The Green Bay Packers have been largely disappointing in the free agency market, apparently losing more important players than they’ve acquired, despite being noticeably below the top-tier teams in the NFC. Green Bay boasts a solid core, yet enhancements are necessary in some vital backup roles.

Much attention has been focused on the team’s need for superior pass-catchers, especially a legitimate top-tier wide receiver, and there’s also potential for growth at the tight end spot. Tucker Kraft appears to be leading the pack once more, poised to embrace a larger role. Nonetheless, the Packers have a significant number of tight ends on the roster and recently made an unexpected signing that could jeopardize a struggling veteran’s position.

Packers Put TE Johnny Lumpkin in Jeopardy With John FitzPatrick Re-Signing. In an official statement via the Packers’ team account on X (formerly known as Twitter), they announced the re-signing of fourth-year tight end John FitzPatrick. Initially selected in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons, the six-foot-seven, 262-pound blocking specialist is an intriguing addition.

The most noteworthy aspect, however, is its effect on the rest of the lineup. FitzPatrick is now the sixth tight end contracted for 2025. Clearly, the Packers won’t retain all of them. This implies that Johnny Lumpkin, currently at the bottom of the pecking order, may see his NFL aspirations dashed.

Lumpkin, who will be 28 as the season kicks off, has never played in an NFL game. He’s rotated through practice squads after entering the league as an undrafted free agent, holding onto his dreams of a professional football career despite the slim chances. Fans should support Lumpkin as an individual, although the organization seems to prefer FitzPatrick and several of his counterparts.

This signing results in Green Bay having an excess of players at a position that doesn’t require extensive depth, indicating that Lumpkin might be an early cut when training camp begins.