The Green Bay Packers just landed one of the biggest fish in free agency in tight end Jimmy Graham. But there’s a casualty. Jordy Nelson will reportedly be released by Green Bay, which was something we knew was a distinct possibility.
Packers are releasing WR Jordy Nelson, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 13, 2018
Nelson is 32 years old and was set to count for more than $12.5 million against the cap in 2018. By releasing him, the Packers will free up over $10 million, which will likely be right around the number they landed on per year signing Graham to his three-year deal.
Once one of the top receivers in the game, Nelson missed the entire 2015 campaign with a knee injury and then had a rough 2017 season, catching just 53 passes for 482 yards and six touchdowns. He’ll likely land on his feet with a new team in short order, but his time as a true No. 1 receiver is well gone.