The Green Bay Packers have placed running back AJ Dillon on injured reserve without the option for him to return, effectively sidelining him for the remainder of the season. The team announced this decision as part of its initial 53-man roster on Tuesday. Dillon is dealing with a stinger injury, while reports from NFL Network indicate he has a neck injury.
In addition, the Packers have released quarterbacks Sean Clifford and Michael Pratt, both of whom were in contention for the backup role behind Jordan Love. Currently, the team has two quarterbacks on the roster: Love and Malik Willis, who was acquired from the Tennessee Titans in exchange for a 2025 seventh-round pick.
Noteworthy releases also include wide receivers Samori Toure and Grant DuBose, offensive lineman Royce Newman, linebacker Kristian Welch, and kicker Anders Carlson. The Packers have opted to keep wide receiver Malik Heath, bringing the total to six wide receivers on the roster.
Former Minnesota Vikings kicker Greg Joseph will take over as the new starting kicker.
Moreover, the Packers have officially cut kicker Anders Carlson after one season. Carlson struggled last season, missing seven field goals and six extra points across regular season and playoff appearances, achieving 81.8% of his field goals and 87.2% of extra point attempts. Notably, he missed a crucial 41-yard field goal in the fourth quarter of the Divisional Round playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers, a game the Packers lost 24-21.
During this year’s preseason, Carlson made three out of four field goal attempts but failed a 32-yard attempt in the final preseason game against the Ravens. He was competing for a spot with Greg Joseph, who remains on the roster.
Both Clifford and Pratt could potentially return to the practice squad if they clear waivers. The Packers had also released linebacker Kristian Welch, who had made a strong impression during the preseason with two interceptions and a fumble recovery. All NFL teams are required to finalize their rosters to 53 players by 3 p.m. CT today.