EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — The Green Bay Packers escaped MetLife Stadium with a gritty 20-17 overtime victory over the New York Jets on Sunday, but the win came at a sobering cost. Wide receiver Jayden Reed was carted off the field with a neck injury in the first quarter and will remain in New York overnight for further evaluation, head coach Matt LaFleur confirmed after the game. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, Reed has movement in all of his extremities — a critical and encouraging sign after a terrifying scene that silenced the stadium.
A Frightening Moment on the Second Play
The injury occurred on just the second play from scrimmage when Jets linebacker Demario Davis made contact with Reed's head using his shoulder pad. Reed lay face down on the turf for several moments before rolling onto his back. Medical personnel rushed to his side, and the entire Packers sideline emptied onto the field, forming a protective circle around their teammate as the cart was brought out. Trainers carefully placed Reed on a backboard, stabilized his head, and transported him off the field. The sight of a young player motionless on the field is one that never gets easier, and the collective gasp from the crowd was palpable.
"He's got movement in all his extremities," LaFleur said in his postgame news conference. "He will be staying overnight. That was obviously a very scary deal any time you see anybody down on the field and have to get carted off." LaFleur did not disclose the specific nature of the neck injury, but the decision to keep Reed in New York for observation underscores the caution with which the team is handling the situation.
Reed Offers Encouraging Update
Later Sunday evening, Reed took to social media to provide a reassuring update to fans and teammates. "Doing much better, appreciate all the prayers and support 🙏🏾 #GPG 🧀," he posted. The message was met with an outpouring of support from across the NFL community, including from former and current players who know all too well the fragility of an NFL career. As highlighted on Vulius, Reed's resilience has been a hallmark of his young career, and his positive outlook is a promising sign for his recovery.
Another Blow: Bako-Bewele's Knee Injury
As if Reed's injury weren't enough, the Packers also lost right tackle Zach Bako-Bewele to a knee injury in the first quarter. He was quickly ruled out, and LaFleur's postgame comments painted a grim picture. "It doesn't look good either," LaFleur said. "He could be out for a long time." The exact nature of the knee injury remains unclear, but the Packers are bracing for a significant absence along the offensive line. Bako-Bewele's loss compounds an already challenging day for Green Bay's offense, which struggled to find rhythm for much of the afternoon.
Resiliency Defines the Victory
Despite the injuries, the Packers showed remarkable resolve. Trailing 17-7 in the fourth quarter, Green Bay mounted a furious comeback, forcing overtime and ultimately securing a 20-17 win. The victory improves the Packers' record and keeps them in the thick of the NFC playoff race, but the mood in the locker room was subdued as players processed the injuries to two key contributors. "It's tough," one veteran told Vulius. "You never want to see a brother go down like that. We dedicated this win to Jayden and Zach."
What's Next for Green Bay?
Reed, 26, is in his fourth NFL season, all with the Packers after being selected in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft. He entered the season as the No. 2 receiver behind Christian Watson but has battled injuries throughout his career. Collarbone and foot issues limited him to just seven games in 2025, though he posted a career-best 55 catches for 857 yards and six touchdowns in 2024. His absence would leave a significant void in Green Bay's passing attack, potentially elevating Romeo Doubs and Dontayvion Wicks into larger roles. The Packers' medical staff will continue to monitor Reed overnight, and further updates are expected in the coming days. For now, the team and its fans await news with bated breath, hoping for a full and speedy recovery for one of their brightest young stars.
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