There’s a decent chance that Allen Lazard and Randall Cobb won’t be back with the Green Bay Packers in 2023. If that is the case, the team will likely want to bring in a veteran free agent to lead a young wide receiver room.
Both Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs appear to have strong futures after promising rookie seasons, but make no mistake, they could still benefit from having a veteran presence around. Last year, Lazard and Cobb provided much-needed mentorship but are now scheduled to be free agents.
Last season, Lazard stepped into the role of WR1, and even though his numbers didn’t live up to his new title, his run-blocking and familiarity with the offense made him one of the most reliable players on the team. After a year in which he posted career-highs in targets, receptions, and yards, Lazard will hit the open market, where he could receive a big payday from a team looking to add his unique skillset. Pro Football Focus projects he could make $11 million per year on his next deal.
That sort of price tag could be too rich for the Packers, who have limited cap space.
Meanwhile, Cobb’s future is likely tied to Aaron Rodgers. It’s hard to imagine the 32-year-old receiver returning if Rodgers retires or gets traded. In 2022, Cobb finished fifth on the team in receiving yards and missed four games with an ankle injury. At this point in his career, Cobb has slowed down and a laundry list of injuries doesn’t help. Still, he does have a reliable set of hands and could be brought back on another cheap deal if Rodgers returns.
If Lazard and Cobb do end up leaving, it will create a void that Green Bay then has to fill. The likes of Watson, Doubs, and possibly another high draft pick would benefit from having a veteran voice to lean on. Luckily, there will be some options available in free agency.
Here are three veteran receivers the Packers could consider signing.