The Green Bay Packers completed their practice squad roster signing linebacker and guard. Top linebacker who played a key role in Michigan’s national championship defense, entered the NFL as a seventh-round pick for the Carolina Panthers in 2024. During training camp, he was traded to the Seattle Seahawks and later spent time on the practice squads of the Seahawks and Cleveland Browns before being released last month.
Barrett’s collegiate career was notable, featuring 62 games with 35 starts over six seasons. He earned third-team All-Big Ten honors in both 2022 and 2023, with standout stats including 72 tackles, two interceptions, and 3.5 sacks in 2022 and 65 tackles, three sacks, and four tackles for loss in 2023. Known for his physicality, Barrett plays with what he calls “bad intentions” on contact.
Despite being considered undersized at 5’11 3/8” and 239 pounds, Barrett doesn’t view his size as a disadvantage, emphasizing technique and determination over brute strength. Originally recruited as a dual-threat quarterback by Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh, Barrett transitioned to linebacker and eventually became the all-time winningest player in Michigan history and a team captain.
Barrett’s motivation stems from consistently being underestimated. “I’ve always been an underdog,” he said, determined to prove doubters wrong.
Barrett takes over a practice squad spot vacated by former first-round pick Jamin Davis, who signed with the Vikings earlier in the week.
Marquis Hayes
A seventh-round pick by the Arizona Cardinals in 2022, Hayes was known at Oklahoma for his aggressive playing style. As a three-year starter at left guard, he earned second-team All-Big 12 honors during his final season.
In the NFL, Hayes has battled setbacks. After spending his rookie season on injured reserve, he remained on the Cardinals’ practice squad through 2023 and early 2024. Recently, he had a brief stint on Washington’s practice squad before being released.
Hayes has drawn praise for his physicality and determination on the field. Former Cardinals head coach Kliff Kingsbury and left tackle D.J. Humphries highlighted his relentless drive, describing him as a player who approaches every snap with purpose and aggression.
The Packers are looking to capitalize on Barrett’s versatility and Hayes’ physicality as they bolster their depth with these practice squad additions.
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