Report: Packers' Christian Watson 'unlikely' to play against Vikings

Watson has been an explosive target for Jordan Love, averaging more than 21 yards per catch.

Dec 23, 2024; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Christian Watson (9) rushes with the football during the second quarter against the New Orleans Saints at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images / Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images

Despite head coach Matt LaFleur providing an encouraging update on wide receiver Christian Watson's knee injury earlier in the week, the former NDSU star is not expected to be on the field when the Packers face the Vikings in a critical NFC battle Sunday in Minneapolis.

While his status won't be official until 90 minutes before the 3:25 p.m. CT kickoff, NFL Network's tom Pelissero is reporting that Watson is unlikely to play.

#Packers WR Christian Watson (knee) is unlikely to play today against the #Vikings, per source.

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 29, 2024

Watson left Green Bay's win over the Saints on Monday night with the knee injury, which LaFleur said Tuesday was nothing more than a knee bruise.

Watson has dealt with injuries throughout his three-year NFL career, but his found his stride this season with a career-high 620 yards. He's done that on just 29 catches, giving him anexplosive 21.4 yards per reception.

Without Watson, quarterback Jordan Love will be targeting Jayden Reed, Romeo Doubs, Dontayvion Wicks and tight end Tucker Kraft.

If Watson does not go, Green Bay will lean on its deep receiving core led by Jayden Reed, Romeo Doubs and Dontayvion Wicks.

Green Bay has already ruled out leading tackler Quay Walker (ankle), cornerback Jaire Alexander (knee), safety Evan Williams (quad) and offensive lineman Andre Dillard (concussion).