Who is Packers' No. 18? Why Malik Shabazz Heath is playing a big role after Jayden Reed injury

Billy Heyen

Who is Packers' No. 18? Why Malik Shabazz Heath is playing a big role after Jayden Reed injury image

On the field, he's Malik Heath.

But the Green Bay Packers' depth wide receiver's full name is Malik Shabazz Heath, and that's pretty cool.

He's into the spotlight more than normal on Thursday Night Football against the Washington Commanders.

That's because a shoulder injury to Jayden Reed has forced Heath into heavier WR action, and he made a sweet toe-tap catch for Jordan Love.

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Who is Packers' No. 18?

The Green Bay Packers wide receiver wearing jersey number 18 is Malik Heath.

He's usually a depth wideout, but he's playing more following Jayden Reed's injury.

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Who is Malik Heath?

Malik Heath is a 25-year old wide receiver from Canton, Mississippi.

He began his college career at the junior college level for Copiah-Lincoln, then played at both Mississippi State and Ole Miss.

The Packers got him as an undrafted free agent in 2023.

He entered this season with 25 catches for 222 yards and three touchdowns.

Heath runs a 4.64-second 40-yard dash and has a 34-inch vertical leap, neither amazing.

But he's shown a knack for strong hands and an ability to get open when he gets the chance.

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Billy Heyen

Billy Heyen is a freelance writer with The Sporting News. He is a 2019 graduate of Syracuse University who has written about many sports and fantasy sports for The Sporting News. Sports reporting work has also appeared in a number of newspapers, including the Sandusky Register and Rochester Democrat & Chronicle