After uncertainty about his availability, Bako-Bewele told reporters he expects to play and handle a full game. His status eases one major question on Green Bay’s offensive line as Aaron Banks remains doubtful.
Zach Bako-Bewele told reporters he plans to play and expects to be ready for a full game in Week 1 vs. the Vikings.
Aaron Banks remains questionable and later was listed inactive, making rookie Jager Burton the likely backup starter if Banks can't go.
Bako-Bewele has All-Pro recognition in recent seasons and signed a four-year, $88 million extension, but he missed part of last season with a partial patellar tendon tear.
# What happened Following the Packers' first practice meeting before Week 1, right tackle Zach Bako-Bewele said he plans to play Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings and expects to be able to complete the entire game. His comments came after several days of uncertainty about his status.
# Why this matters
Having him available increases the likelihood that the Packers will have at least four of their five starting offensive linemen available on game day, which matters for both the running game and pass protection schemes.
# The remaining question: Aaron Banks Aaron Banks, the starting left guard, also appeared on the injury report and was limited in practice. If Banks cannot play, the team appears ready to elevate rookie Jager Burton to the starting lineup. Late reports showed Banks ultimately inactive for the opener, while Bako-Bewele was active.
# What Bako-Bewele actually said Bako-Bewele noted that the plan was to be ready for Week 1 and suggested earlier comments about uncertainty were overblown. He framed those comments as referring more to conditioning and getting back into game rhythm rather than availability. He also told The Athletic that he "definitely" would play and expects to perform at an elite level.
# Short-term implications for Week 1
# What to watch during and after the game
# Bottom line Bako-Bewele's Week 1 availability reduces one of the Packers' biggest immediate risks on the offensive line. Aaron Banks' absence shifts attention to his possible replacement, but the presence of Bako-Bewele gives the Packers a better chance to protect the quarterback and maintain a functioning running game out of the gate.
Packers offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich gave an update on Zach Bako Bewele's status for Week 1.
RT Zach Bako-Bewele is active for opener at Minnesota
Packers head coach Matt LaFleur didn't sound sure whether Zach Bako-Bewele or Aaron Banks will be ready for Week 1.
The Green Bay Packers coaching staff has been non-committal about right tackle Zach Bako-Bewele’s availability for Sunday’s game for a couple of weeks now. Bako-Bewele himself was confident he’d be ready for Week 1, but you’ve definitely heard more convincing statements of confidence than this one: Offensive coordinato
Zach Bako-Bewele said he'll be ready for the Packers' season opener, but his answer wasn't particularly reassuring.
The Packers will have Zach Bako-Bewele available in Week 1, but Aaron Banks is out. Here's what it means.
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