General Manager Brian Gutekunst said plenty about how he views the Green Bay Packers’ receiver room during draft weekend, without saying a single word.
The Packers selected a wide receiver in the first round, breaking a 22-year streak of not drafting the position on Day 1. They also invested a third-round pick in the position. Gutekunst’s moves are justified, as Green Bay had the third-most drops in the league last year. Additionally, with Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs both scheduled to become unrestricted free agents in 2026, the Packers needed to add depth at wide receiver.
Adding depth was crucial, as the Packers will have a tight cap situation in 2026. Up to six starters could hit free agency next year, forcing the team to make tough decisions. One of those decisions could involve trading a playmaker, which would generate draft capital and increase flexibility for the 2026 draft.
With Golden, Reed, and Wicks under contract for 2026 and Romeo Doubs’ frustration with his role last year, Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay predicted the Packers will trade Doubs to the New York Jets.
“The New York Jets fit the bill, especially after forgoing an opportunity to land a receiver early in the draft,” Kay said. “While the team bolstered its offense with first-round tackle Armand Membou and second-round tight end Mason Taylor, its lone receiver addition was Arian Smith on Day 3.”
Doubs has yet to surpass 675 receiving yards in a single season. Last year, he ranked third on the team in targets and second in receptions. However, after suffering two concussions, the Packers should closely monitor his recovery.
Khalil Shakir signed a four-year, $60.2 million extension with the Buffalo Bills. Over his career, Shakir has accumulated 125 receptions for 1,593 yards and seven touchdowns. Meanwhile, Romeo Doubs, in the final year of his rookie contract, has posted 147 receptions for 1,700 yards and 15 touchdowns.
Considering these stats, Doubs is likely to command a higher salary. However, with his injury history in mind, would the Packers be willing to offer him a contract worth $16 to $18 million per year? This uncertainty makes trading Doubs a more viable option than allowing him to reach free agency.
Doubs will likely play out the final year of his rookie deal with the Packers. However, if any team expresses interest in his services, it would be wise for Green Bay to at least listen to what they could offer, especially given their need to add draft capital with many starters potentially hitting free agency next year.
