With kickoff approaching for the Green Bay Packers, wideout Christian Watson took a significant step in practice on Monday. This concludes his stay on the physically unable to perform list. Watson’s return comes 274 days after he tore the ACL in his right knee as a result of a late hit in the 2024 regular-season finale.
The Packers, meanwhile, have opened a 21-day practice window for Watson. In the meantime, he can take part in team activities, as long as he doesn’t require being signed to the 53-man roster, here. This proceeding comes as welcome news for Watson and the organization alike as they continue to work through his recovery.
ROGERS: I want to return and had experienced 100 percent and am still experiencing 100 percent. That’s my main thing. I’m not being too specific with a goal deadline, this week or whatever,” said Watson. Really, it’s just as soon as I feel like I’m 100 percent and ready to go is when I’ll play.
To get ready for his return, Watson focused on getting himself back into shape, and even spent part of the offseason working with New England Patriots receiver Stefon Diggs. The two players formed a partnership in the Miami region. Along with the intensive work with world-class physician, Dr. Sharif Tabbah, their focus became their own rehab and conditioning. This partnership has provided a healing space for Watson to continue his recovery in strength and trust.
Watson’s practice on Monday looked a lot like the one-on-one sessions he’s held for over a month now. At this point, he was feeling quite hopeful about his advances. He added that they have to be fully prepared before leaping back into full game, live action.
Defensive end Rashan Gary, who himself suffered an ACL tear, was there to help support Watson through his recovery process. 290 days post injury—Gary back at practice! He waited until the season opener, which was played 308 days after his injury. He imparted to Watson the importance of mental preparation in coming back from injuries like his.
You’ve got to step out onto the turf with absolute conviction, Gary continued. I explained to Christian that the most important thing is to behave as though nothing has ever happened to you.
In November, the Packers had signed Watson to a one-year, $11 million extension. His relatively cheap deal now locks him in with the team through the 2026 season. This commitment further cements the Sooners’ faith in his talents and expected impact on the roster.
Watson did reconsider his decision and come back to play against the Cincinnati Bengals this week. Yet he is laser-focused on not repeating the mistakes of a hasty return. Even more so, I’m committed to coming back to the game when I’m ready and believe I’ve done the work required. Looking for zero surprises, I’d like to get my confidence up through team and then live reps.
The Packers have been conservative with injuries in recent years, especially for those coming back from ACLs. The two other players who had the same surgery previously took more than ten months to return to game action. This is a huge step forward, demonstrating the team’s commitment to putting player health and safety first.
“What helped me, too, was my teammate Elgton Jenkins,” Jenkins said as he discussed his own ACL recovery process, explaining how patience is often needed throughout the rehab. “I mean truthfully, looking on it, I probably would’ve held off even a little bit longer going back to it,” Jenkins said. He added, “You’ve just got to go out there and do it. It’s really just mental.”
Watson continues his long road back to full game participation. Fans and teammates alike are excited at the importance of his quick healing recovery. His practice efforts will be observed with a hawkish eye as he attempts to get himself into a match fit condition.
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