Week 18 is here, and the Packers vs. Vikings matchup is shaping up to be a fascinating game of strategy and survival. With playoff implications on the line, both teams are juggling injuries, roster moves, and the delicate balance of resting key players for the postseason. But here's where it gets controversial: how much risk is too much when it comes to fielding a competitive lineup in a game that, for one team, holds little playoff significance? Let's dive into the details.
Updated January 4, 2026, 10:46 a.m. CT
The Green Bay Packers and Minnesota Vikings are set to reveal their inactive players 90 minutes before Sunday’s kickoff, around 10:30 a.m. CT. This article will be updated as more information becomes available, ensuring you stay in the loop on all gameday inactives for Week 18.
Locked into the No. 7 seed in the NFC playoffs, the Packers are taking a cautious approach, planning to rest several key starters. Coupled with an injury-riddled roster, this has led to a staggering 23 roster moves this week alone. These include claiming two veterans off waivers and promoting six players from the practice squad to the 53-man roster. It’s a whirlwind of changes just to assemble a 48-man gameday roster for the regular season finale. And this is the part most people miss: the Packers are walking a tightrope, hoping to avoid further injuries before their playoff opener next week.
Who’s suiting up for the Packers on Sunday? It’s safe to say quarterback Jordan Love, running back Josh Jacobs, and safety Xavier McKinney will likely sit this one out. However, head coach Matt LaFleur faces a tricky challenge: fielding a competitive team while minimizing risk.
Love is active, and Diggs makes his debut
As previously reported, Jordan Love is active but will serve as the backup quarterback behind Clayton Tune. Meanwhile, Trevon Diggs, claimed off waivers from the Cowboys on Thursday, will make his Packers debut. Several other newcomers will also see their first action in green and gold, including practice squad signings like Jaylin Simpson, Lecitus Smith, Shemar Bartholomew, Johnathan Baldwin, and Jakobie Keeney-James.
Packers inactives vs. Vikings
The Packers have declared seven players inactive for Sunday, including five key starters:
- QB Malik Willis
- LB Quay Walker
- RB Josh Jacobs
- WR Dontayvion Wicks
- S Xavier McKinney
- RT Zach Tom
- LB Edgerrin Cooper
With Willis out, Jordan Love steps in as the backup quarterback.
Trevon Diggs’ Packers debut
Cornerback Trevon Diggs will see action in Minneapolis on Sunday, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. While his role may be limited, his presence adds an intriguing dynamic to the Packers’ secondary.
Who’s OUT for the Packers?
The Packers have ruled out guard Donovan Jennings and receiver Savion Williams, both of whom were placed on injured reserve on Saturday. Linebacker Nick Niemann and guard John Williams, designated to return, are also out. Additionally, cornerbacks Kamal Hadden and Nate Hobbs, defensive lineman Jordon Riley, and safety Zayne Anderson were placed on injured reserve this week. Expect more starters to be declared inactive on Sunday morning.
Who else is battling injuries for the Packers?
Wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks is doubtful after missing practice with a concussion. Right tackle Zach Tom is questionable with a knee injury that has sidelined him for the past two games. Quarterback Malik Willis is also questionable, dealing with a shoulder injury (throwing arm) and a hamstring issue.
Who’s OUT for the Vikings?
The Vikings have ruled out former Packers running back Aaron Jones, starting tight end T.J. Hockenson, and rookie returner Myles Price on their final injury report.
Who’s under center for both teams?
The Packers will start Clayton Tune, signed from the practice squad this week. Jordan Love, who cleared concussion protocol on Thursday, will back him up. For the Vikings, J.J. McCarthy returns after missing last week’s game with a right hand injury.
Now, let’s spark some debate: Is the Packers’ decision to rest key starters the right move, or are they risking losing momentum heading into the playoffs? And for the Vikings, with several starters out, are they simply playing it safe, or is this a missed opportunity to build confidence? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s get the conversation going!
