Green Bay Packers Workout New Players Ahead of Week 5
The Green Bay Packers typically conduct player workouts on Tuesdays, which is a day off for the team. However, this week marked a deviation from that routine as the Packers brought in two new players for evaluation on Monday, according to the NFL transaction wire. Fans shouldn’t be surprised if additional tryouts continue into Tuesday, especially during a busy game week following a Sunday matchup.
New Additions: Michael Wiley and Maxen Hook
Among the players evaluated on Monday were running back Michael Wiley and safety Maxen Hook. Both athletes have intriguing backgrounds that could potentially enhance the Packers’ roster as they prepare for the upcoming challenges.
Michael Wiley’s Journey
Michael Wiley, who went undrafted in 2024, began his professional journey with the Washington Commanders. After spending an entire season on their practice squad, he was released in July. Shortly after, the Kansas City Chiefs signed him, but he lasted only two weeks before being cut during roster deadline day. Wiley also has experience from the UFL, where he was drafted in 2024 but never signed with the league.
Maxen Hook’s Rise
Maxen Hook’s story is equally compelling. A former college roommate of Quinyon Mitchell, the Philadelphia Eagles’ first-round pick, Hook went undrafted this past spring. Following his release from the Eagles, Hook sought opportunities with several NFL teams, including workouts with the New York Giants, Houston Texans, Cleveland Browns, and Tennessee Titans. Over five years at Toledo, he earned All-MAC honors four times and showcased his skills at the 2025 Senior Bowl.
Packer Roster Openings
Currently, the Packers hold two open spots on their 53-man roster due to injuries sustained by receiver Jayden Reed and defensive end Brenton Cox Jr., both placed on injured reserve. While adding new players could bolster their lineup, there remains uncertainty about whether the Packers will act before their upcoming Week 5 bye. Last week, the organization appeared unhurried to fill these roster gaps, even with a 10-day break between games.
Practice Squad Dynamics
On the practice squad, the Packers are currently working with running back Pierre Strong Jr., a former fourth-round draft pick from South Dakota State. Strong joined the Packers during Week 2 and may play a crucial role in the team’s strategy moving forward.
Defensive Depth on the Practice Squad
For their defensive lineup, the Packers feature two safeties on the practice squad: Johnathan Baldwin, an undrafted rookie who signed in the immediate aftermath of the draft, and Jaylin Simpson, a fifth-round pick signed in August 2024. Both players provide added depth and competition as the team prepares for the rest of the season.
Conclusion
As the Green Bay Packers navigate roster decisions ahead of Week 5, the introduction of players like Michael Wiley and Maxen Hook could prove significant. With open roster spots and a focus on enhancing their depth chart, the organization aims to ensure they are well-prepared for the upcoming challenges in the NFL season.
