Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Packers Announce Bad News for Bears Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Jan 10, 2026 7:09 PM ET

The Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears face off on Saturday night in the wild-card round of the NFC playoffs. A lot will be on the line for both teams, with a spot in the divisional round at stake. At the same time, it’s the end of the season for the losing team.

The Packers were at the center of an unfortunate development right before the 8:00 p.m. ET kickoff from Soldier Field. Starting left tackle Zach Tom headed into the game with a questionable tag, and the team has now made a final decision on his status against the Bears.

Green Bay Packers offensive lineman Zach Tom (50) during the game against the Arizona Cardinals.© Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images

Tom has been an integral part of the Packers’ offensive line. The 26-year-old protects quarterback Jordan Love’s blind side. Being one of the best pass protectors on the team, Tom’s presence gives Love the opportunity to succeed in the pocket.

Unfortunately for Love and the Packers, Tom will not be able to play on Saturday night. The former Wake Forest Demon Deacons standout headed into the game with a questionable tag due to back and knee injuries. The Packers have now officially ruled him out.

"Zach Tom is OUT for today's matchup in Chicago," the team posted on X.

Zach Tom is OUT for today's matchup in Chicago
— Green Bay Packers (@packers) January 10, 2026

Tom first sustained his knee injury in Week 15 against the Denver Broncos and has since been sidelined. Tom, however, was able to practice on Tuesday and Wednesday, albeit in a limited capacity. The Packers LT did not practice on Thursday, but head coach Matt LaFleur labeled Tom's absence as a "rest day."

"He's looked good in practice," LaFleur said of Tom on Thursday. "We'll give him up till gametime, and if he can go, he'll be out there."

Tom was a true gametime decision. The Packers announced his final status a little over an hour before kickoff. The bad news is that Tom was not able to shake off his injury in time for the wild-card game.

Jordan Morgan will continue to start at left tackle for the Packers with Tom sidelined.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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