The Packers designated rookie running back MarShawn Lloyd for return from injured reserve on Monday, opening his 21-day practice window and the door for Lloyd to return to the 53-man roster before the Packers take on 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 to activate Lloyd between now and Sunday.
General manager Brian Gutekunst hinted last week that Lloyd was nearing a return and could take Smith’s spot on the roster.
Lloyd, a third-round pick out of USC and a college teammate of Bears quarterback Caleb Williams, injured his ankle in Week 2 and has missed the last seven games. The rookie rushed six times for 15 yards and caught one pass for three yards in his one game of action so far this season.
The Packers have Josh Jacobs entrenched as the starter and Emanuel Wilson and Chris Brooks as backups, so it’s possible Lloyd will have to bide time before he gets an opportunity. However, his explosive traits — both as a one-cut runner and potentially as a receiver out of the backfield — should provide another weapon as the Packers attempt to catch fire on offense down the stretch in 2024.
With his 21-day window now open, the Packers have until Dec. 2 to activate Lloyd to the 53-man roster.
Tight end Luke Musgrave is the only other player on injured reserve who is capable of being designated to return this season. Tight end Tyler Davis and running back A.J. Dillon are on injured reserve and are done for the season.
