The Green Bay Packers shake things up with a series of roster moves, leaving fans and analysts intrigued. But who's in and who's out?
On January 3, 2026, the Packers announced the promotion of two players from their practice squad to the active roster: wide receiver Jakobie Keeney-James and guard/center Lecitus Smith. Keeney-James, a 6-foot rookie from the University of Massachusetts, had a productive college career, playing in 49 games and amassing over 1,600 receiving yards. He was initially signed by the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent but found a new home in Green Bay. And here's where it gets interesting: despite his size, Keeney-James even contributed to the ground game, rushing for 6 yards on a single carry.
Smith, a 6-foot-3, 314-pound lineman, has been with the Packers organization for parts of three seasons, including this year's training camp. He was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in 2022 and saw action in 10 games as a rookie. Smith's versatility as a guard and center adds depth to the offensive line.
Unfortunately, the Packers also had to place two players on injured reserve: guard/tackle Donovan Jennings and wide receiver Savion Williams. Both players will be missed, especially Williams, who has been a key contributor with his unique name pronunciation (SAY-vee-on).
To fill the gaps, the Packers elevated tight end Drake Dabney and linebacker Jamon Johnson from the practice squad for game day. Dabney and Johnson will have the opportunity to make an impact and potentially secure a longer-term spot on the roster.
These moves showcase the Packers' commitment to developing young talent and adapting to injuries. But the question remains: will these adjustments be enough to propel the team towards a successful season? The NFL is a league of constant change, and only time will tell how these roster moves influence the Packers' journey.
