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Christian Kirksey questionable to return vs. Saints with a shoulder injury

An already hurting Packers defense is getting thinner

NFL: Detroit Lions at Green Bay Packers Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Packers inside linebacker Christian Kirksey has left the game with a shoulder injury and is questionable to return.

Kirksey had logged three tackles through roughly a quarter and a half of play. It’s not clear how he was injured, but he was shown kneeling on the field while being attended to by the Packers’ medical staff. Second-year linebacker Ty Summers took his place alongside rookie undrafted free agent Krys Barnes.

Kirksey’s injury history has been a significant question mark since he arrived in Green Bay. He played just nine regular-season games over his final two seasons with the Browns. Given that he wears the communications helmet for the Packers, his absence presents an additional complication. It remains to be seen who will take over those responsibilities with Kirksey on the sideline.

The Packers are already hurting significantly in their front seven. Pro Bowl defensive lineman Kenny Clark is inactive for this game, leaving the Packers thin on the line.

Update: Kirksey has been ruled out for the second half according to a report from Michele Tafoya.