The Green Bay Packers have a bevy of talented wide receivers on their roster, and the hope was that Christian Watson would develop into a potent outside threat. Watson has spent the previous three years trying to break through as a game-breaker, but after tearing his ACL in Week 18 of the 2024 season, he’s still working his way back to being game-ready.
How Far Along Is Christian Watson in His Recovery From ACL Surgery?
Watson went down on a non-contact play against the Bears and had his surgery in January 2024. While the 26-year-old remains on the injured list, his rehab is progressing well, despite no timetable for his return.
“It’s been feeling really good so far,” Watson said. “I haven’t had anything to deal with so far. It’s all just feeling really good. So I’m just praying that it stays that way. I’m able to go out there and keep attacking my rehab. But yeah, it’s been going real good.”
The encouraging news comes at a crucial time. It’s been just over seven months since Watson’s injury, but he feels like he’s coming along faster than expected.
“I feel 100% running straight,” said Watson. “I feel like I’m 100% doing the cutting stuff too, but obviously I’m not going 100%, so it’s just a natural progression. I’ve felt perfect at everything I’ve been doing so far, so hoping it stays that way and I keep pressing through it.”
The Packers’ receiver room doesn’t lack talent, creating an uphill battle for Watson’s return. Jordan Love now has Jayden Reed, rookie Matthew Golden, and Romeo Doubs as his primary options, with each player bringing their own strengths to the offense.
Golden was drafted as a deep threat who can take the top off a defense, directly competing with Watson’s skill set. Meanwhile, Doubs is hungry for more catches after being notably suspended for one game in 2024 for skipping two practices because he was dissatisfied with his role in the offense.
When healthy, Watson provides a solid outside threat, but he’ll have to fight for snaps when he does come back. Golden was drafted with the expectation of being a breakout player, so Watson faces the challenge of proving his value while ensuring he’s fully healthy and not pushing beyond where his body is ready.
The timing adds extra pressure. Watson is entering the final year of his rookie contract and is set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2026. If he cannot make it back on the field by the end of the season, his future with the Packers will be in serious doubt.
