The NFL's rising salary cap, with $25 million annual increases, makes early extensions crucial for teams. Green Bay should prioritize Christian Watson's long-term deal before Alec Pierce signs, as Watson's eligibility and market reset risk increase.
Watson, eligible for an extension despite a recent one-year deal, has leverage as he's a year away from free agency. With Pierce expected to command top receiver market value in 2026, the Packers risk paying even more if they wait to secure Watson's future.