Robert Tonyan Returns to Team Drills; Status Unclear for Week 1

Packers TE Robert Tonyan’s status for Green Bay’s season opener against the Vikings is still up in the air according to head coach Matt LaFleur.

In a press conference earlier today, LaFleur told media members that Tonyan is making progress in his rehab but it was still “a little too early” to say if he will suit up on September 11 in Minnesota.

“He was running around; he looked good. So […] we’ll see how he responded to being on the turf […] That was his first action in (sic) team, period, so we’ll just see how he responds and, again, I know I sound like a broken record up here but we’ll take it one day at a time.”

After a solid 2020 season, Tonyan entered 2021 poised for a breakout year. Unfortunately, a torn ACL in Week 8 ended his season. He finished with a lackluster 18 receptions for 204 yards and two touchdowns.

ACL tears generally require six to nine months to heal completely. Tonyan tore his in late October, so he’s had close to 10 months worth of recovery. On top of that, it was a clean tear with no lateral damage.

Tonyan has been adamant that he is gearing up for a comeback and has no concerns over his knee. “Mentally, I’m not scared to get out there, I’m not overly eager to come back, I’m just smiling internally, because I’m like, some people forgot.”

If Tonyan isn’t ready for Week 1, there is a good chance he returns in Weeks 2 or 3. Third-year backup Josiah Deguara would likely start in his place. Our algorithm predicts his Injury Risk is 13% (Elevated) and his Health Performance Factor is 89% (Peak).