The Green Bay Packers made another big-time move on Tuesday, reportedly signing wide receiver Christian Watson to a one-year extension worth $13.25 million.
On the surface, the decision looks like one for the future. However, it tells us a lot about where the Packers stand on Watson, and it likely doesn't bode well for backup wide receiver Malik Heath.
Last month, Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst hinted that Watson might return from a torn ACL sooner than expected. He said the 2022 second-round pick would likely begin the season on the PUP list — which he did — but would be "chomping at the bit" to return after that. Gutekunst added that "it's going to take a lot of us to hold him back."
The Packers gave us 13 million reasons to believe that last part. The timing is everything. It's hard to imagine Green Bay would sign Watson to an extension now if there were any concern over his recovery from injury.
It's clear how much belief the Packers have in Watson. He just needs to stay healthy. And with his return from injury now firmly on the horizon, it may spell trouble for Heath's future on the team.
Christian Watson's incoming return may leave no room on the Packers' roster for Malik Heath
Heath is an underrated piece of the Packers' offense and has earned every opportunity. He overcame a slow start to the summer to clinch the final wide receiver spot on the 53-man roster, but that will likely change when Watson returns.
The Packers have five roster locks, with Romeo Doubs, Jayden Reed, Dontayvion Wicks, first-round rookie Matthew Golden, and third-rounder Savion Williams. Heath is the WR6.
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Barring a surprise Doubs trade or the even more unlikely event that the Packers roster seven receivers, Heath will almost certainly be the one to depart. And while the ideal scenario would see him re-sign to the practice squad, that's probably wishful thinking. Heath is far too talented not to get an opportunity elsewhere, and wide receiver-needy teams would undoubtedly have interest.
In that sense, Heath could benefit. He could land on a team with the potential for a larger target share.
But his time in Green Bay is likely ticking down. Watson's new deal doesn't guarantee an imminent return, but it suggests the Packers are confident in his recovery and ability to resume a significant role in the passing game.
The Packers will have to make room on the roster, and unless the team trades a veteran like Doubs, Heath's future in Green Bay is in jeopardy.