The Green Bay Packers have decided not to place a tender on running back Emanuel Wilson, making him an unrestricted free agent this offseason, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. This marks the first time Wilson will enter free agency without restrictions since joining the NFL.
Emanuel Wilson’s Journey to Free Agency
Wilson, 26, initially signed as an undrafted free agent with the Denver Broncos after coming out of Fort Valley State in May but was released after just a few days. Shortly after, the Packers picked him up and he earned a spot on their active roster following the preseason. Last year, Wilson was retained on an exclusive rights tender and later re-signed by Green Bay on a one-year contract for the 2024 season.
Performance Overview During Packers Tenure
In the 2025 season, Wilson appeared in all 17 regular-season games, rushing 125 times for 496 yards, averaging four yards per carry. He also caught 15 passes for 99 yards and scored three touchdowns, demonstrating his value as a versatile back for the Packers.
What This Means for Wilson and the Packers
Without a tender in place, Wilson is free to negotiate with any team. This shift could impact the Packers’ backfield depth as they consider their roster options moving forward. For Wilson, entering unrestricted free agency opens new opportunities to explore offers across the NFL this offseason.
The Packers are not placing a tender on running back Emanuel Wilson, per source.
He will be a free agent. Rushed for 496 yards and three touchdowns last year,l.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) February 28, 2026
