The Green Bay Packers designated tight end Luke Musgrave for return from injured reserve on Wednesday. Musgrave, who injured his ankle in Week 4, needed surgery and has been on injured reserve since early October, returned to the practice field for a padded practice as the Packers began prep for the Seattle Seahawks in Week 15, per Mike Spofford of the team’s official site.
Musgrave can return to the 53-man roster at any point over the next 21 days. He can practice without taking up a roster spot for up to three weeks but must be activated within the window to play again this season.
Musgrave caught only five passes for 24 yards across 108 snaps and four games to start the season. Tucker Kraft, who leads the team in touchdown catches, took over as the No. 1 tight end to start the regular season and has enjoyed a breakout season in Year 2.
Adding Musgrave at 100 percent could give the Packers another dynamic pass-catching option down the stretch. The 2023 second-round pick is 6-6 and runs the 40-yard dash in 4.5 seconds. He caught 34 passes for 352 yards and a touchdown during his rookie season and added another score in the postseason.
When Musgrave went to injured reserve, the Packers signed John FitzPatrick to the 53-man roster. It’s unclear if FitzPatrick will remain on the roster once Musgrave returns.
The Packers currently have an open spot on the 53-man roster and wouldn’t need to make a move to activate Musgrave.
