The newest addition to the Green Bay Packers roster is no longer available.
According to the league’s transaction wire, the Packers placed offensive tackle Jared Veldheer on the reserve/COVID-19 list on Wednesday.
Veldheer, who was signed off of the Indianapolis Colts’ practice squad on Tuesday, didn’t practice with the Packers on Wednesday due to the positive test. The Packers listed him as a non-participant on the injury report due to a non-injury related issue.
According to Rob Demovsky of ESPN, the Packers cleared through the contact tracing part of the league’s protocols, meaning no other players have to join Veldheer on the reserve list.
The worry now for Matt LaFleur’s team is any other players testing positive between now and Saturday’s playoff game against the Los Angeles Rams.
Veldheer, who played in two games for the Packers last season, returned to Green Bay after playing in the Colts’ playoff game against the Buffalo Bills last Saturday. Because he was on the Colts’ practice squad, Veldheer was eligible to sign with the Packers.
Coach Matt LaFleur said Veldheer would provide valuable depth along the offensive line, particularly behind presumed starters Billy Turner and Rick Wagner at offensive tackle. That idea is now dashed.
With only three days before kickoff, Veldheer will miss Saturday’s game against the Rams but could be ready for the NFC Championship Game if the Packers beat the Rams.
