The Green Bay Packers could be without one of its top receivers on Sunday when they play the Carolina Panthers. Fortunately, they’ll have another one available just in time for the contest.
Christian Watson has been listed as doubtful for the game as he continues to deal with a bothersome hamstring injury. While he has not been officially ruled out, recent reports stated that he’s unlikely to suit up, per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.
Despite that, however, the Packers are expected to have Dontayvion Wicks available amid his battle with an ankle issue. Wicks has been labeled as questionable, but it appears he’s able to get healthy in time to make it to the Panthers showdown, as reported by Adam Schefter of ESPN.
Watson’s absence is certainly a major blow for the Packers, especially since the 24-year-old has been one of their best receivers so far. In the nine games he has played this 2023 season, Watson has tallied 28 receptions for 422 yards and five touchdowns–third-best among the team.
Wicks, for his part, is more than capable of handling some extra workload with Watson out. While he only has one touchdown this campaign, he is actually third on the team when it comes to receiving yards with 491–only behind Jayden Reed and Romeo Doubs.
The Green Bay Packers need everyone on the team to be extra focused in Week 16, especially if they want to stay in the postseason hunt. With Christian Watson absent as well, the need for the team to step up and stay sharp is more important than ever.
Green Bay Packers’ playoff bid
While the Green Bay Packers are still in the bubble for a postseason bid, they are actually closer to getting eliminated rather than making the playoffs.
At 6-8 on the season and third in the NFC North, the Packers will need to win out their remaining games to have a chance. However, they don’t have complete control of their destiny. They will also need the Minnesota Vikings, Seattle Seahawks, New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons to struggle and lose their upcoming games to make the playoffs.
As things currently stand, the Packers are 11th in the NFC Playoff picture, behind the aforementioned teams for the last Wild Card spot in the conference.
Christian Watson’s absence doesn’t bode well in their playoff hopes, but that only means Dontayvion Wicks and their other WRs need to pick up the slack in order to stay in postseason contention.
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