Logo

INJURY UPDATE: Packers OL Zach Tom Suffers Hip Injury in Season-Opening Win Over Lions

Packers lead Lions 17-6 after three quarters

**Green Bay, WI – September 8, 2025** – In what was otherwise a dominant 27-13 victory for the Green Bay Packers over the Detroit Lions in their Week 1 NFC North clash at Lambeau Field, the team suffered a potential setback on the offensive line. Right tackle Zach Tom exited the game in the third quarter with a hip injury and did not return, raising concerns about the unit's depth as the season progresses.

The injury occurred late in the third quarter during a chaotic play where Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson delivered a hard hit on Packers quarterback Jordan Love after an apparent interception. The play was nullified due to a roughing the passer penalty on Hutchinson, but in the ensuing scramble, Love collided with Tom as the offensive lineman attempted to avoid landing on his quarterback. Tom was seen limping off the field under his own power but was immediately evaluated in the medical tent on the sideline. He was later ruled questionable to return and was replaced by backup Darian Kinnard for the remainder of the game.

Packers head coach Matt LaFleur addressed the injury briefly in his post-game press conference, noting that Tom would undergo further evaluation on Monday. "Zach's a tough guy, and we're hoping it's nothing too serious," LaFleur said. "Our offensive line depth got tested today, and guys like Kinnard stepped up, but we'll know more after imaging." The team has not yet released an official timeline for Tom's recovery, but hip injuries can vary in severity, potentially sidelining players for anywhere from a few days to several weeks depending on the diagnosis.

This isn't the first time the Packers' offensive line has faced adversity early in the season. Tom, a key starter at right tackle, was part of a unit that also lost left guard Aaron Banks to an ankle injury in the same game, forcing adjustments with Rasheed Walker at left tackle and Jordan Morgan filling in elsewhere. Despite these setbacks, the Packers' line held strong enough to protect Love, who threw for 248 yards and two touchdowns while adding a rushing score in his impressive season debut.

The injury comes at a pivotal time for Green Bay, who are looking to build on their Week 1 momentum with upcoming matchups against divisional rivals. If Tom is out for an extended period, it could strain an already thin offensive line, especially with pre-existing concerns at center following emergency snaps in preseason. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely for updates, as the Packers aim to maintain their early-season edge in the competitive NFC North.

Stay tuned for more developments as the team provides further details on Tom's status. For now, the Packers can celebrate a solid win but must hope their lineman's injury is short-lived.

65 views
Steelers Add Two Former Packers Fan Favorites to Practice Squad To Strengthen Defense Ahead Of Browns Game
  PITTSBURGH – On Wednesday, October 8, 2025, the Pittsburgh Steelers welcomed two linebackers formerly with the Green Bay Packers for a workout session. The players invited were Michael Barrett and Isaiah Simmons, as the team looks to bolster its defensive unit ahead of upcoming games. Isaiah Simmons, selected as the 8th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft out of Clemson, has appeared in 84 games. He has recorded 329 tackles (226 solo, 103 assisted), 8.5 sacks (74 yards), 5 interceptions (127 yards), 2 interception touchdowns, 9 forced fumbles, and 3 fumble recoveries. Simmons, who briefly signed with the Packers in 2025 but didn’t make the final roster, is known for his versatility and impressive speed. Michael Barrett, a 7th-round pick (240th overall) by the Carolina Panthers in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Michigan, has limited NFL experience. He has appeared in a few games on practice squads with teams like the Packers and Browns but has yet to record significant stats (0 tackles, sacks, or interceptions). At Michigan, Barrett had a standout final college season with 65 tackles, 3 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles. Alex Highsmith, a key linebacker for the Steelers, suffered a high ankle sprain during the team’s Week 2 loss to the Seattle Seahawks on September 14, 2025. The injury sidelined him for Weeks 3 and 4, with an estimated recovery time of 4-6 weeks. While Highsmith was not placed on injured reserve to maintain roster flexibility, he is still recovering post-bye week and expected to return soon. However, the Steelers are seeking temporary replacements for the edge rusher position. The workouts with Barrett and Simmons reflect head coach Mike Tomlin’s cautious approach to adding depth to the defense, especially after releasing Ja’Whaun Bentley and losing Jon Rhattigan to the Raiders. Simmons, with his experience and athleticism, could be an ideal short-term option to support T.J. Watt and Nick Herbig. The Steelers have not yet announced any contract decisions regarding the two linebackers. SOURCE: https://x.com/FarabaughFB/status/1976031373946388722