The Inexperienced Bay Packers acquired devastating information as huge receiver Christian Watson’s season got here to an abrupt finish when he tore his ACL of their Week 18 loss to the Chicago Bears.
The harm, which occurred halfway by way of the second quarter, not solely will preserve him out of the playoffs but additionally casts a shadow over his availability for the 2025 season.
Because the Packers gear up for his or her NFC Wild Card sport towards the Philadelphia Eagles, Watson’s absence looms massive.
ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky not too long ago emphasised Watson’s essential function in Inexperienced Bay’s offensive scheme.
“I actually imagine that that’s probably the most impactful perimeter participant that they’ve, simply because he’s the vertical menace man. He’s not solely the man that truly makes performs down the sector, however he’s the individual at the very least fears or places the concern in defenses to go make some performs down the sector,” Orlovsky mentioned, by way of ESPN Madison.
“[Watson] is the simplest perimeter participant [the #Packers] have…”@danorlovsky7 on how Christian Watson’s absence may harm GB towards the Eagles. pic.twitter.com/jrBJTPICl2
— ESPN Madison (@ESPNMadison) January 6, 2025
Orlovsky additionally mentioned that although the Packers possess different proficient offensive gamers, none match Watson’s vertical pace, which can be a vital factor wanted to problem a powerful protection like Philadelphia’s.
With out Watson stretching the sector, the Packers’ skill to generate explosive performs may very well be severely restricted.
Earlier than his harm, he had 29 catches for 620 yards, a powerful 21.4 yards per catch common.
His profession numbers inform an much more compelling story as his 98 receptions, 1,653 yards and 14 touchdowns in 38 video games showcase his big-play skill.
The timing couldn’t be worse for the Packers, as they’ll now have to navigate the playoffs with out considered one of their most dynamic offensive weapons.
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