The Green Bay Packers drafted Christian Watson 34th overall in the 2022 NFL Draft as a big swing at replacing Davante Adams. However, as an FCS player, Watson became one of many recent players from the league who found themselves having trouble staying on the field.
Cooper Kupp, Trey Lance, Carson Wentz, and Watson all came from the FCS, and Watson’s injuries continue the pattern of injury troubles at the professional level. As his career continues to face injury roadblocks, Watson has given his two cents on the ongoing battle to get back on the field.
Christian Watson Opens Up on “Fighting” Injuries
Speaking in a clip posted to Twitter/X on May 4 via WLUK, Watson spoke about his injury troubles.
"I've gotten a lot in my life but there's still a lot of things that I want, so I'm going to keep on fighting for it."
Packers wide receiver Christian Watson discussed battling injuries throughout his NFL career and how rehab is going for his torn ACL. #Packers pic.twitter.com/bWxjdD8u1U
— Ellie French (@elliefrenchTV)
“Definitely happy to be back. Being around the guys, it’s always a little different when you’re around the team a little bit more. … But I mean recovery is going really well. I’m in a really good spot here. … just working. I got a couple more months ahead of me, but attacking it every day. I’m in a really good spot,” Watson said.
“I think it’s just the way I was raised. I was raised to be a fighter and then to chase after the things that I want. And I’ve gotten a lot in my life so far, but you know, there’s still a lot of things that I want, so I’m going to keep on fighting for it.”
Before tearing his ACL in January, Watson was enjoying his best attendance in a season in his career. He played 15 games, edging out the 14 games of action in his rookie season. However, with his recovery clearly in a race against time to get on the field in time for Week 1, his chances of setting another attendance record could be nixed with any delays into the 2025 season.
Packers All but Declare They’re Ready To Move On
The Green Bay Packers had a chance to double down on the wide receiver room by skipping the position at the 2025 NFL Draft. However, during the event, Watson was introduced to two new premium rookies to contend with.
The Packers broke their 23-year streak without taking a wide receiver in the first round, drafting Matthew Golden at 23rd overall. They also drafted Savion Williams. In their first three picks, the Packers selected two wide receivers.
Now, it falls on Watson to make the Packers think twice about pulling just about every lever to fill the roster with players that could push him out.
In three years of action, Watson has earned 1,653 yards and 14 touchdowns, averaging close to five touchdowns and 550 yards per season.
