The writing was on the wall. Now, it's confirmed: The Green Bay Packers are moving on from Elgton Jenkins.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Packers are releasing the two-time Pro Bowler. Unlike with Rashan Gary, who they sent to the Dallas Cowboys for a fourth-round pick earlier in the day, the Packers couldn't find a trade partner for Jenkins and have moved on.
Releasing Jenkins is the biggest cap-saving move they could've made, creating $19.53 million immediately.
Green Bay Packers create $20 million in cap space after releasing Elgton Jenkins
It comes as no surprise. On the eve of free agency, the Packers signed center Sean Rhyan to a contract extension and restructured Aaron Banks' deal, which ended any doubt over two starting positions along the offensive line. It left no room for Jenkins, and he now hits the open market.
Jenkins is a two-time Pro Bowler at left guard, so it will be interesting to see if another team signs him to play his more natural position as opposed to center. Either way, he shouldn't need long to find work elsewhere.
Even in a disappointing final season in Green Bay, Jenkins remained an excellent pass-protector. He struggled in the run game, and that inconsistency, paired with his soaring cap hit, left the Packers without much choice.
For now, Green Bay's presumed starting five along the offensive line is: Jordan Morgan, Banks, Rhyan, Anthony Belton, Zach Tom. Time will tell whether they make any notable moves to add competition for those spots. The Packers need to add depth, even if their starting lineup is ready to go.
Left tackle Rasheed Walker remains a free agent but will almost certainly sign somewhere else. Now, Jenkins joins him on the free-agent market.
While the Packers haven't signed anybody yet, they've made a busy start to free agency and have plenty of work still to do.