Green Bay Packers spark roster overhaul, bring back Jonathan Ford amid defensive needs
The Green Bay Packers are making significant adjustments to their roster as they prepare for the final stretch of the season. After originally selecting Jonathan Ford with a seventh-round pick in the 2022 draft, he spent the first two and a half seasons with the team without seeing any game action. Fast forward to now, and the Packers find themselves in urgent need of his presence.
Amid a series of roster changes announced on Tuesday, the Packers claimed Ford off waivers from the Chicago Bears. His addition comes as a direct response to the injury of Jordon Riley, who suffered a torn Achilles during the team’s recent matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. Riley, who had only played 64 snaps in four games after joining the Packers from the Giants’ practice squad, leaves a notable gap on the defensive front.
Addressing Defensive Weaknesses
The Packers’ defense has faced challenges in recent weeks, particularly highlighted by their struggles against both the Bears and Ravens. The physicality displayed by these opponents exposed vulnerabilities that the Packers can no longer ignore. With the postseason looming and a playoff matchup against either the Eagles or Bears on the horizon, fortifying the defensive line has become a priority.
At 6-foot-5 and weighing 338 pounds, Ford’s imposing size adds much-needed heft to a defensive line that has lacked physical presence. The Packers had previously sought similar attributes when they signed both Riley and Quinton Bohanna, who also boasts impressive dimensions at 6-foot-4 and 327 pounds.
Roster Dynamics in Motion
The Packers have not only welcomed Ford back into the fold but have also made several other roster moves to bolster their lineup:
Released Quinton Bohanna, who made his debut against the Ravens.
Placed Jordon Riley on injured reserve.
Placed cornerback Kamal Hadden on injured reserve.
Promoted cornerbacks Shemar Bartholomew and Jaylin Simpson from the practice squad.
Signed running back Damien Martinez to the practice squad.
Ford’s journey has been a winding one; after being signed off the Packers’ practice squad by the Bears on October 25, 2024, he appeared in four games for Chicago in 2024, as well as in eight games earlier this season. Now, he returns to a team that clearly recognizes the value of his size and experience at this critical juncture.
As the Packers prepare to conclude their regular season with a game against Minnesota, the urgency to refine their defense before the playoffs is palpable. With the stakes higher than ever, the return of Jonathan Ford signals a proactive approach to addressing their defensive shortcomings.
