Jayden Reed Out for Season, Will Undergo Neck Surgery

Packers wide receiver Jayden Reed’s season is over. Head coach Matt LaFleur said Wednesday that Reed will undergo neck surgery and will not return in 2026.

What happened

Reed was hurt on the second offensive play of Green Bay’s Week 2 game against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. He stayed down after the play, was placed on a backboard, and was taken to a local hospital where he remained overnight for evaluation.

LaFleur confirmed the severity on Wednesday. “It will be a season-ending [injury],” he told reporters. “He’ll be out, unfortunately.”

The coach said Reed informed him on Tuesday that surgery is necessary. Based on what LaFleur knows about the injury and procedure, it is not considered career-threatening, but Reed will miss “a significant amount of time.” Reed posted on Instagram: “God will use the unusual to do the unexpected… 11 out.”

Context

Reed has spent his entire career with the Packers, who drafted him 50th overall in 2023 out of Michigan State. He signed a three-year, $50.25 million extension in April.

LaFleur described Reed as an emotional leader for the team. “He’s an energy guy, and he will certainly be missed,” LaFleur said.

With Reed ruled out, Christian Watson, Matthew Golden, and possibly Skyy Moore will see increased roles at receiver. Tight end Tucker Kraft could also become more involved in the passing game.

What’s next

Reed will have surgery on his neck, though the exact date has not been announced. His recovery timeline is expected to be lengthy, but the Packers believe he will play again.