It’s not like Packers G.M. Ted Thompson to go looking on the waiver wire for the biggest name available, such as Willie Parker. Smart move.
It is just like Thompson to sign an unknown running back off another well-run organization’s practice squad. Rob Demovsky of the Green Bay Press-Gazette reports that the Packers will sign Dimitri Nance from the Falcons to help fill-in for Ryan Grant, who is out for the season.
Atlanta reportedly made an effort to keep Nance, but the undrafted rookie from Arizona State chose to leave anyway. Another smart move.
In Green Bay, only Brandon Jackson and fullback John Kuhn are in front of him. Atlanta is stocked with veteran backs in Michael Turner, Jerious Norwood, and Jason Snelling.
We don’t think losing Grant is a devastating blow; running backs are replaceable. But the enthusiasm regarding new starter Brandon Jackson should be tempered by his history of minor injuries in limited playing time.
The Packers were already going to be pass-wacky this year. It’s going to be even harder for opponents to respect their running game now.
UPDATE: The team confirmed the signing. They also announced they signed defensive end Jairus Wynn. Grant and Justin Harrell were placed on injured reserve.