The Green Bay Packers announced changes to their practice squad on their off day.
They released running back La’Michal Perine and receiver Jalen Wayne, while signing tight end Johnny Lumpkin and receiver TJ Luther. Given the team’s roster situation, these moves, especially the replacement of a running back with a tight end, were not surprising.
Perine, who joined the Packers on August 30th, was one of three running backs on the 17-man practice squad before his release. Ellis Merriweather, who was promoted in Week 1, and Chris Brooks are the remaining running backs.
The Packers had no tight ends on their practice squad and only three on their entire roster after the Carolina Panthers added Messiah Swinson to their 53-man roster in Week 1.
Lumpkin started his NFL career with New England as an undrafted free agent last season, was waived around the cutdown deadline, and subsequently joined the practice squads of the Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos, but has been unemployed since the end of the 2023 regular season.
He is reportedly a blocking tight end. Luther, also an undrafted free agent from 2023, began with the New York Jets and later joined the New England Patriots’ and Pittsburgh Steelers’ practice squads.
He is known for his kick return ability, with multiple long returns during his college career, despite limited play in the 2020 Covid season and no returns as a senior.
