Green Bay, Wisconsin – Just 12 hours after being waived by the Green Bay Packers and immediately claimed by the Miami Dolphins, James Ester has caused a stir throughout the entire NFL community.
The 24-year-old rookie defensive tackle did not choose to leave quietly but instead made strong and emotional statements on social media.
James Ester publicly expressed his deep disappointment and resentment toward his former team.

In the posted video, Ester spoke with a clear voice and determined eyes: “I trained non-stop for two years in Green Bay, sacrificing days off, staying late to train, and giving everything I had every single day on the practice squad. But Matt LaFleur — he never once acknowledged my efforts. Not a single word of praise, not a single real opportunity. Green Bay is a place I never want to return to. Miami is where I will prove my true worth.”
Ester’s short but bitter message quickly spread and received great sympathy from NFL fans.
Ester joined the Packers as an undrafted free agent in 2024. In two seasons with Green Bay, he played a total of 49 games at the college level with 121 tackles, 20 tackles for loss, and 9 sacks before moving to the NFL.
However, he was only kept on the practice squad and never had the chance to play in any regular season game.
Many fans and analysts believe this situation reflects the harsh reality of NFL rookies.
Ester represents countless young players who work tirelessly but receive no recognition from the coaching staff.
While the Packers are restructuring their roster, the Dolphins under Jeff Hafley saw value in Ester and quickly claimed him off waivers. This is the fourth reunion of Hafley with former Packers players this offseason.
The reaction from Packers Nation has been mixed. Some believe Ester lacks patience, but the majority expressed sympathy because he had spent two years making quiet contributions without being given a real opportunity.
Head coach Matt LaFleur and the Packers leadership have not issued an official comment on Ester’s message.
With the Dolphins, Ester has the chance to compete for a real roster spot in the 2026 season. Jeff Hafley, who previously worked with him in Green Bay, is believed to have great trust in the potential of this rookie defensive tackle.
James Ester’s story has once again sparked a major discussion in the NFL about how teams treat rookies and practice squad players.
Although still young, Ester has clearly shown determination and a strong desire to be recognized. Many believe his journey in Miami will be the opportunity for him to prove the value that the Packers once overlooked.
When the Packers and Dolphins meet next season, the name James Ester will certainly receive special attention.






