Green Bay Packers receiver Christian Watson is “unlikely” to play against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday at U.S. Bank Stadium, per Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.
Watson injured his knee against the New Orleans Saints on Monday night, didn’t practice this week and was listed as questionable to play in Week 17. While coach Matt LaFleur left the door open for Watson to play despite not practicing, the injury — a bone bruise on his knee — is expected to keep him out for the NFC North showdown in Minneapolis.
Without Watson, the Packers will go into Sunday with Romeo Doubs, Jayden Reed and Dontayvion Wicks as the top three wide receivers, and the possibility of Bo Melton handling more snaps in a complementary role. The Packers also have Luke Musgrave re-integrating into the offense in a complementary role behind Tucker Kraft at tight end.
The Packers, who have clinched a playoff berth, finish the 2024 regular season at home against the Chicago Bears. LaFleur’s team will go on the road to play a division winner in the first round of the NFC playoffs.
Back in Week 4, Watson injured his ankle after nine plays and missed the rest of the contest and the following week.
Over 14 games, Watson has 29 catches for 620 yards and two touchdowns. He’s averaging 21.4 yards per catch and 11.9 yards per target, both career highs, and he leads the team in receiving yards (387) since the bye.
If Watson doesn’t play, the Packers will be without a preferred starter on offense and three preferred starters on defense (Jaire Alexander, Quay Walker, Evan Williams).