In a surprising move that caught the attention of NFL fans and analysts alike, the Green Bay Packers made a significant adjustment to their practice squad following Week 1 of the 2025 season. On Monday, the team announced the signing of running back Pierre Strong Jr. to the practice squad, while simultaneously releasing Israel Abanikanda. This decision, coming just ahead of Week 2, underscores the Packers’ commitment to fine-tuning their roster with versatile and dynamic talent.
Pierre Strong Jr.: A Dynamic Addition
Pierre Strong Jr., a 5-foot-11, 207-pound running back, brings an impressive resume to Green Bay. Selected in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots, Strong has appeared in 46 career games over three seasons. His professional stats include 422 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 99 carries, along with 26 receptions for 193 yards and 24 kickoff returns for 570 yards. His versatility as a rusher, receiver, and return specialist makes him a valuable asset for the Packers’ practice squad.
Last season with the Cleveland Browns, Strong showcased his potential, carrying the ball 26 times for 108 yards and catching 14 passes for 74 yards across 14 games. He also contributed on special teams, returning 11 kickoffs for 255 yards. During the 2025 preseason, Strong continued to impress, rushing for 114 yards on 18 carries, including a standout performance of 89 yards on 13 carries against the Philadelphia Eagles. His speed and explosiveness were further highlighted at the NFL Scouting Combine, where he posted a 4.39-second 40-yard dash, a 36-inch vertical leap, and a 10-foot-4-inch broad jump.
Strong’s collegiate career at South Dakota State was equally remarkable. A three-time All-Missouri Valley Football Conference selection, he amassed 4,527 rushing yards and 40 touchdowns, caught 62 passes for 581 yards and three touchdowns, and even threw six touchdown passes. His 1,686 rushing yards in 2021 led the FCS, and he recorded 10 rushing touchdowns of at least 50 yards during his time with the Jackrabbits. Strong’s ability to make big plays and contribute in multiple facets of the game aligns well with the Packers’ dynamic offensive approach.
The Departure of Israel Abanikanda
To make room for Strong, the Packers parted ways with running back Israel Abanikanda. While Abanikanda showed promise, the team evidently saw Strong as a better fit for their current needs. The decision to release Abanikanda, a younger player with less NFL experience, suggests the Packers are prioritizing proven production and versatility as they prepare for a critical stretch of the season.
Why This Move Matters
The timing of this swap, just before Week 2, signals the Packers’ proactive approach to roster management. By adding Strong, Green Bay gains a player with a proven track record in both offensive and special teams roles. His speed, agility, and experience could provide a spark if called upon, especially in a running back room that values depth and flexibility. Strong’s ability to contribute as a kick returner also adds another dimension to the Packers’ special teams unit.
Wearing No. 22—previously donned by Matthew Golden—Strong has an opportunity to make an immediate impact, even from the practice squad. His recent release from the Cleveland Browns’ injured reserve (following a concussion) and subsequent signing with Green Bay indicate that he is healthy and ready to contribute.
Looking Ahead
As the Packers gear up for Week 2, the addition of Pierre Strong Jr. to the practice squad sends a clear message: Green Bay is leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of a championship-caliber roster. While practice squad moves often fly under the radar, this swap has sparked intrigue across the NFL due to Strong’s potential and the timing of the decision. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if Strong gets elevated to the active roster and how he factors into the Packers’ game plan moving forward.
For now, Strong’s speed, versatility, and playmaking ability make him a name to watch as the Packers continue their 2025 campaign.