Packers consider a long-forgotten name as they brainstorm creative solutions for a surprise challenge

The Green Bay Packers used the extra preparation time before their matchup against the Chicago Bears to evaluate new talent. The team invited six players for workouts, targeting areas where depth might be needed in the coming weeks, including the defensive interior, defensive backs, and offensive line.

The standout among these names is one that hasnt been in the spotlight for years. Defensive tackle Ross Blacklock, a former second-round selection who previously spent time in the NFC North with the Minnesota Vikings, participated in the workout. The Packers defensive line depth became a key concern after Devonte Wyatt suffered a season-ending lower-leg fracture.

Players Evaluated by the Packers

Ross Blacklock: Drafted in the second round by the Houston Texans in 2020, Blacklock never fully met expectations. His NFL journey has included stops with the Vikings, Jaguars, Colts, Titans, and Giants. While he struggled against the run, he recorded 25 pressures in 2021 as an interior pass rusher for the Texans.

Raikes: A rookie, he spent four seasons at Texas A&M before transferring to Auburn for his final year in 2024. In the NFL, he was with the Titans, appearing in 23 preseason snaps and registering one pressure.

Brown: After an impressive Packers training camp and standout performance on Family Night, Brown missed much of the season due to a lung injury described by coach Matt LaFleur as serious. He appears fully recovered now. Previously undrafted, Brown spent time with the Denver Broncos before joining Green Bay, including practice squad stints and elevations for two games in 2024.

Reid: A former South Dakota cornerback, Reid had a solid preseason with the Seahawks, playing all three games and logging 55 defensive snaps. He allowed a 79.2 passer rating when targeted and recorded one pass breakup.

Barnhart: Listed as a tackle by Green Bay, he has more NFL experience at guard, having been with the Chargers, Broncos, and Buccaneers, but he has not appeared in a regular-season game. In preseason, he played 219 snaps at guard and six snaps at a sixth offensive lineman position.

Etienne: An undrafted rookie, he joined the Bengals in training camp but was waived due to injury before final cuts. He saw 72 offensive snaps in preseason games at left tackle, allowing three pressures.

The Packers recent workouts reflect a strategic search for reinforcements following Wyatts injury, with particular attention on bolstering the interior of the defensive line.

Author: Caleb Jennings