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via Getty

via Getty

The Packers‘ wildcard clash with the Eagles wasn’t just about high stakes. It turned out to be a heart-in-mouth moment for fans. However, the Packers weren’t just fighting Philadelphia. A leap for glory turned into a nightmare for a wide receiver early in the third quarter. It wasn’t just a routine play. It was one that left everyone holding their breath.

Romeo Doubs soared for a Jordan Love pass with 6:55 left in the third. But he was flanked by two Eagles defenders. The ball slipped through his hands. But that wasn’t the shocking part. Doubs landed headfirst on the turf. The mishap slammed the back of his helmet with terrifying force. The stadium fell silent as the medical team rushed to his aid.

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Players from both teams surrounded him. They kneeled in solidarity. Doubs was lying on his stomach by then. And he appeared visibly shaken. The training staff rolled him onto his back eventually. Trainers flanked him and helped him off the field. Fans erupted in applause. But the immediate concern was clear. This could just be another concussion.

Doubs had already missed the Week 13 and 14 games due to a previous concussion. Since he suffered a concussion against the 49ers in Week 12. He returned in Week 15, sporting a Guardian Cap for added protection. Ironically, the very equipment designed to shield him couldn’t prevent this. His history of head injuries adds a somber weight to the situation.

The Packers were trailing 10-3 at that point. They were already struggling offensively. Doubs was undoubtedly one of their top-receiving threats. And losing him felt like a knockout punch to their playoff hopes.

The Packers’ offense faces a steep climb with Doubs down

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Seeing Doubs walk off was a relief, but should the NFL do more to prevent such injuries?

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It seemed injuries challenged the Packers more than the Eagles could. Doubs wasn’t the only player to exit during this bruising matchup. Left guard Elgton Jenkins suffered a stinger earlier. That’s not all. Defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt limped off with a leg injury. And by halftime, both were ruled out.

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The Packers were already thin at wide receiver. Christian Watson had torn his ACL the previous week. Jayden Reed is another key target in that lineup. But he also left this game with a shoulder injury. The loss of Doubs only deepened their woes.

Doubs had been a reliable presence this season. He has racked up 601 yards and four touchdowns in the regular season. His chemistry with quarterback Jordan Love had only grown with time. And his ability to make contested catches has been turning out to be critical. Losing him against a dominant Eagles defense made a tough game nearly impossible.

via Imago

The Packers tried to stay in the fight despite these challenges. Jordan Love managed a scoring drive after Doubs’ injury. But it wasn’t enough to close the gap. The Packers’ playoff hopes dimmed as the Eagles’ defense tightened its grip.

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The focus shifted to Romeo Doubs’ health with the game winding down. His teammates, fans, and coaches all hoped for positive news. A second concussion in one season could spell long-term risks for the young receiver. For now, Green Bay is waiting for updates on his condition. They are out of the contest, but Doubs’ health would be a concern for them.

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Seeing Doubs walk off was a relief, but should the NFL do more to prevent such injuries?