Very few familiar names took the field Saturday in the second preseason game for Green Bay.
Led by rookie quarterback Zach Wilson, the New York Jets took a 23-14 decision at Lambeau Field.
With backup quarterback Jordan Love sidelined, Kurt Benkert connected on 18-of-25 passes for 151 yards and a touchdown to tight end Jace Sternberger. He also had one pass picked off.
32 players didn’t dress for the game, including nearly every starter.
The two teams had conducted joint practices before the exhibition game.
Rookie running back Kylin Hill scored for the second time in two games, this time on a 12-yard run for the Packers.
Green Bay wraps up the preseason next Saturday (August 28th) at Buffalo.
In other Packers news, it’s looking more like outside linebacker Za’Darius Smith won’t be on the field when Green Bay opens the 2021 regular season at New Orleans.
So far, defensive coordinator Joe Barry hasn’t seen Smith during padded practice because of a lingering back problem.
Smith worked out during a practice last Monday but didn’t return to the field two days later.
The Pro Bowl pass rusher apparently tried to come back too soon. Now, he’s back with the group of players in rehab.
General manager Brian Gutekunst says Smith’s absence has nothing to do with his dissatisfaction with his current contract.
Some adjustments have already been made.
