Green Bay Packers caught the rest of the NFL off guard with an unexpected move in which they decided to release defensive end Mike Daniels. Green Bay informed Daniels that he was released on Wednesday, just one day before the team is scheduled to kick off their training camp.
According to ESPN’s sources, Daniels’ big salary and recent injuries influenced the Packers’ decision to part ways with the 30-year-old.
Being a free agent for the first time in his career, Daniels is now expected to sign with a Super Bowl contender.
With this move, Green Bay managed to save a significant amount in cap space, as Daniels was scheduled to earn around $8.5 million in 2019.
“I’ve been around Mike for a short period of time.” – Packers’ coach Matt LaFleur told reporters on Wednesday. “I know he’s meant a lot to this community, he’s meant a lot to this football team. Obviously, having to prepare for him in the past, I still think he’s a really good player. I wish him well.”
“You always want to keep good players. Unfortunately, that’s part of this business. There’s tough decisions that you have to make.” – he added.
Mike Daniels entered the league in 2012 after Green Bay Packers selected him in the fourth round of that year’s draft. During his time with the Packers, Daniels totaled 225 tackles while adding 29.0 sacks, two forced fumbles, and one interception.
