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Giants $40 Million Cut Candidate Could Draw Interest From Packers, Bears and Bills
Veteran linebacker Bobby Okereke may be released by the Giants due to declining performance in recent seasons.
Published on Feb. 17, 2026
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The New York Giants are considering cutting veteran linebacker Bobby Okereke, who signed a four-year, $40 million contract in 2023. Okereke's play has declined in recent years, and the Giants could save $9 million in cap space by releasing him. The Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers, and Buffalo Bills could all have interest in Okereke if he hits the open market, as they all have needs at linebacker and limited cap space.
Why it matters
Okereke was a key part of the Giants' defense, but his declining performance has made him a potential cap casualty. His release could provide an opportunity for the Bears, Packers, and Bills to add a cost-effective veteran linebacker to their rosters.
The details
According to reports, Okereke will be the Giants' biggest cap decision this offseason. The team can create $9 million in cap savings by cutting him, although they would have to absorb $5.5 million in dead money. Okereke's performance has declined in recent years, with his PFF grades dropping significantly in 2025. The Bears, Packers, and Bills could all be interested in Okereke, as they all have needs at linebacker and limited cap space to work with.
- Okereke signed a four-year, $40 million contract with the Giants in 2023.
- In 2025, Okereke's PFF grades declined across the board, including 45.5 in run defense, 50.2 in tackling, 65.5 in pass-rush, and 65.2 in coverage.
The players
Bobby Okereke
A veteran linebacker who signed a four-year, $40 million contract with the New York Giants in 2023. His play has declined in recent years, making him a potential cap casualty for the Giants.
Tremaine Edmunds
A linebacker for the Chicago Bears who could be a potential cap casualty, opening up a need at the position.
Quay Walker
A linebacker for the Green Bay Packers who could hit free agency this offseason, leaving the team with a need at the position.
Matt Milano
A linebacker for the Buffalo Bills who is set to hit free agency this offseason, potentially leaving the team in need of a replacement.
What they’re saying
“Okereke will be the biggest cap decision. The Giants can create $9 million in cap savings while eating $5.5 million in dead money if they cut him this offseason.”
— Dan Duggan, Reporter (The Athletic)
What’s next
The Giants will need to decide whether to keep Okereke on the roster or release him, which could open up opportunities for the Bears, Packers, and Bills to sign him as a free agent.
The takeaway
This situation highlights the difficult salary cap decisions teams face in the NFL, as well as the potential for veteran players to find new opportunities if they are released by their current teams. Okereke's decline in performance could make him an affordable option for the Bears, Packers, and Bills as they look to bolster their linebacker corps.
