Despite previous predictions, the Green Bay Packers have kicked off their 2025 season on a strong note. The Jordan Love-led team has won two straight games, raising fans’ hopes as they head into Week 3.
But despite their impressive early showing, the Packers’ season hasn’t been without obstacles. Injuries continue to threaten a possibly great campaign, especially with a depleted WR room.
Jayden Reed’s Promising 2025 Season Ended in Disaster
During the first quarter of their Thursday night game against the Washington Commanders, Jayden Reed was on the ground after being tackled by Commanders safety Quan Martin. Love had tried to connect with Reed on a 39-yard bomb.
The play was ultimately called back.
However, Reed never recovered from the play. He fell on his shoulder and was immediately ruled out and was later confirmed to have fractured his collarbone. As per head coach Matt LaFleur, Reed has a long recovery before returning to the field after his surgery.
Furthermore, Reed had also injured his foot earlier.
How Long Will Reed be Sidelined?
According to reports, Reed will be sidelined for at least six to eight weeks. That being said, recovery could take longer than expected, especially since Reed fixed his clavicle and a Jones fracture in his foot.
As per WebMD, a Jones fracture is a break in the “fifth metatarsal on the outer edge of the foot.” The part that connects the pinky toe to the foot, the recovery should take around two months.
However, combined with his other surgery, the overall recovery time can be extended.
“He’s going to miss a lot of time. Unfortunately, he broke his collarbone, so he’ll be down for quite some time. We’ll see how fast he can recover and heal. Certainly, I would expect him back at some point this season, but obviously it’s a big blow to us,” coach LaFleur said after the game.
Reed appeared in high spirits after his surgery, expecting his team to play well until he returns.
With Reed currently placed on Injury Reserve, Packers rookie WR Matthew Golden will have more opportunities to perform. Romeo Doubs and Dontayvion Wicks will also be available.
Will Christian Watson Play This Season?
In January this year, Christian Watson tore his ACL during the Packers’ final regular-season game against the Chicago Bears. Naturally, Watson was ruled out for the rest of the season, including the playoffs, setting up his return for the 2025 NFL season.
During training camp, Watson was placed on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. Currently rehabbing, one can probably place his return sometime around Week 6. The PUP list demands Watson be out for at least four weeks, meaning Watson could return after their bye in Week 5.
With Reed injured, the Packers might need Watson back sooner than expected.
In a recent interview with reporters, Watson admitted that the team signing him to a one-year deal relieved some of his pressure. Now, he can solely focus on his recovery.
“It was really just to take that pressure off myself, so I can go out there when I get back and just play free,” he said. “It’s definitely a blessing. It means a lot to me, and I’m glad we were able to get it done.”
That said, the Packers will have to be careful with Watson’s return if they don’t want his long-term health compromised.
With a 2-0 record, the Packers will face the Cleveland Browns next on Sunday, September 21. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. ET.
