Packers Weigh Roster Moves as Injured Trio Nears Return
GREEN BAY - With the season entering its final stretch and playoff hopes still alive, the Green Bay Packers are carefully evaluating whether to activate three players currently designated to return from injured reserve. Running back MarShawn Lloyd, defensive end Brenton Cox Jr., and hybrid linebacker/edge rusher Collin Oliver have all resumed practicing, but the team is in no rush to make a final call on their status.
Head coach Matt LaFleur confirmed that the decision window remains open, and he and general manager Brian Gutekunst are keeping their options flexible as the Dec. 1 return-to-practice date starts the clock. The Packers have until two days after their upcoming matchup with the Bears at Soldier Field to decide whether to move any of the three onto the active roster - or shut them down for the year.
“I would absolutely say there’s a chance,” LaFleur said Wednesday when asked about the trio’s potential return. “Those are discussions Gutey and I are constantly having. Ultimately, we’re going to make the best decision for our football team.”
Defensive Depth Hinges on Van Ness
The defensive front is where the decisions get particularly interesting. With Lukas Van Ness still working his way back from a foot injury that’s limited him to just 168 snaps this season, the Packers have to weigh whether they need to reinforce the edge.
Van Ness attempted a return against Minnesota on Nov. 23 but played only six snaps before exiting again. He just got back on the practice field this week, and the staff is still evaluating whether he’s truly ready to go.
If Van Ness isn’t cleared, Cox becomes the most logical next man up. He’s got more experience than Oliver and is better suited to step in as a full-time defensive end. Oliver, a rookie, brings versatility as a pass-rusher and linebacker, but his frame and style make him less ideal on early downs when edge-setting against the run is critical.
Running Back Room Could Use Lloyd’s Burst - If Healthy
On the offensive side, Lloyd’s name is one to watch, especially with Josh Jacobs nursing a knee injury that’s kept him out of practice for two straight days. The Packers have three backs on the roster, but none with Lloyd’s top-end speed.
That said, availability remains the key question. Lloyd hasn’t played since the preseason game against the Colts on Aug. 16, and durability has been a concern throughout his young career.
If Jacobs can’t go or is limited in the coming weeks, Lloyd could be a valuable change-of-pace option - assuming he’s healthy enough to contribute.
Belton and Rhyan Continue to Grow in New Roles
On the offensive line, the Packers are still working through some growing pains - but also signs of promise - with two young interior linemen. Rookie Anthony Belton is set for his third start at right guard, while Sean Rhyan will make his fifth consecutive start at center. Both are still getting up to speed, but they’re surrounded by veterans, which helps stabilize the unit.
“The more time those guys are going out there getting those reps together, whether it’s in a game or in practice, I think it’s beneficial,” LaFleur said. “And they’ve got a great test in front of them (vs.
Denver). So, we need them to be at their best.”
And that test is no joke. Denver’s pass rush is humming this season, with the Broncos on pace to break their franchise sack record. They can bring pressure from all angles, which puts added stress on the communication and chemistry between the center and guards.
“To get that inside/outside combination is a big-time challenge because somebody’s getting a one-on-one somewhere,” LaFleur added.
New Faces on the Defensive Line
With Devonte Wyatt out for the season due to an ankle injury, the Packers have turned to size and strength to help plug the middle. That comes in the form of two 330-pound additions: Jordon Riley and Quinton Bohanna.
Riley, signed off the Giants’ practice squad, already saw action last week against the Bears, logging 14 snaps. Bohanna, claimed off waivers from Seattle on Dec. 5, just started practicing this week.
“They’re different in regards to their size and build and all that,” LaFleur said. “Riley, I thought, went in there and did a really good job.
He’s the long guy - tall, big guy. And Bohanna is just, he’s a mountain of a man.
So, he’s a tough guy to move.”
The coaching staff will use this week’s practices to determine how both players fit into the rotation heading into the matchup with Denver. With the Broncos leaning heavily on their run game to set up play-action, controlling the interior line will be key - and the Packers are hoping these new additions can help anchor things down.
Bottom Line: Green Bay’s playoff push is alive, but the next few days will be pivotal. Whether it’s deciding on injured reserve returns or evaluating how new faces fit into the trenches, the Packers have some big calls to make - and not much time to make them.