It’s not a surprise that Packers linebacker A.J. Hawk got released Wednesday considering the huge bonus on his contract. It also wouldn’t be a surprise if Hawk returned to the team.
Heck, it’s even possible Hawk could return to the team by the end of Thursday.
Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports Hawk and the Packers will continue to talk through tomorrow night in hopes of getting a deal done. While that will be tough to accomplish, it’s a good sign that both sides would like to come up with a contract that makes sense.
Mike McCarthy indicated at the Combine that Desmond Bishop was locked into a starting job at inside linebacker, which would indicate that Hawk and Nick Barnett would likely get the other gig. If the Packers can get Hawk back at a reasonable rate, Barnett could get the boot.
The Packers officially confirmed Hawk’s release and also announced the release of tight end Donald Lee and safety Derrick Martin. G.M. Ted Thompson wished Lee and Martin well, but hoped Hawk would be back.
“With A.J., the business side of the game is driving this decision,” Thompson said. “We’re hopeful that we can continue to work with A.J. to have him be a part of our team in the future.”