Packers return DL Jonathan Ford to practice squad

The maneuvers surrounding the activation of Jonathan Ford from injured reserve are now complete. The Packers signed Ford, who was released Wednesday and cleared waivers Thursday, to the practice squad on Friday.

Ford (6-5, 338) started the season on injured reserve/designated to return after suffering a calf injury late in the preseason. He missed four games, was designated to return and then used his 21-day practice period, forcing the Packers to sign him to the 53-man roster. Long snapper Matt Orzech was released to make way for Ford. They were then traded again on Wednesday, with Orzech signing and Ford being released, allowing Ford to return to the practice squad on Friday.

Ford, a seventh-round pick in the 2022 draft, has never appeared in a regular-season game. He made the 53-man roster as a rookie, but was a healthy scratch every game. In 2023, Ford spent the entire season on the practice squad.

Ford finally showed life as an inner disruptor to start Year 3 in Green Bay. He played 72 snaps on defense during the 2024 preseason, producing four tackles and a strong grade against the run, per PFF.

Ford will get more time to develop on the practice squad and give the Packers an emergency option on the defensive line. He has three gameday highs available this season.