🚨 GREEN BAY PACKERS SIGN 16 PLAYERS TO RESERVE/FUTURE CONTRACTS: OFFSEASON MOVES BEGIN 👇

The Green Bay Packers are wasting no time in building their roster for the 2026 season. On January 12, the team signed 16 players to reserve/future contracts, a move that signals the start of the offseason roster reshaping. These contracts allow the Packers to retain players from their practice squad and free agents, giving them the chance to compete for spots on the 90-man roster when training camp begins.

Who Are the 16 New Signings?

The Packers have added a variety of players to strengthen their depth across multiple positions. Here’s a breakdown of the players signed to reserve/future contracts:

• OL Brant Banks

• DL Dante Barnett

• OL Karsen Barnhart

• DL Anthony Campbell

• TE McCallan Castles

• OL Dalton Cooper

• TE Drake Dabney

• DL James Ester

• K Lucas Havrisik

• CB Tyron Herring

• LB Jamon Johnson

• RB Damien Martinez

• S Mark Perry

• WR Will Sheppard

• RB Pierre Strong Jr.

• TE Messiah Swinson

These players were either part of the Packers’ practice squad or spent time on it during the 2025 season. By signing them to reserve/future contracts, the Packers are essentially locking in their rights for the upcoming season, giving them an opportunity to compete for a spot on the official roster when training camp kicks off.

Practice Squad Standouts and Future Prospects

Some of the notable names among the signings include RB Pierre Strong Jr., who was previously with the New England Patriots, and WR Will Sheppard, who has been a consistent presence in the Packers’ practice squad this past season. Additionally, TE McCallan Castles and TE Drake Dabney are intriguing options at a position where the Packers are always looking to build depth.

OL Dalton Cooper, who played college football at Eastern Michigan, and OL Karsen Barnhart are also part of the Packers’ offensive line overhaul. The team has been focused on improving their line for future success, and these signings could help provide additional competition and depth.

Key Omissions: Hicks and Johnson Left Out

Interestingly, two receivers, Julian Hicks and Kisean Johnson, were the only players from the Packers’ practice squad that did not receive reserve/future contracts. Both were given opportunities during the season, but for now, the team has opted to move forward without them, leaving open the possibility of other free agent signings or draft picks to fill those spots.

What’s Next for the Packers?

The Packers’ roster moves reflect a strategy focused on youth development and depth building for the future. By locking in these 16 players, they are ensuring that they have a full camp roster to evaluate during the offseason, with an eye toward improving both the offense and defense.

The next steps for the Packers will likely include further moves in free agency, along with preparation for the 2026 NFL Draft. With 16 new additions already under contract, the Packers are positioning themselves to make smart decisions when the draft rolls around, ensuring they have a competitive roster for the upcoming season.