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Packers activate LB Carl Bradford for first NFL duty in three years

LANDOVER, Md. -- Carl Bradford might finally get his first shot to play in an NFL game nearly three years after the Green Bay Packers drafted him.

The fourth-round pick in 2014 was promoted from the practice squad on Saturday and with only two other available inside linebackers, it's likely Bradford will suit up for a regular-season game for the first time when the Packers play at Washington on Sunday night.

To make room for Bradford, the Packers cut tight end Justin Perillo. That's a sign they plan to have Jared Cook back on the field for the first time since the veteran tight end sprained his right ankle in Week 3.

This is Bradford's second stint on the Packers' active roster. He made the team as a rookie but never dressed for a game. He was on the inactive list for all 16 regular-season games plus the two playoff games. He then spent his second pro season on the practice squad. The Packers cut him again at the end of training camp this past summer but brought him back to the practice squad again.

Bradford likely will serve as the No. 3 inside linebacker behind Blake Martinez and Joe Thomas, who is expected to start in place of the injured Jake Ryan (ankle). Coach Mike McCarthy ruled out Ryan and guard T.J. Lang on Friday.