Packers Move on From Five Players Following Playoff Exit
The Green Bay Packers wasted no time preparing for the next season after their early exit from the playoffs. Following a wild-card loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, the team decided not to re-sign five players to reserve/future contracts on Monday.
While several practice squad members were signed to such contracts, giving them a chance to compete for roster spots during minicamp and preseason, five players were notably excluded. According to Packers.com, Green Bay chose not to extend deals to wide receiver Alex McGough, running backs Ellis Merriweather and Deshaun Fenwick, offensive guard Michael Jordan, and linebacker Michael Barrett.
Barrett, 25, joined the Packers’ practice squad in November after brief stints with the Cleveland Browns and Seattle Seahawks earlier in the season. The rookie linebacker, originally drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the seventh round of the 2024 NFL Draft, was briefly elevated to the active roster for a Week 18 game against the Chicago Bears but did not see playing time.
Jordan, a 26-year-old offensive guard, began the season with the New England Patriots but faced a series of roster moves. After being released in November, he joined the Packers’ practice squad in December but never appeared on their gameday roster.
McGough, a familiar name for Packers fans, spent the 2023 season as the team’s third-string quarterback. Transitioning to wide receiver in the 2024 offseason, McGough’s efforts to secure a roster spot fell short after a preseason injury landed him on the PUP list. Despite being waived, he returned to the practice squad in November to provide additional depth at wide receiver.
This strategic reshuffling reflects the Packers’ intent to evaluate their roster and focus on building for the upcoming season. The released players now face the challenge of seeking opportunities with other teams.
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