Story perspectives

Packers Keep Streak Alive, Cut Key Players

8/28/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Green Bay Packers retained undrafted free agent Nazir Stackhouse, maintaining a 20-year streak of such players on the 53-man roster.
Quarterback Sean Clifford and cornerback Kalen King were cut, with Clifford expected to return to the practice squad.
Veterans Mecole Hardman and Isaiah Simmons were released after disappointing preseason performances.
Irish kicker Mark McNamee joined the Packers through the International Player Pathway program, and punter Dan Whelan was re-signed.

History

Historical Context

The NFL's International Player Pathway program, launched in 2003, aimed to integrate global talent into the league. This initiative enabled teams like the Green Bay Packers to recruit international players, such as kicker Mark McNamee. The Packers' ongoing practice of retaining undrafted free agents for two decades underscores their strategy of developing overlooked talent, reflecting the league's evolving approach to roster management.

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Story summary

The Green Bay Packers retained undrafted free agent Nazir Stackhouse, maintaining a 20-year streak of such players on the 53-man roster.
Quarterback Sean Clifford and cornerback Kalen King were cut, with Clifford expected to return to the practice squad.
Veterans Mecole Hardman and Isaiah Simmons were released after disappointing preseason performances.
Irish kicker Mark McNamee joined the Packers through the International Player Pathway program, and punter Dan Whelan was re-signed.

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