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Packers send Edgerrin Cooper to IR, call up Kristian Welch

The Green Bay Packers have placed linebacker Edgerrin Cooper on injured reserve following a season-ending Achilles tear suffered in last weekend’s 17-14 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Cooper, who had been a standout performer with 118 tackles and four forced fumbles last season, was on track to become an All-Pro candidate in 2026 before his injury cut short his campaign.

To fill the roster spot, the Packers have promoted Kristian Welch from the practice squad, where he had spent the first four weeks of the season. Welch, a veteran special teams contributor with prior stints on the Packers’ active roster in 2023 and 2025, is expected to step in immediately, particularly on special teams, while also providing depth at linebacker.

The move follows an injury to running back Chris Brooks, which may further increase Welch’s role on the field. Meanwhile, the Packers have added Damon Bankston back to the practice squad to replace Brooks, who has also been dealing with injuries this season.

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