The non-contact injury Christian Watson sustained Sunday has produced a worst-case scenario for the Packers. Ahead of their playoff outing, the Pack will be without Watson. Green Bay may be without him for more games beyond this season.
Watson sustained a torn ACL and additional damage in Week 18, NFL.com’s Ian Rapoport reports. While players regularly make Week 1 returns after late-season injuries, it is also not too uncommon for reserve/PUP list stays to commence. The additional damage the third-year wide receiver sustained may key such a move.
This injury came after Watson was iffy to play against the Bears with a knee injury. After missing Week 17, Watson had missed two practices last week but logged a limited session Friday. The 6-foot-4 wideout suited up for a Packers team that ended up resting some starters, even as the NFC’s No. 6 seed was on the line. Jordan Love is not believed to have suffered a significant hand injury, but one of his top weapons will not be available for the Packers in these playoffs. And it will be worth monitoring later whether Watson will begin his contract year on time.
Injuries have dogged Watson throughout his career. This past offseason, the former second-round pick saw a hamstring specialist to determine the cause of his repeated issues. After missing eight games last season, Watson returned to play 15 in Year 3. While he averaged 21.4 yards per reception, the North Dakota State alum only caught 29 passes. The 620 receiving yards were still a career-high total, as the Packers have regularly used a bevy of rookie-contract wideouts over the past two seasons. Watson still operated as Green Bay’s top deep threat, which will make an upset in Philadelphia more difficult.
The Packers still have a host of options available heading into that game, as the team has continued to use the draft — after the first round, of course — to stockpile receiver options. Jayden Reed, Romeo Doubs, Dontayvion Wicks and Tucker Kraft are healthy for the Packers, who are the NFC’s No. 7 seed. Watson, however, has proven to be a promising downfield playmaker who opens up the offense.
Still, three other Packers (Reed, Kraft, Doubs) topped 600 yards in one of the NFL’s most balanced attacks. Green Bay will attempt to get by while Watson tackles his most serious injury yet. His long-term future is suddenly much cloudier.
Exciting talent, but man does his body not want him on the field.
Sucks for him. But it’s past time the Packers stop depending on him. He just can’t stay healthy.
Hockenson had a similar injury at the end of last year and did not make his first appearance this year until week 8 or 9…I’d have to expect it will take Watson the same before he’s back for the Pack..tough blow
Hockenson came from a terrible hit and tore more than just the acl. Watson will probably be out a long time due to his consistent hamstring issues. Maybe he can strengthen those along with the knee.
Unless I missed something, he hasn’t had any hamstring issues this season, after seeking help for it, as referenced in the article.
there goes his hopes of a 2nd contract (at least I hope so, please for the love of god pack don’t resign this guy)
Is he guaranteed next year’s salary? If not, they might just try and reach a settlement.
The best ability of an athlete is availability and it’s been clear the past 3 NFL seasons Watson is no Max McGee
it stinks for Watson and the team. They are better (except for dropped passes!) when they have this gazelle out there. But, jeez, the guy just seems like one of those guys who can’t get to 100%.
It is time to admit this was a failed experiment. Regardless of potential talent and what not it has failed end of the day.
They need a real #1 and need to act on it quickly. They are young and have the money. As much as I hate Hill, he would do well here.
I’m not convinced he’d enjoy GB after his time in Miami. Doesn’t really strike me as a cold weather, limited night life kind of guy.
We’ve got other needs to fill like cornerback, pass rusher and center. Hill is owed close to 60 million in 2026 and I think he might be past his prime. Still good but I’d rather have Ted Higgins but not at the price he’s going to get.