The Green Bay Packers have taken a positive step with one of their injured playmakers, designating tight end Luke Musgrave to return to practice for the first time since September 29. This move comes as they prepare for their Week 15 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks.
The Packers officially opened Musgrave’s 21-day activation window from the injured reserve list before practice on December 11, giving him an opportunity to rejoin the 53-man roster and potentially play against Seattle.
Musgrave sustained an ankle injury in Week 4 during the Packers’ game against the Minnesota Vikings but managed to stay in the game and attempt to play through the pain. Although he was active for their Week 5 matchup with the Los Angeles Rams, he did not log any snaps. The team later placed him on injured reserve on October 11 to allow him time to recover.
For Musgrave to suit up on Sunday, the Packers must activate him to the 53-man roster, which will require a corresponding roster move. His participation in practices leading up to the game will be key in determining his availability.
The Packers (9-4) are set to face the Seahawks (8-5) at Lumen Field in Seattle at 8:20 p.m. ET on December 15, featured in the Sunday Night Football showcase for Week 15.
Luke Musgrave Stood Out as Rookie in 2023 for Packers
Musgrave’s return is less anticipated this season, largely due to the emergence of Tucker Kraft. Drafted a round later than Musgrave, Kraft has shined in his second year, amassing 39 receptions for 521 yards and leading the Packers with seven touchdown catches over 13 games.
Still, Musgrave remains a valuable vertical threat. A 2023 second-round pick, he impressed during his rookie season with 34 receptions for 352 yards and a touchdown on 46 targets across 11 games (nine starts). His speed and route-running abilities made him a reliable option for quarterback Jordan Love in mid-to-deep passing situations.
Unfortunately, Musgrave’s promising rookie season was cut short by a lacerated kidney in Week 11, causing him to miss six games. He showcased his potential during the playoffs, recording six catches for 66 yards and a touchdown, including a perfect three-for-three outing in their wild-card win over Dallas.
Musgrave’s production to start the 2024 season has been underwhelming, with just five receptions over the first four games. Additionally, Kraft’s breakout performance this year will likely limit Musgrave’s role upon his return. Nevertheless, his presence could bolster the Packers’ offense as they make a push for the postseason.
Packers Injuries Improving Ahead of Seahawks
Musgrave’s return isn’t the only positive development for the Packers on the injury front ahead of their first practice for the Seahawks. The team also saw rookie linebacker Edgerrin Cooper and cornerback Corey Ballentine return to the field after both missed all of Week 14’s practices before the Detroit game.
Cooper, a 2024 second-round pick, has been dealing with a hamstring injury and hadn’t practiced since November 20. His participation in Wednesday’s practice, even on a limited basis, is an encouraging sign for his potential availability on game day.
In addition, the Packers welcomed back rookie safety Evan Williams (concussion), cornerback Jaire Alexander (knee), and wide receiver Romeo Doubs (concussion). However, head coach Matt LaFleur confirmed that Doubs remains in the NFL’s concussion protocol.
The lone player absent from Wednesday’s practice was starting nickel cornerback and rotational safety Javon Bullard. Bullard continues to recover from an ankle injury sustained in Week 14’s loss to the Lions.
As the Packers prepare for the Seahawks, the improving health of their roster offers hope for their continued playoff push.
