🚨 PACKERS FREE AGENCY: JONATHAN GANNON’S NOSE TACKLE DALVIN TOMLINSON RELEASED – COULD BE A TARGET FOR GREEN BAY 👇

Green Bay, WI – The Green Bay Packers are likely making moves in free agency to strengthen their defensive line this offseason, and the release of Dalvin Tomlinson by the Arizona Cardinals could be a key opportunity for the team to explore. As reported by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Tomlinson, a 6’3″, 335-pound nose tackle, was released after his $16.2 million cap charge for the 2026 season became too much for the Cardinals to handle. This comes just one year after Tomlinson signed a two-year, $29 million deal with the team.

Dalvin Tomlinson’s Background: A Consistent and Experienced Nose Tackle

Tomlinson, who played under Packers defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon in Arizona, has been a fixture in the NFL for nine seasons. Since being drafted 55th overall in the 2017 draft by the New York Giants, Tomlinson has played for the Minnesota Vikings, Cleveland Browns, and the Cardinals, starting every game in his career. Over the course of 142 games, Tomlinson has established himself as one of the most consistent and durable defensive linemen in the league, particularly against the run.

In 2025, Tomlinson ranked as the 11th-most-played nose tackle in the NFL, according to Pro Football Focus. His role as a starter for Gannon in Arizona and his experience across several NFL teams make him an attractive option for the Packers, who are searching for a solution at the nose tackle position. Only DJ Reader of the Detroit Lions played more snaps at nose tackle last year than Tomlinson, further solidifying his importance and reliability in the trenches.

Why the Packers Should Be Interested in Tomlinson

The Packers’ defense showed promise in 2025, ranking as the top overall defense during the early part of the season. However, as the year wore on, the team struggled with consistency, especially in defending long, run-heavy drives. This inefficiency was particularly noticeable at the nose tackle position, a gap that needs to be addressed in Green Bay’s plans. The Colby Wooden experiment to replace Kenny Clark, who was traded to the Dallas Cowboys for Micah Parsons, did not produce the desired results, leaving the Packers in need of a solid and reliable option in the middle of their defensive line.

Tomlinson, with his combination of size, experience, and durability, could be the perfect fit for Green Bay’s 3-4 defense. His ability to clog running lanes, take on blockers, and allow the Packers’ linebackers to flow freely would be invaluable in stopping opponents’ ground games. Furthermore, his experience under Gannon and ability to thrive in a similar defensive system would make his transition to Green Bay smoother than most free-agent acquisitions.

What the Packers Need at Nose Tackle

With TJ Salton leaving in free agency and the lack of a clear-cut starter to replace Kenny Clark, the Packers must find a way to stabilize the interior of their defensive line. Tomlinson could be an ideal target, given his familiarity with Gannon’s coaching style and his track record of being a reliable force in the middle. If Green Bay were to sign Tomlinson, he would provide them with a veteran presence and an upgrade to their front seven.

It’s also worth noting that other nose tackle options are available, including Khyiris Tonga of the New England Patriots and Roy Lopez of the Detroit Lions, both of whom have played under Gannon in the past. Javon Hargrave, another potential target, could also be available after his expected release from the Minnesota Vikings. However, Tomlinson’s connection to Gannon, combined with his extensive experience, makes him a natural fit for the Packers.

What This Means for the Packers’ Salary Cap and Free Agency Plans

Signing Tomlinson would be a cost-effective move for the Packers, especially considering the $5.755 million in cap savings that the Cardinals will gain by releasing him. With Green Bay’s salary cap space available, Tomlinson could be a solid addition without putting the Packers in a financial bind.

The Packers will need to evaluate their priorities this offseason, but securing a proven nose tackle could be one of the most important moves for the defense. With the release of Tomlinson and other key players like Hargrave potentially available, Green Bay will have options to fortify their defensive line and get back to their early-season form.