3 Packers who could be cut before playing a snap in 2022

WR Sammy Watkins

The Packers signed Sammy Watkins in free agency this offseason. While it would be a surprise if he didn’t make the initial 53-man roster, there is absolutely no guarantee he will.

Watkins’ contract makes it easy for Green Bay to move on, should the team wish.

According to Over The Cap, Watkins’ cap hit is just $1.77 million. If the Packers moved on, they would be left with a dead cap hit of only $350,000.

So, why would the Packers consider not keeping Watkins on the roster?

It all comes down to competition.

How many spots on the roster will Green Bay realistically save for the wide receiver position? Six? Maybe seven?

Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs are roster locks. That is two. It would be a huge surprise if Randall Cobb didn’t make the roster given his connection with Aaron Rodgers. That is three.

Amari Rodgers? He isn’t going anywhere. That is four. Allen Lazard? He could be the Packers’ WR1 to begin the season. Five.

That leaves one, maybe two spots left. Watkins would need to outperform Malik Taylor, Juwann Winfree, and Samori Toure to make the 53. There is a good chance he does, but it is no guarantee.

Taylor is proven on special teams. That matters. Watkins has played four career snaps on special teams, according to Pro Football Reference.

Winfree has impressed in training camp in the past. Toure was a draft pick.

And what if the Packers were to sign a free agent like Julio Jones?

Is there a good chance Watkins makes the Packers’ roster? Yes, but he will need to play well over the summer.