Packers lose WR Jayden Reed to fractured collarbone injury

The Green Bay Packers’ 27 to 18 win over the Washington Commanders on Thursday night came with a major setback. Wide receiver Jayden Reed suffered a fractured collarbone and will be placed on injured reserve, head coach Matt LaFleur confirmed after the game.

According to NFL Media, Reed is scheduled to have surgery early next week, likely on Tuesday. The team is hopeful he can recover in time to return in November.

The injury happened in the first quarter after Reed caught a 39 yard pass from quarterback Jordan Love. The play was called back because of a holding penalty on right tackle Anthony Belton, who was filling in for injured starter Zach Tom. While making the tackle, Commanders safety Quan Martin fell on Reed’s right shoulder. Reed left the field favoring his shoulder and was later ruled out before the start of the second half.

Before the injury, Reed was listed as questionable to return, but the Packers confirmed he would not be back for the rest of the game. Despite his absence, Green Bay’s offense stayed strong. Jordan Love connected with Romeo Doubs for a short touchdown to extend their lead.

Reed, 25, is in his third season with the Packers. In his first two years, he caught 119 passes for 1,650 yards and scored 14 touchdowns. In Week 1 against the Lions, he recorded three catches for 45 yards and a touchdown.

The Packers still have depth at wide receiver with Romeo Doubs, Dontayvion Wicks, and rookies Matthew Golden and Savion Williams. Tight ends Tucker Kraft and Luke Musgrave are also key parts of the passing game. Against Washington, Kraft delivered a standout performance, finishing with six catches for a career high 124 yards and a touchdown.

For now, the Packers will have to move forward without Reed as they aim to keep their strong start to the season alive.