Linebacker isn’t the only injury-plagued position the Green Bay Packers are adding to their free agent roster. In addition to signing linebacker Chris Russell, which was reported earlier Tuesday, the Packers are also adding running back Nate McCrary, according to Bill Huber of SI.com.
At linebacker, the Packers are still without rookie Edgerrin Cooper, who is nursing a hip injury, and rookie Ty’Ron Hopper did not return to 11-on-11 play with an ankle injury. Quay Walker, the starter, missed Tuesday’s practice. So the Packers will add Russell, an undrafted rookie out of Texas A&M.
At running back, the Packers have similar concerns. Rookie MarShawn Lloyd is out with a hamstring injury. His recovery timeline is unknown. Rookie Jarveon Howard has a modern ankle injury and did not practice Tuesday. Like other veterans, Josh Jacobs is not expected to play Sunday night in Denver. So the Packers will add McCrary, who spent part of training camp with the Packers last summer.
McCrary, 25, spent time with the UFL’s Michigan Panthers in 2024. He rushed 16 times for 60 yards and a touchdown during the regular season. In the postseason, he rushed 11 times for 62 yards in the conference title game.
In two preseason games against the Packers last year, McCray had 11 carries for 37 yards and one touchdown.
After being waived last year as part of the Packers’ roster cutbacks, McCrary spent time on the Cleveland Browns’ practice squad.
The Packers will have to make two lineup changes to make room for Russell and McCrary before Wednesday’s practice.
