Full Breakdown
Green Bay Packers Sign Cornerback Shemar Bartholomew to Practice Squad
12/4/2025, 4:35:57 AM
Roster Changes and New Additions
On Tuesday, the Green Bay Packers signed cornerback Shemar Bartholomew to their practice squad, creating two roster spots by releasing cornerback Tyron Herring and receiver Michael Woods II. Bartholomew, who went undrafted in 2024 from Georgia Southern, previously signed with the New York Jets but was released after training camp. He was later claimed by the Carolina Panthers, where he played five games, contributing 17 snaps on defense and 34 on special teams.
Bartholomew's physical attributes include a height of 6 feet 1/4 inches and a 40-yard dash time of 4.44 seconds, complemented by a Relative Athletic Score of 8.57. He has emphasized his physicality and ball judgment as distinguishing traits, stating, “I am a big, physical defensive back with great speed who can play all positions in the secondary.” His collegiate career included a torn ACL during his final season at Northwestern State, but he rebounded to earn second-team all-Sun Belt Conference honors at Georgia Southern, recording one interception and 14 passes defensed.
Impact of Recent Moves
The Packers also re-signed receiver Will Sheppard, who had been released earlier in the week. Sheppard was promoted from the practice squad for a recent game against the Detroit Lions but did not play. His return comes as the team navigates injuries among rookies Matthew Golden and Savion Williams, who were inactive for the Lions game. Coach Matt LaFleur indicated that Sheppard's roster spot may be temporary, depending on the health of Golden and Williams, as well as the potential activation of Jayden Reed from injured reserve.
Practice Squad Composition
With Bartholomew's addition, the Packers' practice squad now includes a mix of players across various positions. The current roster features quarterbacks Clayton Tune, tight ends McCallan Castles and Drake Dabney, and defensive backs including Bartholomew, Johnathan Baldwin, and Jaylin Simpson. The team is actively adjusting its roster to address injuries and performance needs.
Criticism & Opposition
Some analysts have expressed concerns regarding the Packers' cornerback depth, especially after losing 2025 draft pick Micah Robinson to the Tennessee Titans. The team's recent roster moves, including the quick turnover of players like Herring and the reliance on practice squad signings, have raised questions about their long-term strategy at the position.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Physicality and ball judgement is what I feel like that sets me apart from others,” — Shemar Bartholomew
- “The plan is to see where he’s at at the end of the week, and if he’s good to go, then [he will be activated from injured reserve],” — Matt LaFleur
The Packers continue to adapt their roster as they prepare for upcoming games, focusing on both immediate needs and future potential.
