It is a step in the right direction. The announcement came Sunday that Elgton Jenkins, Robert Tonyan and rookie Christian Watson would all be coming off of the PUP list. This is a welcome sight for Packers fans. Seeing these Packers players activated off the PUP list means they are one step closer to seeing the field.
What Does This Mean?
Is this an indication that these players are close to playing? Not necessarily. What it does mean is that these three players can now join the team in training camp for practice. While LaFleur has stated that it is unlikely that they will participate right away in team drills, they probably will join the walk throughs. For Watson this is especially helpful as he is having to learn a totally new offense. For Jenkins and Tonyan it is less vital but still important.
Seeing the Field
LaFleur pumped the brakes on these players seeing the field soon. This is most likely a response to what has happened with LT David Bakhtiari. There was optimism that he would already be back and LaFleur does not want to get hopes up. Bakhtiari’s case seems to be an anomaly but I get LaFleur’s caution. The hope is that maybe Watson can see the field for a preseason game and that Jenkins can come back and solidify the offensive line. Tonyan as well would be a welcome sight after Tyler Davis had a rough first preseason game.
Good News for the Packers
Ultimately, this is good news for the Packers. Three key players are coming off the PUP list and will begin practicing. No matter how optimistic or pessimistic you want to feel about the injury situations, this is a step in the right direction. The hope is that this is followed by more news of players coming off the list. Bakhtiari still remains and Mason Crosby is definitely needed after the kicking performance on Friday night. Only time will tell but right now it is great to see these three Packers players get activated off the PUP list.