Packers WR Jayden Reed shares injury update

Difference-maker

Coming in as a second-rounder after the Packers traded down twice before taking him, it was difficult to imagine such a high impact from Jayden Reed right away. Nonetheless, he's exceeded expectations, leading the Packers in receptions (60), receiving yards (681), and tied for the lead in receiving touchdowns (8).

He broke the franchise record of receptions for a rookie player. Previously, Packers legend Sterling Sharpe held the record since 1988.

Offensive pieces

The Packers badly need Jayden Reed, because the offense has had to overcome a significant amount of injuries. Left tackle David Bakhtiari is out since week 1 because of his knee issue and won't be back until next season.

In the wide receiver room, Christian Watson has missed the last four games with a hamstring injury, and Dontayvion Wicks didn't play on Sunday night because of a chest issue. Moreover, tight end Luke Musgrave is still recovering from a lacerated kidney — the rookie has been designated to return, but hasn't been activated to the 53-man roster yet.

Considering that Reed, Watson, and Wicks are handling injuries, the only fully healthy wide receivers on the Packers 53-man roster are Romeo Doubs, Malik Heath, and Samori Toure.

Bo Melton had a stellar game against the Minnesota Vikings, surpassing 100 receiving yards. He is still on the practice squad, though, and is out of gameday elevations. The Packers will most likely promote him to the active roster during the week, even if it means cutting Toure and trying to sneak him on the practice squad if he clears waivers.

The week 18 game is season-defining for the Packers. They get into the playoffs with a win, but would depend on a tough combination to qualify with a loss. The Bears are now officially eliminated from playoff contention, but they have been playing better lately. The team won four of their last five games, and they haven't given up more than 20 points in a game since November 19.