The Green Bay Packers have made a shocking decision by officially releasing rookie wide receiver Janke, less than three weeks after signing him on May 14, 2025. Janke, an undrafted player from South Dakota State, had previously tried out with the Houston Texans and Miami Dolphins before being given a chance by the Packers for the 2025 season. However, the reason behind this release has caught many by surprise: an injury.
Who is Jadon Janke, Green Bay Packers WR ex-signee?
he Packers signed Janke, who went undrafted in 2024 after four years with the Jackrabbits, on May 14, less than three weeks ago. He had previously taken summer reps with the Texans and Dolphins. Green Bay decided to give him a chance in 2025, but that chance did not last long. Hampered by injury, a player like Janke does not, unfortunately, justify taking up a roster spot.
Janke enjoyed a successful career at South Dakota, increasing his numbers every season until he peaked at 57 receptions, 946 yards and 10 touchdowns as a senior in 2023. He finished his college days with 170 catches for 2,800 yards and 30 receiving scores, in addition to a rushing touchdown.
According to writer Zach Kruse at Packers Wire, Janke appeared in three preseason games in 2024 between Houston and Miami, recording one catch in 39 snaps of action.
The Madison, South Dakota native is now 25 years old.
The Future of the Packers’ Receiving Corps
In the wake of Janke’s release, the Packers have moved quickly to bolster their wide receiver position. The team signed Sam Brown Jr., an undrafted player from the University of Miami, on May 29. Brown had a notable 2024 season with 36 receptions and 509 yards. Additionally, two rookies drafted in April, Matthew Golden (23rd overall) and Savion Williams (87th overall), are expected to play significant roles in the lineup. Golden, in particular, with his speed and standout skills, has been making a strong impression during OTAs (Organized Team Activities).
Recapping Green Bay Packers May cuts and signings
Janke is the second receiver the Packers have cut in recent weeks, following Tulu Griffin’s release back on May 5. Like Janke, Griffin last played in college in 2023 and has not appeared in an official NFL game.
Again per Kruse at Packers Wire, other departures include defensive end Jeremiah Martin (May 29), cornerback Kaleb Hayes (May 21) and offensive lineman Marquis Hayes (May 12). Also last month, the Packers signed CB Gregory Junior and quarterback Taylor Elgersma.
As far as incoming pass-catchers, Green Bay brought in Sam Brown Jr. on May 29, an undrafted senior out of Miami. In 2024 for the Hurricanes, he caught 36 passes for 509 yards.
Along with Brown, the Packers earlier welcomed Matthew Golden (selected 23rd overall) and Savion Williams (87th) during April’s draft. Golden should play an integral role in the receiver room as a rookie.
After OTAs wrap up on June 5, the next date to look forward to will be the beginning of mandatory minicamp, which runs June 10-12.