Packers sign Will Sheppard: a forgotten talent gets his NFL comeback shot

In a surprising move just before training camp, the Green Bay Packers have signed undrafted rookie wide receiver Will Sheppard, adding him to their 90-man offseason roster. Standing 6’2″ and weighing 203 pounds, Sheppard brings valuable experience from both Vanderbilt and Colorado, instantly becoming one of the most intriguing additions heading into camp.

From rejection to redemption

After the 2025 NFL Draft, Sheppard initially signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but a failed physical cut that opportunity short. He then attended Denver Broncos minicamp as a tryout player, but wasn’t offered a contract. Now, in a turn of fate, the Packers have stepped in — giving Sheppard a second chance few saw coming.

A quiet contributor at Colorado

Sheppard transferred to Colorado in 2024, where he recorded 48 receptions for 621 yards and six touchdowns across 13 games. While his production was inconsistent, he shined during a mid-season stretch where he caught all six of his touchdowns and helped Colorado post a 5–1 record.

Prior to his time at Colorado, Sheppard was a standout at Vanderbilt, tallying 152 receptions for 2,067 yards and 21 touchdowns over 42 games. He played more efficiently in the slot there, posting 9 touchdowns in 2022 and 8 in 2023.

The numbers behind the name

Despite running a slower-than-average 4.59-second 40-yard dash, Sheppard made waves during pre-draft testing with a 40.5-inch vertical and a 10-foot-6 broad jump, earning him a solid Relative Athletic Score (RAS) of 8.72.

Still, some scouts remain cautious. NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein said Sheppard “runs routes below his optimal play speed” and lacks consistency when finishing plays, especially against physical coverage. However, he’s known for making difficult, downfield catches — a potential asset in Green Bay’s system.

A sleeper pick with upside

Now joining a rookie-heavy WR group that includes Matthew Golden, Savion Williams, and Sam Brown Jr., Sheppard has a chance to prove he belongs. The Packers, known for developing wide receivers, could be just the team to unlock his full potential.

“He’s got the frame, the highlights, and the hunger,” one analyst noted. “All he needs now is a little stability — and Green Bay might give it to him.”

From castoff to camp hopeful

Rejected once, overlooked twice, and now finally signed — Will Sheppard’s journey is far from over. As the Packers kick off training camp, all eyes will be on whether this underrated receiver can rise to the moment — or fade into the crowd.