The Good, Bad And Ugly From The Packers’ Final Training Camp Practice

Green Bay Packers coach Matt LaFleur and Arizona Cardinals coach Mike LaFleur, brothers, met for a joint practice, a memorable occasion for their parents, Kristi and Denny LaFleur. The Green Bay Packers held their 16th and final training camp practice, a two-hour, 14-minute session on a pleasant day. The practice was notable for the on-field matchup between the LaFleur brothers.

Matt LaFleur expressed his pride in his younger brother, Mike, highlighting his character, his role as a father, and his football acumen. Mike LaFleur acknowledged the unique nature of the situation, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the practice's objectives while also recognizing the special storyline of their sibling rivalry.

The Packers will now face the Cardinals in an exhibition game before the roster must be reduced to 53 players by Sunday at 6 p.m. EST. This report delves into the positive, negative, and less than ideal aspects of the Packers' concluding summer practice.

THE GOOD

DENNY AND KRISTI LAFLEUR: A profoundly special day for Denny and Kristi LaFleur, who witnessed their sons, Matt LaFleur of the Green Bay Packers and Mike LaFleur of the Arizona Cardinals, compete in a joint practice. Denny LaFleur, a former college player and coach, expressed that his sons had earned their success through hard work, calling their journey a blessing.

WELCOME BACK: Cornerbacks Javon Bullard and Benjamin St-Juste returned to practice. Bullard, who had been out with a foot injury, indicated he was ready to play if needed, with the team opting for caution. St-Juste's absence from Monday's practice was a precautionary measure due to a hamstring issue. Edge rusher Aaron Mosby also rejoined practice after an illness.

GOLDEN CHILD: Second-year wide receiver Matthew Golden continued his strong preseason with a 45-yard touchdown reception from Jordan Love, catching the ball between two defenders. General Manager Brian Gutekunst noted Golden's increased confidence in the scheme and his growing connection with quarterback Jordan Love.

BO KNOWS: Green Bay receiver Bo Melton impressed against his brother, Cardinals cornerback Max Melton. Bo beat Max for a slant route early in practice, eliciting excitement from his teammates. Bo also made a 15-yard reception and a leaping sideline catch. He is also being utilized as the primary kick returner and a gunner on punt coverage, solidifying his roster spot.

INTERCEPTIONS GALORE: The Packers, who recorded a franchise-low seven interceptions last season, came away with four interceptions during this practice. Rookie cornerback Brandon Cisse and safety Kitan Oladapo each intercepted passes due to receivers falling. Linebacker Ty'Ron Hopper and safety Murvin Kenion also recorded interceptions.

THIS AND THAT: Bo Melton and Kitan Oladapo served as the primary gunners for punt coverage. The No. 1 offensive line consisted of Jordan Morgan, Aaron Banks, Sean Rhyan, Jacob Monk, and Zach Bako-Bewele. Long snapper Matt Orzech (calf) is on track for Week 1, aiming for full recovery. Edge rusher Colin Oliver also expressed confidence in being ready for the season opener.

THE BAD

PREPARING FOR THE WORST: General Manager Brian Gutekunst indicated that the Packers are preparing for a potential suspension for running back Josh Jacobs, who was arrested on domestic dispute charges in May 2026. While no formal charges have been filed, the team is considering keeping four running backs on the roster as a contingency.

FROM THE INFIRMARY: Several players did not practice: Warren Brinson (calf), Collin Oliver (calf), Savion Williams (ankle), and Thomas Yassmin (knee). Players on reserve lists include Micah Parsons (knee), Luke Musgrave (neck), Matt Orzech (calf), and Jordon Reilly (Achilles).

THIS AND THAT: Marvin Harrison Jr. scored a touchdown against Keisean Nixon during red zone drills. Tyrod Taylor fumbled a snap from Jager Burton.

THE UGLY

NOT HIS DAY: Rookie kicker Trey Smack, who had been performing well, struggled during practice, making only 2 of 5 field goal attempts. Special teams coordinator Cam Achord emphasized the importance of consistency, noting that some players perform better in practice than on game day.

FINISHING WOES CONTINUE: The Packers' struggles to finish games, a problem that plagued them in the 2026 season with multiple blown leads, were evident in the practice's 2-minute drill. The offense, with Matthew Golden dropping a potential touchdown, failed to convert, while the Cardinals' offense marched down the field against the defense. Quarterback Jordan Love acknowledged the team's need to improve their finishing ability, especially in high-emotion situations like joint practices.