The Packers make a risky IR move before the Bears clash, shelving a key starter while unleashing a far more dangerous version of Micah Parsons.QQ
The Packers made two roster moves that went in opposite directions on the injury report: running back MarShawn Lloyd was placed back on injured reserve just days before the showdown with the Bears, while defensive end Brenton Cox Jr. was activated off IR to reinforce the front.
Lloyd suffered a hamstring issue in last week’s practice, and Green Bay is expected to consider a return designation if the season stretches deep into January. With Cox, the team is chasing more edge speed and pressure after he missed time since Week 1 with a hip injury.
Cox is the “beast” Green Bay is unleashing right now. An undrafted free agent in 2023, he earned real snaps after Preston Smith was traded and flashed production with four sacks and five tackles for loss in seven games. Pro Football Focus credited Cox with a 17.0% pass-rush win rate — the best mark on the roster and among the top edge defenders with enough snaps to qualify.
Cox said being sidelined early only made him “more aggressive, more violent” in his return. Rookie Collin Oliver was also downgraded and ruled out.
Activating Cox gives the Packers a jolt off the edge as they deal with Micah Parsons’ absence after a torn ACL, and the staff is hoping he can help tilt the pocket from the outside. Rashan Gary described Cox as “fast, strong, confident,” saying he explodes off the ball and is quickly understanding his role.
Head coach Matt LaFleur added that Cox has looked good in practice and is ready to play. Cox admitted no one can simply replace Parsons’ 12.5 sacks in 13 games, but he believes discipline, teamwork, and consistent pressure snap by snap can stabilize the defense.
