Packers undrafted rookie WR Malik Heath makes strong case for roster spot

The Green Bay Packers have a long-standing tradition of undrafted players making their final 53-man roster, and rookie receiver Malik Heath appears to be the next man up.

Heath was able to again standout during the Packers’ preseason game with New England and did so at times going up against first-round pick Christian Gonzalez. Heath would catch all five of his targets for 75 yards, with a long of 25, and also drew a 23-yard pass interference penalty.

Several of these receptions came at key moments in the game, including one for 18 yards before half that put the Packers in field goal range and another on third down for seven yards to move the chains. In total, during Green Bay’s two preseason games this summer, Heath has caught eight of his nine targets for 111 yards.

This recent performance by Heath in the Packers’ preseason games is nothing new. In fact, he’s been regularly making plays since the start of offseason programs back in May. Heath doesn’t have blazing speed like Christian Watson or Jayden Reed, but he has shown an ability to create separation while also being capable of making contested catches as well.

He’s also a very willing blocker with his physical play style and 6’2″ – 213-pound frame. Matt LaFleur has affectionately referred to Heath as being the “goonish-type” of receiver that the Packers love having on their team and was a role previously filled by Allen Lazard.

"“They are looking for a goon, so I’m going to try and fill that role,” Heath said. “I’m going to try to do anything to make this team.”"

In addition to the plays he made on offense against New England, Heath also took on a larger role on special teams. The week prior, he played just one special teams snap in Cincinnati, but on Saturday, he was lining up on a few different phases–an important development as far as his push for the final roster goes.

Realistically, Heath’s role on offense – if he makes the final roster – is going to be small this season, given the receivers who are ahead of him on the depth chart, along with how active the running backs and tight ends are in the passing game. So if he is going to make an impact, chances are it is going to have to come on special teams.

Heath’s consistency as a pass catcher, his ability as a blocker, and his contributions on special teams check all the key boxes when it comes to what the Packers look for in a receiver. No longer is Heath an under-the-radar name to watch in training camp, but instead, he has been one of the best 53 players on the team this summer and is someone who is the favorite for that sixth wide receiver role.

"“I feel like I did my thing,” said Heath following the game against New England via Packers.com. “I’m trying to capitalize on my opportunity like I said. I feel like I did alright, but there are still some things I’ve got to work on.”"

Rookie seventh-round pick Grant DuBose had two receptions for 27 yards against the Patriots and had several receptions in practices this week leading up to the game. DuBose missed all of offseason programs, along with the first few weeks of training camp, and just returned to team drills earlier this week. But he is also a capable blocker and saw some special teams snaps during Saturday’s game as well. The emergence of DuBose and Heath could lead to the Packers rostering seven receivers once again, just as they did in 2022.