Packers' promising rookie returns from injury just in time for pivotal Vikings clash

Safety Javon Bullard has recovered from an ankle injury that made him miss two consecutive games and is officially active to play against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. The Green Bay Packers’ second-round rookie is a key part of a secondary that will already be without cornerback Jaire Alexander and safety Evan Williams.

With Bullard, defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley gains a lot of flexibility. The rookie can play deep safety alongside Xavier McKinney, with Keisean Nixon playing in the slot, or the Packers could use Bullard as the slot, with Zayne Anderson getting another extended look at safety.

Omar Brown, who had been elevated from the practice squad on Saturday, will be a healthy scratch after all.

More defensive depth

Rookie off-ball linebacker Ty’Ron Hopper, who also had an ankle injury, will be active on Sunday. He’s been the fifth linebacker on the roster, but with Quay Walker’s absence, his presence is more relevant for the team.

Who's out

Wide receiver Christian Watson is not quite ready yet. After missing the entire week of practice, the third-year player is officially inactive and will not play against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, as had been previously reported by Tom Pelissero from NFL Network.

Watson suffered a knee injury on Monday night against the New Orleans Saints, when an opposing player rolled over his leg. Tests on Tuesday showed no structural damage, and according to head coach Matt LaFleur it’s just a ‘bruise.’ However, the receiver is still in pain and won’t be able to play six days after suffering the injury.

Cornerback Jaire Alexander (knee), linebacker Quay Walker (ankle), safety Evan Williams (quadricep), and backup tackle Andre Dillard (concussion) had been ruled out on Friday.

Packers inactive list

• CB Jaire Alexander
• LB Quay Walker
• S Evan Williams
• T Andre Dillard
• WR Christian Watson
• S Omar Brown

Other side