Green Bay Packers starting Will linebacker Edgerrin Cooper was carted off the field against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after what looked like a brutal non-contact ankle injury. That’s a gut punch for any defense, especially when it happens mid-game.
The Play That Nobody Wanted to See
This wasn’t a big hit or a pile-up, which almost makes it worse. Cooper dropped to the ground awkwardly while on a third-down blitz versus the Buccaneers. He immediately grabbed his ankle and needed assistance just to get off the field. It’s the kind of play that sends shivers down your spine because those non-contact issues can sometimes be the trickiest ones. The team even shared the video, and it just looked painful to watch.
Next Man Up: Who Steps Into the Will Spot?
With Cooper out, Isaiah McDuffie immediately stepped in to fill the Will position. McDuffie is a pretty versatile guy, already backing up both the Mike linebacker, Zaire Franklin, and Cooper’s Will spot. Plus, he’s a core special teamer and a year-long captain on that unit, so you know he brings leadership. The concern is depth beyond him. If there were another injury at linebacker, it’s likely Ty’Ron Hopper would take over the Will spot, with whichever healthy linebacker is left, Franklin or McDuffie, playing the Mike. That’s a quick shift in your defensive plans right there.
More Injury Woes for Green Bay
It wasn’t just Cooper struggling in Tampa Bay. The Packers also dealt with a couple of other injury scares during the game. Running back Chris Brooks and defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt both got banged up, adding to the team’s growing list of concerns. Right now, everyone’s holding their breath waiting for an official announcement on Cooper’s status. Hopefully, it’s not as bad as it looked, but until then, the Packers’ linebacker room is going to be under a microscope.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Acme Packing Company.
Leave a Reply