Packers have creative tools to solve a roster issue without spending unnecessary capital during the 2025 season

The Green Bay Packers have a punt returner problem. It shouldn't be considered that big of an issue, to be honest, but there are some reasons for it to be real. First, Packers fans know how much the special teams have been a costly pain for the franchise. And second, since Jayden Reed got hurt, the Packers are risking Matthew Golden and even Romeo Doubs to unsuccessfully return punts—Golden took a monster shot against the Dallas Cowboys.

The Packers had Mecole Hardman on the practice squad, but released him last week—an indication that the performance in practice hadn't been good enough.

The good news is that general manager Brian Gutekunst is always open to adding new pieces, and Richmond Williams and the pro personnel have done an excellent job finding good players around the league, and even in minor leagues. Green Bay has two open roster spots on the 53-man roster.

There are some intriguing options on other teams' practice squads, and also a CFL star who could sign later in the season. Remember that if a player is signed from another team's PS to the active roster, the Packers would have to keep him for at least three weeks.

Ihmir Smith-Marsette, New York Giants

A fifth-round pick by the Minnesota Vikings in 2021, he's been with several NFL teams, and with the Giants since last year. He's a fine depth wide receiver, but his returning abilities are real. Last year, he had PFF grades over 74 in both kickoff and punt returns, which is exactly the type of piece the Packers could spend a roster spot on. Even though he's experienced, Smith-Marsette is just 26.