The Packers designated rookie running back MarShawn Lloyd for return from injured reserve on Monday, opening his 21-day practice period and opening the door for Lloyd to return to the 53-man roster before the Packers take on Sunday the Chicago Bears.

After trading Preston Smith to the Pittsburgh Steelers last week, the Packers have an empty roster spot, so no corresponding move is needed to activate Lloyd between now and Sunday.

General manager Brian Gutekunst hinted last week that Lloyd was nearing a return and could take Smith’s spot on the roster.

Lloyd, a third-round pick out of USC and a college teammate of Bears quarterback Caleb Williams, injured his ankle in Week 2 and has missed the last seven games. The rookie rushed six times for 15 yards and caught one pass for three yards in his only play of action so far this season.

The Packers have Josh Jacobs as the starter and Emanuel Wilson and Chris Brooks as backups, so Lloyd may have to wait a while before he gets a chance. However, his explosive attributes — both as a one-cut runner and potentially as a receiver out of the backfield — should be another weapon as the Packers look to make a splash on offense in 2024.

With his 21-day window open, the Packers have until December 2 to activate Lloyd to the 53-man roster.

Tight end Luke Musgrave is the only other player on injured reserve who could be named to return this season. Tight end Tyler Davis and running back AJ Dillon are on injured reserve and done for the season.