Copyright yardbarker
The Green Bay Packers have made a significant roster move that strongly suggests a major offensive reinforcement is on the way. The team has reportedly waived third-year tight end Ben Sims, a move that clears a necessary spot on the 53-man roster. All signs point to this opening being for star wide receiver Christian Watson, who is nearing the end of his 21-day activation window. Green Bay Packers Make Roster Moves NFL teams operate with a strict 53-man roster limit, meaning that to add a player, another player must be removed. Christian Watson, who has been on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list since tearing his ACL in Week 18 of last season, returned to practice on October 6. This started a 21-day clock for the team to either activate him to the active roster or place him on season-ending injured reserve. With that deadline approaching, the Packers needed to create an opening. By waiving Ben Sims, they have made the necessary space. While other options existed, such as releasing a player at another position of depth, the decision to part with a fourth-string tight end indicates the team’s confidence in its current tight end room and its urgent need for playmakers on the outside. Sims, an undrafted free agent in 2023, played in 37 games for Green Bay, including all 17 last season. He was a capable role player, but with John FitzPatrick emerging as a more versatile option behind starters Tucker Kraft and Luke Musgrave, Sims became the logical odd man out. The Packers could potentially re-sign Sims to the practice squad if he clears waivers, but for now, his departure paves the way for a much-anticipated return. The Importance of Christian Watson’s Activation The activation of Christian Watson cannot be overstated for this Packers offense. He is, without question, the team’s most dynamic and explosive offensive weapon. His combination of size, speed, and big-play ability is something Green Bay has sorely missed. His return provides an immediate and significant upgrade to the passing game and gives quarterback Jordan Love a true number one target. Watson’s impact goes beyond just catching the ball. His presence on the field fundamentally changes how opposing defenses must play the Packers. His speed commands respect and forces safeties to play deeper, which in turn opens up the intermediate and underneath routes for other receivers and tight ends. This “Watson effect” can create more favorable matchups across the board and make the entire offense more efficient. His return is especially timely given the current state of the wide receiver room. With Dontayvion Wicks already ruled out for the Steelers game and first-round pick Matthew Golden questionable with a late-week hip injury, the Packers are dangerously thin at the position. Activating Watson moves him from a luxury to a near necessity for this week’s game plan. A Critical Boost Against a Tough Opponent Facing the Pittsburgh Steelers on the road is a formidable challenge. Their defense is known for its physicality and ability to pressure the quarterback. Having a player like Watson, who can win one-on-one matchups and turn a short pass into a long gain, is a crucial asset against such a defense. He provides Jordan Love with a reliable outlet who can make plays even when things break down. Watson’s skills as a perimeter blocker will also be a welcome addition to the running game. His willingness to engage defenders on the outside helps spring running backs for bigger gains, adding another dimension to his value. Before his return, Watson addressed any concerns about playing on Pittsburgh’s notoriously questionable turf, stating that his goal was to be 100 percent ready to play without limitations. “If I’m worried about the turf, then, honestly, I probably wouldn’t be playing, anyway,” he said. “My goal is to feel 100 percent so that’s not really something that we’re thinking about, for sure.” This mindset shows he is physically and mentally prepared to step back into his role as a difference-maker. The Packers’ decision to waive Ben Sims is the clearest signal yet that they believe he is ready to do just that. While the move marks the end of one player’s tenure on the active roster, it heralds the return of a player who could redefine the Packers’ offensive potential for the rest of the season.
