Report: Sammy Watkins' contract details with Packers raise potential questions

Some details have begun trickling out this week on veteran wide receiver Sammy Watkins‘ new deal with the Green Bay Packers. On Tuesday, ESPN reporter Rob Demovsky revealed that Watkins’ one-year deal is largely activity-based despite the initially reported $4 million price tag. With a $350,000 signing bonus and a $1.12 million base, the Packers are offering Watkins a big opportunity for more if he makes the active roster and plays many games.

The $1.85 million total includes $19,441 in pay per game active throughout the season. Demovsky also reported potential incentives up to $4 million but could not provide those detailed incentives yet.

Sammy Watkins’ contract indicates he’s no lock to make the Packers’ roster.

Signing bonus: $350,000.
Base: $1.12 million
Roster bonus: $19,441/game active.
Workout bonus: $50,000
Total: $1.85M

Reportedly had incentives up to $4 million but no details on those yet.

— Rob Demovsky (@RobDemovsky) April 19, 2022

As Sammy Watkins looks to continue his NFL career and the Packers look to fill some holes, the team up makes a lot of sense. The front office worked up a deal in Green Bay for the former Clemson star wide receiver in quick fashion after he visited last Thursday.

The former first-round pick is now going to his fifth team since 2014. He started his career in Buffalo before spending one season with the Chargers, three with the Chiefs and one with the Ravens.

Last season, he played in 11 games for Baltimore, catching 27 passes for 394 yards and a score.

Mel Kiper explains how Watkins signing impacts Packers’ Draft plans

Mel Kiper recognizes the Packers need immense help at the wide receiver position, and believes they’ll still attack it in the 2022 NFL Draft, despite picking up Sammy Watkins. In an appearance on The Dan Patrick Show, the ESPN NFL Draft guru spoke about the Packers’ need for pass catchers.

“Well, I think they needed three receivers going into the draft,” started Kiper. “I had them taking a couple, one in the first, one in the second. I still think they attack it that way. Sammy’s a veteran, obviously. They need some young receivers coming into this program. This is a great draft for wide receivers. Basically into the fifth, sixth round area, you’re going to find guys who can help you. So, I gave them, I thought two really good ones in Christian Watson and Alec Pierce. Guys with length, smart kids who can come in and help them right away for Aaron Rodgers. I still think, because of the best position in this draft and the deepest being wide receiver, you got to take advantage of it if you’re the Packers.

So, I think they will. Despite that move, I think we’ll see two, maybe three receivers taken over the seven rounds.”

On3’s Stephen Samra contributed to this report.