The Green Bay Packers are on the cusp of a potential game-changer this week, as two key offensive players—one a proven star, the other a rookie brimming with untapped talent—may finally return to practice. But here’s where it gets exciting: Jayden Reed, the team’s leading receiver in 2023 and 2024, and MarShawn Lloyd, a 2024 draft pick with explosive potential, could be back on the field sooner than expected. And this is the part most people miss—their return isn’t just about filling roster spots; it’s about injecting fresh energy into an offense that’s been craving balance and big-play capability.
Coach Matt LaFleur hasn’t ruled out opening the 21-day practice window for both players this week, though he cautioned, ‘Potentially, we’ll have a better idea over the next two days.’ It’s important to note that returning to practice doesn’t guarantee an immediate return to game action. Both Reed and Lloyd have been sidelined for extended periods, so a gradual ramp-up period is expected. Still, this first step is a significant milestone.
Reed, a dynamic slot receiver, has been on injured reserve since breaking his collarbone in Week 2. He also underwent surgery on an injured foot, which LaFleur recently confirmed is fully healed. The Packers are now awaiting test results to ensure his collarbone is ready for contact. With a target return date of late November or early December, Reed’s comeback feels imminent. In the first two games of 2025, he showcased his potential with three catches for 45 yards and a touchdown.
Lloyd, a third-round pick in 2024, has battled recurring injuries, including a hamstring issue that landed him on injured reserve at the start of the regular season. The Packers have consulted specialists to address his injury woes, and LaFleur noted that Lloyd is now in a ‘really good spot’ physically. With Josh Jacobs nursing a knee injury, Lloyd’s return could provide a much-needed boost to the running game. His elite burst and long speed make him a unique threat, especially behind an offensive line that’s struggled to create consistent running lanes.
But here’s the controversial part: While Lloyd’s potential is undeniable, his injury history raises questions about his durability. Can he stay healthy long enough to make a meaningful impact? And if he does, how will his presence reshape the offense? Some fans argue he’s the missing piece to a balanced attack, while others remain skeptical. What do you think—is Lloyd the game-changer the Packers need, or is his injury risk too great?
Reed’s return, on the other hand, is a no-brainer. His deep speed and yards-after-catch ability could fill the void left by Tucker Kraft’s season-ending injury. Pairing him with emerging quarterback Jordan Love could create a dynamic duo that defenses struggle to contain.
For a historical parallel, look no further than the 2010 Super Bowl season. In November of that year, the Packers activated James Starks, a young running back who had been sidelined with a hamstring injury. His return sparked the run game and helped balance the offense during their historic Super Bowl XLV run. Could Lloyd and Reed play a similar role in 2025?
As the Packers gear up for the stretch run, the potential return of these two players has fans buzzing. But the real question remains: Will their comebacks be the catalyst for a championship push, or will injuries and inconsistency derail their impact? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—are you optimistic about Reed and Lloyd’s return, or do you think the Packers need to look elsewhere for offensive firepower?