The Green Bay Packers have added another weapon to their receiving corps, claiming former USC standout Brenden Rice off waivers on Wednesday. Rice, a 6-foot-3, 210-pound wideout, was originally drafted by the Los Angeles Chargers in the seventh round (225th overall) of the 2024 NFL Draft. Since then, he's bounced around the league, spending time with the Raiders, New England Patriots, and Seattle Seahawks—mostly on practice squads. As a rookie, he appeared in three games for the Chargers, logging just three offensive snaps and 10 on special teams.

Now, Rice gets a fresh start in Green Bay, where he'll compete for a spot on the depth chart behind established stars like Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs. Packers Wire's Zach Kruse notes that Rice brings "another talented pass-catcher to compete for a roster spot at the bottom of the receiver depth chart this summer." For a team looking to bolster its aerial attack, Rice's size and college production make him an intriguing project.

Before turning pro, Rice made a name for himself at USC after transferring from Colorado. In two seasons with the Trojans (2022-2023), he hauled in 84 receptions for 1,402 yards and 16 touchdowns, showcasing the big-play ability that made him a prospect to watch. Interestingly, his college quarterback, Caleb Williams—now with the Chicago Bears—will face Rice twice a year in the NFC North, adding a layer of friendly rivalry to the mix.

For Packers fans, this move signals a low-risk, high-reward gamble. Rice may not be a household name yet, but his journey from USC to Green Bay is a reminder that second chances often lead to breakout moments. Keep an eye on him as training camp heats up—he could be the sleeper that turns heads in Lambeau.