Surprise cut candidate checks every box for the Packers as they look to solve a major offensive roster concern
Packers may find unexpected help for a key roster issue if an intriguing tight end actually hits the market.
The Green Bay Packers need an in-line tight end, and general manager Brian Gutekunst himself said so. It’s been hard to get great options at the position, but a scenario floating around would be perfect for head coach Matt LaFleur and his offense.
Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay made a list of five potential cut candidates who should be on every NFL team’s radar. One of these players is Los Angeles Rams tight end Colby Parkinson.
Why the Rams would consider releasing Colby Parkinson
Alex Kay highlights that the Rams had a unique depth at tight end. The team drafted a player at the position in the second round in each of the past two years (Terrance Ferguson and Max Klare), and they also have Tyler Higbee under contract.
“The Los Angeles Rams packed their tight ends room to capacity this offseason. With several new faces joining an already-crowded group, Colby Parkinson—one of the top veterans from last year’s squad—could be on his way out the door.
“Parkinson emerged as L.A.’s best receiving TE in 2025, putting up a career-best stat line of 43 catches, 408 receiving yards and eight receiving touchdowns. He logged a 61 percent offensive snap share—also the highest of his career—and proved he could be a legitimate weapon in the right system after a half-decade of pedestrian performances.
“Despite this, Parkinson is going into the final year of his contract and has no guaranteed money left on the deal. Cutting him would save a cash-strapped Rams squad $7 million, dollars the club could use to bolster far weaker points of the roster.” — Alex Kay
Perfect fit in Green Bay
Parkinson played 74% of his offensive snaps as a Y-tight end last season, and he’s been a solid receiver and viable blocker throughout his career. The system familiarity is a plus. Even though he was there when Matt LaFleur was the Rams’ offensive coordinator in 2017, the tight end played under Sean McVay, with a similar terminology and basic structure.
In 2025, Parkinson had a solid 1.67 yards per route run and generated a 119.7 passer rating when targeted. Based on need and talent, the Packers could be comfortable even trading for him. If the Rams actually release him, Gutekunst’s decision to go after the tight end in free agency should be a no-brainer.
The Packers have Tucker Kraft as a long-term answer at the position, but depth is a real concern. The secondary options are Luke Musgrave, who’s not a great blocker, and H-back Josh Whyle. The roster also has some developmental pieces in Drake Dabney and Messiah Swinson, beyond recent additions RJ Maryland (undrafted rookie) and Luke Lachey.