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Cut Just Days Before Bears Game, Packers Rookie WR Declares He’s Willing to Take a Pay Cut — Even Return to Practice Squad Just to Earn One More Chance with Green Bay

Green Bay, Wisconsin – 12/03/2025

The Green Bay Packers shocked many by waiving rookie wide receiver Will Sheppard just days before their crucial Week 14 matchup against the Chicago Bears. With Matthew Golden and Jayden Reed nearing returns from injury, Sheppard became the casualty of roster maneuvering. It was a harsh blow to the NFL dreams of a player who had only been elevated to the active roster one week earlier for the Thanksgiving game.

Surprising Packers rookie could force Green Bay to make a tough decision

Despite the cut, Sheppard faced the media head-on and displayed admirable character. In his interview following the team’s decision, he appeared calm yet full of determination. “Give me one more shot,” Sheppard said, his voice carrying both plea and the pride of a fighter. “I’m willing to take a pay cut, willing to go back to the practice squad — whatever it takes. I just want to keep fighting for Green Bay because I believe I still have something to contribute to this team.”

Sheppard, an undrafted rookie who joined the Packers in July, has been battling nonstop just to stay in the NFL. He was previously cut during preseason, returned via the practice squad, and then earned another promotion to the active roster. Though he has yet to see significant playing time, Sheppard is highly regarded for his route-running and relentless work ethic. That has earned his story widespread sympathy from fans.

Insiders report that Sheppard’s work ethic and professionalism left a strong impression on the coaching staff. Many Packers analysts even believe he still has a real chance of returning if the team needs added receiver depth late in the season. While he hasn’t put up notable NFL stats, Sheppard’s determination and commitment are considered valuable assets in the Packers’ young locker room.

As the Packers prepare for a critical battle at Lambeau Field, Will Sheppard enters the toughest stretch of his young career. But with his sincere plea and never-quit attitude, he has already touched the hearts of Packers Nation. If any player deserves one more opportunity to prove himself, many believe Will Sheppard is that player.

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With the Risk That Travis Kelce Could End His Career After the Season, Chiefs Are Reportedly Ready to Pull Off a Blockbuster for a Young Tight End — the Player Legends Call “Tony Gonzalez 2.0” With an Irresistible Contract Offer
As the season enters its decisive phase, Travis Kelce’s future is starting to become a big question mark in Kansas City. Signs of decline, physical pressure, and age are forcing the Chiefs to think beyond the present. In that context, rumors about the team preparing to “make a move” for a young tight end Kyle Pitts — who is being compared to Tony Gonzalez — have quickly spread, like a historic transition. According to sideline sources, the name being mentioned is a young star at the tight end position — someone NFL insider Art Stapleton described as the type of player who could develop into “Tony Gonzalez 2.0” if placed in the right system. With his size, ability to separate, and play in open space, this player is seen as the ideal piece to inherit the iconic role Kelce will leave behind. What makes the story noteworthy is the possibility of the Chiefs approaching with a “sweetheart deal” — attractive in terms of role, system, and championship opportunities, more than just the numbers on paper. With Patrick Mahomes at the center, Kansas City believes they can unlock the full potential of Kyle Pitts in a way very few teams can. When asked about these rumors, head coach Andy Reid didn’t hide his excitement: “I always love tight ends who can do multiple things,” Reid shared. “Players with size, skill, and the right football mindset can change an entire offensive system. If there’s a chance to work with a talent like that in the future, I think any coach would be excited.” Those words were enough to fuel even more speculation. Though there’s no official confirmation yet, the message from Kansas City is quite clear: the Chiefs are preparing for the post-Kelce era. If “Tony Gonzalez 2.0” truly arrives at Arrowhead, it won’t just be a transfer deal — it will be a declaration that the Chiefs won’t let the tight end position become a weakness. With Andy Reid and Mahomes, that future sounds anything but distant.