The Green Bay Packers hit the road against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 7, but once again they will be missing receiver Christian Watson, out all season as he ramps back from knee surgery. Coach Matt LaFleur left his status for Sunday up in the air, giving fans hope. According to the injury report, however, Packers faithful will have to wait at least another week before seeing a key deep threat back on the field.
Watson return postponed
Jordan Love and the offense should continue to manage without him. It hasn’t always been pretty, but Romeo Doubs has stepped up, Tucker Kraft gives them consistent production, and Mattew Golden is coming into his own. Involving him more often – let’s be clear, LaFleur, that doesn’t equate to force feeding – could be key to unleashing a passing attack that has yet to break out and remains without WR1 Jayden Reed in addition to Watson.
Green Bay Packers wide receiver Christian Watson (9) flexes as he does a “Lambeau Leap” with Packers fans after scoring a touchdown against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, October 13, 2024, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis. The Packers won the game, 34-13
Tork Mason/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin
While the Packers have managed, getting Watson back will help open up the offense. While inconsistent last season, he averaged over 21 yards per catch. Pairing him with Golden would give Love two downfield threats instead of one.
Fans simply want to see him back out there, too. 2025 is Watson’s fourth year with the franchise and the Packers demonstrated their commitment to the North Dakota state alum by giving him an $11 million extension earlier this season. Instead of hitting free agency at season’s end, Watson is now under contract through 2026.
Notably, the injury report lists running back Josh Jacobs as questionable with an illness/calf issue. Encouragingly, ESPN’s Rob Demovsky reports that Jacobs was a full participant in Friday’s practice, putting him in line to play.
Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love (10) smiles as he runs off the field with wide receiver Christian Watson (9) after the two connected on a touchdown pass against the Los Angeles Chargers in the thrid quarter during their football game Sunday, November 19, 2023, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis.
Aside from the usual o-line questionable tags – Anthony Belton, Jacob Monk, Zach Tom – receiver Dontayvion Wicks has been a limited participant all week (ankle). Having him available is significant for the Packers’ depth at the position.
On defense, defensive end Lukas Van Ness is out with a foot injury, while defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt will miss with a knee issue.
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