This seems to make it pretty clear the Green Bay Packers WERE going to release running back Ty Montgomery if they couldn’t trade him today.
They traded Montgomery to the Baltimore Ravens for a seventh-round pick and it’s not even next year. It’s in 2020.
Montgomery was originally a third-round pick. Basically, Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst said we’re getting rid of this guy one way or another. I will take anything for him.
What to say?
I feel bad for Montgomery. He’s a good guy and he did a lot in the state of Wisconsin. He went from starting running back to third-string in the course of a year. This, after he switched positions from receiver. That’s a team guy who cares about his community.
On the flip side, after what transpired over the past couple days, a change of scenery was probably in the interest of both parties. After his fumbled kickoff cost the Packers a chance to beat the Rams, Aaron Rodgers was ticked. Montgomery was also called out by an unnamed teammate for being selfish.
He was blasted and even received death threats on social media.
The following day, Montgomery defended himself and expressed frustration over his role. The message: I want to help this team, but I don’t know how I can in my current role.
That’s understandable.
The problem is, Montgomery had created some sort of division in the locker room. Some players had his back. Some clearly didn’t.
The trade — or rather, the compensation accepted — shows that the Packers were hell bent on moving on. It was the right move for the team.
Let’s not pile on Montgomery too much. Yes, he made a huge error in judgment, but the way he has been treated since then by some people is appalling.
We wish you well, Ty Montgomery. Hopefully, you’re now on a team that actually knows what to do with you.