Packers Right Tackle Zach Bako-Bewele Sidelined by Season-Ending Knee Surgery

Green Bay Packers right tackle Zach Bako-Bewele is scheduled for surgery on Thursday to repair a complete tear of his right patellar tendon.

Green Bay Packers right tackle Zach Bako-Bewele will undergo surgery this Thursday to repair a complete tear of the patellar tendon in his right knee, an injury sustained during Sunday's overtime victory against the New York Jets. According to ESPN’s Rob Demovsky, the procedure is expected to sideline the offensive lineman for eight to 10 months. This marks the second consecutive year Bako-Bewele has suffered a season-ending injury to the same knee, following a partial tear in Week 15 of the previous season.

Bako-Bewele, a 2022 fourth-round pick who signed a four-year, $88 million extension in 2025, questioned whether the turf at MetLife Stadium contributed to the injury. His absence leaves a significant void for a Packers offense currently ranked last in the NFL with 64.5 rushing yards per game and 29th in yards per carry at 3.3. Second-year professional Anthony Belton is the likely starter for Thursday's matchup against the Atlanta Falcons after finishing the game against the Jets at right tackle.

The Green Bay offensive line faced multiple setbacks on Sunday, finishing the contest without left guard Aaron Banks due to toe and knee issues. His replacement, Donovan Jennings, also exited with a hand injury, forcing rookie Jager Burton into the game. At one point, the team prepared tight end Tucker Kraft to play on the line while right guard Jacob Monk was evaluated for a stinger. Additionally, receiver Jayden Reed returned to Green Bay on Monday following observation in New Jersey for a back injury, though his status for upcoming games remains unconfirmed.