The Green Bay Packers are gearing up for some significant roster changes in 2026, thanks to their challenging salary cap situation. This means saying goodbye to some familiar faces, including the possibility of parting ways with former Pro Bowl pass rusher Rashan Gary. Letting Gary go could free up nearly $11 million in cap space, a tempting prospect for the Packers' front office.
Another big name potentially on the chopping block is two-time Pro Bowl offensive lineman Elgton Jenkins. If Jenkins is released, Green Bay stands to clear $20 million from their books.
However, there's a twist-Jenkins might not just walk away. There's buzz around the league about a possible trade, particularly with the Seattle Seahawks showing interest.
Alex Ballentine from Bleacher Report has floated the idea of Jenkins being a prime target for the Seahawks, fresh off their Super Bowl win. Seattle's offensive line could use a boost, and Jenkins' versatility makes him an appealing option. Despite some struggles at center last season, his ability to play multiple positions could fill a crucial gap for the Seahawks.
Seattle, armed with ample cap space, could make a bold move to acquire Jenkins. They might need to get creative, though, as they lack a fourth-round pick, which was the price the Bears paid for Joe Thuney last offseason. A pick swap, along with absorbing Jenkins' $18.5 million salary, could be the ticket to sealing the deal.
Ballentine suggests that the Packers could receive a third-round pick in 2026 as part of this trade. This would be a welcome addition for Green Bay, especially since they traded away their first-round picks to the Cowboys in the Micah Parsons deal.
However, there's a catch. Jenkins is a likely candidate for a roster cut, meaning interested teams might just wait for him to hit free agency rather than part with any draft capital. Green Bay would certainly prefer to get something in return, but the reality is, teams might play the waiting game.