BREAKING: Christian Watson Returns to Practice, Could Be the Spark Green Bay Packers Need
By Josh Davis | October 2, 2025 | ESPN
The Green Bay Packers have just received a much-needed boost as wide receiver Christian Watson has officially returned to practice after a long recovery from an ACL injury. The team has opened his practice window, allowing them to evaluate his progress and potentially activate him to the 53-man roster in the coming weeks. This news comes at a crucial time for the Packers, as they look to reignite their offense and make a push for the playoffs.
Watson’s Road to Recovery
Christian Watson's return marks the end of a long and challenging rehabilitation process. The 2022 second-round pick tore his ACL in Week 18 of last season, abruptly ending his breakout rookie campaign. As a result, Watson was placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list to start the 2025 season. However, after months of uncertainty regarding his recovery timeline, the Packers can now officially begin assessing his progress with the opening of his 21-day practice window.
In 2022, Watson made an immediate impact in his first season, recording 98 receptions for 1,653 yards and 14 touchdowns. His combination of size, speed, and athleticism made him an immediate deep threat for the Packers, and his absence this season has been sorely felt by the team’s offense. With a season-high of just one touchdown catch and struggles to stretch the field, the Packers’ offense has lacked the explosive element that Watson brought last year.
A Game-Changer for the Packers’ Offense
With Green Bay’s offense in need of a spark, Watson’s return could not be more timely. Head coach Matt LaFleur expressed his excitement about the possibility of Watson’s contribution moving forward. “We’ve missed what Christian brings to the table,” LaFleur said. “His speed and playmaking ability are special, and he can stretch the field in ways that others on our roster simply can’t.”
The Packers have struggled with consistency in their passing game, relying on veteran receivers Allen Lazard and Sammy Watkins, along with younger players like Romeo Doubs. But none have been able to provide the consistent deep threat Watson did in 2022. Watson’s return to the lineup would allow quarterback
What’s at Stake
For Watson, this return is a pivotal moment in his young career. After his impressive rookie season, expectations were high for Watson entering 2025. However, missing the first part of the season due to injury has meant that Watson’s development has been delayed. Now, with the practice window officially open, Watson will look to shake off the rust and prove he can return to the form that made him one of the most exciting rookies in recent years.
The Packers’ offense has struggled in Watson’s absence, and the team is desperate for explosive plays that can swing momentum in their favor. For Jordan Love, having Watson back in the fold provides him with a trusted weapon he can rely on to make plays downfield. With a potential playoff berth on the line, the Packers are hoping Watson’s return will be the catalyst they need to finish strong in the second half of the season.
Looking Ahead
Over the next 21 days, the Packers will assess Watson’s recovery closely. If he proves to be fully healthy and capable of contributing, they will likely activate him to the 53-man roster, just in time for their upcoming stretch of games. The Packers have a tough road ahead, but with Watson’s talent, they could quickly turn their fortunes around.
Christian Watson’s return is more than just a positive update; it’s a potential game-changer for the Packers’ playoff hopes. As Watson gets back into game shape, all eyes will be on him to see if he can pick up where he left off and provide the spark the Packers have been missing all season.
The excitement around Watson’s return has energized both the team and the fanbase. The Packers know that a healthy Watson could be the key to unlocking their offense and pushing them back into playoff contention. With the practice window now open, the stage is set for Watson’s much-anticipated comeback to the gridiron.
How Davante Adams is Elevating the Rams’ Offense and Mentoring the Next Generation
Davante Adams: The Best Free-Agent Pickup of the 2025 Season
The Los Angeles Rams’ decision to sign wide receiver Davante Adams has paid off in a big way. In just a few short weeks, the future Hall of Famer has quickly become the centerpiece of the Rams’ offense, leading the team in receiving yards and touchdowns. His ability to dominate one-on-one matchups and stretch the field has given the Rams an edge they desperately needed, especially with the emergence of second-year quarterback Matthew Stafford.
Adams, who joined the Rams on a two-year, $44 million contract, has immediately made an impact. With a career-best 15.8 yards per catch, he’s proving he’s still one of the league’s most explosive playmakers. His three touchdown receptions lead the Rams, and his ability to win contested catches has given Stafford a reliable deep-threat weapon.
But Adams’ impact goes beyond just his on-field production. He’s become a mentor to young wide receiver Puka Nacua, who has flourished since Adams’ arrival. Nacua currently leads the NFL in receptions and is on pace for an incredible season, thanks in part to the lessons he’s learned from one of the best route runners in NFL history. Adams’ leadership and willingness to share his knowledge have been instrumental in Nacua’s growth.
“Davante has been incredible for me,” Nacua said. “Watching him work and learning from him has been a game-changer. He’s taught me how to be more efficient with my routes and how to read defenders. Having him here has made me a better player already.”
For the Rams, Adams’ arrival could not have come at a better time. With a young, talented receiver group, the Rams needed a veteran presence to balance out the youth and provide leadership in key moments. Adams has done just that, and his performances have been a big reason why the Rams’ offense is firing on all cylinders.
