Eddie Lacy (27)
The Green Bay Packers used their injured reserve designated-to-return option on rookie cornerback Makinton Dorleant, ending the seasons of running back Eddie Lacy and defensive back Sam Shields.
There had been the thought that either Lacy or Shields would return to the Packers regular roster at some point this season, but that won’t happen now.
“It’s unfortunate for Eddie and it’s unfortunate for Sam, but based on all the medical information and the conversations to this point, that’s where we are,” said Packers coach Mike McCarthy.
Lacy had surgery on his left ankle on Oct. 19, three days after re-injuring it in a loss to the Dallas Cowboys.
Shields has been out since suffering the fifth known concussion of his career in the opener at Jacksonville.
The Packers aren’t sure if Shields will play again. He’s been at his off-season home in Florida and hasn’t talked with the media since the injury.
Lacy is in the final year of his contract, which means he’ll be a free agent in March. Getting a big deal may prove difficult, meaning the Packers could get him back on a one-year deal that is more favorable to the team.
Shields still has another year left on his current four-year, $39 million deal. If he decides to retire, the Packers would gain considerable cap space for next season.