Packers stumble in final joint practice as Cardinals celebrate

Green Bay, Wis. – The Packers’ last practice of training camp ended with a series of stalled 2-minute drills against the Arizona Cardinals, exposing weaknesses on both sides of the ball. The offense failed to score in the red zone, the defense allowed repeated gains, and turnovers plagued the second-string units.

"I think that we took a lot of steps in the right direction in that department, but it's got to be something that shows up when it matters," receiver Christian Watson said after the session.

Head coach Matt LaFleur, who has emphasized finishing games throughout the offseason, was unable to translate that focus into practice performance. The team’s inability to convert in the drills contrasted with the Cardinals’ celebratory mood.

"We were just kind of a little bit asleep, which is fine. And then, you know, it's not about how you start; it's how you finish," Cardinals receiver Michael Wilson said.

Quarterback Jordan Love was a standout, completing five of six third-down attempts and delivering multiple first-down passes, including a touchdown to Matthew Golden. Love praised the realism of the joint practice and the chance to test new defensive looks.

"It was good work. When you get to the preseason games, it's pretty vanilla. So I think practice teams show a little bit more pressures, things like that," Love said.

Wide receiver Matthew Golden caught a 45-yard touchdown but later dropped a short red-zone pass. Jayden Reed also impressed with a well-executed route and a big gain, earning praise from Love.

On the defensive side, linebacker Edgerrin Cooper continued his strong camp showing with sacks, pressures, and coverage tackles, positioning him as a potential MVP of the session.

Conversely, several players were singled out for poor performance. Cardinals quarterback Kyle McCord threw an interception and missed a deep pass, while Packers lineman Aaron Banks was penalized for multiple knocks to the ground. Rookie kicker Trey Smack struggled, converting only two of five attempts.

Overall, the practice underscored the Packers’ need to improve execution in critical moments as they head into the preseason finale.