Packers Activate WR Jayden Reed Ahead of Bears Showdown
The Green Bay Packers are getting a massive boost to their receiving corps just in time for their divisional clash with the Chicago Bears. The team officially activated wide receiver Jayden Reed from injured reserve on Saturday, clearing the way for him to suit up for Sundayโs critical Week 14 matchup.
Reed has been sidelined since Week 2, when he suffered a broken collarbone that required surgery to repair both the clavicle and a lingering foot issue. His return marks the end of an 11-week absence for the Packers’ dynamic playmaker. Before going down, Reed had already tallied three receptions for 45 yards and a touchdown in the season opener against Detroit.
Why Jayden Reed Matters for Green Bay
Jayden Reedโs return changes the geometry of the Packers’ offense. In his first two seasons, he racked up 119 catches for 1,650 yards and 14 touchdowns, proving to be a versatile weapon who can win from the slot, stretch the field, and even contribute in the run game. With the Packers currently sitting at 8-3-1 and fighting for the NFC North crown, reinserting a weapon of Reed’s caliber provides quarterback Jordan Love with another explosive option.
Roster Moves: Heath Out, Bohanna In
To make room for Jayden Reed on the 53-man roster, the Packers released third-year wideout Malik Heath. Heath, who has appeared in 37 career games, found himself as the odd man out in a now-healthy receiver room featuring Reed, Christian Watson, and Romeo Doubs. While Heath was valued for his blocking and special teams play, the numbers game simply didn’t work in his favor.
In a corresponding move to bolster the defensive front, Green Bay claimed defensive tackle Quinton Bohanna off waivers from the Seattle Seahawks. The 327-pound nose tackle appeared in five games for Seattle this season and arrives just as the Packers placed defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt on injured reserve.
Whatโs Next for the Packers?
Sundayโs game against Chicago carries significant playoff implications. While the Bears will be missing their own top rookie receiver, Rome Odunze, due to a foot injury, the Packers are trending in the opposite direction health-wise. Getting Jayden Reed back on the field gives Green Bayโs offense its full complement of weapons for the stretch run.
It remains to be seen if the coaching staff will put Reed on a snap count or immediately task him with punt return duties, but his mere presence on the field forces defenses to adjust. Kickoff is scheduled for Sunday at Lambeau Field.
