Earlier this week, it was reported that Green Bay Packers starting right tackle Bryan Bulaga was likely going to miss a few weeks after spraining his MCL in Thursday's practice session.
Now, it appears that the news is only worse as his injuries are worse than previously expected. Not only is he expected to miss this week's game against the Seattle Seahawks, but also he is potentially going to be out until week eight. He could miss that much time due to having surgery to repair a torn meniscus. That means the health and safety of the reigning NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers is going to rely more than ever in the hands of his replacement, Don Barclay. Now Barclay isn't a stranger to the field, but the last time he was on the field as a starter was before he tore his ACL before the beginning of the 2014 season. But what can be expected from him this time around, that remains to be seen.
Surely he will be tested out early and often as he should expect to see several different pass rushers thrown his way, but perhaps none of them are going to be more challenging in week two than Seahawks outside linebacker Bruce Irvin. The largely controversial first round selection has proved his worth to NFL teams as he has demonstrated a great deal of speed and strength when rushing around the tackles to get after the quarterback.
One thing that Barclay is tremendous at though, which could play into the Packers advantage in Sunday night's contest, is his great run blocking abilities. Is there a better way to ensure that your quarterback is going to stay safe and healthy than running the football? Clearly, there is none. Eddie Lacy and James Starks will likely both be called upon in this game as it will be a big battle between the two of them and Seahawks middle linebacker Bobby Wagner.
If Bulaga has to wait until week eight to return, that means he would return to face Von Miller, DeMarcus Ware, and the Denver Broncos. Packers fans will certainly hope to have him back as soon as possible.
