Reports indicate that the Green Bay Packers are extending wide receiver Christian Watson’s contract for an additional year at $13.25 million, as reported by Adam Schefter of ESPN. This agreement secures Watson’s place with the team through the 2026 season.
Currently, Watson is on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list while recovering from an ACL tear sustained during the 2024 Week 18 game against the Chicago Bears.
“There’s a predictable pattern with these ACL injuries,” Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst mentioned last month concerning Watson’s recovery. “He’s progressing faster than expected, undoubtedly, but we also need to ensure that we don’t rush his recovery process, considering he has a potentially long career ahead. It’s probable that he will begin the season on the PUP list.”
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Watson, who was the 34th overall selection in the 2022 NFL Draft, recorded 29 receptions for a personal best of 620 yards and two touchdowns in 2024. The seasoned receiver has accumulated a total of 14 touchdowns during his initial three seasons in the league. However, injuries, notably a hamstring issue that restricted him to nine games in 2023, have hindered Watson’s career.
Watson will have an additional week to recover before becoming eligible to return from the PUP list, as the Packers have a Week 5 bye. Consequently, the earliest game Watson could participate in is against the Cincinnati Bengals on October 12.
The Packers had a promising start to Week 1, securing a 27-13 victory over the Detroit Lions. In that game, 10 different Packers players caught at least one pass, with fellow wide receiver Jayden Reed making three catches for 45 yards and a touchdown. Nevertheless, Reed is still dealing with a foot injury that could affect him throughout the season.
