The Packers will be down a cornerback when they face the 49ers to kick of the 2013 season.
Coach Mike McCarthy said at his Wednesday press conference that Casey Hayward will not play. Hayward injured his hamstring early in training camp and then wound up aggravating the injury upon his return to work in the later part of August. McCarthy said there was no timetable for his return.
Hayward had eight interceptions while playing mostly in the slot for the Packers last season and appeared to be headed back for that role this season after any challenge for a different role this season went up in smoke when he got hurt. Given how well he played there as a rookie and how often the Packers go with three corners, it’s a significant loss for the defense.
McCarthy pointed to Micah Hyde as a player who will have to step up in Hayward’s absence. Sam Shields and Tramon Williams are expected to start at corner for the Packers with Hyde and Davon House joining them in sub packages for at least the opener.