Packers Randall Cobb avoids major injury but severity still unknown

Based on what Aaron Rodgers had to say, Green Bay Packers veteran wide receiver Randall Cobb avoided a serious injury.

In the third quarter, Cobb exited the game with an ankle injury and was ruled out for the rest of the game. From the sounds of it, Cobb was fearful that the injury could have been season-ending.

"“I think he thought that was it,” said Rodgers referencing Cobb’s emotion as he exited the game. “That he had broken it (his ankle), but I don’t think that’s the case.”"

Cobb has provided a much-needed steady presence at the wide receiver position this season. Although not targeted a ton or even played as many snaps per game as the other receivers, he has been very efficient when his number has been called.

Cobb entered Sunday’s contest having caught 17 of his 23 targets. Among 79 eligible slot receivers, Cobb ranked fourth in yards after the catch and fourth in total yards. He also ranked 17th in yards per route run, an efficiency metric.

However, where Cobb’s impact has been felt the most is on third downs as a trusted target for Rodgers. Cobb has caught six of those seven passes at an impressive 17.0 yards per catch, with all six receptions going for first downs per PFF ($$).

Although we still need to hear the official diagnosis from the Packers’ medical staff, Rodgers did provide some additional insight, saying that while Cobb is going to miss some time, he could return this season.

"“My heart goes out to him for sure, it’s tough, but he’s in better spirits in the locker room. I think you can put guys down on IR now for four weeks, so that might be a possibility.”"

Ian Rapoport would later add that Cobb did not suffer a break, but instead, potentially a high ankle sprain, although the severity is still unknown.

Without Cobb, the Packers found themselves very short-handed at the receiver position. Christian Watson missed Sunday’s contest with a hamstring injury, while Sammy Watkins has been on IR for the past four games but is eligible to return this week, which sounds like a real possibility.

Once again, in his post-game interview, Rodgers provided some insight saying, “we need Sammy back,” when asked about the current state of the offensive personnel. “I think that’s happening here pretty soon.”

Like Cobb, Watkins gives Rodgers another trusted target in the passing game. The last time we saw him on the field was Week 2 against Chicago, where Watkins totaled 93 yards along with a 55-yard reception.

When discussing what’s gone wrong with the deep ball this season, Rodgers mentioned last week that it is the “little details” that have kept him and his receivers from connecting. He also reiterated what he had said all summer, which is that the playbook and what actually takes place on the field can be two different things.

Rodgers used Watkins’ 55-yard catch and run as an example, saying that Watkins made an adjustment on the fly based on the coverage. It’s that element that appears to be missing in this offense on those downfield attempts.

Following their second straight loss, the Packers are back on the road next against Washington and will be without Cobb–although Rodgers sure makes it seem like he will be back at some point this season.