Linebacker isn’t the only injury-riddled position the Green Bay Packers will fortify with a free-agent signing. In addition to signing linebacker Chris Russell, a move reported earlier Tuesday, the Packers are also adding running back Nate McCrary, per 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 isn’t back to 11-on-11 work due to an ankle injury. Quay Walker, a starter, exited Tuesday’s practice. So the Packers will add Russell, an undrafted rookie out of Texas A&M.
At running back, the Packers are facing similar issues. Rookie MarShawn Lloyd is out with a hamstring injury. His recovery timetable is unknown. Rookie Jarveon Howard has a new ankle injury and didn’t practice Tuesday. Like other veterans, Josh Jacobs isn’t 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 Michigan Panthers of the UFL in 2024. He rushed 16 times for 60 yards and a touchdown during the regular season. In the postseason, he carried 11 times for 62 yards in the conference title game.
Over two preseason games with the Packers last year, McCray rushed 11 times for 37 yards and a touchdown.
After being released by the Packers during roster cutdowns last year, McCrary spent time on the Cleveland Browns practice squad.
The Packers will need to make a pair of roster moves to make room for Russell and McCrary ahead of Wednesday’s practice.