NFL journalist Aaron Wilson reported that the Green Bay Packers officially inked two out of their three exclusive rights free agents, namely running back Emanuel Wilson and punter Daniel Whelan, at the onset of the team’s organized team activities. Typically, the Packers delay signing exclusive rights-free agents until they physically arrive in Green Bay.
Exclusive rights Free agents are players who have played fewer than three NFL seasons and have had their previous contracts expire. These individuals often transitioned from practice squads as undrafted free agents or were recruited from spring football leagues.
Under the ERFA process, the Packers can extend a tender to these players, which essentially obligates them to sign if they wish to continue playing in the NFL, securing them on a cost-effective one-year contract. However, by 2025, Wilson and Whelan will transition to restricted free agents, subject to tenders ranging from $2.99 million to $6.82 million this offseason.
Wilson embarked on his NFL journey with the Denver Broncos, signing as an undrafted free agent last season. He joined Green Bay in May and showcased his skills during a stellar preseason, accumulating 38 carries for 223 yards and two touchdowns. He is anticipated to occupy the third running back position for the Packers, trailing newly acquired Josh Jacobs and re-signed AJ Dillon.
Whelan spent the 2022 offseason with the New Orleans Saints after going undrafted from UC Davis. His recognition as an All-XFL player in 2023 earned him another shot at an NFL roster spot. He secured the Packers’ sole punter position last summer, outperforming veteran Pat O’Donnell with an average of 46.2 yards per punt and 18 punts inside the 20-yard line.
Notably absent from the signings is tackle Caleb Jones, the Packers’ third and final exclusive rights free agent in 2024. It is possible that Jones has yet to attend the Packers’ OTAs, so concerns about further offensive line depth depletion may be premature. Standing at 6’9” and weighing 370 pounds, Jones has been on the Packers’ roster for the past two seasons but has only participated in one NFL game in his professional career.