In response to a shortage of tight ends due to injuries, the Green Bay Packers have signed Joel Wilson to their practice squad, as reported by a source to Packer Central. Luke Musgrave, who was on the verge of setting Packers rookie tight end records, suffered a kidney injury against the Chargers and is currently on injured reserve, with the possibility of missing the remainder of the season. Additionally, fourth-year pro Josiah Deguara, who plays a fullback role, was inactive against the Detroit Lions due to a hip injury.
The scarcity of available tight ends prompted the Packers to bring in Joel Wilson, an undrafted rookie from Central Michigan, to bolster their practice squad. During his final two years in college, Wilson showcased his skills with 75 receptions for 802 yards and 12 touchdowns. Notably, he caught 44 passes for 445 yards and six touchdowns with zero drops in his senior year.
Measuring 6 feet 3.625 inches and weighing 242 pounds at his pro day, Wilson, unfortunately, did not run a 40-yard dash but expressed confidence in his overall performance. He spent some time with the New Orleans Saints post-draft, joined the Buffalo Bills during OTAs, and was subsequently released at the end of training camp before spending the past few months on their practice squad.
The decision to sign Wilson comes after the Packers had only three rookie tight ends – Tucker Kraft, Ben Sims, and Henry Pearson – available at practice on Monday. This move underscores the team’s proactive approach to addressing immediate roster needs, ensuring depth and flexibility within the tight end group.
In a related move, the Packers released undrafted rookie cornerback Anthony Johnson, unrelated to rookie safety Anthony Johnson. Coach Matt LaFleur expressed hope that Musgrave, who suffered a lacerated kidney, will return to action this season, praising his toughness and competitiveness on the field. The signing of Joel Wilson aims to provide the Packers with added depth and options in navigating the challenges posed by injuries to key players in the tight end position.
