Christian Watson cleared after 100-yard first half injury
The Packers wide receiver left the field with a chest injury following a 53-yard catch and was listed as questionable to return.
By Sophie Lawson ·
Green Bay Packers wide receiver Christian Watson departed the Week 8 game against the Carolina Panthers in the second quarter with a chest injury. He was taken to a hospital near Lambeau Field for precautionary tests. The team told Prime Video's Kaylee Hartung that Watson passed the tests and returned to the stadium. Green Bay listed him as questionable to return to action early in the third quarter.
The injury occurred on a 53-yard reception that set up the Packers' second touchdown of the night. Watson collided with Panthers cornerback Will Lee III during the play. Lee was also injured and ruled doubtful to return with a hamstring issue.
Watson was leading all receivers in the first half with six catches for 100 yards. His performance helped quarterback Jordan Love complete 17 of his first 20 passes. The Packers were building momentum before Watson left the field.
Matthew Golden stepped into the No. 1 receiver role for the remainder of the game. He caught a touchdown pass on the first possession without Watson. This came after dropping a would-be scoring pass on the previous play. Golden is expected to receive more targets while Watson is unavailable. Tight end Tucker Kraft, who scored the Packers' first touchdown, should also play a bigger downfield role.
Watson has a long history of injuries in the NFL. His list includes a separate chest injury, three hamstring strains, an ankle sprain, three knee bruises, and an ACL tear. He also sustained a concussion during his rookie season in 2022. In five years in the league, Watson has missed 20 games and has not played a full season.
The Packers faced a critical decision on Watson's availability as the game continued. His return would restore depth to an offense that relied heavily on his separation in the first half.
Source: CBS Sports
