Graham Harrell bounces back for Green Bay Packers

Graham Harrell did himself a big favor on Thursday night.

The Green Bay Packers backup quarterback has become a much-scrutinized figure in Cheesehead Nation, his ugly play in the preseason leading to speculation he'd lose his job as Aaron Rodgers' understudy.

Mayock: Preseason observations

Mike Mayock had a busy summer, traveling from camp to camp to scout players and teams. What did he learn? Let's find out. More ...

Harrell helped his cause considerably against the Kansas City Chiefs, finishing 13-of-15 passing for 223 yards and two touchdowns. He moved well in the pocket, hit on a pretty 54-yard deep ball to Tori Gurley, and generally looked far more confident than we'd seen previously.

That's not to say the Packers' fears have been completely alleviated. The fourth preseason game isn't exactly a bastion of excelsior competition, but Harrell could've placed himself in a vulnerable position had he struggled against the Chiefs.

Harrell finished the preseason 45-of-78 passing for 484 yards with three touchdowns and two interceptions. The numbers don't jump out at you, but they were a lot worse before Thursday night.

In other Packers news, nose tackle B.J. Raji had his ankle rolled up on the first play from scrimmage. The injury didn't appear to be serious, and he walked to the bench under his own power. He did not return.

Follow Dan Hanzus on Twitter @danhanzus.