Packers re-sign TE Henry to practice squad

The Green Bay Packers have re-signed tight end Mitchell Henry to their practice squad and released tight end Blake Annen.

Henry, 22, spent the offseason and all of training camp with the Packers before being among the team’s final cuts last month. They hoped to re-sign him back to the practice squad, but his contract was claimed by the Denver Broncos.

The 6-foot-4, 252-pound tight end played in two games with the Broncos, seeing 13 snaps (12 special teams, one offense). He was released on Tuesday in favor of blocking tight end Richard Gordon, a fifth-year veteran.

The Packers are in need of help at tight end after losing veteran Andrew Quarless to a torn MCL two weeks ago. He won’t be eligible to be activated off temporary injured reserve until Thanksgiving. This week, the Packers promoted Justin Perillo from their practice squad to be their No. 3 tight end.

Henry impressed many inside the organization from the start of the offseason program. He was in contention for a roster spot despite breaking his finger early in an Aug. 6 practice, which forced him to wear a club in the team’s first three preseason games.

Henry chose Green Bay over a similar offer from Denver after he went undrafted in May out of Western Kentucky. He joined the Packers for a $5,000 signing bonus. While he was excited for the opportunity with the Broncos, Henry made it clear on his way out of town that he hadn’t closed the door on a possible return to the Packers in the future.

Now, he’ll get his opportunity to continue that journey.

“I loved it here," said Henry on Sept. 6 before flying to Denver. “One day I may be back here. You never know. I made a lot of friends. I love the coaches. Made some lifelong friends here. It was a great experience and a great opportunity.”

Henry will again wear No. 85.

whodkiew@pressgazettemedia.com and follow him on Twitter @WesHod.