Wide receiver Christian Watson returned to the field for the Green Bay Packers for the first time since tearing his ACL nine months ago. His impact on the team goes beyond the box score.

Stretching the Field

Listed at 6’4″ and 208-pounds, Watson ran a 4.36 second 40-yard dash at the 2022 NFL Combine. With his size and speed, Watson’s best ability as a receiver is stretching the field vertically. He made an impact as a deep threat for quarterback Jordan Love in his first game back.

Love connected with Watson four times for 85 yards on Sunday night against Pittsburgh, an average of 21.3 yards per catch. That is on pace with his 21.4 yards per catch average in the 2024 season. Only two players in the NFL are averaging more than 21.3 yards per catch this season.

In his first game back, Watson hauled in catches of 19, 33, and 28 yards. The Packers offense was lacking a premier deep threat without him.

The threat of Watson’s explosiveness also opens up opportunities underneath for other pass catchers. Love completed passes to ten different pass catchers and had 20 consecutive completions.

Blocking

The most underrated past of Christian Watson’s game is his blocking ability. He is able to use his large frame to push defenders around. Watson had key blocks on multiple big plays in Pittsburgh.

In their lone touchdown drive of the first half, Love flipped a short pass to tight end Tucker Kraft in the flat. Blocking on the outside were Watson and Malik Heath, allowing Kraft to catch and run into the end zone from 16 yards out.

Running back Josh Jacobs ran in a three yard touchdown early in the fourth quarter to give Green Bay the lead. Watson sealed off the outside defender as Jacobs bounced the run outside to the right and crossed the goal line.

It is important for wide receivers in Matt LaFleur’s offense to block well. The offense is built around running the ball effectively and building from that. It also features a lot of screen passes, end arounds, and swing passes. Having Christian Watson blocking on those plays opens up extra yards for the ball carrier.

Christian Watson didn’t just return – he re-ignited the Packers offense. He stresses defenses vertically, his blocks spring ball carriers free, and his presence unlocks the entire offense. Nine months after tearing his ACL, Watson reminded everyone how explosive this offense can be. For a team built on balance and big plays, Watson is the ultimate weapon.