Packers LB Eric Wilson steps up in Quay Walker’s absence

GREEN BAY – Eric Wilson has seen pretty much everything there is to see during an NFL career that’s now eight seasons.

So, when the Packers’ veteran linebacker was asked to pick up the communication helmet after Quay Walker left to be evaluated for a concussion, Wilson didn’t balk at the opportunity to once again step up.

In fact, the 6-foot-1, 230-pound linebacker turned out to be a catalyst in Green Bay’s 24-22 win over the Houston Texans on Sunday, registering five tackles (four for a loss), two sacks and a pass deflection in Walker’s stead.

His performance, particularly in the third quarter, helped the Packers overcome a 3-0 deficit in turnover margin.

“My entire career I’ve played just about every position at linebacker,” Wilson said. “I think it comes with the reps and the experience, honestly. Being able to play any linebacker position that we need and fill in where’s necessary.”

This season, Wilson has been part of a rotation with Isaiah McDuffie and rookie second-round pick Edgerrin Cooper in the two spots next to Walker, the every-down “Mike” linebacker responsible for relaying calls from defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley.

One of the most veteran players on the roster, Wilson was pressed into action during the first two minutes of the second quarter when Walker exited and did not return. After registering his first TFL late in the first half, Wilson contributed heavily to a tide-turning third quarter for the Packers.

First, he dropped Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud for an 8-yard loss on a third-and-5 inside blitz. On the next series, Wilson broke up a third-and-5 pass intended for tight end Dalton Schultz to force another punt.

Wilson then came free again on an inside blitz to drop Stroud for a 9-yard loss on third-and-8 that pushed the Texans past midfield. The Packers used Houston’s three straight stalled series to pull back ahead of the Texans, 21-19, heading into the fourth quarter.

“Eric been holding it down all year,” defensive lineman Kenny Clark said. “Whether it’s special teams, him coming in and getting turnovers, punching the ball out, getting sacks or whatever the case may be – picks. He got a pick (this year). E-Wil, he’s always been coming in and doing his job and being great. You need a guy like that on a team.”

Defensively, the Packers held Houston in check for most of the afternoon. On their first four scoring…