Packers thin at receiver due to injuries, what options do they have?

Based on how the previous practices had played out, there weren’t any surprises when the Green Bay Packers released their final injury report on Friday. However, the Packers find themselves very thin at wide receiver heading into Sunday’s game.

After neither Randall Cobb nor Christian Watson practiced this week, both are listed as out for Sunday’s contest with Washington. Sammy Watkins, who is still technically on IR, did practice this week, but his status is “up in the air,” as Matt LaFleur said on Friday.

If Watkins can’t play, that leaves the Packers with Allen Lazard, Amari Rodgers, Romeo Doubs, and Samori Toure on the active roster.

Whether the Packers want to or not, Rodgers is going to have to take on a larger role, given the need at the position. Rodgers played 24 snaps against the New York Jets and had one reception for 14 yards.

Green Bay could activate Samori Toure, however, that move seems unlikely, even with how desperate the Packers may be for players. Toure has been inactive every game this week in what feels like is turning into a red-shirt year for him.

The most likely option is that the Packers add Juwann Winfree to the roster, as they have three other times this season when shorthanded at receiver. The only difference is that Winfree’s already been elevated three times this season, the maximum amount for a practice squad player–meaning Green Bay will have to add him to the 53-man roster if they want him available.

With the roster already at max capacity, if the Packers do go this route, a corresponding move would have to be made. One roster move that could take place is Jake Hanson landing on IR. He suffered a biceps injury against the Jets, he hasn’t practiced all week, and the Packers claimed offensive lineman Luke Tuneta on Tuesday, giving them 10 offensive linemen at the moment.

More two running back or two tight end sets is another alternative that could be utilized to mitigate Green Bay’s depth issues as it would only require two receivers on the field at a time

Hopefully, Watkins is able to go. Not only from a numbers perspective, but as I wrote about recently, he will provide this offense with a needed boost as a deep threat, but also as a reliable target for Aaron Rodgers.

Although the passing game has struggled this season, the Washington secondary has allowed the fourth-most receiving yards this season, along with the most passing touchdowns. Cornerback Kendall Fuller has been picked on as well, allowing 22 catches on 33 targets at 17.7 yards per catch with three touchdowns, according to PFF ($$).

If the Packers are going to make the aforementioned roster moves, they will have to be made by Saturday.