The first major domino of the Green Bay Packers' offseason has fallen. Rashan Gary announced on social media that his time with the Packers has come to an end. It indicates the Packers will release their 2019 first-round pick.
Crucially, NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reports that the Packers have not released or traded Gary yet, noting: "All options are on the table. But obviously, Gary does not expect to return to Green Bay."
Based on Gary's social media post (which he has since deleted), it would seem to indicate the Packers have communicated their intention to move on. Restructuring Xavier McKinney's contract helped the Packers get under the salary cap, giving them additional time to try to trade Gary, should they wish. In all likelihood, though, they will release him.
Rashan Gary confirms his Green Bay Packers departure just days before free agency
It always seemed in the cards since Gary failed to register a sack in the final nine games of the regular season. Releasing Gary will free up $10.98 million in cap space, but it also adds more urgency to the need to find a top-tier pass-rusher opposite Micah Parsons.
Brian Gutekunst's comments at the NFL Scouting Combine last month said it all. Despite Gary being under contract, Gutekunst spoke about expectations "if he's back next year." The if in that statement made it clear they could move on from the player they selected 12th overall seven years ago.
Gary's expected departure creates a void on the edge.
The Packers have Parsons, of course, but he is recovering from a torn ACL and could miss the beginning of the 2026 season. Beyond that, Green Bay will need more from another former first-round pick, Lukas Van Ness, while hoping second-year pass-rushers Barryn Sorrell and Collin Oliver can reach the next level.
The decision on Gary also raises questions about Kingsley Enagbare's future. He is a free agent and can officially negotiate with other teams on Monday. Does Gary's departure increase the chances of Enagbare returning? We'll find out soon enough.
Gary had 7.5 sacks in the opening eight games of 2025 but zero in the nine games that followed. Production is one thing, but his performances raised questions about a lack of effort from many, including former Packer Mason Crosby.
Once it became a question about his commitment, it was over. An exit always felt inevitable, and now Gary is one step closer to departing Green Bay.