In a bold move that exemplifies both faith and strategy, the Green Bay Packers have signed wide receiver Christian Watson to a one-year, $13.25 million contract extension, keeping him in Green Bay through the 2026 season—despite his ongoing recovery from a torn ACL.
A Deal Built on Trust and Potential
Watson, 26, is recovering from a season-ending right ACL tear suffered in week 18 of the 2024 season. Despite starting the 2025 season on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, which guarantees he will miss at least four games, the Packers clearly believe in his long-term potential.
General Manager Brian Gutekunst has spoken openly about the club’s optimism. “When you see him run … like you want to throw him out there, right?” Gutekunst noted that Watson’s recovery is ahead of schedule, but caution should still be exercised.
A Recap of the Stats
Watson, a second-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, has demonstrated game-changing abilities when healthy:
38 games played over three seasons
98 receptions for 1,653 yards and 14 touchdowns.
Since 2022, he has averaged 16.9 yards per catch, putting him third in the league among players with at least 75 receptions.
Despite lingering injuries (he missed significant time in 2023 due to hamstring issues), Watson’s big-play ability remains undeniable.
Why This Extension Makes Sense
- Security for Watson.
Watson can focus solely on recovery now that his salary is guaranteed until 2026. - Calculated risk by the Packers
A one-year contract reduces potential long-term risk while confirming confidence in his upside. - Strategic Offensive Planning.
With Watson sidelined early in the 2025 season, the team’s first-round rookie Matthew Golden and other emerging weapons will take the lead. Watson’s return midseason provides a significant offensive boost down the stretch. - Message for the NFL
As one analyst put it, this move is “a warning shot”—a symbol of Green Bay’s faith in the player despite his injury history.
What’s Next: Watson’s Return Timeline
Watson remains on the PUP list, which means he will be unavailable for at least the first four games. Given the Packers’ early-season bye, his return could coincide with midseason matchups.
The entire rehab process will be carefully timed: even if Watson is cleared to return sooner, the team will make sure he is fully prepared before reintegrating.
In Watson’s Words
Watson has downplayed contract distractions during his rehab. “My mentality is just to… get to a point where I can go out there and do exactly what I do,” he said. Whether that’s five games or 15, “I feel like as long as I’m able to go out there and just prove that I am what I was before the injury … the rest will take care of itself.”
Packers’ staff echo that mentality, but they’re committed to doing it the right way.
Final Thoughts
This extension reveals a lot about Watson’s value to Green Bay’s offense: an explosive threat with unrivaled deep-play ability. By investing now, the Packers are betting on a high-reward outcome.
If Watson emerges healthy and effective, the 2025 season could change dramatically once he returns. What if not? The short-term agreement keeps flexibility intact.
In Green Bay, this is how you support a talent, even when he is down: give him time, structure, and faith.