Packers’ rookie running back Aaron Jones returns to practice for the first time since he tore an M-C-L knee ligament November 12th at Chicago. The Packers started working Wednesday on the game plan for their home contest against Tampa Bay on Sunday — and Jones could give the Pack a boost if he can join rookie Jamaal Williams in the backfield. Meanwhile, nose tackle Kenny Clark practiced for the first time since he was carted off Lambeau Field November 19th when he rolled an ankle against Baltimore — and linebacker Clay Matthews returned to the practice field for the first time after he injured a groin against the Ravens. Only two Packers did not practice at all Wednesday — corner Kevin King and running back Ty Montgomery.
Matthews says the Green Bay Packers probably should not have put Aaron Rodgers on injured reserve, because he looks like he’s ready to play now. Rodgers has been throwing as part of his rehab from a broken right collarbone he suffered October 15th at Minnesota. His injured reserve status does not let him return to practice until Saturday — but Matthews says Rodgers made some strong, accurate throws Wednesday with the rehab group where the veteran Matthews was as he recovers from a groin injury. The earliest Rodgers can play again is December 17th at Carolina — and if Brett Hundley can lead Green Bay to wins against Tampa Bay Sunday and Cleveland December tenth, the question is whether Rodgers can help win the Pack’s final three games which would most likely be necessary for 5-6 Green Bay to make the playoffs.