The Green Bay Packers signed long snapper Matt Orzech back to the 53-man roster and released defensive lineman Jonathan Ford on Wednesday, representing the next step in a series of moves required to retain both players.
On Monday, the Packers released Orzech to make room for Ford, who needed to be activated from injured reserve at the end of his 21-day practice window. By activating Ford, the Packers avoided having to place him on season-long injured reserve.
Because Orzech wasn’t subjected to waivers, the Packers were able to quickly bring him back. Releasing Ford — who would be the No. 6 defensive lineman on the 53-man roster — provides the opportunity to bring him back on the practice squad later this week. The Packers already released fullback Andrew Beck from the practice squad, so there’s an open spot if Ford clears waivers.
Orzech, a fifth-year veteran now in Year 2 in Green Bay, will resume his job as the team’s long snapper.
Ford was originally placed on injured reserve/designated to return at final roster cutdowns after he injured his calf in the final preseason game. He missed four games, was designated to return and played out his three-week practice window.
Orzech began his NFL career with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2019. The Packers go to Jacksonville to play the Jaguars on Sunday.
