The Green Bay Packers activated safety Darnell Savage from injured reserve ahead of Sunday’s primetime showdown with Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs.
Savage was designated for return on Nov. 20. He practiced with the team over the last two weeks, including three practices of full participation this week. The Packers listed him as questionable to play in Week 13 but Savage’s activation to the roster on Saturday strongly suggests he’ll make his return against the Chiefs.
Savage missed five games after aggravating a calf injury against the Denver Broncos on Oct 22.
During the first six weeks, Savage started every game and played 83 percent of the defense’s snaps. He is a preferred starter at safety along with Rudy Ford, who is also questionable to play but should return against the Chiefs.
Savage provides a veteran with elite speed to help the Packers pass defense combat Mahomes and the Chiefs on Sunday night. The backups at safety are Jonathan Owens and rookie Anthony Johnson Jr.
In 2023, Savage has 34 tackles and one tackle for loss. He has yet to defend or intercept a pass.
In related news, cornerback Eric Stokes was not activated and remains on injured reserve. He was listed as doubtful to play against the Chiefs. The Packers designated Stokes for return on Monday, so he still has two more weeks before the team has to make a decision on his roster status.