MJ Devonshire Jr. and James Ester were part of a roster adjustment by the Green Bay Packers as the team continues shaping its lineup ahead of the 2026 NFL season. The move reflects an ongoing effort to refine depth and competition across key positions.
Devonshire was added after being claimed off waivers, giving the Packers another option in the secondary. He enters the roster with an opportunity to compete for a role, bringing added versatility and depth to the defensive backfield.
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Devonshire’s arrival aligns with Green Bay’s emphasis on building a more dynamic defense. The team has shown a willingness to evaluate new talent and provide opportunities for players who can contribute in multiple ways, particularly in coverage situations.
To make room for the addition, the Packers released James Ester as part of the corresponding move. Ester’s departure highlights the constant competition within the roster, where decisions are often based on immediate needs and long-term potential.
Green Bay Packers Sign MJ Devonshire Jr. and Release James Ester Amid NFL Offseason
Green Bay has made two roster moves by signing Devonshire while releasing Easter at the same time amid the NFL offseason. This can be seen in an update posted by the team’s official website.
The Green Bay Packers claimed CB MJ Devonshire Jr. off waivers from the Buffalo Bills and released DT James Ester. The transactions were announced Wednesday by General Manager Brian Gutekunst.
Devonshire Jr. (5-11, 186), a first-year player, was originally selected by the Las Vegas Raiders in the seventh round (No. 229 overall) of the 2024 NFL Draft out of the University of Pittsburgh. He spent his rookie season on the practice squad of the Raiders. In 2025, Devonshire spent time with the Carolina Panthers in the offseason before joining the Baltimore Ravens for most of training camp. He spent parts of December 2025 on the Buffalo Bills’ practice squad. In college, Devonshire played in 12 games for the University of Kentucky (2019-20) and appeared in 38 contests with 18 starts for Pitt (2021-23), earning second-team All-ACC honors after his final season. He will wear No. 28 for the Packers.
Roster adjustments like this are common during the offseason as teams work to identify the best combination of players heading into training camp. The Packers continue to evaluate their depth chart while creating opportunities for newcomers to establish themselves.
The latest move underscores Green Bay’s commitment to competition and improvement. As preparations for the season continue, players like Devonshire will look to make the most of their opportunities while the team works toward finalizing its roster.
