Packers Start Formulating Practice Squad

The Green Bay Packers have signed quarterback Danny Etling to their practice squad, a source said in confirming a report by The Athletic’s Matt Schneidman.

Etling, who was drafted by the Patriots in 2018, had a strong preseason as Green Bay’s third quarterback. Had he thrown enough passes to quality, he would have ranked first in completion percentage and second in passer rating. He added a 51-yard touchdown run.

“I think I played well enough to be a part of a team,” Etling said this week. “It’s my belief that I belong in the NFL and will be on a roster in some sense, and it’s my job to continue to be ready. Regardless of what the team decides, I’d love to be here, and obviously I’d love to be No. 3, but that one’s out of my control. So, it’s about continuing my growth as a quarterback and continue getting ready for the season, because you never know when you’re needed, and you want to step up and deliver.”

Green Bay activated veteran kicker Mason Crosby off PUP but is signing impressive Ramiz Ahmed to the practice squad.

“I think when Mason’s ready to kick and he’s fully ready to go, he’ll kick for us,” general manager Brian Gutekunst said on Wednesday. “I think Ramiz did a great job while he’s here and we’re excited to get him back on the practice squad to see how he grows as well. I do think if for some reason Mason can’t go that we have a very capable guy to go in there and make those kicks if we need.”

Including seventh-round pick Jonathan Ford, the Packers kept six defensive linemen on their roster and are bringing back the impressive duo of Jack Heflin and Chris Slayton.

One outsider the Packers are adding is cornerback Benjie Franklin. At Tarleton State, he intercepted eight passes with two pick-sixes in three seasons. He went undrafted and spent training camp with the Jacksonville Jaguars. At 5-foot-11 1/2, he ran his 40 in 4.32 seconds.

Here are other players who are re-signing with the Packers, according to sources, other media outlets and the best source of all, general manager Brian Gutekunst.

Quarterback Danny Etling

Defensive tackle Jack Heflin

Defensive tackle Chris Slayton

Outside linebacker La’Darius Hamilton

Cornerback Rico Gafford

Cornerback Kiondre Thomas

Kicker Ramiz Ahmed