The Packers designated rookie MarShawn Lloyd to return from injured reserve on Monday, opening him a 21-day training window and allowing Lloyd to return to the 53-man roster before the Packers’ game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday.
After trading Preston Smith to the Pittsburgh Steelers last week, the Packers have an empty roster spot, so no corresponding move is required between now and Sunday to activate Lloyd.
General manager Brian Gutekunst suggested last week that Lloyd was close to returning and could take Smith’s spot on the roster.
Lloyd, a USC third-round pick and a college teammate of Bears quarterback Caleb Williams, suffered an ankle injury in Week 2 and missed the final seven games. In his only game this season, the rookie rushed six times for 15 yards and caught one pass for three yards.
The Packers have Josh Jacobs as the starter and Emanuel Wilson and Chris Brooks as backups, so it’s possible Lloyd will have to wait some time before getting a chance. However, his explosive traits – both as a one-time runner and potentially as a receiver in the backfield – should provide another weapon as the Packers try to ignite their offense down the stretch in 2024.
With his 21-day window already open, the Packers have until December 2 to activate Lloyd on the 53-man roster.
Tight end Luke Musgrave is the only injured reserve player who could be designated to return this season. Tight end Tyler Davis and quarterback AJ Dillon are on injured reserve and ending the season.
