Packers WR Watson Activated, Set to Play Against Steelers
The Green Bay Packers have activated Christian Watson, allowing him to potentially make his season debut against the Pittsburgh Steelers. This significant development comes after Watson spent the earlier part of the season on the physically unable to perform list due to an ACL injury.
Christian Watson’s Return to Action
Watson’s activation was announced on Saturday, following the release of tight end Ben Sims, which opened a spot on the 53-man roster. In addition, defensive end Arron Mosby was elevated from the practice squad, indicating the team’s commitment to strengthening their lineup.
If Watson plays, it will mark exactly 294 days since he tore his ACL in his right knee during the last game of the previous season. This timeline positions him among the fastest Packers players to recover from such an injury.
Comparative Recovery Times
- Rashan Gary: Returned after 308 days
- Elgton Jenkins: Returned after 302 days
Throughout his recovery, the Packers praised Watson’s progress, stating he was ahead of their usual recovery expectations. He resumed practice on October 6, utilizing the full three-week practice window before being added to the active roster.
Watson expressed confidence about his readiness to play, revealing, “I’d say I could’ve played last week, too, to be honest.” He emphasized the importance of evaluating opinions around his return to ensure a smart decision.
Statistical Performance
In his first three seasons, Watson has made a substantial impact. His career statistics include:
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 38 |
| Catches | 98 |
| Yards | 1,653 |
| Touchdowns | 14 |
| Yards Per Catch | 16.9 |
Watson’s average of 16.9 yards per catch ranks him third among NFL players with at least 75 catches since the beginning of the 2022 season. His versatile playing style enhances the Packers’ offensive flexibility.
Future with the Packers
Rather than exploring free agency options at the end of the season, Watson secured a one-year contract extension worth $11 million last month. This deal includes a signing bonus of $6.067 million and ensures his stay with the Packers until 2026.
Coach Matt LaFleur has praised Watson’s capabilities, highlighting his unique combination of size and speed. He noted Watson’s adaptability across various receiver positions within the team’s offensive strategies.
As the team prepares for the game against the Steelers, Watson’s return may significantly influence their performance this season.
