The Green Bay Packers have signed seventh-year offensive tackle Barrett Brooks, most recently of the Denver Broncos, and released third-year running back Rondell Mealey, it was announced Thursday.
Brooks gives the Packers some much needed depth on the offensive line. Thus far, the Packers have already lost starting tackle Mark Tauscher for the season due to injury, and starting guard Marco Rivera is listed as questionable for Sunday's contest versus the Carolina Panthers.
Brooks signed with the Broncos in the offseason, having sat out all of 2001 after being waived by the Cleveland Browns after training camp. Previously, Brooks played for the Detroit Lions (1999-2000) and Philadelphia Eagles (1995-98).
Mealey came into the season as the Packers' No. 2 halfback behind Ahman Green. After starting in place of an injured Green at Detroit last weekend, Mealey was quickly replaced by rookie Najeh Davenport, who led the Packers' ground attack with 22 carries for 84 yards.
The Packers also announced that backup middle linebacker Torrance Marshall would change his number from 51 to 41 and move to fullback, where he will back up William Henderson and Tony Carter, respectively.
Marshall filled in at fullback versus the Lions when Henderson went down with a knee injury and Davenport -- the intended No. 2 fullback -- was taking carries at halfback.
An official press release will follow.
