Green Bay Packers first surprise: Rajion Neal cut

The Green Bay Packers are in the midst of their roster trimming, and the first surprise is the release of running back Rajion Neal. An injury holdover from the 2014 season, the undrafted Neal had looked strong throughout the preseason for the Green Bay Packers and had been given the majority of the third-string snaps out of the backfield.

The Packers are releasing Rajion Neal, per a source. That's the biggest surprise so far. He had been the No. 3... http://t.co/hUwggVjgVc
— Rob Demovsky (@RobDemovsky) September 5, 2015

Neal carried the football just 17 times this preseason, good for 69 yards and a yards-per-carry of 4.1. He did get fed as a receiver, however, catching 11 balls for 86 yards and a touchdown. This was expected to be his ticket to a roster spot in Green Bay, especially if he could stand out as a pass protector, but it seems the Packers have chosen to lean towards another young back.

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While no announcement has been made on the undrafted rookie Alonzo Harris, the explosive John Crockett now becomes the favorite for the Packers’ third job behind Eddie Lacy and James Starks. The North Dakota State star got a long look through the preseason after returning from an injury earlier in the summer, and does have three-down potential should that ever be needed.

Crockett rushed 26 times this preseason for 96 yards, averaging under four yards-per-carry. His week four performance may have set him apart against the New Orleans Saints, where he highlighted a 42-yard day with a 15-yard touchdown scamper. Crockett also added seven receptions for 72 yards and a score.

Next: Packers thrilled with Hundley's incredible preseason

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