GREEN BAY – The Green Bay Packers opened the 2025 season strong.
After back-to-back impressive performances against the Detroit Lions and Washington Commanders, respectively, outscoring them 54-31, the Packers struggled against the previously winless Cleveland Browns. The team responded after scoring just 10 points in Cleveland by scoring 40 against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 4. However, the defense allowed 40 points to settle for a 40-40 tie.
Every year, NFL teams go through highs and lows, and Packers coach Matt LaFleur made it clear his team is disappointed in how the past two games have played out.
But no Super Bowls are won through the first four weeks, and LaFleur wants the Packers to stay the course and strive to play complementary football on offense, defense and special teams.
“Every team in the league comes in and says they’re chasing the Lombardi (Trophy), but it’s a process to get there and I don’t expect us to play our best football in September, we’ve got to get better,” LaFleur said. “I’m more worried about getting better each and every game.”
Here are some other takeaways from LaFleur’s Sept. 30 news conference as the Packers are on a bye week:
Romeo Doubs off to strong start
Packers receiver Romeo Doubs appears on his way to a career-best season.
Through four games, Doubs has 13 receptions on 19 targets for 179 yards and four touchdowns, thanks in part to a career-high three-touchdown game against Dallas.
He’s also currently tied for third in receiving touchdowns across the NFL. His career-high for touchdowns in a season is eight.
Doubs had an up-and-down 2024 when he suffered two concussions and also served a one-game suspension for skipping practice. Now, when Jordan Love has looked for Doubs, he’s delivered.
“In four years, Rome has done everything the right way. I know there was a little blip on the screen, but I think that was just a one-off,” LaFleur said. “Over time, he does everything the right way in how he prepares and supports his teammates. It’s really cool to see a guy have success like that and I would expect that to continue.”
Biggest bye week priority? Get healthy
The Packers have suffered some injuries throughout the start of the season.
Three offensive linemen, Zach Tom (oblique), Aaron Banks (groin) and Anthony Belton (ankle) missed the Cowboys game. Devonte Wyatt (knee) missed the second half. LaFleur said Wyatt is “week-to-week” and will have a better idea about the linemen’s status next week.
The players eligible to return from the injured reserve and physically-unable-to-perform lists include running back MarShawn Lloyd, offensive lineman Jacob Monk, defensive end Collin Oliver, wide receiver Christian Watson and offensive lineman John Williams.
For LaFleur, the main goal during the week is for players to rest and recover.
“We’ve got to get these guys, their bodies back,” LaFleur said. “We also understand it’s going to be a long haul after the bye, so you better get your mind right to go on that journey and to get a little bit better every day.”
Packers make a roster move
The Packers announced they released offensive lineman Brant Banks. Banks joined the team as an undrafted free agent in May. He’s spent the regular season on Green Bay’s practice squad and active roster, appearing in two games, most recently in the Cowboys game.
This article originally appeared on Packers News: Matt LaFleur talks about Romeo Doubs, Packers health heading into bye
