Rob Goldberg@@TheRobGoldbergFeatured Columnist IVMarch 14, 2022
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According to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network, the Green Bay Packers have parted ways with Za&Darius Smith. Billy Turner will also be released.

According to Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, Smith's deal frees up 15 million in cap space, since he originally had a $28.6 million cap hit.

Turner had a $9.2 million number for the upcoming season, but the move should save $4.2 million against the cap.

The moves were made after the Packers agreed to a four-year extension with Smith, which helped clear space in the salary cap.

Green Bay entered the day with the most over the cap in the league.

The team is still trying to sign Adams to a long-term deal, despite the fact that he won't play on the franchise tag. If no deal is reached, the All-Pro will make $20.1 million on a one-year tender.

Za'Darius Smith went on injured reserve with a back injury after playing just one regular-season game. He came back in time for the playoffs, but the Packers lost to the 49ers.

The 29-year-old could be one of the best defenders on the market. Smith was selected to the Pro Bowl in each of his first two years in Green Bay. He was named second-team All-Pro in 2020 after getting 12.5 sacks.

The Packers can move forward with both Gary and Smith leading the pass rush, but Za'Darius Smith would be an impact player on most rosters.

Turner has spent time at multiple positions during his three years in Green Bay. He shifted to the left tackle in place of the injured David Bakhtiari in 2020. He has experience at guard earlier in his career.

The versatile 30-year-old is an intriguing free agent for teams looking to upgrade the offensive line.

With Dennis Kelly also a free agent, the Packers could turn to Yosuah Nijman or Cole Van Lanen to fill Turner's role on the offensive line.