Young Defenders will have to Step Up for Packers vs Bears Game

It’s one of the biggest games of Green Bay’s season as the team prepares to host Chicago this Sunday afternoon. This is also the first of two Packers vs Bears matchups within 13 days. And this rivalry matters once again — with the lead of the NFC North on the line.

The team will be coming into the game, fresh off a 31-24 victory in Detroit on Thanksgiving. But injuries will force young defenders to step up.

Heading into Week 14, Green Bay is 8-3-1, just a half-game behind the 9-3 Bears (due to the tie). The Packers are favored with the game happening at Lambeau Field.

LaFleur: Who will have to Step Up against the Bears

Sports reporter Mike Clemens covers LaFleur’s weekly news conferences, but this one is different. It’s leading up to the all-important Packers vs Bears game. Head Coach Matt LaFleur confirms that defensive lineman Devonte Wyatt will miss the remainder of the season. LaFleur calling the loss of Wyatt a tough one, while stressing how replacing his production will require a collective effort. He also points to several young defenders who will have to step up in expanded roles this Sunday.

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Listen to the LaFleur news conference here:

LaFleur is also asked about his trust in quarterback Jordan Love. He credits Love’s quick decision-making for reduced interceptions.

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Listen to Love’s comments on the current battle for the NFC North:

LaFleur also praises Bears quarterback Caleb Williams’ year-two growth. He says discipline and coverage variations by the defense will be important against a quarterback who can create off-schedule plays.

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Listen as Micah Parsons talks injuries going into the Bears game:

Packers Pro Bowl: How to Cast Your Vote

NFL officials just announced the initial counts of the fan vote for the 2026 Pro Bowl Game. It appears Packers fans are taking this opportunity seriously — based on early returns. Right now, 15 Green Bay players rank among the top 10 in their individual positions. This includes one player making the cut at multiple spots.

It may not surprise you to learn, the leader of the pack is defensive end Micah Parsons! He currently has 25,155 fan votes — which makes him the most popular choice of any defender league wide. 

You can see the complete list and cast your own vote here.