 yds and 43 yds) and hit a 48-yard attempt in the upright.
  • Defensive play: On the final live series, Jordan Love connected with Williams for a touchdown after a series of successful short passes, underscoring Williams’ emerging role in the offense.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “Going to meetings and not being able to watch yourself is just a different feeling,” — Javon Hargrave
  • “It felt great honestly, being back with the guys,” — Chris Brooks
  • “I just got to just be bought in, whether it's guard or tackle,” — Anthony Belton
  • “Well, I think he's a really talented guy that's played a lot of meaningful snaps for us,” — Matt LaFleur, coach
  • “Peyton, thank you for generously donating your forehead for today's teleprompter,” — Adam Vinatieri

What’s Next

The Packers will hold public practices on Monday and Tuesday, after which the preseason opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers is scheduled for a 6 p.m. Central kickoff on Thursday. Coach LaFleur reiterated that healthy players must be prepared to contribute when the regular season begins.