In a bold contract move, the Green Bay Packers have exercised the fifth-year option on defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt’s rookie contract, ensuring his presence with the team through the 2026 season at a fully guaranteed salary of $12.94 million, as reported by Motorcycle Sports. This decision not only reflects the team’s confidence in Wyatt’s potential but also marks a strategic step to bolster their defensive line in an increasingly competitive NFL landscape.
Wyatt’s Journey in Green Bay
Selected 28th overall in the 2022 NFL Draft, Devonte Wyatt joined the Packers with expectations of becoming a key contributor to their defensive front. Over his first three seasons, he has appeared in 47 games, starting just five. Nevertheless, Wyatt has made an impact with 12 sacks, 99 tackles, and consistent pressure from the interior line, particularly in a rotational role. He is seen as an ideal fit for the new defensive scheme under head coach Jeff Hafley, who prioritizes versatility and speed at the defensive tackle position.
While not yet a standout star, Wyatt’s progress in generating pressures (22 in the most recent season) and his run-stopping ability (39 effective run stops) suggests he has the potential for a breakout. The Packers’ decision not to add significant defensive tackle talent in the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting only one in the sixth round, further opens the door for Wyatt to take on a full-time role at the 3-technique position.
The Fifth-Year Option: A Gamble or a Smart Investment?
The $12.94 million fifth-year option for the 2026 season represents a significant financial commitment, especially for a player who has yet to secure a consistent starting role. Compared to the market, this figure is below the average annual salaries of top defensive tackles like D.J. Jones or Grover Stewart (around $13 million per year) but higher than rotational players like Dalvin Tomlinson ($10 million per year). This raises the question of whether the Packers are overpaying for a still-developing talent.
However, this move can be viewed as a long-term investment. At age 27 in 2026, Wyatt will still be in his prime and could evolve into a cornerstone if given more starting opportunities. Moreover, with the market for defensive tackles becoming increasingly scarce, retaining a player already familiar with the team’s system is a prudent choice. If Wyatt continues to improve, the $12.94 million salary could prove to be a bargain compared to market values by that time.
The Packers’ Strategic Vision
Activating Wyatt’s fifth-year option is not just about him as an individual but also reflects the Packers’ broader strategic vision for roster construction. The team’s defensive line currently relies heavily on veterans like Kenny Clark, and Wyatt is expected to either succeed him or at least serve as a reliable partner. Hafley’s new 4-3 scheme demands defensive tackles who can penetrate quickly, and Wyatt’s explosive speed makes him a perfect fit for this role.
Additionally, this move sends a strong message to the locker room: the Packers are willing to invest in young players, even if they haven’t yet achieved absolute consistency. This could boost Wyatt’s confidence and motivate other players on the roster.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the optimism, Wyatt faces significant pressure to prove his worth. He needs to improve his consistency in run defense and enhance his ability to finish plays. The 2025 season will be a critical opportunity for Wyatt to demonstrate that he deserves the $12.94 million paycheck before the Packers face decisions about a potential long-term contract.
For the Packers, they must ensure that their defensive system, built around Wyatt and other key players like Clark and Rashan Gary, maximizes its effectiveness. If Wyatt fails to make significant strides, the team risks squandering a substantial investment.
Conclusion
The decision to exercise Devonte Wyatt’s fifth-year option is a bold move by the Green Bay Packers, signaling confidence in the young player’s potential and a long-term vision for strengthening their defensive line. With a $12.94 million salary for 2026, Wyatt now carries significant expectations to emerge as a true cornerstone. Will he turn this investment into a resounding success, or will it prove to be a risky gamble? Only time and his performance on the field will tell.