The Green Bay Packers have made a significant move ahead of Week 3 by signing former National Champion wide receiver Cornelius Johnson to their practice squad. This decision comes right after the Packers secured their first victory of the 2024 NFL regular season, defeating the Indianapolis Colts 16-10 in extremely hot conditions at Lambeau Field.
In that game, Green Bay managed to control the ground game effectively, particularly in the first half, despite the heat. The Packers were without starting quarterback Jordan Love, who was sidelined due to a sprained MCL. Instead, former Tennessee Titans quarterback Malik Willis stepped in, completing 12 of 14 passes for 122 yards and a touchdown, achieving an impressive passer rating of 126.8.
Running back Josh Jacobs was the standout performer for the Packers, rushing for 151 yards on 32 carries, contributing significantly to the team’s total of 261 rushing yards. However, the victory came at a cost, as the Packers also lost rookie running back Marshawn Lloyd to injury during the game.
Marshawn Lloyd, drafted in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft, made his NFL debut against the Colts, rushing for 15 yards on six carries. Unfortunately, he has now been placed on injured reserve due to an ankle injury. While he is eligible to return after four weeks, this marks the third injury he has faced since joining the Packers.
Before this latest injury, Lloyd had already missed portions of training camp due to a hip issue and subsequently a hamstring injury, which kept him out of the Packers’ Week One game against the Philadelphia Eagles in Sao Paolo, Brazil.
To fill the void left by Lloyd’s injury, the Packers promoted running back Chris Brooks from the practice squad. He will serve as the team’s third running back, supporting Jacobs and Emanuel Wilson moving forward.
With Brooks’ promotion creating an open spot on the practice squad, the Packers have signed Cornelius Johnson, a former wide receiver from Michigan who played a pivotal role in the Wolverines’ National Championship-winning team.
Johnson was initially drafted in the seventh round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Chargers. However, after being cut from the 53-man roster, he was briefly re-signed to their practice squad before being picked up by the Packers.
In his last season at Michigan, Johnson had a productive year, recording 47 receptions for 603 yards. His addition to the practice squad could provide depth to the Packers’ receiving corps as they navigate the challenges of the ongoing season.
The Packers continue to adapt to injuries and roster changes, hoping that these strategic moves will bolster their chances as they prepare for their next matchup. Johnson’s experience and skills may prove valuable as the team looks to maintain momentum following their recent victory.