The Green Bay Packers have secured wide receiver Christian Watson’s future despite a significant injury. Watson suffered a torn ACL in the final game of the 2024 regular season. The serious injury occurred on January 5th during a non-contact play against the Chicago Bears.
This injury will sideline the talented receiver for the entire 2025 NFL season. The Packers have proactively extended his contract to support his recovery journey.
Packers Commit $13 Million to Watson’s Recovery Year
The team has signed Watson to a one-year contract extension worth $13.25 million. This new deal, reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, keeps Watson with the Packers through the 2026 season. The move provides financial security for the player as he focuses entirely on rehabilitation.
This strategy allows Watson to recover without the pressure of his expiring rookie contract. His agent confirmed the extension is designed for a 2026 return. Team General Manager Brian Gutekunst has expressed optimism about Watson’s progress so far.
Rehabilitation Timeline and Team Impact for 2025
Watson is expected to begin the season on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. This designation rules him out for at least the first four games. A return later in the 2025 season is considered highly unlikely due to the severity of an ACL tear.
Gutekunst stated Watson is “ahead of the curve” in his rehab process. However, the team will prioritize his long-term health over a rushed comeback. This loss is a significant blow to the Packers’ receiving corps and quarterback Jordan Love‘s offensive weapons.
This Christian Watson injury update confirms a long road to recovery, but the Packers’ investment shows strong belief in his eventual return to form.
Info at your fingertips
What is Christian Watson’s injury?
Christian Watson tore his ACL in Week 18 of the 2024 season. It was a non-contact injury during a game against the Chicago Bears.
When will Christian Watson return?
He is expected to miss the entire 2025 NFL season. The target for his return to game action is the 2026 season.
What is the PUP list?
The Physically Unable to Perform list reserves a spot for injured players. It mandates a minimum absence of the first four games of the season.
How has Watson’s career been affected by injuries?
Injuries have been a persistent issue. He missed much of the 2023 season with a nagging hamstring problem before this major ACL tear.
Why did the Packers extend an injured player?
The one-year extension provides Watson financial stability during rehab. It also keeps him under contract for his targeted return season in 2026.
Trusted Sources: ESPN, Associated Press (AP)
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