Green Bay Packers Offensive Weapon Spotted At Practice; Looks Closer To Returning

The Green Bay Packers have reason for optimism as wide receiver Jayden Reed takes meaningful steps forward in his recovery from two major injuries. Reed, who went down with a broken collarbone during Week 2, compounded his challenges by dealing with a lingering foot injury at the same time. The young slot receiver’s perseverance and recent signs of activity are a welcome boost for a team looking to get healthy as the season progresses.

Green Bay Packers Jayden Reed Injury Update

Reed’s situation was serious from the start. After a hard hit sidelined him early in the season, he required surgery to repair his broken collarbone. Already managing a foot injury—one that reportedly might have needed surgery on its own—Reed made the decision to address both issues back-to-back. This tough choice not only tackled his immediate health concerns but also set him up for a more complete and potentially quicker recovery.

The subsequent rehab process has kept Reed out of action for several weeks, and the Packers have felt his absence. Reed’s ability to create mismatches in the slot and serve as a reliable target was sorely missed as the team adjusted its depth chart.

Practice Update: Running, Catching, Signs of Progress

Encouraging updates from Green Bay’s practice sessions have provided hope that Reed will soon be ready to take the next step. This week, Reed was spotted on the sidelines sporting a helmet, running routes, and catching passes from trainers. While he has yet to officially participate in full team drills or scrimmages, these sideline workouts show that his rehabilitation is going well.

According to ESPN’s Rob Demovsky, the Packers do not need to open Reed’s 21-day practice window—which allows a player to transition from injured reserve to the active roster—until he’s officially taking part in on-field work with teammates. For now, his limited but meaningful activity is an indicator that he’s getting closer to returning. Both the coaching staff and fans are optimistic about what this progress could mean for the team’s offense in the coming weeks.

Impact on the Receiver Room and Team Depth

Jayden Reed’s possible return has significant implications for the Packers’ wide receiver group. Prior to his injuries, Reed had firmly established himself as the team’s go-to slot receiver, a position that’s been crucial to the Packers’ passing attack in recent seasons. In Reed’s absence, responsibility has fallen to a combination of rookie first-round pick Matthew Golden and others, with varying success.

The depth chart has seen additional shuffling as Christian Watson recently overtook Golden at outside receiver, and injuries to other players like Dontayvion Wicks have forced consistent adjustments. When Reed is eventually cleared to return, it’s expected that he’ll reclaim his starting role in the slot, which could push Golden further down the pecking order—potentially to a WR4 role—once all receivers are healthy.

What’s Next for Reed and the Packers

The Packers will closely monitor Reed’s progress in the coming days and weeks before making an official decision to activate him. His presence on the sidelines, running and catching, is an encouraging sight, but the transition from individual drills to live practices with the team is a critical next step. The team will be cautious to ensure he is fully ready before making a roster move.

If Jayden Reed can return to his previous level of play, Green Bay stands to benefit from his quickness, route-running, and chemistry with quarterback Jordan Love. His return would not only bolster the passing game but also provide greater flexibility and depth at a key position as the regular season heads into its latter stages. For now, fans and teammates alike will be watching Reed’s recovery, hoping for a full and timely return to the field.

Recently, Christian Watson was elevated on the depth chart over Golden at outside receiver. With Reed’s return on the horizon, Golden could see his role further reduced. Once the receiving corps is fully healthy, a scenario could emerge where Reed reclaims his starting slot position, leaving Golden as the team’s fourth wide receiver. For now, Reed’s progress is a positive development, and the team will continue to monitor his recovery before making any official roster moves.