Packers defensive end Rashan Gary reflects on playoff loss to the Bears
Green Bay Packers defensive end Rashan Gary talks about the loss in the playoffs and reflects on his season.
GREEN BAY − Rashan Gary announced on his social media page he will not be returning to the Green Bay Packers in 2026. Then he deleted it.
Gary, a 2019 first-round draft pick out of Michigan, was considered to be a potential cap casualty after an underwhelming 2025 that included zero sacks in 10 games. He started last season on a tease with 7.5 sacks in his first eight games, but that production tapered off in the second half of the season.
The Packers save roughly $11 million in cap space if they release Gary.
Gary’s since deleted post read: “When I got the call in 2019, it was one of the greaetest moments of my life, and it always will be.
“The opportunity to represent Green Bay and Packers Nation across the country anda round the wrld is something I will never forget.
“Like all chapters in life, this one has come to an end.
“I want to thank everyone who supported me throughout the years. The love, the energy, and the memories mean more than words can explains.
“On to my next stop – nowhere near done yet. All 6’5, 275…can’t wait.”
Gary might not be done after seven seasons in the league, whether it’s with the Packers or elsewhere. The post on his social media page, however, is.
Releasing Gary will result in the Packers gaining $10.98 million in salary cap room. Gary was scheduled to make $18 million in base salary and $1.5 million bonuses. All of that money will be wiped off the books, but Gary had $8.5 million in pro-rated signing bonus money in future years that automatically fold into this year upon his release.
Together with the $9 million the Packers gained in cap space upon restructuring safety Xavier McKinney’s deal, the Packers have trimmed $20 million from their cap this week.
The Packers were around $5 million over the cap as of last week and are expected to continue to make moves to get further under the cap.
This story will be updated.
