Green Bay Packers: A Perfect Fit For The Offensive Line Just Hit Free Agency
The Green Bay Packers have many questions on their offensive line to answer this offseason. One AFC team might be helping. The Miami Dolphins, under new General Manager and former Packers executive Jon-Eric Sullivan, made a series of cuts this week, and one name should have Green Bay’s attention: offensive guard James Daniels.
While many fans and analysts are clamoring for the Packers to pursue a high-profile pass rusher, a smart, strategic signing like Daniels could be exactly what the team needs to solidify its offensive front. He offers versatility, a proven track record, and a potential bargain price tag that fits perfectly with Green Bay’s needs.
James Daniels Is A Perfect Fit For The Green Bay Packers
Daniels’ tenure with the Miami Dolphins was unfortunately short and marred by bad luck. After signing a three-year, $24 million contract in the 2025 offseason, he suffered a pectoral injury just three snaps into the season opener. He never returned to the field.
The Dolphins, looking to rebuild and clear cap space, made the easy decision to release him. The move saves them money and allows them to invest in younger players through the draft. However, Miami’s loss could be Green Bay’s significant gain. Daniels is now a street free agent, meaning he can be signed immediately and won’t count against the all-important compensatory draft pick formula.
A Perfect Fit for the Packers’ Offensive Line
The Green Bay Packers are facing some critical questions along their offensive line. Starting left tackle Rasheed Walker and center Sean Rhyan are both heading into free agency, potentially leaving two massive holes. On top of that, veteran center Elgton Jenkins is considered a potential cut candidate due to his contract, and the team may want to move Jordan Morgan to left tackle full-time.
This creates a clear and urgent need for experienced, versatile interior offensive linemen. James Daniels fits that description perfectly.
Throughout his NFL career, Daniels has proven he can play all three interior positions at a high level:
- Right Guard: 3,437 snaps
- Left Guard: 1,626 snaps
- Center: 508 snaps
This kind of positional flexibility is exactly what the Packers value. Daniels could step in as a starting-caliber guard or provide elite depth across the entire interior of the line. He could compete for a starting job or serve as the primary backup at both guard spots and center—a “super-sub” role that is invaluable over the course of a long season.
A Smart, Low-Risk Investment
Just a year ago, Daniels was coming off a career year with the Pittsburgh Steelers and earned a substantial contract. Now, coming off an injury-lost season, his market value has inevitably decreased. This allows a team like the Packers to sign a proven veteran for a fraction of what he would have cost in a normal free-agent market.
His pectoral injury in 2025, while season-ending, is not considered a long-term career risk. He should be fully healthy and ready to contribute to the 2026 season. For a team in a championship window, acquiring a player of Daniels’ caliber on a team-friendly “prove-it” deal is the kind of savvy move that pays huge dividends.
General Manager Brian Gutekunst has a similar philosophy for evaluating offensive linemen as his former colleague Jon-Eric Sullivan. However, the Packers and Dolphins are in completely different situations. Miami is rebuilding, while Green Bay is contending. Gutekunst can take advantage of his peers’ roster cuts to fortify his own.
The Big Picture for Green Bay
While adding a star pass rusher like Bradley Chubb is an exciting prospect, building a championship team is about more than just splashy signings. It’s about fortifying the trenches and ensuring your star quarterback has the protection he needs to succeed.
Signing James Daniels would be a quiet but brilliant move. It addresses a clear position of need, adds a versatile veteran with starting experience, and does so without compromising the team’s salary cap or future draft assets. It’s a low-risk, high-reward opportunity that Green Bay cannot afford to ignore. While the big names get the headlines, a signing like this could be the difference-maker that keeps the Packers’ offense humming in 2026.
