Packers release Devin Funchess off injured reserve
The Green Bay Packers have released Devin Funchess off injured reserve.
Just a couple of days ago, the Green Bay Packers placed wide receiver Devin Funchess on injured reserve.
As the move was made prior to the initial 53-man roster being determined, it meant he would be unable to return for the Packers this season. The only way he would get the opportunity to play again in 2021 would be if he got released off injured reserve with an injury settlement.
Well, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, that’s exactly what’s happened today.
The #Packers released WR Devin Funchess off injured reserve with an injury settlement. He's a free agent.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) August 27, 2021
What does this mean?
Funchess now becomes a free agent and can sign with another team. If and when he’s healthy, he’ll be able to contribute elsewhere.
It’s a good move by the Packers as it means Funchess has the opportunity to find another team and play this season. Had he remained on IR, he wouldn’t have been able to play at all in 2021.
Funchess’ contract was set to be up at the end of the season anyway, so releasing him now doesn’t impact the Packers’ wide receiver depth chart beyond this year.
Funchess had been in the mix for the final roster spot at the wide receiver position. If Green Bay does indeed decide to keep a sixth receiver on the 53-man roster, it will now come down to one of Malik Taylor, Juwann Winfree, Equanimeous St. Brown, Reggie Begelton, and Damon Hazelton.
For a number of reasons, Taylor seems to be the clear frontrunner here. He has impressed this summer, was part of the 53-man roster a year ago, and played a key role on special teams.
It didn’t work out for Funchess in Green Bay. He was signed in 2020 free agency but opted out of last season. This year, injury has ended his chances of making the roster.
Hopefully, once he’s healthy, he’ll quickly find a new team.