Mike McCarthy Presser 9/18: Eddie Lacy not ruled out for Week 3

Packers head coach Mike McCarthy discussed the team's initial injury report for week 3, and it's a lot like last week's.

Starting safety Morgan Burnett was once again limited in practice, and as such his status for this Sunday is unknown. While the Bengals are a formidable opponent, the Packers might be wise to rest Burnett so he can get another two weeks off including the week 4 bye to right himself for the rest of the year. That's indeed what the team is doing with slot cornerback Casey Hayward, who as previously reported will miss another game.

Jermichael Finley did not practice due to the same toe injury that put his status in doubt for last Sunday's game. This appears to be a precautionary measure, and he's expected to play this week. Similarly, fullback John Kuhn was absent today but should be available this weekend.

The bigger news regards the status of tailback Eddie Lacy. According to McCarthy, Lacy is progressing well and is attending meetings. The team has not ruled him out for week 3, and if his tests go well tomorrow he'll be fully cleared to play. Given that the Packers have the reputation for being overly-cautious with player injuries, this is a strong sign that Lacy is indeed recovering well from Brandon Meriweather's dirty hit last Sunday.

In related news, James Starks will get "the starting opportunity this week." That suggests that even if Lacy is cleared for play, Starks will receive the majority of the carries. McCarthy also noted that Johnathan Franklin should see the field against Cincinnati as well.

That's all from McCarthy. Make sure to keep your internet machines tuned to Acme Packing Company for latest Packers news and analysis.

Jason Hirschhorn covers the Green Bay Packers for Acme Packing Co. He has previously written for Lombardi Ave, College Hoops Net, LiveBall Sports, and the List Universe. He is also currently a senior writer for Beats Per Minute, an indie-music webzine. Follow him on Twitter: @JBHirschhorn