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Packers shock NFL world by cutting ties with Jordan Love’s unexpected former UFL teammate in offseason twist

In a stunning move that has sent ripples through the NFL, the Green Bay Packers have parted ways with Tulu Griffin, a former United Football League (UFL) teammate of quarterback Jordan Love, in an unexpected offseason decision. The release, which came shortly after the 2025 NFL Draft, caught fans and analysts off guard, as Griffin was seen as a potential depth piece in the Packers’ crowded wide receiver room. This move underscores Green Bay’s aggressive roster reshaping as they aim to bolster their offense around Love for a championship push in 2025.

Background on Tulu Griffin and Jordan Love’s UFL Connection

Tulu Griffin and Jordan Love share a unique bond from their time together in the UFL, where both players honed their skills before making their way to the NFL. Griffin, a speedy wide receiver known for his playmaking ability, joined the Packers with hopes of carving out a role in their high-powered offense. While not a household name, his connection with Love and his potential as a depth receiver made him a player to watch during the offseason.

The Packers’ decision to sign Griffin initially raised eyebrows, as the team already boasted a deep wide receiver corps. However, the move was seen as a low-risk, high-reward addition, given Griffin’s familiarity with Love and his ability to stretch the field. Fans speculated that Love’s endorsement may have played a role in bringing Griffin to Green Bay, making the sudden release even more surprising.

The Offseason Twist: Why Griffin Was Cut

The Packers’ decision to cut Griffin appears to be a direct result of their crowded wide receiver room and strategic roster moves in the 2025 NFL Draft. Green Bay selected Texas receiver Matthew Golden in the first round, along with versatile pass-catcher Savion Williams, adding speed and depth to an already stacked group that includes Romeo Doubs, Jayden Reed, Christian Watson, Dontayvion Wicks, Mecole Hardman, Bo Melton, Malik Heath, Julian Hicks, and Cornelius Johnson. With 11 wide receivers on the roster, the team faced tough choices to trim down to a manageable number.

According to reports, the addition of Golden, who boasts 4.29 speed and is expected to complement Love’s strong arm, likely sealed Griffin’s fate. NFL Draft expert Todd McShay praised Golden as a “win for Jordan Love,” noting his ability to take the top off defenses. With established stars like Reed and Watson, alongside emerging talents like Wicks and Hardman, Griffin’s path to a roster spot became increasingly narrow.

The timing of the release, post-draft, suggests the Packers prioritized their new additions and existing talent over Griffin’s potential. While Griffin showed flashes of promise, his lack of NFL experience and the team’s depth at the position made him expendable. The move, while shocking to some, aligns with General Manager Brian Gutekunst’s philosophy of building a roster with no glaring weaknesses, particularly on offense.

Reactions from the NFL World

The NFL community was quick to react to the news, with fans and analysts expressing a mix of surprise and understanding. On social media, some Packers fans lamented the loss of Griffin, citing his chemistry with Love and his potential as a deep threat. Others, however, supported the move, pointing to the team’s embarrassment of riches at wide receiver and the need to make room for draft picks like Golden and Williams.

Analysts noted that the decision reflects Green Bay’s confidence in their current roster and their commitment to surrounding Love with elite weapons. ESPN’s coverage of the Packers’ offseason moves highlighted the team’s focus on improving around Love to elevate their standing in the NFC. The release of Griffin, while unexpected, fits into this broader strategy of prioritizing proven talent and high-upside draft picks.

Jordan Love has not publicly commented on Griffin’s release, but his influence on the team’s offseason decisions has been evident. Love’s vocal support for cornerback Jaire Alexander earlier in the offseason sparked headlines, and some speculated that he may have advocated for Griffin as well. However, with the receiver room now set, Love appears focused on building chemistry with his new and returning targets.

What’s Next for Tulu Griffin?

For Griffin, the release marks a setback but not the end of his NFL journey. At just 25 years old, he possesses the speed and athleticism to catch on with another team in need of receiver depth. Teams like the Chicago Bears, who are looking to bolster their passing attack around quarterback Caleb Williams, or the Carolina Panthers, who seek playmakers for Bryce Young, could be potential landing spots.

Griffin’s UFL experience and his connection with Love could also make him an attractive practice squad candidate for teams looking to develop young talent. While his time in Green Bay was brief, the exposure he gained with the Packers may open doors elsewhere in the league.

The Bigger Picture: Packers’ 2025 Outlook

The release of Tulu Griffin is just one piece of a busy offseason for the Packers, who are positioning themselves as contenders in 2025. With Jordan Love locked in as their franchise quarterback on a four-year, $220 million extension, Green Bay has made significant investments to support him. The signings of guard Aaron Banks and receiver Mecole Hardman, along with the draft selections of Golden and Williams, signal an all-in approach to maximizing Love’s potential.

Off the field, the Packers are navigating other roster decisions, including the uncertain future of cornerback Jaire Alexander, who has been the subject of trade rumors. Love’s public support for Alexander has added complexity to the situation, but the team’s focus remains on building a balanced roster capable of competing with the NFC’s elite.

As the offseason progresses, the Packers’ moves will continue to draw attention. The release of Griffin, while a minor footnote in the grand scheme, underscores the cutthroat nature of NFL roster building and Green Bay’s relentless pursuit of a Super Bowl. For now, the NFL world will watch closely as Jordan Love and the Packers prepare to take the next step in their championship journey.