Packers Activate Jayden Reed, Release Malik Heath in Pre-Bears Roster Shake-Up
The Green Bay Packers made a notable roster move ahead of their crucial NFC North clash with the Chicago Bears, activating wide receiver Jayden Reed from injured reserve. While Reed’s return adds another playmaker to the Packers’ offensive arsenal, the corresponding move raised eyebrows: Green Bay released third-year wideout Malik Heath.
Heath, a former undrafted free agent, had carved out a role in Green Bay as a reliable depth piece and special teams contributor. At 6-foot-2, the 25-year-old brought size, physicality, and versatility - traits that helped him stick around through multiple roster cycles. But with the Packers getting healthier at wide receiver, and Reed back in the fold, Heath became the odd man out.
Through 11 games this season, Heath logged six catches on seven targets for 86 yards. He was inactive in Week 11 against the Giants due to a coach’s decision but suited up in Green Bay’s last two games against the Vikings and Lions. While his offensive opportunities were limited, Heath’s value came in his ability to contribute wherever needed - whether that was blocking on the perimeter, covering kicks, or filling in during injury-plagued stretches.
Still, in today’s NFL, depth receivers have to maximize every snap. And in a young Packers receiver room that’s been steadily developing, there’s only so much room to go around.
What’s Next for Heath?
Heath now hits the waiver wire, where any of the league’s 31 other teams can claim him. If he clears waivers, a return to Green Bay via the practice squad is possible - but far from guaranteed.
The Packers already have six wide receivers on their active roster, and that doesn’t include Bo Melton, who adds flexibility with his ability to contribute on both sides of the ball. On the practice squad, Green Bay has a trio of young receivers - Isaiah Neyor, Will Sheppard, and Jakobie Keeney-James - who are developmental projects with upside. The team may prefer to invest snaps and reps into that group rather than bringing Heath back into the mix.
Even before his release, Heath’s long-term future in Green Bay was uncertain. He was set to become a restricted free agent this offseason, which would have allowed the Packers to match any outside offer.
But with just 31 career receptions for 308 yards and three touchdowns, it’s unlikely another team would’ve come calling with a significant deal. The Packers could have also chosen not to tender him, which would have made him an unrestricted free agent.
Now, that decision may have been made early.
A Familiar NFL Reality
This is the tough part of the business. Heath did everything right - worked his way up from undrafted status, made plays on special teams, stayed ready when called upon. But the NFL doesn’t always reward perseverance with job security, especially at a position where teams are constantly churning the bottom of the depth chart in search of explosive upside.
That said, Heath isn’t out of options. Teams dealing with injuries or looking for a physical, reliable receiver to round out their roster could take a flier. And if he clears waivers, Green Bay might still keep the door cracked open - just not on the 53-man roster.
The next 24 to 48 hours will be telling. Whether he’s claimed, re-signed to the practice squad, or exploring a fresh start elsewhere, Malik Heath’s journey isn’t over. But his path back to the Packers just got a lot more complicated.