The Green Bay Packers made some intriguing moves as the NFL free agency period unofficially kicked off. While they didn't dive into major signings, they orchestrated a notable trade by sending Rashan Gary to the Dallas Cowboys. The Packers managed to secure a 2027 fourth-round pick in return, a move that certainly raised some eyebrows.
In a move that wasn't entirely unexpected, the Packers also announced the release of offensive lineman Elgton Jenkins. This decision was anticipated for a couple of key reasons.
First, cutting Jenkins frees up nearly $20 million in cap space, a significant financial maneuver. Second, the team has re-signed Sean Rhyan to a three-year deal, positioning him as their starting center moving forward.
However, a report surfaced on Tuesday shedding light on why Jenkins hasn't been generating much buzz in the free agent market. According to ESPN's Packers insider Rob Demovsky, Jenkins was released with a "failed physical" designation, as noted in the NFL's daily transaction file.
Fans will remember Jenkins suffered a fibula fracture midway through the 2025 season, an injury that also affected ligaments in his leg. After the trade of Gary, speculation swirled about whether Jenkins might be next on the trading block. When that didn't happen, it left many fans puzzled.
The revelation that Jenkins couldn't pass a physical clarifies why the Packers couldn't find a trade partner. Any potential deal would have been voided by the NFL once Jenkins failed his physical.
Jenkins is still eligible to sign with another team in free agency, but until he can pass a physical, any contract he agrees to will remain in limbo. This means it might be some time before Jenkins finds a new home in the league.