Christian Watson’s Week 1 Status in Doubt as He Remains on PUP List
The Green Bay Packers are entering training camp without one of their most dynamic offensive weapons, as wide receiver Christian Watson remains on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. Watson is still recovering from an ACL injury, and his continued absence raises serious concerns about his availability for Week 1 of the 2025 NFL season.
Watson, known for his elite speed and big-play potential, has battled multiple lower-body injuries since entering the league. While the team had hoped he’d be ready for the start of camp, lingering issues from his ACL rehabilitation have kept him sidelined. Head coach Matt LaFleur has taken a cautious tone when discussing Watson’s status, emphasizing the importance of long-term health over short-term returns.
“We want to make sure he’s 100% before we put him out there,” LaFleur said earlier this week. “This isn’t just about Week 1—it’s about the full season and his future.”
Watson’s absence leaves a notable void in the Packers’ receiving corps. Quarterback Jordan Love, entering his second season as the starter, had developed a growing chemistry with Watson last year. Without him, the burden will likely fall to Romeo Doubs, Jayden Reed, and rookie Javon Baker to carry the load.
If Watson isn’t removed from the PUP list by the final roster cut deadline later this month, he’ll be forced to miss at least the first four games of the regular season—per NFL rules. That scenario is looking increasingly likely unless he makes sudden progress in his recovery.
For a Packers offense trying to build on last season’s late momentum, Watson’s health will be a crucial storyline in the coming weeks. As of now, optimism is giving way to uncertainty.
