In a ππ½πΈπΈππΎππ move that has sent ripples through the NFL, the Green Bay Packers have released four star players, leaving fans and analysts alike reeling. With quarterback Malik Willis expected to sign as a starter elsewhere, the Packers face a tumultuous offseason, grappling with salary cap chaos and roster upheaval.

The decision to cut key players comes amid Green Bay’s alarming $10.7 million salary cap deficit for 2026. This financial strain forces the Packers into painful choices, including potential cuts of fan favorites and veteran leaders. The team must act decisively to navigate out of salary cap hell while bolstering their roster for a Super Bowl push.
Malik Willis, who dazzled in limited action last season with a staggering 85.7% completion rate, is now viewed as a starter by multiple teams. His departure would not only signify a loss of talent but also a strategic setback for the Packers, who now need to find a reliable backup quarterback to support Jordan Love.

The cuts of players like Elton Jenkins and Rashan Gary, both of whom have been pivotal to the teamβs success, mark a new chapter in Green Bay’s history. Jenkins, a two-time Pro Bowler, carries a hefty cap hit of $24.33 million, making his potential exit a bitter but necessary reality for the franchise.

Rashan Gary’s disappointing performance last season, culminating in zero sacks over the final eleven games, further complicates the Packers’ situation. The decision to part ways with him could free up significant cap space, but it would also mean losing a player once seen as a cornerstone of the defense.
Nate Hobbs, another casualty of the cap crisis, has struggled with injuries and performance, leading to speculation about his future in Green Bay. The Packers signed him with high hopes, but his inability to stay on the field has left the team with no choice but to consider his release.
As the Packers navigate this critical offseason, they must also consider restructuring contracts to alleviate financial pressures. Veteran Aaron Banks, who has underperformed since signing a lucrative deal, could see his contract restructured to save the team much-needed cap space.
The urgency for the Packers is palpable. With the 2026 NFL salary cap projected to rise, they must find a way to reposition themselves for success while managing their financial realities. The franchise is at a crossroads, and the decisions made in the coming weeks will shape their trajectory for years to come.
Green Bay fans are left with more questions than answers as the team embarks on this challenging journey. The cuts of beloved players and the potential loss of Malik Willis signal a seismic shift in the franchise’s landscape. As the dust settles, one thing is clear: the Packers must act swiftly and strategically to reclaim their place among the NFL elite.