GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN – December 2, 2025
In a league where every roster spot is a battle and every snap could be your last, Will Sheppard’s NFL journey took another twist this week. The undrafted rookie wide receiver was officially cut from the Green Bay Packers’ 53-man roster, just days before the team’s pivotal Week 14 clash with the Chicago Bears.
But in a surprising turn of tone, Sheppard isn’t leaving with resentment — only perspective.
When asked about the roster move, Sheppard responded with grace:
“If I have to step aside to give the Packers even a 1% better chance to win, I’ll accept that,” he said. “Personal stats don’t matter to me as much as my love for Green Bay and seeing this team succeed. That’s what really counts.”
Sheppard, who played at Colorado and impressed during the preseason, was promoted from the practice squad as an emergency replacement during Thanksgiving week. He suited up against the Detroit Lions and even connected with the Lambeau crowd after scoring a second-quarter touchdown — a rare moment of spotlight in an otherwise quiet stint.
Packers head coach Matt LaFleur made it clear the move wasn’t performance-based but rather a consequence of getting healthier at wide receiver.
“We appreciate everything Will’s given us,” LaFleur said. “He stepped up when we needed him. But with Jayden and Matt working back into the mix, we had to make room.”
Reed hasn’t played since Week 2 due to surgeries on his foot and collarbone, while Golden has been sidelined since Week 11 with a wrist injury. Their imminent returns add firepower to a WR room that’s already crowded — but dangerously versatile.
As for Sheppard, he’s unsure of what’s next. A return to the practice squad remains possible, though not guaranteed. Still, the 23-year-old remains grounded and optimistic.
“This league teaches you fast that nothing is guaranteed,” he said. “But I showed I can play at this level. Whether it’s here or somewhere else, I’m keeping my head up. And for now — I’m just proud I made it this far.”
In a sport driven by ego and headlines, Will Sheppard’s humility may not grab front-page attention. But in Green Bay, it left a quiet mark — the kind of dignity that resonates in every locker room.
