Packers Activate Zeitler and Hargrave Against Bears in Week 5

The Green Bay Packers entered their Week 5 rivalry game against the Chicago Bears on October 11, 2026, without several key players, including offensive linemen Aaron Banks and Jacob Monk. Green Bay also ruled out running back Chris Brooks and receiver Savion Williams, while veteran guard Kevin Zeitler and defensive tackle Javon Hargrave were available for the matchup.

According to the Packers' final injury report and game-day inactive list, Banks, Monk and defensive tackle Anthony Campbell were unavailable. Rookie offensive lineman Jager Burton was available, while Zeitler was active for the first time since joining Green Bay that week.

The Packers, who entered the game with a 2-2 record, faced a Chicago team that was 3-1. The Bears were without quarterback Caleb Williams, running back Kyle Monangai and several other players, according to the teams' reported inactive lists.

Green Bay had listed Banks with knee and toe injuries and Monk with a quadriceps injury as doubtful before the game. Campbell, who had missed the previous two games because of an ankle injury, was initially considered questionable but ultimately did not play. Hargrave, added to the injury report with a toe injury on October 9, was active despite his questionable designation.

Packers coach Matt LaFleur had expressed uncertainty about Zeitler's readiness before the game.

"We'll see," said LaFleur of Zeitler's availability.

He explained that the decision depended on how comfortable the veteran felt as he worked back toward game action.

"A lot of it is just how comfortable he is, and we'll go from there."

Green Bay also adjusted its running back depth after Brooks sustained an ankle injury against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on October 4. The Packers brought Pierre Strong Jr. up from the practice squad to provide another option in the backfield.

LaFleur praised Strong's preparation and experience as the team prepared for the divisional matchup.

"P's done a great job ever since he's gotten here," Packers head coach Matt LaFleur said.

Strong, a fourth-year veteran listed at 5-foot-11 and 207 pounds, had appeared in 46 NFL games but had not played in a regular-season game since 2024, according to the Packers' report.

LaFleur also highlighted Strong's running ability and said he could be prepared to contribute if needed.

"He's a natural runner. He's got experience. He's been in this league a while now, although he has limited, I would say, game action. If given the opportunity, I think he'll be ready to go."

A separate report from Packers News also quoted LaFleur discussing Strong's readiness after the roster move.

"I think he's a natural runner. He's got experience. He's been in this league a while now, although he's limited in game action," Packers head coach Matt LaFleur said.

The coach reiterated his confidence that Strong could handle an opportunity in the backfield.

"If given the opportunity, I think he'll be ready to go."

Receiver Savion Williams, who began the season on injured reserve after suffering an ankle injury during the preseason, remained unavailable despite returning to limited practice during his 21-day practice window.

LaFleur said the team was gradually increasing Williams' workload as he worked toward a return.

"He's done well in limited action," LaFleur said.

Chicago also faced significant personnel questions at quarterback. Caleb Williams, who had been dealing with a hamstring injury, was inactive, leaving Tyson Bagent to start against Green Bay. The Bears had also ruled out Monangai and linebacker Keyshaun Elliott, while defensive lineman Shemar Turner was among their additional inactive players.

Green Bay's other unavailable players included receiver Jayden Reed, linebacker Edgerrin Cooper and offensive tackle Zach Bako-Bewele, who were on season-ending injured reserve, according to Packers Wire. Edge rusher Micah Parsons and tight end Luke Musgrave were among the players remaining on the physically unable to perform list, while running back Josh Jacobs remained on the Commissioner's Exempt List.