The Packers fell to 4-3 with a loss in Detroit on Sunday. They will be without a key presence on both sides of the ball for the time being.
Center Sean Rhyan exited the game early and did not return. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports he is believed to have suffered a high ankle sprain. X-Rays were negative in this case, ruling out a fracture. Rhyan is due for an MRI later today.
Provided a sprain is confirmed, the veteran blocker will be in line to miss multiple weeks. A move to injured reserve could also be in store for Rhyan, who has spent his entire career with the Packers. The former third-round pick signed a three-year, $33MM deal in March to continue operating as a Green Bay starter. Rhyan has worked as the team’s top center in 2026, but a period on the sidelines will now be in store.
Offensive line injuries have been a key hindrance for the Packers this season. Right tackle Zach Bako-Bewele suffered a torn patellar tendon in Week 2. He is out for the year as a result. The interior of Green Bay’s offensive line has been in flux throughout the campaign, and that is set to remain the case with Rhyan needing to be replaced for the time being.
Linebacker Zaire Franklin was not available for Week 7 after being injured in practice. Rapoport reports the trade acquisition is dealing with a hairline fracture in his leg. Franklin has not been moved to injured reserve yet, something which would require at least a four-game absence. Green Bay keeping him on the active roster would of course be an indication a return within the next few weeks is expected.
The Packers are already without Edgerrin Cooper for the rest of the season. He suffered an Achilles tear earlier this month, leaving the team without an impact second-level defender. A notable stretch of missed time in Franklin’s case would further hinder Green Bay’s linebacker depth, although a lengthy absence does not appear to be likely at this point.