The Green Bay Packers are a competitive team in the NFL. There is no doubt about that. However, if there is one criticism to be made for this team is they haven’t provided quarterback Jordan Love with a certified first option at wide receiver. They have many average-to-above-average ones, and maybe one very good wideout. But one of those might not even be available to start the season.
Unfortunately, it’s the best weapon Christian Watson the one who might not be able to get going. The Packers placed him on the active/physically unable to perform list. This usually means he will miss at least 4 games, however, he can be activated at any moment. This was reported by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. Watson is still recovering from an ACL tear suffered late in last season.
While there are still other options for the Packers, Watson should be the best available when healthy. However, Jordan Love will still have weapons. Romeo Doubs, Jayden Reed and Dontayvion Wicks will be there. Also, first-round pick Matthew Golden and third-round pick Savion Williams will be a part of the depth chart.
Watson has a big injury history
Watson has played three years in the NFL but is yet to play a full season. In 2022 he played 14 games but finished the season strong scoring lots of touchdowns down the stretch. In 2023, he played nine games only, scoring five times and producing 422 yards. Last season, he played 15 games but was posting career-low numbers in yards per game and touchdowns.
Entering his fourth year, on the PUP list is not the best of news for Watson. This year is usually crucial for someone on his rookie deal, and he will leave money on the table if his season doesn’t go well. The fourth year is where you put pressure on the team to sign you to a new, lucrative deal. If you’re not able to deliver, that leverage goes out the window.
Watson is not the only one placed on the PUP list
Alongside Watson, linebacker Quay Walker is also on the active/PUP list. Offensive lineman Elgton Jenkins was placed on the non-football injury list. While all can be activated anytime by the Packers, it’s still not good news for the team to have to do these moves.
The Packers have dealt with plenty of injuries in recent years. Yes, this is the NFL and injuries will happen, but it seems like the football gods are really punishing Green Bay. Can they stil be a playoff team? Sure. Coach Matt LaFleur is a mastermind when it comes to play-calling duties and that has made the Packers a dangerous team.