Firstly, do we really need a “#1 WR” in this McVay O? I’m not so sure. After all, spreading the ball around is bedrock McVay philosophy. And that philosophy has worked just fine all season long. Sooooo...
Secondly, the 2nd and Gaines assets are a sunk cost. They’re gone and now irrelevant as to whether to keep Watkins beyond this year.
Thirdly, there are alternatives to extending Watkins. Reynolds is one. Another FA (hopefully like Woods) is a viable option, too. IOW, Watkins is currently NOT a must have. Especially given other needed extensions that will gobble cap dollars.
Know what? I think Rock’s suggestion of a 2 year $18 million contract with $9 million guaranteed makes a ton of sense to both parties. Kind of a semi prove it but at a market price, you know?
My guess is that Watkins will be here next year unless he gets greedy.