The Green Bay Packers, like all NFL teams, are still tinkering with their roster as the preseason and training camp progress. It is not uncommon to see multiple players released, signed, or re-signed based on a wide variety of reasons that may or may not have anything to do with their performance on the field.
Such was the case for the Packers’ most recent roster moves, one of which that saw a former Wisconsin Badgers player released by the team for the second time this offseason.
The Green Bay Packers Release Former Wisconsin Badgers Long Snapper Peter Bowden
According to Matt Schneidman of The Athletic, the Packers released long snapper Peter Bowden to make room for running back Nate McCrary. Tyler Coyle, a safety, was also released and linebacker Chris Rollins was also signed.
Bowden, the former Badgers player, was released earlier this offseason during Jordan Love‘s hold-in at training camp. As fans may recall, Love refused to participate in practices until his new deal was done.
Green Bay prefers to have three quarterbacks throwing during drills at training camp, so the Packers signed Jacob Eason to be a camp arm while Love’s deal was being worked on.
In order to make room for Eason, Green Bay released Bowden. However, when Love signed his $220 million contract and returned to practice, Bowden was re-signed.
Why Did the Green Bay Packers Release Peter Bowden Again?
Bowden had been competing with Matt Orzech for the starting long snapper position on the team. Orzech, who the Los Angeles Rams long snapper when they won the Super Bowl, signed with Green Bay last season.
As Packers fans are well aware, the special teams unit, particularly the field goal unit, left much to be desired last season. Their inconsistencies led to Green Bay opening up their jobs for competition. Greg Joseph is competing with Anders Carlson at kicker while Bowden and Orzech competed at long snapper.
However, rookie running back Marshawn Lloyd suffered a hamstring injury in the Packers’ 23-10 victory over the Cleveland Browns in their first preseason game. With Lloyd unable to practice, Green Bay needed another running back in camp.
As a result, they signed McCrary and released Bowden.
This Is Nate McCrary’s Second Stint with the Green Bay Packers
Wm. Glasheen USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin
The Packers already know what they are getting from newly signed running back Nate McCrary. He spent part of last preseason with Green Bay and appeared in two games. He got 11 rushing attempts which he turned into 37 yards and a touchdown.
McCrary played for the Michigan Panthers of the UFL last season, rushing for a total of 60 yards on 16 carries.
This signing does not spell the end of Bowden’s hopes to make the Packers’ 53-man roster. It is very likely he will be re-signed again once an injured player gets healthy and returns to practice.
