Corey Ballentine- After some early optimism about their potential availability, the 24-14 defeat have officially ruled out four key players ahead of their Thursday Night Football game against the Detroit Lions. The latest injury report confirms that the Packers will be missing several key figures, particularly on the defensive side of the ball.

Cornerback Jaire Alexander (knee), cornerback Corey Ballentine (knee), and linebacker Edgerrin Cooper (hamstring) are all set to miss the game, with Ballentine being the most recent addition to the injury report. Additionally, wide receiver Romeo Doubs will also be unavailable as he has not cleared concussion protocol.

Alexander’s absence marks his third consecutive game on the sidelines. The two-time Pro Bowler has seen limited action recently, playing just 10 snaps over the past five weeks. Cooper, who has not practiced since November 20, will also miss his third straight game due to his hamstring injury. Ballentine, meanwhile, injured his knee during the Packers’ Thanksgiving victory over the Miami Dolphins and has missed practice throughout the week. His absence will leave the Packers even thinner in the defensive backfield.

On the other side, the Detroit Lions have also ruled out four players ahead of the Thursday night clash. The Lions will be without defensive end Josh Paschal (knee), defensive tackle DJ Reader (shoulder), offensive tackle Taylor Decker (knee), and defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike (hamstring). These absences will have an impact on both the Lions’ defensive line and their offensive protection.

With Doubs sidelined, the Packers will look to wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks to step up in his place. Wicks, who had a solid performance in the Packers’ victory over the Dolphins, catching four passes for 30 yards on 83% of the offensive snaps, will have an increased role. Wicks will be eager to make up for a lackluster showing in Week 9 against the Lions, where he failed to catch any of his three targets. So far this season, Wicks has 21 receptions for 247 yards and four touchdowns across 12 games. He will have a prime opportunity to showcase his skills in a game where the Packers will need every player to step up in the absence of key contributors.