Packers release 3 players, including LB Jamon Johnson, ahead of 2026 draft

The Green Bay Packers released three players on Friday, just six days before the start of the 2026 NFL draft. The three released players are tight end McCallan Castles, cornerback Tyron Herring and linebacker Jamon Johnson.

The moves cleared three spots on the offseason 90-man roster, potentially allowing the Packers to be more active signing undrafted players following next week's draft.

Of the three moves, Johnson's release is the most notable. He was a priority free agent signing following last year's draft, and the former All-American ended up playing in playing in two regular season games, including a start in Week 18 against the Minnesota Vikings. Johnson spent the entire 2025 season on the practice squad. He registered 10 tackles and a pass breakup.

Castles and Herring were both signed last season but neither appeared in a game for the Packers.

Johnson was stuck in a position deep with veteran options, and with a switch to a 3-4 base defense incoming, the Packers may be looking for a different type of off-ball linebacker to develop.

Green Bay has Zaire Franklin, Edgerrin Cooper, Isaiah McDuffie, Ty'Ron Hopper, Nick Niemann and Kristian Welch at linebacker. Johnson was, at best, the No. 7 option on the depth chart.

Among the linebackers brought in for pre-draft visits were Louisiana's Jaden Dugger and Louisville's T.J. Quinn, two late Day 3 or undrafted options.