Green Bay Packers: 5 reasons they’ll beat the Redskins in Week 3

5. Return of Josh Jones and Oren Burks (hopefully)

The Packers have been without two key contributors on defense for the first two weeks of the season, but could get both of them back for Week 3. Josh Jones, who was struggling with an ankle injury, and Oren Burks, dislocated shoulder, are hoping to play against Washington.

Burks is the bigger question mark of the two and his status is a lot more up in the air. However, he may be the more important one. Burks was drafted because of his speed and his ability to cover pass-catching running backs and tight ends.

Well, Washington happens to have one of the best pass-catching backs in the league in Chris Thompson. Through two games, Thompson has hauled in 19 receptions for 155 yards and one touchdown. He’s clearly the receiver Alex Smith trusts the most in the offense. Burks would be tasked with stopping Thompson, something that’s certainly not an easy feat.

Jones will be back for sure this week and could provide some much needed safety depth for Green Bay. Although backup safety Jermaine Whitehead has been solid, Kentrell Brice has struggled mightily. The former second round pick has the most natural talent of the three and could become a major contributor if he can put it all together.