Packers’ Nate Hobbs to Miss Weeks Due to Sprained MCL
Green Bay Packers cornerback Nate Hobbs is set to miss multiple games due to a sprained MCL. This injury comes after a month of managing knee pain. It does not involve the same knee that had surgery for a torn meniscus earlier this season.
Nate Hobbs’ Injury Details
Hobbs missed the first week of the season due to his recovery from knee surgery. However, he returned and started the next five games. His sprained MCL is considered a grade 1 injury, which is mild and does not require surgical intervention.
Timeline of Events
- Week 1: Hobbs misses the game due to knee surgery recovery.
- Week 4: Knee pain surfaces during a tie game against the Dallas Cowboys.
- October 17: Hobbs exits practice due to knee issues.
- October 24: MRI reveals a small tear in the knee.
Impact on the Team
The Packers will need to adjust their strategy in the absence of Hobbs. The team currently has four perimeter cornerbacks available for the upcoming matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Potential Replacements
- Keisean Nixon
- Carrington Valentine
- Bo Melton
- Kamal Hadden
Valentine is expected to start alongside Nixon. The limited availability of snaps in the slot may further complicate the team’s defensive lineup.
Contract and Previous Performance
In the spring, Hobbs signed a four-year, $48 million deal with the Packers. Previously, he played four seasons with the Las Vegas Raiders, where he primarily held a nickel corner role. His transition to the Packers was aimed at utilizing his skills on the perimeter.
Despite earlier injuries that caused him to miss 16 games over the past three seasons, Hobbs was anticipated to be a significant asset for the Packers. As he continues his recovery, the team will monitor his rehab progress closely.
