Packers Potential Cap Casualty Has Strong Bengals Connection Amid Free Agency

Rashan Gary could be a target for the Cincinnati Bengals if the Green Bay Packers release him.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Green Bay Packers are facing a number of free agents this offseason, including linebacker Quay Walker and defensive end Rashan Gary. If the Packers release Gary as a cap casualty, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reports that the Cincinnati Bengals are expected to be aggressive in pursuing him, with new Bengals defensive line coach Jerry Montgomery having previously worked with Gary in Green Bay.

Why it matters

The Bengals struggled defensively last season, ranking near the bottom of the league in several key categories. Losing two of their top pass rushers in free agency could further weaken their defensive front, making Gary a potential high-profile target to help address those issues.

The details

Gary has recorded 46.5 career sacks over seven NFL seasons with the Packers. He is projected to command around $23.7 million per year on a four-year deal. The Bengals could face significant turnover on their defensive line, with Trey Hendrickson and Joseph Ossai both expected to hit free agency. Releasing Gary would save the Packers approximately $19.5 million in cap space.

  • The 2026 NFL free agency period begins on March 18.

The players

Rashan Gary

A defensive end for the Green Bay Packers who is a potential cap casualty this offseason.

Jerry Montgomery

The new defensive line coach for the Cincinnati Bengals, who previously worked with Rashan Gary in Green Bay.

Trey Hendrickson

A defensive end for the Cincinnati Bengals who is expected to hit free agency.

Joseph Ossai

A defensive end for the Cincinnati Bengals who is expected to hit free agency.

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What they’re saying

“The team that could prove most aggressive on the defensive free agent market is Cincinnati, which is exploring just about every position group. Edge rusher Rashan Gary is a name to watch here should the Packers move on. New Bengals defensive line coach Jerry Montgomery was with Gary in Green Bay.”

— Jeremy Fowler, ESPN Reporter (ESPN)

What’s next

The Packers will need to decide whether to release Rashan Gary as a cap casualty before the start of free agency on March 18.

The takeaway

The Bengals' defensive struggles last season and potential turnover on their defensive line make Rashan Gary an intriguing free agent target, especially given his prior connection to new Bengals defensive line coach Jerry Montgomery.