Packers receiver Watson misses action after chest injury halts 100-yard first half
Christian Watson was transported to a hospital following a collision and cleared to return, but Green Bay listed him as questionable to finish the game.
By Samir Patterson ·
Green Bay Packers fans watched Christian Watson leave the field in the second quarter of the Thursday Night Football game against the Carolina Panthers. The wide receiver was taken to a hospital near Lambeau Field for precautionary tests. The team told Prime Video reporter Kaylee Hartung that Watson passed the tests and returned to the stadium. Packers coaches later designated him questionable to play in the third quarter.
The injury occurred on the defining play of the first half. Watson caught a 53-yard pass that set up the Packers' second touchdown of the night. He collided with Panthers cornerback Will Lee III during the play. Lee also suffered an injury to his hamstring and was ruled doubtful to return for Carolina.
Watson was having a dominant performance before he left. He led all receivers in the first half with six receptions for 100 yards. His ability to get open against the Panthers defense helped quarterback Jordan Love complete 17 of his first 20 passes on the night.
Matthew Golden filled in as the primary target for Green Bay while Watson was off the field. Golden caught a touchdown pass on the Packers' first possession without Watson. That catch followed a dropped scoring pass on the previous play. With Watson's status uncertain, Golden is expected to see more targets. Tight end Tucker Kraft, who caught the team's first touchdown, should also take on a larger role downfield.
Injuries have been a persistent part of Watson's five-year NFL career. He has dealt with a previous chest injury, three hamstring strains, an ankle sprain, three knee bruises, and a torn ACL. He also suffered a concussion during his rookie season in 2022. In total, Watson has missed 20 games and has not completed a full season since entering the league.
