GREEN BAY − A day before hosting the NFL’s best defense, the Green Bay Packers are getting reinforcements on offense and special teams.

The Packers activated running back Chris Brooks and receiver Skyy Moore off injured reserve, making them available against the Minnesota Vikings.

Brooks is their best pass blocker in the backfield, often taking the field on third down to help protect quarterback Jordan Love. Against the Vikings’ blitz-heavy defensive scheme, his presence would be especially useful. With Josh Jacobs ruled out because of a broken finger, Brooks also provides an additional option in the run game.

Moore’s biggest contribution would be as a return specialist. Before injuring his ankle Week 5 against the Chicago Bears, Moore had sparked life into the Packers’ previously dormant return game. The Vikings are regarded as a top special-teams unit in the NFL with particularly strong coverage groups on punts and kicks.

With Moore back, the Packers released receiver Coleman Owen, who had handled return duties in Moore’s absence. Owen showed some potential but also fumbled the opening kickoff against the Carolina Panthers.

The Packers placed tight end Josh Whyle on injured reserve. Whyle missed last week’s game with a concussion after dropping out in the first half against Carolina. Tight end Drake Dabney has been elevated from the practice squad to the active roster for game day, providing some depth.