Here’s a bit of a surprise: the Packers are releasing 2020 fifth-round pick Kamal Martin, a source said.
— Rob Demovsky (@RobDemovsky) August 23, 2021
The trimming of the roster to 80 players before Tuesday’s deadline provided a surprise in Green Bay.
The Packers are releasing second-year linebacker Kamal Martin, according to Rob Demovsky of ESPN.
Martin, a fifth-round pick in 2020, made his preseason debut in 2021 against the New York Jets on Saturday. He had been out with a knee injury and was cross-training at outside linebacker after falling to the third string at inside linebacker on defense.
Martin played in 10 games as a rookie, finishing with 24 tackles and a sack. He was a summer standout during his first training camp and was on track to be a rookie starter when he hurt his knee and missed the first six games of 2020.
The Packers’ top four at inside linebacker appear to be Krys Barnes, De’Vondre Campbell, Oren Burks and Ty Summers.
The Packers must make four other cuts before Tuesday.
