Veteran slot receiver Randall Cobb is back for the Green Bay Packers. The team activated Cobb from injured reserve on Thursday, clearing the way for him to return and play on Saturday night against the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Divisional Round.
Cobb missed the last five games of the regular season with a core muscle injury. He suffered the injury on Nov. 28 against the Los Angeles Rams, had surgery during the bye week and ultimately went on injured reserve.
The Packers designated Cobb for return on Dec. 30. His three-week practice window ended on Thursday, necessitating his activation to the 53-man roster.
Coach Matt LaFleur said on Wednesday that the Packers are “anticipating” Cobb to play against the 49ers. His return to the roster all but guarantees it.
Acquired via trade with the Houston Texans before training camp, Cobb caught 28 passes for 375 yards and five touchdowns in his first 12 games of the 2021 season.
If nothing else, Cobb provides a reliable presence at slot receiver and a versatile weapon for LaFleur to use in the passing game. Against the Rams, Cobb lined up in the backfield and caught a touchdown pass.
Cobb’s return could be even more important considering Marquez Valdes-Scantling (back) is doubtful to play against the 49ers. Cobb and Allen Lazard will be the secondary targets behind Davante Adams.
The Packers still have time to make decisions on Za’Darius Smith, Whitney Mercilus and Ty Summers, who have all been designated for return from injured reserve. If ready to play against the 49ers, they would be activated on Friday.
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