Green Bay Packers set for bold roster shake-up, eye move from star TE to clear path for explosive WR

Green Bay Packers are gearing up for a pivotal Week 8 clash against the Pittsburgh Steelers, and in doing so, they’ve made a decisive move to reshape their 53-man roster. Head coach Matt LaFleur and the Packers’ front office appear ready to part ways with a key offensive player in order to make room for the anticipated return of one of their most dynamic wide receivers.

Ben Sims released to open key roster spot

According to ESPN’s Rob Demovsky, the Packers are releasing tight end Ben Sims, a decision that clears space for Christian Watson’s much-awaited return from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Demovsky shared on X (formerly Twitter):

“The Packers are releasing TE Ben Sims, per source. That likely means they’re activating WR Christian Watson off PUP and keeping two kickers at least for another week.”

Sims, an undrafted free agent out of Baylor in 2023, carved out a respectable role for himself over the past two seasons, contributing both on offense and special teams. He appeared in all 17 games in each of those seasons, making six starts and even recording a memorable touchdown during the Packers’ upset win over the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday Night Football last year.

However, the emergence of John FitzPatrick as the team’s preferred third tight end behind Tucker Kraft and Luke Musgrave has pushed Sims down the depth chart, ultimately leading to this roster adjustment.

Christian Watson set for triumphant return

The move makes perfect sense considering the Packers’ eagerness to reintegrate Christian Watson into the lineup. The star receiver has been sidelined since tearing his ACL in the final week of the 2024 season but has been steadily ramping up his activity in practice over the past two weeks.

On Friday, Watson fueled speculation about his return with an Instagram video hinting at his comeback against the Steelers. Although Coach LaFleur remained cautious during his Friday press conference, his tone suggested optimism.

“Let’s just get through the week and see where he’s at,” LaFleur said, emphasizing the importance of ensuring Watson is physically ready after such a long layoff.

With Jayden Reed ruled out and Matthew Golden questionable, Watson’s return could not come at a better time. LaFleur acknowledged that the explosive receiver will have “significant responsibility” once he steps on the field, highlighting the team’s reliance on his big-play ability and chemistry with quarterback Jordan Love.

Packers balancing depth and firepower

While cutting Sims might seem like a tough call, it underscores the Packers’ confidence in their tight end group and their focus on maximizing offensive firepower. Keeping both Brandon McManus and Lucas Havrisik on the roster for another week also signals the team’s cautious approach to special teams stability amid McManus’s recovery from a quad injury.

As Green Bay looks to regain momentum midseason, Watson’s return offers a potential game-changer — a burst of speed and athleticism that could reignite the offense. The decision to move on from Sims represents more than a roster adjustment; it’s a clear statement of intent as the Packers eye a strong playoff push.