Packers optimistic Zach Tom could return for playoff opener

Coach Matt LaFleur said he anticipates right tackle Zach Tom could play in Saturday's NFC wild-card game after missing the final three regular-season games with a knee injury.

Green Bay right tackle Zach Tom could be available for the Packers' NFC wild-card game against the Chicago Bears on Saturday. Tom missed the final three regular-season games after hurting his knee in the second quarter of the loss at Denver. Coach Matt LaFleur said Tuesday he anticipates Tom will play, and the team's injury report indicated Tom worked out on a limited basis that day. The team is discussing the matter ahead of the playoff opener. Key details: - LaFleur said he expects Tom to play Saturday in the NFC wild-card game at Chicago. - Tom has not played since injuring his knee in the second quarter of the Denver game that began Green Bay's late-season skid. - Tom has started 51 games over four seasons after being drafted out of Wake Forest in 2022. - The Packers' offensive line is also without center Elgton Jenkins, who is on injured reserve after an ankle injury on Nov. 10. - The team signed quarterback Desmond Ridder to the active roster from the practice squad and released Clayton Tune; Jordan Love is set to start Saturday with Malik Willis expected as a backup role. - Other roster moves included adding Julian Hicks, Kisean Johnson and Messiah Swinson to the practice squad. Summary: Tom's expected availability would return an experienced starter to a line already missing Elgton Jenkins. The Packers travel to play the Chicago Bears on Saturday in the NFC wild-card game. Final game-day status had not been confirmed as of Tuesday.