In a surprising move that has sent ripples through the Green Bay Packers’ fanbase, the team announced on Monday that they have released running back Israel Abanikanda from their practice squad to make room for Pierre Strong Jr., a 2022 fourth-round draft pick. The decision marks a significant shift in the Packers’ running back depth chart and has sparked discussion about the team’s strategy moving forward.
Pierre Strong Jr. runs official 4.37-second 40-yard dash at 2022 combine
Abanikanda’s Brief Stint in Green Bay
Israel Abanikanda joined the Packers in July after being claimed off waivers from the San Francisco 49ers. Despite showing promise during the preseason, particularly as a kick returner alongside receiver Savion Williams, Abanikanda was unable to secure a spot on the active roster. The Packers’ running back room is already crowded with established names like Josh Jacobs, Chris Brooks, MarShawn Lloyd, and Emanuel Wilson, all of whom either occupy active roster spots or are sidelined on injured reserve. Abanikanda’s role as a kick returner during the preseason was notable, especially with Williams, Green Bay’s Week 1 starter at the position, out due to injury. However, his inability to displace the team’s primary backs ultimately led to his release.
Enter Pierre Strong Jr.
The addition of Pierre Strong Jr. brings a fresh dynamic to the Packers’ roster. A familiar face to Packers tight end Tucker Kraft, Strong played alongside Kraft at South Dakota State at the FCS level. In a memorable moment during their 2021 rivalry matchup against North Dakota State, Strong even threw a touchdown pass to Kraft, showcasing his versatility. Drafted by the New England Patriots with the 127th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, Strong spent one season with the Patriots before being traded to the Cleveland Browns ahead of his second year.
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Strong’s tenure with the Browns spanned the 2023 and 2024 seasons, during which he appeared in 46 regular-season games. He amassed 99 carries for 499 yards and two touchdowns, averaging an impressive 5.0 yards per carry. His lone start came in 2023, and he also made significant contributions on special teams, logging 607 special teams snaps compared to 412 offensive snaps. Strong has experience as a kick returner, with 24 returns between New England and Cleveland, though he has also contributed in non-returner roles on special teams.
Recent Injury and Preseason Performance
Strong’s journey to Green Bay comes on the heels of a turbulent period. He was waived by the Browns on August 26, 2025, with an injury designation after suffering a concussion in Cleveland’s final preseason game. Released from injured reserve with an injury settlement on September 2, Strong was signed by the Packers less than a week later. Despite the injury, his preseason performance was notable, as he ran 18 times for 114 yards (6.3 yards per carry) with a long of 54 yards in just two games.
Strategic Implications for the Packers
The decision to swap Abanikanda for Strong suggests the Packers are prioritizing versatility and experience. With Jacobs, Lloyd, and Wilson having played just five combined career snaps on special teams in Green Bay, Strong’s extensive special teams experience—particularly as a kick returner—adds significant value. His ability to contribute both as a runner and on special teams aligns with the Packers’ need for depth, especially with MarShawn Lloyd currently on injured reserve.
As the only running back on Green Bay’s 17-man practice squad, Strong now serves as a key depth piece behind Jacobs, Brooks, and Wilson. His familiarity with high-level competition, dating back to his college days with Kraft, and his proven track record in the NFL make him a low-risk, high-upside addition. Until Lloyd returns from IR, Strong will be one of four running backs available in practice for the Packers, giving the team flexibility as they navigate the early weeks of the 2025 season.
Fan Reaction and What’s Next
The release of Abanikanda has caught many Packers fans off guard, especially given his flashes of potential in the preseason. However, the acquisition of Strong signals that the team is looking for a more polished contributor who can step into multiple roles. As Green Bay prepares for the challenges of the 2025 season, all eyes will be on Strong to see if he can translate his college connection with Kraft and his NFL experience into meaningful contributions on the field.
For now, the Packers’ running back room remains in flux, but the addition of Pierre Strong Jr. could prove to be a savvy move as the team balances its roster and prepares for the grind of the regular season.