With the NFL adding roughly $25 million to each team's cap annually and clubs routinely spending 10 % over cap, teams are rushing to lock in talent. The Eagles have led the charge, paying early to secure players before prices climb.
Watson, who signed a one‑year extension but is still eligible for a long‑term deal, could be outbid if the Packers wait. Alec Pierce, ranked sixth among 2026 free agents, is a hot commodity; a Colts contract could trigger a bidding war. Securing Watson now would protect the Packers from a market reset and a 2027 cap jump.