#green_bay_packers

Packers Hall of Famer Antonio Freeman Discusses Son Alex's World Cup Journey The World Cup is in full swing, with the United States Men’s National Soccer team set to face Paraguay in a high-stakes match in California. The U.S. squad includes Alex Freeman, the son of former Green Bay Packers wide receiver Antonio Freeman, who recently shared his thoughts on his son’s career path in an interview with Dennis Krause. The conversation highlighted the emotional and professional significance of Alex’s participation in the global tournament, as well as the challenges and pride associated with watching his son compete at the highest level. Antonio Freeman, a Hall of Famer known for his legendary performances, including a memorable catch against the New England Patriots during his NFL career, reflected on the unique experience of seeing his son represent the United States. “I thought my days of being nervous during game days were over,” he said. “But here we are, back to being nervous with the jitters right before the game, throughout the game. And this experience has just been amazing. It’s a global sport that reaches so many countries, and it’s such a serious thing. To be one of the only 26 selected to represent the United States of America at a young age of 21 is very special for him. And of course, for me as a dad, very proud of him.” When asked whether it was easier to play than to watch, Antonio emphasized the contrast between his own athletic career and his role as a parent. “It was much easier to play because I played with so much confidence and belief in myself,” he explained. “Sports is a game of ups and downs, and you go through your ups, your highs and your lows. It was easy for me to navigate through those ups and, of course, those downs when they come about.#green_bay_packers #world_cup #alex_freeman #antonio_freeman #united_states_men_s_national_soccer_team

USMNT's Alex Freeman: Soccer Star Born from Football Legacy Alex Freeman, a 21-year-old defender for the U.S. men’s national team, is making his mark on the global soccer stage as the son of Antonio Freeman, a legendary Green Bay Packers wide receiver enshrined in the Packers Hall of Fame. While Antonio’s NFL career spanned nine seasons, including two Super Bowl appearances and iconic moments like the 81-yard touchdown pass from Brett Favre in Super Bowl XXXI, his son’s path to stardom has been shaped by a different sport. Alex’s journey from football to soccer has been both unexpected and remarkable, culminating in his inclusion in the U.S. team for the World Cup. Antonio Freeman, now a devoted soccer enthusiast, admits he initially knew little about the sport when his son began playing. “It was almost mesmerizing going to his soccer games,” Antonio recalled in an ESPN interview. “Every other word from all the kids was ‘Freeman, Freeman.’ He just had this smile and happiness on the soccer field.” Despite his father’s lack of soccer knowledge, Antonio’s pride grew as Alex’s passion for the game deepened. “His joy was on that soccer field,” Antonio said. “When he became a teenager, he just played more and more soccer. It was soccer every day, all day.” Alex’s transition from football to soccer was not immediate. Born on August 9, 2004, nearly eight months after Antonio’s final NFL game, Alex grew up in a household steeped in American football. Yet, his fascination with soccer began early. “I had my doubts when I first chose soccer,” Alex told ESPN. “In my heart, I wanted to continue playing football, but I knew if I wanted to be the best, I had to limit my concentration to soccer.” Antonio, though initially envisioning a football career for his son, recognized Alex’s dedication.#green_bay_packers #world_cup #orlando_city #alex_freeman #antonio_freeman

Ex-Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander opens up about leaving football Former Green Bay Packers Pro Bowl cornerback Jaire Alexander shared a deeply personal account of his decision to retire from football, detailing the physical and mental challenges he faced after being released by the Packers in 2025. The piece, published on The Players Tribune, reflects on his journey from a celebrated player to someone grappling with the emotional fallout of leaving the team he once called home. Alexander, who was cut by the Packers prior to the 2025 season, described the physical toll of a recurring knee injury that limited his effectiveness during the latter part of his tenure with the team. His first game with the Baltimore Ravens in the 2025 season was marked by struggles, and after being traded to the Philadelphia Eagles, he announced his retirement in November 2025. In the article, he acknowledged the lingering pain of his departure, stating, “People still sometimes ask me if I’m ever gonna come back and play. And, you know what … I’ll never say never − I still work out, and the knee’s fine now, so I’m in good shape. But for me, right now, the most important thing really is just to be in a good place overall. To be happy.” Alexander recounted the events leading to his release, including his frustration over the Packers’ delayed response to his request for an iPad to review game film and prepare for the 2025 season. He noted that the team’s hesitation signaled the end of his time with Green Bay. “Not long after that, they got in touch about a potential pay cut,” he wrote. “And, you know what … I understood. I was making a lot of money. I just got hurt. I had no problem with taking less money and having to prove my value again.#green_bay_packers #philadelphia_eagles #baltimore_ravens #jaire_alexander #the_players_tribune

Former NFL Player Sentenced to 16 Years for Defrauding Medicare and VA of $200 Million A former NFL player, Joel Rufus French, 47, of Armory, Mississippi, has been sentenced to 16 years in prison for orchestrating a multiyear scheme that defrauded Medicare and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) out of $200 million. French, a former member of the Seattle Seahawks and Green Bay Packers, operated a marketing company and controlled eight durable medical equipment (DME) firms. His scheme involved selling patient information and falsifying medical orders to submit fraudulent claims for orthotic braces, which patients did not need or want. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) revealed that French collaborated with overseas telemarketing call centers to target elderly patients, pressuring them to share personal and health insurance details. In some cases, call recordings were altered to falsely indicate Medicare beneficiaries had agreed to receive orthotic braces. French also paid kickbacks to sham telemedicine companies to obtain fraudulent doctors’ orders from physicians and nurse practitioners who never examined the patients. These orders were then sold to marketers and medical supply firms, which submitted claims to Medicare and the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA). French further exploited the system by billing Medicare and CHAMPVA through eight DME supply companies he owned, using straw owners and fabricated documents to conceal his involvement. Court records show he laundered approximately $225,000 in cash, with over $10,000 transported to Orlando to pay accomplices who provided stolen beneficiary information.#green_bay_packers #seattle_seahawks #department_of_health_and_human_services #joel_rufus_french #u_s_department_of_justice

Packers to Release Brandon McManus After Drafting Trey Smack The Green Bay Packers are set to release kicker Brandon McManus following the team’s decision to draft Trey Smack in the NFL draft, according to ESPN. The move comes after McManus received a $1 million roster bonus in March, a payment that appears to have been made despite the Packers’ plans to cut him. The decision clears the path for Smack, a rookie, to compete for the starting kicking job in his first season with the team. McManus, who had stabilized the Packers’ kicking position after joining the team midway through the 2024 season, struggled with consistency in the 2025 playoffs. His three missed kicks during the wild-card round against the Chicago Bears left the team short 7 points in a 4-point loss. The issues stemmed from his inability to regain timing after returning from a quad injury on his kicking leg. His performance declined sharply, with a 55-yard field goal attempt missing wide left in the first half and a fourth-quarter extra point also falling short. A critical 44-yard attempt in the final minutes of the game was pushed wide right due to overcompensation. Despite these struggles, McManus had maintained a streak of 32 consecutive made kicks before the playoffs. However, his postseason performance raised concerns about his reliability under pressure. The Packers, seeking a more consistent option, turned to the draft to address their kicking needs. In the sixth round, they selected Smack, a three-year starter at Florida, who had demonstrated strong accuracy during his college career. Smack made 83% of his field goals for the Gators, including 10 of 13 from at least 50 yards.#green_bay_packers #brian_gutekunst #brandon_mcmanus #trey_smack #cam_achord

Chase Claypool Aims for NFL Comeback with NFC Team Former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool is pursuing a second chance in the NFL after being invited to the Green Bay Packers’ rookie minicamp for a tryout, according to reporter Matt Schneidman. The 2020 second-round draft pick, who spent parts of his career with the Steelers, Bears, Dolphins, and Bills, is now seeking to reestablish himself in the league following a series of setbacks. Claypool’s journey began with the Steelers, where he made an immediate impact in his rookie season. In 2020, he caught 62 passes for 873 yards and nine touchdowns, including a standout performance against the Philadelphia Eagles. That game, in which he recorded four touchdowns, earned him comparisons to a future star. His production continued in 2021, with 59 receptions for 860 yards and two touchdowns. However, his tenure with the Steelers came to an end in 2022 when he was traded to the Chicago Bears for a second-round pick. The trade, which sent Claypool to the Bears, was notable for the value of the pick. The Steelers used the No. 32 overall selection to draft Joey Porter Jr., a decision that sparked debate among fans. Claypool’s time with the Bears was brief, as he caught 18 passes in 10 games before being traded again. In 2023, he joined the Miami Dolphins but managed only four receptions in seven games. Despite his efforts, he was released and signed with the Buffalo Bills ahead of the 2024 season. However, Claypool’s season with the Bills was cut short due to a foot injury, which landed him on injured reserve. He did not play a single game for the team, marking a significant downturn in his career. Now, with the Packers offering him a tryout, Claypool is hoping to prove his worth once more.#green_bay_packers #chicago_bears #pittsburgh_steelers #chase_claypool #matt_schneidman

Coach who knocked Wisconsin out of March Madness has unique Packers connection PORTLAND, Ore. – The coach who ended the Wisconsin Badgers’ 2025-26 season in the NCAA Tournament has a personal link to the Green Bay Packers, the NFL team based in Wisconsin. Flynn Clayman, the head coach of High Point University, is the son of Richard Clayman, who created a one-man play about legendary Packers coach Vince Lombardi. The play, titled “Vince: The Life & Times Of Vince Lombardi,” premiered in Los Angeles in the 1990s and provided Clayman with early exposure to Lombardi’s legacy. The play’s debut helped shape Clayman’s connection to the Packers. Before the production gained wider attention, Clayman worked behind the scenes, operating the lights during performances. A writer from the Los Angeles Times noticed the play and wrote about it, drawing the interest of Packers legends. Clayman had the opportunity to meet Bart Starr, Willie Davis, and other Hall of Fame players. The experience also led to a performance at the Packers’ Hall of Fame, where the play was staged. Notably, the production was even used to open the Super Bowl once, highlighting its significance to the team’s history. Clayman’s fandom of the Packers began through this connection. Growing up in Los Angeles, he had no local NFL team to follow, so he turned to the Packers. The team’s success during his formative years, including their Super Bowl wins, solidified his loyalty. “They won the Super Bowl right around when I started becoming a fan in New Orleans against the Patriots,” he said. “And I’ve just stayed a fan. That’s my team.” The connection to the Packers also influenced Clayman’s career path. The play about Lombardi sparked his interest in storytelling and leadership, which later translated into his coaching role.#green_bay_packers #los_angeles #ncaa_tournament #high_point_university #vance_lombardi

Vikings to Release Javon Hargrave on Wednesday The Minnesota Vikings are set to cut ties with Javon Hargrave on Wednesday, marking the first day of the new NFL league year, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The move comes as the Green Bay Packers, seeking defensive line reinforcements, aim to sign Hargrave without triggering an offsetting compensatory draft pick in 2027. This opportunity arises because Hargrave would qualify as a street free agent, having been released rather than allowing his contract to expire naturally. Hargrave, a former defensive lineman under Jonathan Gannon, received a 68 overall grade from Pro Football Focus (PFF) in 2025, placing him 35th among 134 qualifying interior defensive linemen. PFF typically evaluates nose tackles more leniently compared to other interior positions, and Hargrave primarily played the nose tackle role for the Vikings. However, his versatility could make him a valuable asset for the Packers, who may deploy him as a nose tackle in nickel packages. In base defensive schemes, he is likely to function as a 3-4 defensive end, operating as a three-technique player. Despite playing the nose tackle full-time with the Vikings, Hargrave’s role was shaped by Brian Flores’ stunt-heavy system, which does not traditionally demand nose tackles to perform as traditional “true nose tackles.” Throughout his career, Hargrave has alternated between nose tackle and three-technique roles, including during his time with the Eagles under Gannon. This adaptability suggests he could seamlessly transition into the Packers’ system, where he might pair with Devonte Wyatt as the team’s starting “ends” in base looks. If signed, Hargrave would address one of two gaps in the Packers’ starting defensive line, leaving the team to focus on finding a dedicated nose tackle.#green_bay_packers #minnesota_vikings #pro_football_focus #adam_schefter #javon_hargrave

Packers Release Nate Hobbs with Post-June 1st Designation The Green Bay Packers have decided to release cornerback Nate Hobbs, a move that comes just one year after the team signed him as a key free agent acquisition. According to reports from ESPN’s Rob Demovsky, the Packers will cut Hobbs with a post-June 1st designation, which allows the team to avoid paying his $6.5 million roster bonus. This designation also enables the Packers to save approximately $9 million on the 2026 salary cap, though the financial relief will not be reflected until after June 1st. Hobbs joined the Packers in March 2024 under a four-year, $48 million contract that included a $16 million signing bonus. Despite the significant investment, the team will ultimately pay him over $18 million for just 358 snaps played during the 2025 season. His performance on the field was underwhelming, and his tenure with the team was marred by recurring injuries. Hobbs suffered three separate knee injuries during his lone season in Green Bay, including a season-ending surgery early in training camp and another injury that forced him into injured reserve. As a result, he played in only 11 games throughout the year. The Packers had hoped to integrate Hobbs into key roles, both on the perimeter and in the slot. However, his play on the perimeter was inconsistent, and the team opted to assign full-time slot duties to Javon Bullard in 2025. This decision highlights the team’s growing frustration with Hobbs’ contributions and their push to reshape the cornerback position. The Packers’ overhaul of their secondary has already begun, with the team agreeing to a two-year, $10 million deal with cornerback Benjamin St-Juste earlier in the week.#training_camp #green_bay_packers #benjamin_st_juste #nate_hobbs #javon_bullard

Packers to Release Cornerback Nate Hobbs After One Season The Green Bay Packers are set to release cornerback Nate Hobbs following his one-year tenure with the team, according to sources. This decision comes after the Packers signed Benjamin St-Juste, a move that has prompted the team to move on from Hobbs. The release will occur after June 1, as the Packers have chosen not to pay Hobbs the $6.25 million roster bonus included in his contract. Hobbs was signed to a four-year, $48 million deal during the initial wave of free agency last year. The team had hoped he would establish himself as a reliable outside cornerback, but his time with the Packers has been marked by both injury issues and inconsistent performance. Hobbs missed six games due to injuries during the season and recorded only 27 total tackles and two passes defended. These numbers fell short of expectations, leading the Packers to reassess their investment in his role. The decision to cut Hobbs reflects the team’s strategy to prioritize players who can contribute more effectively to their defensive scheme. While St-Juste’s signing provides depth and versatility, it also signals a shift away from Hobbs’ role. The Packers’ move underscores the challenges of integrating a high-profile free agent into a competitive roster, particularly when injury concerns and performance struggles arise. Hobbs’ departure marks the end of a contract that was intended to solidify the Packers’ secondary. However, the team’s decision to release him without paying the full roster bonus suggests they viewed his contributions as insufficient to justify the financial commitment. This move aligns with broader trends in the NFL, where teams often re-evaluate high-salary signings based on on-field results and roster needs.#green_bay_packers #nfl #nate_hobbs #benjamin_st_juste #green_bay_packers_secondary

2026 Free Agency Preview: Key Linebacker Targets for Washington Commanders The Washington Commanders, who finished the 2025 season with a 5-12 record, face a significant rebuild as they prepare for the 2026 NFL season. With their most important position—quarterback—secured by Jayden Daniels, the team must focus on strengthening the defense and retooling underperforming areas like wide receiver and running back, which currently have only four players under contract for 2026. The Commanders are projected to have substantial cap space, which they plan to allocate toward improving their roster and returning to playoff contention. As free agency begins on March 11, the team will evaluate several linebacker options, including free agents and potential trade targets. Devin Lloyd of the Jacksonville Jaguars is a top priority for teams seeking a reliable tackler. Over the past four seasons, Lloyd has recorded at least 100 stops each year and improved his pass coverage skills, earning a Pro Bowl and Second Team All-Pro selection in 2025. His career-best pass coverage grade (81.1) and a career-low passer rating allowed (69.2) highlight his value. Leo Chenal, a versatile starter for the Kansas City Chiefs, offers consistency and adaptability. With 218 tackles, six pass breakups, seven sacks, and an interception in 2025, Chenal has been a steady presence on the Chiefs’ defense. His ability to move between the line of scrimmage makes him a valuable asset for teams looking for a well-rounded linebacker. Quay Walker, a speed-oriented player for the Green Bay Packers, brings sideline-to-sideline coverage and strong pursuit skills. While his interception total (one in four seasons) is modest, his ability to track ball carriers and avoid missed tackles makes him a solid free agent option.#green_bay_packers #washington_commanders #devin_lloyd #kansas_city_chiefs #denver_broncos

Former Packers linebacker signs multi-year contract with Vikings Former Green Bay Packers linebacker Eric Wilson has signed a three-year, $22.5 million contract extension with the Minnesota Vikings, marking a significant financial boost after his previous earnings with the team. Wilson, who spent three seasons with the Packers from 2022 to 2024, earned a total of $3.42 million across one-year deals. After becoming an unrestricted free agent in 2024, he returned to the Vikings, where he played 90 percent of the team’s defensive snaps in 2025 despite signing a $2.75 million deal that was below the market rate for a starting linebacker. The Vikings finalized the extension just hours before the legal tampering deadline, ensuring they could not be accused of poaching Wilson from other teams. According to Spotrac, Wilson, entering his 31st season and 10th NFL campaign, has accumulated $14.1 million in career earnings. The new contract raises his annual salary to $7.5 million, a substantial increase over his previous earnings. The Packers’ offseason strategy also involves Wilson’s potential impact on the team’s compensatory draft picks. The NFL will announce 2026 compensatory selections based on free agent losses from the 2025 season. Green Bay is set to receive a seventh-round pick for center Josh Myers, who moved up in the formula due to his playing time with the New York Jets. Myers signed a two-year, $11 million extension after a one-year, $2 million deal in 2025. Wilson’s contract extension will not affect the compensatory pick formula, as the average per year (APY) calculation occurs after the regular season, not during the new league year. Myers’ extension, which was finalized in-season, contributed to his higher ranking.#green_bay_packers #minnesota_vikings #zaire_franklin #eric_wilson #isaiah_mcduffie

NFL Free Agency Tracker: Latest Signings and Trades The NFL free agency period is rapidly approaching, with the legal tampering window set to open on Monday at noon ET. Teams have already been active in securing players and finalizing trades. Here’s a breakdown of the latest developments across the league. The Green Bay Packers have retained a key offensive lineman by agreeing to a three-year, $33-million deal with Sean Rhyan. The 31-year-old made 11 starts last season, splitting time between guard and centre. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Chargers have re-signed nine-time Pro Bowler Khalil Mack on a one-year, $18-million fully guaranteed contract. Mack, who recorded 5.5 sacks and four forced fumbles in 12 games for the Chargers in 2025, will continue his career in L.A. The Baltimore Ravens have kept quarterback Tyler Huntley as Lamar Jackson’s backup, signing him to a two-year deal worth up to $11 million. Huntley, who posted a 103.1 passer rating in five appearances in 2025, will remain with the team. The San Francisco 49ers have also extended kicker Eddy Pineiro, agreeing to a four-year, $17-million contract with $10 million guaranteed. Pineiro, who converted 28 of 29 field goals in his first season with the 49ers, is now locked in for the next four years. The Packers have acquired linebacker Zaire Franklin in a trade that sends defensive tackle Colby Wooden to the Indianapolis Colts. Franklin, 29, tallied 125 tackles last season and led the NFL with 173 tackles in 2024. The Philadelphia Eagles have extended defensive tackle Jordan Davis to a three-year, $78-million deal with $65 million guaranteed, making him the highest-paid nose tackle in NFL history. The Los Angeles Rams have announced the retirement of cornerback Darious Williams after eight seasons.#green_bay_packers #baltimore_ravens #nfl_free_agency_tracker #los_angeles_chargers #san_francisco_49ers

Packers to sign center Sean Rhyan to contract extension Green Bay − The Green Bay Packers have secured long-term stability at their center position just days before free-agent center Sean Rhyan was set to become an unrestricted free agent. Rhyan, a four-year veteran, has agreed to a three-year, $33 million contract that includes an $11 million signing bonus, with additional incentives that could increase the total value. The deal was finalized with the team’s intention to play Rhyan at center, a source confirmed. Rhyan’s contract marks a significant financial commitment for the Packers, as it far exceeds the $5-6 million per year he would have earned midway through the 2025 season. This increase reflects his improved performance and the team’s confidence in his development as a versatile offensive lineman. Rhyan, who initially played guard at UCLA, transitioned to center in his fourth season after center Elgton Jenkins suffered a season-ending ankle injury. The move proved successful, as Rhyan started all but one game during a nine-game stretch, showcasing his ability to adapt to the center position despite it not being his natural role. The signing also has financial implications for the Packers’ salary cap. With the team planning to release Jenkins, who would have cost $24.3 million if retained, the move could free up $19.5 million in cap space. This flexibility is crucial as the Packers prepare for the 2026 season, having already renegotiated safety Xavier McKinney’s contract and traded for linebacker Zaire Franklin. The team is projected to be about $4 million under the cap but will need approximately $6 million to cover Franklin’s 2026 salary. Rhyan’s performance has been a key factor in the Packers’ offensive line strategy.#green_bay_packers #sean_rhyan #elgton_jenkins #xavier_mckinney #zaire_franklin

Packers Make Sean Rhyan Decision Ahead of NFL Free Agency The Green Bay Packers have finalized a significant move to strengthen their offensive line ahead of the NFL’s free agency period. With the negotiation window set to open on Monday, the team has secured a three-year contract extension for starting center Sean Rhyan, according to reports from NFL insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero. The deal is valued at $33 million, with the potential to reach $39 million in total value, including an $11 million signing bonus. Rhyan’s contract places him among the league’s highest-paid centers despite having started only nine games at the position. The agreement was negotiated by representatives from Equity Sports, including Sam Mirza, Cameron Foster, and Chris Cabott. Rapoport highlighted the deal on social media, noting that Rhyan’s role as a versatile interior lineman has made him a key asset for the Packers. Rhyan, a third-round draft pick in 2022, has evolved into one of Green Bay’s most reliable offensive linemen. The 25-year-old has played every interior position on the line, providing flexibility for the coaching staff during injury challenges. His adaptability has been crucial to the team’s success, as he has filled multiple roles over the past few seasons. Last season, Rhyan took over as the starting center after Elgton Jenkins was sidelined, logging seven games at the position. Prior to that, he had started four games at right guard. In 2024, he started all 17 regular-season games at right guard, marking a significant milestone in his career. His first two seasons were spent learning the system, with limited starts but consistent appearances in 13 games.#green_bay_packers #sean_rhyan #ian_rapoport #tom_pelissero #equity_sports

Packers Re-Sign Versatile Offensive Lineman Sean Rhyan on 3-Year, $33M Contract The Green Bay Packers have finalized a three-year, $33 million contract with offensive lineman Sean Rhyan, according to his agents. The deal includes a maximum value of $39 million and features an $11 million signing bonus. Rhyan, a third-round draft pick in 2022, has emerged as one of the team’s most versatile players since joining the league. His ability to adapt to multiple positions has made him a key asset for the Packers’ offensive line. Rhyan spent last season as the team’s starting center after replacing the injured Elgton Jenkins. The move came midway through the 2025 season when Jenkins suffered a broken ankle, opening the door for Rhyan to step into the role. Rhyan’s transition to center was seamless, and he finished the year as Green Bay’s primary starter at the position. Prior to that, he had started four games at right guard and contributed significantly as a reserve. The 25-year-old player started seven games at center in 2025 and had previously started four games at right guard. In 2024, he played all 17 regular-season games at right guard, showcasing his reliability and adaptability. Despite not starting any games in his first two seasons, Rhyan appeared in 13 contests, gradually earning more playing time as his skills became evident. With Rhyan’s re-signing, the Packers are likely to move on from Jenkins, who has one year remaining on his contract. Jenkins, however, remains a strong candidate for release or trade due to his injury history and the team’s decision to prioritize Rhyan’s versatility. Rhyan’s ability to fill multiple roles has been critical for the Packers, especially as they seek to maintain stability on the offensive line.#green_bay_packers #sean_rhyan #elgton_jenkins #offensive_line #2025_season

Aaron Rodgers Claims Bills' Defense Has 'One of The Best Players in The League' The Buffalo Bills' defense is navigating a transition period, but veteran cornerback Taron Johnson remains a key figure in their plans. Despite uncertainty surrounding his role in the team’s evolving scheme, Rodgers’ recent praise has reinforced his value. The Green Bay Packers quarterback, who faced Johnson in a December 2024 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers, highlighted the defensive back’s versatility and impact. Johnson, a 29-year-old nickel cornerback, has been a staple for the Bills since joining the team in 2018. Drafted in the fourth round, he has made 113 career appearances, including 87 starts, and averages 71.5 tackles per season. His ability to adapt to multiple roles—whether as a traditional cornerback or part of a hybrid linebacker scheme—has made him an essential piece for defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard. Rodgers, speaking on the Pat McAfee Show, praised Johnson’s dual-threat capabilities. “I think Buffalo did this more than anybody, playing nickel to every personnel, because Taron Johnson is one of the best players in the league,” Rodgers said. “He’s one of the most underrated players in the league. He can play a box linebacker and stop the run and he can cover guys.” Johnson’s contributions have been evident on the field. In 2024, he recorded a crucial interception during a 23-20 road win over the New York Jets, and his presence helped secure a Week 13 victory over the Steelers. General manager Brandon Beane echoed Rodgers’ sentiment, noting Johnson’s adaptability. “The guy’s played nickel, but he’s also basically been half of a WILL linebacker just the way our defense was constructed,” Beane said at the NFL Combine. Despite his contract through 2027 and a $9.#aaron_rodgers #taron_johnson #buffalo_bills #green_bay_packers #jim_leonhard

Washington Commanders to Release Cornerback Marshon Lattimore The Washington Commanders are set to release cornerback Marshon Lattimore, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. This follows the team’s earlier decision to part ways with center Tyler Biadasz, a player deemed too expensive for the 2026 season. Lattimore, a former Pro Bowler, will turn 30 in May, raising questions about his long-term viability in the league. Despite his age, Lattimore’s production last season suggests he remains a valuable asset. Lattimore, the 11th overall pick in the 2017 draft, played a significant role in the Commanders’ defensive strategy. Last year, he logged more outside cornerback snaps than 62 other players, even after missing eight games due to an ACL tear. Among the 63 corners who played as many snaps as him, Lattimore ranked 25th in yards allowed per coverage snap, a key metric for evaluating cornerbacks. While his ACL injury complicates his readiness for the 2025 season, his pre-injury performance highlights his effectiveness. The Commanders’ decision to release Lattimore is tied to financial considerations. By cutting him, the team will save $18.5 million in salary cap space, which will also prevent him from becoming a “qualifying free agent” this offseason. This means if the Green Bay Packers sign him, he won’t impact their potential compensatory draft picks, which they are projected to receive if key players like Rasheed Walker, Romeo Doubs, Malik Willis, and Quay Walker leave the team. Green Bay head coach Matt LaFleur’s relationship with Washington head coach Dan Quinn, who previously coached LaFleur in Atlanta, may influence the Packers’ interest in Lattimore. However, the timing of Lattimore’s injury complicates matters.#green_bay_packers #washington_commanders #adam_schefter #marshon_lattimore #brian_gutekunst