If the Packers are able to overcome their 3-3 record to make the playoffs, tight end Jermichael Finley won’t be available to help them.
The Packers placed Finley on injured reserve on Monday, ending his season. Finley underwent surgery for a torn meniscus last week.
Perhaps the Packers just couldn’t afford to hold his roster spot with so many other injured players on the roster. Linebacker Brady Poppinga will undergo arthroscopic surgery on his knee this week, according to coach Mike McMcCarthy. His timeline to return is unclear.
Finley’s roster spot will go to former Jaguars safety Anthony Smith, who was acquired Sunday for a conditional seventh-round pick. Faced with the news, Finley compared finding out that his season was over to being stuck with a needle in the eye.
Packers fans can sympathize.