Report: Packers releasing DL Mike Daniels

-- One day after inking Dean Lowry to a fresh contract extension, the Green Bay Packers will be releasing one of his teammates.

According to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo, the Packers are cutting ties with defensive lineman Mike Daniels.

Daniels, 30, has been one of the major domineering forces on the Packers' defense for the last few seasons. Unfortunately, injury hindered his 2018 campaign and he played in just 10 games. 

In those 10 games, Daniels accumulated just two sacks -- tying a career-low -- and 18 tackles, his lowest since his rookie year in 2012. 

The Packers drafted Daniels in the fourth round and in seven seasons with the Packers, he's registered 29 sacks, 236 tackles and 68 quarterback hits. He formed one of the league's front-running interior defensive line duos alongside Kenny Clark, who is due for his own new deal.

Clark's upcoming contract may have warranted the decision to move on from Daniels. For now, Clark and Lowry headline a relatively young defensive line room that includes Tyler Lancaster, Montravius Adams, Kingsley Keke, James Looney, Fadol Brown, Deon Simon and Eric Cotton.

Daniels was entering the final year of a four-year, $42 million dollar extension he signed in 2015. He was estimated to earn a base salary of $7.6 million in 2019.

__________________________

Zachary Jacobson is a staff writer/reporter for Cheesehead TV. He's the voice of The Leap on iTunes and can be heard on The Scoop KLGR 1490 AM every Saturday morning. He's also a contributor on the Pack-A-Day Podcast. He can be found on Twitter via @ZachAJacobson or contacted through email at [email protected].

6 points
 

Comments (124)

Fan-Friendly This filter will hide comments which have ratio of 5 to 1 down-vote to up-vote.
PackfanNY's picture

July 24, 2019 at 09:29 am

A little surprised but the draft kind of tipped the Packer hand. They added Kingsley Keke and the room seemed a little crowded. I think Gary can and also play on the line. They have also stated how they liked what they have seen from Montravious Adams and Tyler Lancaster.
The concern I have is why now? Wouldn’t you want to wait through camp in case of injury or performance. Not sure I understand that.

16 points
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dobber's picture

July 24, 2019 at 09:41 am

Maybe they are cooking up something else and want the $$$.

I suppose we can see this in the perspective of his increasing injury history over the last two years and his declining stats even though he's playing next to a damn good DT in Clark. Maybe Pettine doesn't see him as the kind of player who can fill the role he wants or can build on.

I just hope he doesn't end up kicking the Packers' butts later on.

10 points
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Mojo's picture

July 24, 2019 at 09:59 am

So the question is, which NFL North team does he end-up with?

13 points
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GVPacker's picture

July 24, 2019 at 10:44 am

I gotta think there is an injury issue and the prospect of freeing up some $!
I'm already convinced Mike Daniels will be wearing a Queens costume by the end of July! Rick Speilman will probably personally pick up Mike Daniels at the airport and have a stenographer (sitting in the back seat of Speilmans car)taking copious notes in attempt to find out if he can get the latest Packer D secrets.

2 points
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sonomaca's picture

July 24, 2019 at 04:44 pm

How about Detroit? You know that Belichick would be all over that. So might his disciple.

This may not be the last move. I could see an offensive lineman let go.

0 points
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Lare's picture

July 24, 2019 at 06:07 pm

Gutekunst drafted Daniels replacement with Keke, did he do the same with Jenkins? Is Taylor the next to go?

0 points
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EddieLeeIvory's picture

July 25, 2019 at 08:45 am

Maybe Seattle as Reed suspended for 8 games.
If not NFC North, Seattle, Cleveland or New England.

I still can't believe we couldn't fetch ANYTHING from ANYONE for him in a trade. Many teams want his services. That means he has value.

0 points
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Tundraboy's picture

July 24, 2019 at 10:36 am

Maybe an extension for Kenny is now in the works. As you said there must be something, I was looking forward to seeing how Daniels would play this year with more talent around .

8 points
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packerbackerjim's picture

July 24, 2019 at 09:41 am

I suspect the timing would indicate a possible injury or other physical condition would have made it unlikely for a productive season. I appreciate his great play for the Pack andwish him well.

9 points
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D.D.Driver's picture

July 24, 2019 at 10:12 am

There has to be more to this story, because, yeah, why wouldn't you wait until the camp injuries pop up and a trade market develops? There just has to be more to this story.

10 points
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Coldworld's picture

July 24, 2019 at 10:47 am

Aren’t they undergoing physicals today?

Other than that, why now? I would have expected a trade not a release. I would have expected Daniels to garner interest from other teams based on past performance.

Head scratcher without more information as to reason fir him being surplus to requirements and released not traded.

5 points
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Packers2020's picture

July 24, 2019 at 11:41 am

Cold,

The Packers did shop him per reports but no takers. I also heard rumorville that his foot injury was not fully healed.

These could be the reasons for his release. Plus we have some depth at dline.

3 points
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Cubbygold's picture

July 24, 2019 at 12:12 pm

Maybe GB isn't confident he could pass a physical, so trade options were limited.

Would cap savings be identical trade vs release?

0 points
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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

July 24, 2019 at 06:33 pm

Cubby, they'd be the same in Daniels' case. $7.91M in cap savings to GB with trade or cut, but no draft pick with a cut, of course.

2 points
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carlos's picture

July 24, 2019 at 03:27 pm

I think it boils down to money number one. Then throw in age, some injuries and production slows down. Maybe he voiced an option to someone that didn’t set well, but really doubt it. Money and cap space can always be key.

0 points
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GBPDAN1's picture

July 24, 2019 at 11:39 am

Bummer news and the timing seems odd. I'm guessing they asked Mike to take a pay cut and he said no?, This is somewhat disappointing news, however, Lancaster is a better run stuffer and now we have Za’Darius Smith, Gary and other options as interior pass rushers inside. Looked like Mike was declining and was no longer in his 20s. Plus, the Packers need cap money to sign Clark and Martinez.

NFL can be a brutal business. Good luck to Mike. Always have liked Daniels and his go getem attitude ! He will be missed

9 points
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Cubbygold's picture

July 24, 2019 at 12:13 pm

If he is injured, and declined a pay cut, that would be a very poor decision on his part

1 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

July 24, 2019 at 12:27 pm

More of Lancaster at the NT with more reps for Clark at three tech.
They must be confident Montravious can cover some of the inside game vs. the run. I liked Fadol Brown's effort last season and hope he stays.

3 points
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4thand10's picture

July 25, 2019 at 12:46 pm

I don’t think Z Smith, Preston or Gary are the body types to be 3 down DL. They appear to me to be outside rushers who occasionally move inside for a different defensive call or to give a DL a breather. No matter what the D is you still need big guys in the middle who don’t give up real estate. I wonder who is taking Daniels place.

0 points
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Rak43's picture

July 24, 2019 at 03:42 pm

Daniels got hurt and still posted elite pass rushing numbers on the d-line. with a rating of 78.5 per PFF. He also was second only to Fletcher Cox in QB pressures among d-lineman in the 4th quarter despite missing 6 games. Stat lines do not tell the entire story on any player truthfully. He had 2 sacks 4 QB hits and 27 pressures in only 233 snaps, a little less than a third of what he normally plays. And I qoute per PFF, " Last season. He finished with a 78.5 pass-rush grade and pass-rushing productivity of 7.3, which rank ninth and sixth among qualifying interior defensive linemen, respectively. His 17.4% pass-rush win rate when shaded or head up on the guards ranked sixth among qualifiers, as well.Daniels was also one of the league’s best when the pressure was at its highest, utterly dominating as a pass-rusher in the fourth quarter. His pass-rush win percentage of 21.2% in the fourth quarter was the third-highest among DIs with at least 30 pass-rush attempts in the fourth quarter last year. Daniels also produced a pass-rush grade of 76.6 in the fourth quarter, which was the 12th-highest mark among qualifiers at his position." So everyone saying his play fell off is completely wrong. Personally I think releasing him a year early was a big mistake that I hope does not come back to bite them in the rear.

11 points
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ThxJackVainisi's picture

July 24, 2019 at 07:43 pm

Well said. And a DL as skilled as Daniels fits every scheme.
It tells me they’re building for the next few years, not this year. If they thought they had a realistic chance to contend for a title this season, they’d keep Daniels. No way would they, or could they extend him after this season. Plus he presents an injury risk and his absence frees up snaps for a deep, although inexperienced DL. Thinking a rookie HC installing a new scheme will lead them to a title this season isn’t realistic but if LaFleur is the right guy, it is in the next few seasons. But Daniels isn’t a part of that future picture. Clark certainly is, so if they can free up money to extend a young ascending star on the DL they secure a centerpiece of the D over the next few – hopefully several – seasons. That’s the only way this move makes sense to me.

3 points
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wildbill's picture

July 24, 2019 at 09:39 am

The timing is shocking. I expected the Packers wouldn’t resign him after this year. You can never have enough good bodies to rotate on your DL as we could have really used him in case of any injuries. On the bright side for Daniels this gives him the best opportunity for find a good fit for him and I want to thank him for being part of our Packer Family and wish him well going forward

13 points
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Doug Niemczynski's picture

July 24, 2019 at 09:46 am

I am SHOCKED!!

However, I may not be shocked if the Packers make some move that I an currentlu unaware of at this moment.

1 points
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Mojo's picture

July 24, 2019 at 09:56 am

Don't know if this is related to "having a good locker room". Heard he rubbed some the wrong way.

Very surprised though, wonder if Wilkerson is now a consideration or do they roll with what they have.

1 points
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carlos's picture

July 24, 2019 at 03:32 pm

Go young. I’d be nice if the money was going to an unknown player out there the Packers want now. I assume it will go for present player extensions

1 points
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Since'61's picture

July 24, 2019 at 10:10 am

I'm a little surprised that Gute could not make a trade for Daniels. Clearly this is a cap related decision. It looks like another move is coming or the Packers want to extend Clark or Martinez sooner rather than later.

Apparently the Packers want to become younger and more athletic. I was looking to Daniels to provide a veteran presence for the younger DLs in 2019 but that role will fall to Clark now.

While this move makes the Packers younger and frees up cap space I'm not sure that it makes the Packers defense better for 2019. I wish Daniels well in his future. Thanks, Since '61

16 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

July 24, 2019 at 12:32 pm

Hard to trade that Cap hit. It was a money move to free reserves. They may make a play for another safety or ILB, maybe dish some cash to Clark to be proactive on his signing, but more likely Martinez. They can cover Clark with two years remaining on his deal and reduce risk of bonus payouts and the guy gets injured.

4 points
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NickPerry's picture

July 24, 2019 at 11:33 pm

This was part of the story on NFL.com...

"Given Daniels' ability as a pocket-pusher, he should have no trouble finding a landing spot. Garafolo mentioned the Cleveland Browns -- with the front-office ties to Green Bay and their previous pursuit of Gerald McCoy -- as well as the New England Patriots and Kansas City Chiefs as teams who tried to make a trade for Daniels before his release."

IF this is true why not get something for Daniels and control at least somewhat where he plays in 2019?

No matter what this kinda sucks. Daniels is one of the "Good Guys" IMO. He lives in GB year around and is a big part of the Green Bay community. Days like today when players LIKE Mike Daniels are cut, remind me exactly what football is...A Business, a cold, cold business. I would have LOVED to watch Daniels with Clark and 2 edge rushers like Preston and Za'Darius Smith on the field at the same time.

Good luck to Mike, wife Heaven, and 3 children in your next chapter.

9 points
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RCPackerFan's picture

July 24, 2019 at 10:10 am

This is a complete surprise. Plain and simple. No one saw this one coming.

5 points
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Mojo's picture

July 24, 2019 at 10:21 am

Reminds me a lot of the Sitton cut a few years back.

9 points
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RCPackerFan's picture

July 24, 2019 at 12:04 pm

this actually does. Hopefully it doesn't haunt us this year.

4 points
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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

July 24, 2019 at 10:46 am

The trade rumors have been around for months. Heck, I just wrote yesterday that I could make a case for trading Daniels. I wouldn't have done it, and a straight cut is very surprising.

8 points
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TarynsEyes's picture

July 24, 2019 at 11:28 am

Over on Packers Wire a few weeks ago,I asked what would be the least you'd accept in a trade for Daniels where I was in strong favor of it and I mentioned no less than a 4th rd pick. The Packers failing to make a trade tells me they may not have been offered that and found themselves compelled to release him which may have been a reality they had already accepted if a trade,any trade, didn't come to fruition. Gute gets a thumbs up here and would get 2 if they managed to get something for him.

6 points
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TarynsEyes's picture

July 24, 2019 at 11:37 am

Actually the article at Packers Wire was July 9th...seemed longer but still 2 weeks ago.

1 points
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RCPackerFan's picture

July 24, 2019 at 01:14 pm

I have been away a bit lately, so I must have missed those rumors.

I'm just surprised that they cut him.

Hopefully they will be able to take the money they owed him and resign Clark with it.

2 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

July 24, 2019 at 12:33 pm

Dan saw it coming and called for a trade since March.

0 points
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NickPerry's picture

July 24, 2019 at 11:36 pm

Who's Dan?

0 points
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J0hn Denver's Gavel's picture

July 24, 2019 at 10:12 am

Noooo!!! he's my fav Packer! Everytime I get a player jersey, that plauerwill be on another squad as soon as the purchase is made, or outright released... Cullen after 2010, Q Rollins, now big mike #76? jeezzzz

2 points
4
2
D.D.Driver's picture

July 24, 2019 at 10:13 am

Can you please buy a Deshone Kizer jersey?

23 points
25
2
J0hn Denver's Gavel's picture

July 24, 2019 at 10:15 am

haha, probably should

0 points
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carlos's picture

July 24, 2019 at 03:38 pm

That’s funny

0 points
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Bedrock's picture

July 24, 2019 at 10:31 am

How about a TJ Watt jersey? Hopkins? Perhaps they’ll be released?

-1 points
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1
t-wrecks's picture

July 24, 2019 at 10:45 am

Same, my Jordy and Lacey jerseys were good for about two months. Now I only buy blank team jerseys.

0 points
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Tundraboy's picture

July 24, 2019 at 11:20 pm

Rollins? Bargain bin?

0 points
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NickPerry's picture

July 24, 2019 at 11:37 pm

LOL...I didn't even think Rollins jersey was available for purchase...Rollins????

0 points
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J0hn Denver's Gavel's picture

July 25, 2019 at 02:43 am

mostly a product of my favorite number, 24. bargain bin? I wish! I bought it at the pro shop... ouch!

0 points
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J0hn Denver's Gavel's picture

July 24, 2019 at 10:15 am

MD must have balked at a similar extension to Lowry's? Or the upstairs didn't like his "body type" for the D line... squat or not, MD is a helluva person and player! will miss u, Mike D!!

6 points
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Cubbygold's picture

July 24, 2019 at 10:28 am

(1) GB got worse today
(2) GB saved money today

Is this freeing up money for a KC extention? Is it to go out and get other vets that can strengthen other weaknesses this year? (ILB, WR) Or is this a form of punting on 2019 and getting better set for 2020?

Doesn't seem to be a win-now move, but I guess we need to see what the follow-up move is.

0 points
5
5
Cartwright's picture

July 25, 2019 at 08:53 pm

Got the feeling this was Pettine's move. He knows how to mold a defense and must feel he has better players who can implement his scheme and let Gute know.

0 points
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0
Slim11's picture

July 24, 2019 at 10:32 am

I have to think this means GB likes Montravius Adams more than some think.

I don’t think Daniels is done. I expect he’ll be picked up soon.

3 points
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Tundraboy's picture

July 24, 2019 at 10:33 am

Holy Shit.

0 points
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2
Bedrock's picture

July 24, 2019 at 10:34 am

I’m on the Lowry & Keke train. Forward. I expect good things. We don’t need great from them. We need consistency.

1 points
3
2
Leatherhead's picture

July 24, 2019 at 02:08 pm

I’m a big fan of Mike Daniels, and thought he would be a starter this year, but I think this might be a good move. His actual production fell and his body has miles on it but at the end of the day it was 18 tackles and a few sacks.

Who is going to play on our defensive line? Obviously Clark, Lowry, Adams.....but are we down to Keke and Lancaster then? I think we’ll see more of Gary as a DE.

My predicted opening day gameday roster just changed. Mike Daniels was a good player for us for a long time. He’ll be on someone’s roster unless he is broken.

0 points
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carlos's picture

July 24, 2019 at 03:42 pm

Petine usually doesn’t play a lot of 3 man fronts anymore. He has some bigger and faster guys who can play anywhere in the front 7. Keeps offenses guessing.

0 points
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4thand10's picture

July 25, 2019 at 12:59 pm

He played 3 man DL until he ran out of DL last year to play.

0 points
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Leatherhead's picture

July 24, 2019 at 02:10 pm

Whoops

1 points
1
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4thand10's picture

July 25, 2019 at 01:00 pm

I have to think injury related and limited snaps, GB is not in some hell where they had to make a move. He was a good player.

0 points
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Brandip's picture

July 24, 2019 at 10:44 am

I really enjoyed watching him play. It was awesome watching him shed blocks and disrupting plays. There is someone on the roster that now has an opportunity to put their stamp on this defense. I am thinking this was a salary cap VS. production issue. His leadership will be hard to replace. Go Pack Go!

4 points
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Mojo's picture

July 24, 2019 at 10:46 am

Hard to believe not one team would offer even a conditional 7th for him.

What don't we know?

3 points
3
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Leatherhead's picture

July 24, 2019 at 02:14 pm

More than we know.

But the simplest explanation is that we didn’t think Daniels was going to produce enough to be worth the money. It could be that age has caught up to him.

0 points
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1
GVPacker's picture

July 24, 2019 at 10:51 am

The Packers have a rep for being soft and they looking to get rid of one of their more meaner nastier defensive lineman is quite unsettling!

0 points
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6
Packman60's picture

July 24, 2019 at 10:52 am

Daniels performance last year regressed from his previous standards, prior to his injury. Combined with some young lineman they obviously feel good about and add in the flexibility of Gary and the Smith's to flex inside This move makes total sense. I would expect the Packers to use the money freed up to extend Clark before his price goes up even more, after a big year. Gute is looking forward, while we fans look back, so we can't understand when moves like this are made.

7 points
9
2
porupack's picture

July 24, 2019 at 01:37 pm

Well, practically the WHOLE team regressed last year.
How does one year regression call for abandoning the one dependable player on GBs defense during tumultuous past 4 years? The Dline is so critical, and why ditch a linchpin of that line. I suspect Kenny's stats and performance will regress without MD's disruptive presence absorbing the opposing offense's attention.

-4 points
3
7
Jonathan Spader's picture

July 24, 2019 at 01:56 pm

KC's stats didn't diminish when Daniels was injured. There will also be a lot more pressire from the Smiths and hopefully better coverage from the CBs. I expect Clark to have a bigger year statistically with or without MD.

5 points
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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

July 24, 2019 at 10:54 am

Daniels wasn't at good at run defense, but still had quite a bit of juice as a pass rusher, per PFF.

I have been suggesting that there are some issues with the cap, but I expected GB to use the tricks to avoid the issue. Maybe they want to continue to use their normal contract structure.

Here is a link to their article:

pff.com/news/pro-green-bay-would-be-smart-to-keep-mike-daniels-under-contract-in-2019

1 points
2
1
Coldworld's picture

July 24, 2019 at 11:17 am

The details of the Lowry contract would shed light on whether GB is still sticking to its habitual approach.

If it turns out that this is purely cap management as opposed to tailoring contracts, then the resulting loss of Daniels for nothing would be unacceptable and would be a searing indictment of Ball and Murphy.

That said, I still think that the most likely explanation is doubt over his physical ability to contribute or another major move. It’s that much of a stunning foot-in-the -mouth otherwise.

2 points
4
2
jannes bjornson's picture

July 24, 2019 at 12:42 pm

Looks like a money move.It could be a Low-Ball move, but No takers on the trade route says he was not in favor of a re-negotiated contract. They must have confidence in Lancaster, Adams and Brown to make contributions.

1 points
1
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porupack's picture

July 24, 2019 at 01:43 pm

Excellent assessment Cworld. Sure hope it wasn't pure cap decision but something related to physical condition through 2019. A cap decision on the last year's contract for a stalwart on the Dline, the one of only about 3 guys who kept that D respectable for 4 years is hard to comprehend.

0 points
1
1
fthisJack's picture

July 25, 2019 at 08:34 am

This move wasn't too surprising given the comments from Gute and the salary cap and the injury.

He wants to get bigger on the defensive line. he brought in 3 guys than are around 6'4/6'5. Daniels doesn't fit at only 6'. he's got Lancaster, Adams, Keke, Brown, Lowery to rotate in.

Salary cap saving of 8 mil can be useful in another signing or extension.

It seems like he may not have been fully healed from the foot injury he suffered last year and being 30 and a FA next year made him expendable.

I like Mike but it seems like a good move.

0 points
0
0
jeremyjjbrown's picture

July 24, 2019 at 11:14 am

He must have not looked good in mini camps. I suspect MP wants guys he can move around and Daniels just didn't fit that mold since he really only played 3 tech well.

4 points
5
1
BamaPackFan's picture

July 24, 2019 at 11:19 am

Unless there is an injury or attitude problem, which I doubt, I am very disappointed in this move. I like to believe the Packers are a decent organization, despite evidence to the contrary at times. Usually, there is at least some factor that makes it palatable. In this case, I see nothing but greed. The Packers have given one more reason, and a big one at that, why players should be selfish. Why should any Packer player give GB any "home town" discount, when the team has proven it does not give similar consideration to a players years of performance and leadership. I am a bit ashamed of the Packers Top Brass at the moment. M. Daniels was still a very good player and a good citizen. Apparently, that is not enough. Other players will remember THAT! BTW, he will be missed on the field this year. Probably the Locker room too.

-15 points
4
19
Packers2020's picture

July 24, 2019 at 11:49 am

This is why you do not run an NFL team. It is a business not about what Packer fans like the best.

We will not miss Daniels. He is 30 and has regressed. Not worth almost 8M per year. We need to sign Clark and possibly Martinez. It had to come from somewhere and this is one of our deepest positions. Makes perfect sense.

Also, his foot injury supposedly had not healed yet and the Packers had tried to shop him but no dice.

9 points
12
3
albert999's picture

July 24, 2019 at 12:32 pm

Well said in your reply
Welcome to the NFL....NOT FOR LONG
WOW

1 points
1
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BamaPackFan's picture

July 24, 2019 at 01:18 pm

I didn't read anything about his foot injury. I read several articles about Daniels/Clark making up one of the best interior lines in football. I believe devastating was the word. The Packers are going to have some dead cap money, and I think Daniels would have been an asset. Especially being used in a much deeper rotation that would keep him fresher. I do not expect the Packers Org to be Boy Scouts. However, If I approve of this move, to be consistent, I kinda have to say fine to Josh Jones, and Le'Veon Bell, and all the other selfish players who feel no need to honor their contract. I can't really blame them... I guess, as I have in the past. This will come back to bite the Pack. You won't know about it, but it will be in the mind of some future player approaching a contract year, and Mgt. will have earned that distrust.

-7 points
2
9
Since'61's picture

July 24, 2019 at 12:32 pm

The Packers are a non-profit organization so I’m not exactly sure what they would be greedy about. Plus this is a salary cap move. The money is used to acquire players.

Beyond those two obvious points the NFL is about performance. Players are paid and retained for what they can produce on the field today not for plays that made 2,3 or more seasons ago. The players know this and that’s why they try for as much money as possible and try to hang on as long as possible. As for us fans neither the players nor the teams have any loyalty to us. They just want our money and in the end that is what all these decisions are about. In this case they have chucked a player maybe a year too soon rather than a year too late to create cap space for either extending a current player or signing an FA at some point in the near future. Thanks, Since ‘61

7 points
8
1
BamaPackFan's picture

July 24, 2019 at 01:32 pm

Non-Profit Orgs can be greedy when it comes to payroll. My wife used to work for one before she told them to hang it in their A$$. Besides that, you make a respectful and valid point. I still believe I am entitled to my opinion about a vet who still performs, and is or could be a great mentor and vocal leader to the younger guys coming in. Instead, he is now an example of why none of the young guys should "Buy In" to the team 1st things coaches preach. It is similar to how I felt when they unceremoniously cut Jordy Nelson. I think the team lost a contributor, and it was a bad move, on the field, and in my overall opinion/respect for our Management.

-10 points
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Packers2020's picture

July 24, 2019 at 04:25 pm

Bama,

How can you say cutting Jordy was a bad move?

Nelson in 2018- 63 catches 739 yards and 3 TDs
MVS- 38 catches 581 yards and 2 TDs
St Brown- 21 catches 328 yards

MVS and St Brown had less catches individually but had the same stats together that Jordy did but averaged 15 yards per catch compared to Jordy's 11 yards per catch. MVS and St Brown also have way more upside than Nelson and better speed since they are early 20's and Jordy is 31, I think. Oh and the Raiders cut Jordy after that one year and then he retired. That tells you something.

I rest my case as far as fans not looking at the business part of the game and looking at their favorite players. These are the same fans that will crab and complain when we do not win a SB because we have a slow over the hill player that is not getting it done.

8 points
8
0
BamaPackFan's picture

July 25, 2019 at 02:46 am

So, do you think Jordys' #'s would be better or worse if he had Rogers throwing to him, instead of a guy that had to learn him from scratch? I didn't object to drafting any of those WR's. What I said at the time was I bet his numbers would be better than Jimmy Grahams, and they were.

-2 points
1
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Packers2020's picture

July 25, 2019 at 08:58 am

Bama,

Of course his numbers would be better. AR loves Jordy and would have thrown to him more just due to that. If they kept Jordy then Adams would not have had as good of a season and MVS and St Brown would not be as experienced this year. We lost nothing letting Jordy go. The O would have been the same.

It was time for Jordy to go just like it is time for Daniels to go.

1 points
1
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carlos's picture

July 24, 2019 at 03:55 pm

Agree 61. I just like the football part of it. It sure has changed over the years. I was 12 when Bart scored in the ice bowl. Watched it on black and white tv at my Grandmas house. Where have the years gone?? lol

3 points
3
0
Johnblood27's picture

July 24, 2019 at 12:37 pm

C'mon man!

Daniels signed a 4 year contract and he soaked up the big money portion of it.

Look at the amounts he counted against the cap for the first 3 years versus this coming season hit.

He got more value in the past than he would this year. That does not favor the Packers, it favors Daniels.

I question why not get what you can out of him on the field this season, then let him go FA so you get a comp pick.

Clark has 2 years left on his contract, no need to give him a new deal right now.

I do not see any reason to let Daniels go now, this seems to hurt the 2019 Packers chances at improving even though Daniels may be a little shakey injury wise right now, I have to believe that he would come together or he would be still injured so badly that his agent could claim cut while injured and get more from the Packers in the form of an injury settlement. It cant be injury as a reason.

I am not seeing the upside to this move, $$$ dont win games and we dont have any holdouts or pressing cash needs right now.

And we lose a potential comp pick when he walks after this season.

Why NOW???

0 points
4
4
carlos's picture

July 24, 2019 at 03:51 pm

I loved him, but that’s life in the modern day NFL. Nothing really surprises anymore. All teams involved in the same instances. Money rules pretty much everything. And power. Most powerful teams win games with a little bit of finesse thrown in. Good luck Mike. Go PACK!!

2 points
2
0
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

July 24, 2019 at 07:08 pm

Bama, I view cutting Daniels now as a classy move. The Packers already paid him his $400K workout bonus, so it makes no difference financially to GB cutting now or in September. The team could have waited in case there was an injury to Clark or Lowry, for example.

I suppose you're talking about honoring the full length of contracts. I see that, but the contracts are designed with how much money the player gets if he is cut after one year, two years, three years, so that possibility is always in the minds of all the parties.

I could be fired tomorrow if I were to make a big enough mistake. Most at-will employees have almost zero job security. When Daniels got a $9,600,000 signing bonus, my concerns about honoring all four years of his contract kind of evaporated.

6 points
6
0
ThxJackVainisi's picture

July 24, 2019 at 08:07 pm

"When Daniels got a $9,600,000 signing bonus, my concerns about honoring all four years of his contract kind of evaporated."

Exactly. And if the contract allows for the team to waive or trade the player at any time the team is “honoring” – or abiding by – the contract when that player is waived or traded. The players’ guarantee is the signing bonus and usually the money paid before the team would experience a significant cap hit by his release. This isn’t a surprise to the players or their agents.

4 points
4
0
Demon's picture

July 24, 2019 at 11:19 am

I would guess Daniels ends up with the Seaturds. Im not too shocked with this move, saddened perhaps.

Anyway, best of luck Mean Mike. Was a pleasure watching you give your all!

3 points
3
0
carlos's picture

July 24, 2019 at 03:56 pm

Or Cleveland

1 points
1
0
Bure9620's picture

July 24, 2019 at 11:41 am

A bit surprised, but not floored. I cannot understate enough how well Lancaster played last year. He can be a 3 tech rotational guy. Pettine said at times he was dominant. Also, I think Gute likes the progression Montravius Adams has made. Daniel's was not as dominant last year, even when healthy. In addition Z Smith and Gary will play some 5 tech on some occasions, there is simply not enough justification to keep Daniel's at that price tag.

11 points
11
0
Coldworld's picture

July 24, 2019 at 11:56 am

Well, on the bright side we now definitely have the cap room to resign Nick Perry.

The world is just that crazy.

3 points
7
4
Lphill's picture

July 24, 2019 at 11:49 am

Packers D line is deep, I think they are going to use both Smiths and Gary all at the same time, Z Smith I believe could rush from anywhere on the D line, Daniels might have been the odd man out , and the smallest.

2 points
2
0
Rossonero's picture

July 24, 2019 at 11:53 am

Sorry to see him go so suddenly! I think this is mostly cap related. While he had the foot injury last year, he's otherwise been a very durable player, which has been RARE for this team.

Aside from 2018, the most games he ever missed were 2 games in 2012 and 2 games in 2017.

OverTheCap.com has the Packers at only $8.5M of Effective Cap Space, which is defined as the max space a team will have after signing 51 players to its roster for that season (I don't know why it's 51 and not 53).

With Lowry signing, and perhaps Martinez up next, they just figured that Daniels was older and more expensive.

Where will he end up? Cleveland is a likely landing spot. They're #3 in Effective Cap Space with $34M. With all the connections to Green Bay, that wouldn't surprise me at all.

The Chiefs, Bengals, Lions are all possible landing spots too as their run D's stink.

The Colts are #1 in cap space and would make a lot of sense too since they've built a strong team and have Super Bowl aspirations.

0 points
0.5
0.5
Rossonero's picture

July 24, 2019 at 12:00 pm

Is anyone else a little more deflated about our defensive line now? What if Kenny Clark gets hurt?

Now the 2019 Packers could be down Daniels and Clark....not good. That's a lot to put on the shoulders of some younger and unproven (and less talented) guys like Adams, Lancaster, Lowry, etc.

0 points
5
5
Coldworld's picture

July 24, 2019 at 12:02 pm

Now that you put the question, and allowing for the fact that Daniels obviously was never interchangeable with Clark: no.

It does put more pressure on Adams and other interior rushers not just Smith, but overall I still think we are improved on last year, if not as much as perhaps we were yesterday unless those others were truly ready to surpass Daniels.

3 points
4
1
OnWisconsinGoPack's picture

July 24, 2019 at 12:05 pm

Hard to see Mike go, has been a great player and character guy on the team. Despite depth, I still feel like he could have helped from a rush perspective and depth, so hopefully this risk pans out.

On the bright side, if I understand the cap right, this carryover for next year (if it's not used) could help us tremendously in going after a bigger target. So essentially, rather than having $10M next year if he wasn't re-signed, we have $18M (after 2M in dead money). That's a huge benefit! Not sure how it works for meeting cap requirements the following year, but nonetheless.

1 points
1
0
Cubbygold's picture

July 24, 2019 at 12:10 pm

Huge benefit for next year, sure. Given the number of years remaining for 12, i wouldn't want to sacrifice 2019 for the prospect of an expensive 2020 FA

1 points
1
0
Ryan3468's picture

July 24, 2019 at 12:13 pm

Have a feeling Daniels just like Sitton did when seeing the youth come up and take their money he didn’t like it and was vocal about it. So much so he got cut. Sad to see him go with out getting anything other than cap space. Odd timing. Daniels might have been real mad about contracts... just like Sitton was.

-3 points
1
4
White92's picture

July 24, 2019 at 12:16 pm

Wrong side of 30, injuries starting, performance dropping..good call. Timing might be a surprise, but a right move anyway

9 points
9
0
murf7777's picture

July 24, 2019 at 12:25 pm

Based on the FA signings and draft this seems like something planned awhile ago. Good or bad Gutey isn’t afraid to make tough decisions.

7 points
7
0
murf7777's picture

July 24, 2019 at 12:46 pm

Makes me wonder if Wilkinson is coming back for a low one year prove it deal.

0 points
1
1
Dr.Rodgers's picture

July 24, 2019 at 06:50 pm

who? did you mean drunk driving Muhammad Wilkerson? Naaaa!

0 points
1
1
murf7777's picture

July 25, 2019 at 07:22 am

Hmmm...so, he blew .09, barely over the limit and that is the reason we shouldn’t give him a one year low salary, incentive laden deal? Come on man, let’s not be hypocritical on something that most everyone has done, especially in their 20’s. Supposedly his injury is healed so why not? He’s a big athletic man.

2 points
2
0
greengold's picture

July 24, 2019 at 12:52 pm

If Daniels made the 53 I believe his contract would have been guaranteed. That's probably why they cut him now, aside from his drop in value with the foot and an $8M salary.

3 points
3
0
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

July 24, 2019 at 08:09 pm

The Packers could have waited until September to make sure Clark and Lowry, et al, remained healthy. No financial consequences to GB if they wait.

3 points
3
0
ShooterMcGee's picture

July 24, 2019 at 02:31 pm

I called this cut 3-4 months ago. 10 million for the last year of an aging injured p!ayer is too much. We have others that can just eat space. I do believe the players in the next CBA will demand guaranteed contracts like the NBA or baseball. Too many players get cut for cap reasons which must really piss them off.

-1 points
1
2
Lare's picture

July 24, 2019 at 02:46 pm

It may piss them off, but Daniels made almost $36 million in his 7 years with Green Bay. That's a pretty decent living.

5 points
5
0
Lare's picture

July 24, 2019 at 02:37 pm

I'm a little surprised by the timing of this, but the fact that there was no trade interest from any other NFL team should tell us pretty much all we need to know.

6 points
6
0
stockholder's picture

July 24, 2019 at 02:52 pm

Give Credit to Gute! He's got Balls. He doesn't go after Oliver or Wilkins. Dumps CM3,Perry, Cobb, and now Daniels. ( Bulaga is the next guy that should worry. ) The big money does not sit the bench anymore. Daniels was over -rated. He slowed and it showed. We now will get different looks on the front. And a Quicker defensive Line. A new camp battle just started. The bully is gone. And they now opened the door for others. Lowrey will be playing in Daniels spot. The rush will be better. And we will be seeing more of LanCaster.

1 points
5
4
Southside's picture

July 24, 2019 at 03:07 pm

He had a really good 2016 which got him all pro recognition in 2017. Turned 30 and of course he was injured last season which did not help his cause. When he did play last year it seemed I never heard his name mentioned. Never a good sign. His best days are behind him. Other teams must be aware of it when you can not get a lower round pick for the guy. Would not be surprised to see the Bears or even the Vikings pick him up.

0 points
2
2
carlos's picture

July 24, 2019 at 04:04 pm

What I saw from him last year made me disappointed. He maybe played hurt a lot. Not sure.

-1 points
0
1
porupack's picture

July 25, 2019 at 06:08 am

The whole D was disappointing. Singling out one player on an underperforming (and injury-depleted) defense is not justifiable in itself. I can only justify this move if the staff understands something about Daniel's health and physical condition that we don't know.

0 points
1
1
carlos's picture

July 25, 2019 at 06:59 am

Wasn’t singling Daniels as the weak link, he just didn’t seem hisself. I think his injury had a tremendous effect on him. I focused on him a lot at times. Was always one of my favorite players.

1 points
1
0
LambeauPlain's picture

July 24, 2019 at 03:26 pm

I think it is likely after inking Lowery, who is more productive than Daniels now, they asked Mike to renegotiate his K or they would have to release him and Mike said no...cut me then.

So they did and maybe plan B is now Mo W.

With Clark the star, Gary on deck, Lowery coming on, Adams, Keke, Lancaster with upside and the Smiths able to play inside....Daniels snaps were going down for his $10 mil.

Man, this biz is brutal. But like The Wolfman who told a player some years ago who thanked him for keeping him on the roster....”you are on the roster until I can find somebody better.”

-1 points
1
2
4thand1's picture

July 24, 2019 at 03:58 pm

It's not age, it's health and money.

1 points
3
2
Coldworld's picture

July 24, 2019 at 04:22 pm

Age and injuries often go hand in hand, perhaps more so with undersized players.

5 points
6.5
1.5
blue eyes's picture

July 24, 2019 at 04:05 pm

Breaking News!
Packers trade Clark and Alexander for a bag of peanuts and an empty pez dispenser.

-12 points
1
13
Bryan Chisholm's picture

July 24, 2019 at 04:12 pm

No, no, no, no,no,no. Would not have done that.. I personally feel like Daniels has something to play for, and was gonna finally benefit from not being the only source of pressure outside of Clark. He was solid when he was on the field IMO, nothing flashy, but you couldnt move him. I just don't get why they're rushing it.. they must really expect Clark to blow up and blow up fast, probably trying to lock him down asap. But still, doing it sooner isn't always better... I would've like to see Daniels prove to us he couldn't fit that role or need Lowry, Adams and KeKe to prove one of them is ready to be Daniels 2.0.. we didn't get that.. shame

-1 points
3
4
DragonSilk's picture

July 24, 2019 at 04:40 pm

I think with Daniels it was a matter of a year too early than a year too late. His game is heavy on hustle. Injuries and passing 30 make this a sound move.

0 points
1
1
porupack's picture

July 25, 2019 at 06:16 am

Better a year too early than a year too late? Better to assess right on time and not leave yet one more hole to fill. Let's see, NFC-N has the bears and vikes with stacked Defenses. GB's defense is right back in that league....whoops. I guess not.

-1 points
0
1
NMPF's picture

July 24, 2019 at 05:27 pm

Whether it's a year early or a year late, Jordy, Favre, Sitton, Lang, Woodson, Dotson, Dickey, Coffman, hell even Jimmy Taylor. Time marches on, players change the game stays the same. Sad but true

5 points
6
1
carlos's picture

July 25, 2019 at 07:01 am

Being a GM can be cold hearted. A tough job, but get paid big bucks.

-1 points
0
1
showmefan's picture

July 24, 2019 at 07:11 pm

If in fact the Daniels cut was based on cap/money then that is a shame. Some what odd that there was no takers on the trade front but thats why I am a fan and not an NFL GM. Hope our D line plays injury free this year as I was looking forward to the talent and the depth we had as of yesterday.

-3 points
0
3
Oppy's picture

July 24, 2019 at 07:46 pm

Daniels was not my favorite player; I always thought he was kind of a D-bag, to be honest, but he was a very good player.

If this was a money move as opposed to a health concern move, I would be disappointed. I don't think there is another body on the D-Line that brings what Daniels did.

Dont get that twisted- Clark is the prize horse on the DL. That being said, Daniels brought a different element and he also commanded doubles often. I think he'll be missed.

Can only hope The Packers made the right move here. Have to trust they had good reason for it. If it was $$$, I hope they make a move that justifies the cut. If it was for health, it makes sense, too.

6 points
6
0
greengold's picture

July 25, 2019 at 07:52 am

Oppy, I tend to agree with you on much of this. I'm guessing it was his health, size, age and cap hit all rolled into one prudent move from a fiscal/value perspective.

Not so sure he will be missed if our other players remain healthy. Even then, sounds as if he would have been no where near ready to start the season on the active 53. Not like he would have been quality depth. Has to be more to his injury than we know. Given his cap number, his value does drop, and I can see why they made the move now. Releasing him now is also a good will gesture to allow him to catch on with another team.

Personally, I think we will be fine. The DL is deep with potential, and if they don't get snaps, that potential will never be realized. Don't forget, Daniels was kind of a snap hog, wanting to play EVERY snap. We would normally keep 6 DL? That gives us Clark, Lowry, Lancaster, Adams, Keke and any one of the Brown, Looney, Simon and Cotton fighting for that last spot, if they keep 6.

My thinking is they probably keep the 5, then save a roster spot for another area of need, with both Z and Gary listed as LBs, but both can readily play the DE. That makes the most sense to me. Unless Pettine is employing a heavy rotation, which might call for 6 DL.

0 points
1
1
LambeauPlain's picture

July 25, 2019 at 09:06 am

It was reported Gutey tried to trade Mike. No takers.

Tells me no other teams felt he was worth his big contract either at age 30 & last two years having injuries.

He will play this year but probably close to what Gutey wanted to offer in a pay cut or get cut discussion with his agent.

Gutey wanted to lock up Lowery and Clark and now he has the money to go after Clark.

And Lancaster, Adams, Gary, The Smiths, Keke, even Brown....7 more guys who have shown ability to play inside. Mike’s snaps were going down this year.

I like Mike. And I imagine his pride would not let him accept a pay cut.

Good luck, Mike...in the AFC I hope.

0 points
0
0
Mibster's picture

July 26, 2019 at 01:53 pm

I have no idea why they cut him, but I will miss Mike... Maybe they just dont want to keep someone too long as they did with Clay? Thanks Mike for your great contribution for GB!! Hope to see you play and thrive in another team!

//Mikael

0 points
0
0