Big news for the Green Bay Packers! They're making moves to bolster their defensive depth as they head towards the heart of the season. But will this signing truly make a difference? Let's dive in.
General Manager Brian Gutekunst just announced that the Packers have signed cornerback Shemar Bartholomew to their practice squad. This move comes alongside the release of two other players from the practice squad: cornerback Tyron Herring and wide receiver Michael Woods II. These kinds of roster adjustments are common throughout the NFL season, as teams constantly evaluate talent and search for the right fit. But here's why this particular signing is interesting.
Shemar Bartholomew (pronounced shuh-MAR), standing at 6-foot-0 and weighing in at 200 pounds, is a second-year player looking to make his mark in the league. He initially entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the New York Jets back in 2024. However, he was released after training camp. But don't think that's the end of his story! He was quickly picked up off waivers by the Carolina Panthers, where he actually saw some real playing time as a rookie. He appeared in five games for the Panthers, recording three tackles (two solo), two passes defended, and even a tackle for a loss. That's solid production for a rookie cornerback!
This season, Bartholomew has been bouncing around a bit, spending time on the practice squads of both the Carolina Panthers and the Minnesota Vikings. He's clearly a player that teams see potential in, even if he hasn't quite found a permanent home yet. And this is the part most people miss... the practice squad is crucial for developing young talent and providing depth in case of injuries to the active roster. It's like a farm system for the NFL!
Before turning pro, Bartholomew's college career began at Northwestern State University, where he played from 2018 to 2022. He then transferred to Georgia Southern for his final year of eligibility in 2023, showcasing his adaptability and willingness to seek out the best opportunity for his development. College experience is a huge asset in the NFL.
Bartholomew will be wearing No. 34 for the Packers. Will he eventually get a chance to prove himself on the active roster? Only time will tell. But this signing adds another layer of competition and depth to the Packers' cornerback room. But here's where it gets controversial... some fans might argue that the Packers should be focusing on acquiring more proven talent at cornerback, rather than relying on practice squad players. What do you think? Is this a smart move by Gutekunst, or should the Packers be looking for a bigger name to shore up their secondary? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
