Packers Embarrassed by Falcons Amidst Slow Start to Season
Green Bay falters at home in a 35-14 loss to the previously winless Atlanta Falcons, highlighting ongoing offensive and defensive struggles.
The Green Bay Packers suffered a significant home loss, falling to the Atlanta Falcons 35-14 on Thursday night, extending their difficult start to the season. The team's struggles were apparent in both their offense, which is missing key player Josh Jacobs, and their defense, which is without Micah Parsons.
The Packers, now 1-2 on the season, were booed by the home crowd at Lambeau Field. The disappointing performance follows contract extensions for coach Matt LaFleur and general manager Brian Gutekunst, granted even after the team finished the 2025 season with five consecutive losses, including a playoff defeat.
Key Absences and Injuries
Compounding the team's challenges are the absences of significant players. Micah Parsons is sidelined with a torn ACL, an injury that ended his 2025 All-Pro season early and will keep him out for at least another game. Josh Jacobs has been placed on the commissioner's exempt list following his no-contest plea to misdemeanor charges related to an altercation in May.
Injuries on the offensive line have also hampered the Packers. The team played without starting left guard Aaron Banks, who injured his toe, and right tackle Zach Bako-Bewele, who tore his patellar tendon. Bako-Bewele, considered the team's best lineman when healthy, is out for the remainder of the season.
Discipline and Rushing Woes
Beyond personnel issues, the Packers have struggled with discipline, committing an NFL-high 26 penalties through the first two weeks. A costly roughing-the-passer penalty on Thursday allowed the Falcons to score a tying touchdown and gain momentum.
Historically a strong defensive unit against the run, the Packers allowed the Falcons to gain 242 rushing yards compared to their own 17. Bijan Robinson led Atlanta's ground attack with 194 yards and two touchdowns. With Jacobs out, the Packers relied on MarShawn Lloyd and Kaleb Johnson, who combined for only 17 rushing yards on eight carries. Coach Matt LaFleur faces the challenge of revitalizing the team's rushing game to improve their season outlook.