Packers injury news: Dean Lowry 'very optimistic' for Week 1 return vs. Seahawks

The Green Bay Packers have received some encouraging news regarding one of their key defensive linemen. On Monday, Dean Lowry told reporters that he feels "very optimistic" about returning for the team's regular-season opener against the Seattle Seahawks.

Lowry hyperextended his left knee during Green Bay's preseason tilt at Washington and has not appeared in a game or practice since. However, with two weeks separating Week 1 from the initial injury, the second-year defensive end believes his knee should progress enough to play at least modicum of snaps against the Seahawks.

If Lowry returns as quickly as he expects, the Packers will have nearly their full allotment of defensive linemen for the game. Mike Daniels and Kenny Clark enter the regular season healthy and should see the lion's share of the work. Free-agent addition Ricky Jean Francois should split time with Lowry at five-tech. The depth chart remains unclear behind them, but third-round rookie Montravius Adams appears a lock for the roster despite missing most of training camp and the preseason with a foot injury.

Lowry appeared in 15 games as a rookie in 2016. He recorded eight tackles and two sacks.