The Green Bay Packers have been blessed with good wide receivers. James Jones, Greg Jennings, Jordy Nelson, and Davante Adams are some of the most notable receivers. General manager Brian Gutentisk and head coach Matt Lafluer traded Davante Adams to the Raiders over the offseason. Packer fans had questions about how Green Bay would replace Davante Adams. The Packers decided to draft Christian Watson in the second round of the 2022 NFL draft.
Green Bay has experienced a disappointing season. The Packers are 4-7 and second in the NFC North. Both sides of the ball have had poor performances. In addition, the Packers have lost 4 out of their 5 last games. However, Christian Watson has provided a spark for a team struggling to find its way. Christian Watson deserves a spotlight.
Christian Watson’s Timeline
After the draft, there was a lot of buzz and excitement around Christian Watson. Fans expected Christian Watson to make an immediate impact. However, Watson tore his knee early during training camp. Watson had to get surgery and never had an opportunity to connect with Aaron Rodgers. Watson was itching to get back on the practice field.
Christian Watson had to make up for missed time when he returned. Watson had to learn the playbook and build rapport with Aaron Rodgers. Watson made progress but couldn’t play fast because of the knee injury.
`Green Bay’s receiving core and offense have been inconsistent this season. The receiving core has been banged up. The Packer’s offense currently ranks 15th in the NFL. Christian Watson had been in and out of Green Bay’s lineup. Watson’s 2022 campaign started on a sour note when he dropped a touchdown pass. Watson pulled his hamstring in September and suffered a concussion in October. Simply put Christian Watson has experienced a rollercoaster of a season.
Watson’s recent Impact
From two drops on the first drive to three TDs.
Christian Watson didn't let a tough start get him down in Week 10. @ChristianW2017#TENvsGB — Thursday 8:15pm ET on Prime Video
Also available on NFL+ https://t.co/fK7vaWAizI pic.twitter.com/dPnkTB631A— NFL (@NFL) November 16, 2022
Christian Watson enjoyed a break-out game against the Dallas Cowboys. During the game, Watson caught 4 passes, recorded 107 receiving yards, and scored three touchdowns. He was on fire and provided a spark to an offense that struggled to create big plays. Watson scored two touchdowns during a Thursday night contest against the Titans. Watson is also breaking records. According to NBC Sports, Watson is the first player in franchise history to have multiple touchdowns in consecutive games.
WOW 😱 @ChristianW2017 does his 5th Lambeau leap in 4 DAYS! #TENvsGB on Prime Video
Also available on NFL+ https://t.co/BPNa9Cbtld pic.twitter.com/Wd6voKHULt— NFL (@NFL) November 18, 2022
Watson is showing what Green Bay Packers fans and coaches knew all along. He is using his 6-5 frame to shield defenders, running cleaner routes, and developing chemistry with Aaron Rodgers.
The Future
Watson’s future looks bright. If he continues to produce he can join the receivers I mentioned above. Christian Watson has to stay consistent and focus on catching the ball. The sky is the limit for the young receiver.