The Green Bay Packers added long snapper Matt Orzech to the 53-man roster and released defensive lineman Jonathan Ford on Wednesday, the next step in a series of moves needed to retain both players.
The Packers waived Orzech on Monday to make room for Ford, who had to be activated from injured reserve at the end of the 21-day training window. By activating Ford, the Packers avoided having to place him on injured reserve for the entire season.
Since Walnut was not eligible for waivers, the Packers were able to bring him back quickly. The release of Ford – who would be the sixth defensive lineman on the 53-man roster – opens up the possibility of bringing him back to the practice squad later this week. The Packers have already released linebacker Andrew Beck from the practice squad, so there is an open spot if Ford agrees to be released.
Orzech, a fifth-year veteran now in his second year in Green Bay, will return to his job as the team’s longtime snapper.
Ford was originally placed on injured reserve/designated to return following final roster cuts after suffering a calf injury in the final preseason game. He missed four games, was cleared to return and played out his three-week training window.
Orzech began his NFL career with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2019. The Packers travel to Jacksonville to play the Jaguars on Sunday.
