NFL

Packers WR Jayden Reed diagnosed with back injury following hospital scare

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Sep 22, 2026, 02:36 IST

Green Bay Packers wide receiver Jayden Reed has been diagnosed with a back injury after initially being evaluated for a neck issue during Sunday's overtime victory against the New York Jets.

Packers WR Jayden Reed diagnosed with back injury following hospital scare

Green Bay Packers wide receiver Jayden Reed has been diagnosed with a back injury, clarifying the nature of the medical emergency that occurred during Sunday's 20-17 overtime victory against the New York Jets. While initial reports and in-game updates suggested a neck injury, subsequent information indicates the issue was localized to his back.

The incident took place early in the contest during the Packers' second play from scrimmage. After securing a four-yard reception in the left flat, Reed was tackled by New York defender Demario Davis, which caused him to turn sideways. A subsequent glancing blow from Jets player Kingsley Enagbare impacted the back and neck area, leaving the receiver on the turf. Medical personnel from both teams attended to Reed for several minutes before he was secured to a backboard with his head and neck stabilized. He was then transported by cart to a local hospital, preventing him from traveling back to Green Bay with the team.

Injury update and team impact

Following the game, head coach Matt LaFleur provided a positive update, confirming that Reed was able to move all of his extremities. The 26-year-old, who signed a three-year, $50.25 million contract extension earlier this year, was expected to return to Green Bay on Monday for further evaluation. The team has been managing the situation closely as they prepare for a quick turnaround.

The injury to Reed was not the only setback for the Packers during the matchup. On the very next play, right tackle Zach Bako-Bewele suffered a right knee injury. Coach LaFleur indicated that the team believes the injury to be significant, with Bako-Bewele scheduled to undergo additional testing on Monday to determine the full extent of the damage.

The Packers, who now hold a 1-1 record, face a challenging schedule ahead. With the team returning home, they are preparing for a short week as they host the Atlanta Falcons for their home opener this coming Thursday. The status of both Reed and Bako-Bewele remains a primary focus for the coaching staff as they finalize their preparations for the upcoming contest.