Sarah Kloepping/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin / USA TODAY NETWORK

Packers Former Linebacker Lands On Steelers’ Practice Squad

Originally posted on Packers Coverage | By Kenneth Teape | Last updated 9/1/23

The Green Bay Packers initial 53-man roster included linebacker Tariq Carpenter. But, his standing on the roster proved to be shaky, as he was one of two players cut, along with defensive lineman Jonathan Ford, after the team was awarded players on waivers.

Carpenter ended up being released on Wednesday and cleared waivers on Thursday. A converted safety, he was having trouble adjusting to his new role defensively. However, during his rookie season with the Packers, Carpenter showed that he can be a useful special teams performer.

In 14 games, he played 120 special teams snaps, recording seven tackles. That was enough to keep him on the roster at first, but the Packers opted to claim safety Zayne Anderson, who has special teams experience as well.

Alas, it didn’t take the Wake Forest product long to find a new team. According to Packers reporter Rob Demovsky of ESPN, the Pittsburgh Steelers have signed Carpenter to their practice squad.

Former Packers S/LB Tariq Carpenter is signing with the Steelers’ practice squad, a source said.
— Rob Demovsky (@RobDemovsky) August 31, 2023

It is interesting that Demovsky listed Carpenter as a safety/linebacker in his report. That could hint that the Steelers are willing to move him back to what he feels is his more natural position. Carpenter wasn’t shy about sharing his opinion on the move, as he still saw himself as a safety despite the change.

Regardless of why the Packers made the move, they now have another void to fill on their special teams unit. Tight end Tyler Davis was a core special teamer but is sidelined for the season after tearing his ACL in the preseason opener against the Cincinnati Bengals.

Another special team stalwart from last season, cornerback Corey Ballentine, was released during cutdown day. However, he was signed to the Packers’ practice squad and could get the call-up if the four-cornerback approach the team is taking doesn’t pan out.

This article first appeared on Packers Coverage and was syndicated with permission.

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