GTEEN BAY — Two weeks ago, reserve cornerback Robert Rochell was on the Green Bay Packers practice squad patiently waiting for his opportunity to contribute to the team.
When it came Sunday in a 30-17 win over the Miami Dolphins at Lambeau Field, it came in a big way.
And all while playing with the weight if a personal tragedy hanging heavy on his shoulders.
With Jaire Alexander inactive and Corey Ballentine injured in the opening kickoff, Rochell stepped in to cover a punt after the Packers offense sputtered on its opening drive of the game.
That’s when Miami punt returner Malik Washington muffed Daniel Whelan’s 45-yard punt, which ended up firmly in Rochell’s grasp on the Dolphins 9-yard line.
Three plays later, Jordan Love completed a 3-yard touchdown pass to Jayden Reed for the opening score and the Packers never looked back.
Rochell’s fumble recovery was the only turnover during Thursday’s game.
In his post-game media briefing, Head Coach Matt LaFleur praised Rochell for playing with a heavy heart.
Then during LaFleur’s post-game talk to the team, he awarded Rochell the team’s lone game ball.
Rochell told his teammates he lost “two partners” close to him on Thursday but played because “I love my teammates and I’m gonna be here every day.”
“And we love you,” Keisean Nixon shouted in reply.
The exact nature of the tragedy has not been disclosed publicly as of Friday by Rochell or the team.
“All the guys were excited for me – teammates, coaches, the stands, everybody,” Rochell said. “It was a lot of love out there and I appreciate all of it.”
