There are several high-profile Green Bay Packers players that will not be back with the team in 2026. Some of them, like Romeo Doubs and Rasheed Walker, are going to leave in free agency as it does not seem likely that they fit into Green Bay’s future plans. Others, like Elgton Jenkins and Rashan Gary, could end up being released as salary cap casualties.
On the topic of cap casualties, specifically, many players expected to be cut are often included in off-season trade rumors. However, as the Packers found out the hard way last year with Jaire Alexander, teams are not willing to give up draft capital for players that are going to become available anyway.
As fans will recall, it was widely reported that Green Bay tried to trade Alexander in the days leading up to the 2025 NFL Draft. But because there were rumblings that they were going to release him anyway, they did not get any suitable trade offers. Of course, the Packers ended up releasing him.
With this in mind, a recent trade scenario that was float involving Gary simply does not make much sense.
Green Bay Packers edge rusher Rashan Gary named as dream trade target of the Philadelphia Eagles
In a recent article posted by Bleacher Report, Gary was named the “dream” trade target of the Philadelphia Eagles:
“Typically, the Packers are hesitant to negotiate with players who have multiple years left on their contracts, but Gary is unlikely to play out the 2026 season on a non-guranteed deal. Expect the 2024 Pro Bowler to push for a restructured pact for financial security following back-to-back 7.5-sack seasons.
“If the Packers aren’t willing to work with Gary on a new deal, Roseman may be one of several general managers to make an offer for him.”
Now, this trade scenario is non-sensible for two reasons. First, as mentioned, no NFL team is going to part ways with draft picks in order to acquire a player that will be available anyway.
Second, the idea that Green Bay would restructure Gary’s contract to give him more guaranteed money does not make sense for the team. Yes, he had back-to-back 7.5 sack seasons. However, last year, he had zero sacks after the month of October ended.
Had Gary performed up to expectations, a discussion could very well be had that Green Bay would want to keep him around. As it is, though, his contract is likely going to be cut rather than extended.
And the Eagles, as well as any other NFL team, can wait and sign him in free agency.
More Green Bay Packers news from Wisconsin Sports Heroics
- Matt LaFleur looks to keep Packers competitive amidst recent coaching shakeups
- Micah Parsons’ brother urges Packers to get 26-TD weapon
- Packers may have gotten favor from former executive ahead of NFL free agency
For More Great Wisconsin Sports Content
Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19 and follow us @WiSportsHeroics for more great content. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in Wisconsin sports, click here!
