Matthew Golden and Savion Williams. That’s the short list of Green Bay Packers wide receivers locked in beyond 2026. With such limited depth, the Packers have some pivotal decisions to make this offseason, starting with next month's draft.
Christian Watson is likely to join that list soon. Last summer, the Packers extended him for just one year, mainly due to his recovery from a significant knee injury.
However, it seems inevitable that Watson will ink a multi-year deal in the coming months. Beyond him, the Packers face a bit of a mystery at this key position.
The Packers might surprise us by drafting a wide receiver earlier than anticipated. General manager Brian Gutekunst is always planning ahead, as evidenced by his savvy free-agency moves. He managed to bolster the team by acquiring linebacker Zaire Franklin and signing defensive tackle Javon Hargrave, both without affecting the four compensatory draft picks projected for 2027.
Gutekunst’s strategy often involves using the draft to meet future needs. With Romeo Doubs and Rasheed Walker moving on in free agency, the groundwork was already laid by drafting Matthew Golden and Jordan Morgan. Drafting Anthony Belton and trading up for Jordan Love are classic examples of Gutekunst’s forward-thinking approach.
The Packers have already seen Doubs depart, and next offseason, Jayden Reed and Dontayvion Wicks will be facing contract renewals. Retaining both could be challenging, especially if Watson’s extension happens this offseason. Plus, Tucker Kraft is in line for a significant payday.
Golden is expected to take on a larger role this season, and the Packers will need more from Williams. Gutekunst might start planning for the 2027 free agency by adding another receiver in April. Golden showed promising potential as a rookie, but Williams has yet to make a significant impact on offense.
Even if Watson secures a multi-year extension, that still leaves only three receivers under contract beyond 2026. The return of either Reed or Wicks in 2027 isn’t guaranteed, adding more uncertainty to the mix.
Gutekunst’s foresight was evident last year with the drafting of Golden and Belton. With Doubs now in New England and a looming question mark over the wide receiver group post-2026, don’t be shocked if the Packers draft another pass-catcher this April, possibly earlier than anyone expects.