Packers Expect Key Offensive Starters Back for Bears Clash

Zach Tom, Malik Willis, and Dontayvion Wicks all expected to return from injuries

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:10pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a football game between the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears, with the players and action broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes of color.A cubist interpretation of the upcoming Packers-Bears clash, with key players like Zach Tom and Malik Willis represented through Picasso's fractured lens.Chicago Today

The Green Bay Packers are preparing for a crucial matchup against the Chicago Bears, and they're getting a major boost with the anticipated returns of starting right tackle Zach Tom, backup quarterback Malik Willis, and wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks. Head coach Matt LaFleur expressed excitement about Tom's comeback, calling him the team's most consistent offensive lineman, while Willis' health is seen as crucial after the Packers suffered a loss without him in Week 18. The team will be closely watching how these players reintegrate into the lineup and whether their returns will lead to a seamless comeback or some growing pains.

Why it matters

The Packers' success against their division rival Bears could hinge on how effectively these key offensive players are able to return from injury and contribute. Their presence or absence could significantly impact the team's offensive strategy and performance in this important NFC North showdown.

The details

Zach Tom, the Packers' starting right tackle, has been sidelined with a knee injury since Week 15. Head coach Matt LaFleur praised Tom as the team's most consistent offensive lineman and believes his return will provide a significant boost. Backup quarterback Malik Willis is also expected to be available after recovering from a right shoulder injury, which is crucial as the Packers suffered a loss in Week 18 without him. Wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks is making progress and practicing while still in the concussion protocol, potentially adding another weapon to the Packers' offense.

  • Zach Tom has been out since Week 15 with a knee injury.
  • Malik Willis missed the Packers' Week 18 game due to a right shoulder injury.
  • Dontayvion Wicks is currently in the concussion protocol but practicing.

The players

Zach Tom

The Packers' starting right tackle, who has been sidelined with a knee injury since Week 15. Head coach Matt LaFleur praised him as the team's most consistent offensive lineman.

Malik Willis

The Packers' backup quarterback, who is expected to return after recovering from a right shoulder injury. His health is crucial as the team suffered a loss in Week 18 without him.

Dontayvion Wicks

The Packers' wide receiver who is making progress and practicing while still in the concussion protocol, potentially adding another weapon to the team's offense.

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What they’re saying

“Zach Tom is our most consistent offensive lineman, and we're excited to have him back.”

— Matt LaFleur, Head Coach, Green Bay Packers

“Malik's health is crucial for us, and we're glad to have him back on the field.”

— Matt LaFleur, Head Coach, Green Bay Packers

What’s next

The Packers will closely monitor the integration of Zach Tom, Malik Willis, and Dontayvion Wicks into the lineup ahead of their crucial game against the Bears. Their performance and impact on the team's offensive strategy will be key factors in determining the outcome of the NFC North showdown.

The takeaway

The Packers' ability to successfully reintegrate their key offensive starters could be the difference-maker in their upcoming game against the Bears. How these players mesh back into the lineup and contribute to the team's performance will be closely watched, as their presence or absence could significantly impact the Packers' offensive plans and chances of securing a crucial division win.