Green Bay Packers Make Major Christian Watson Move

The Green Bay Packers are taking a measured approach with wide receiver Christian Watson as the 2025 season approaches.

According to Zach Jacobson of 247Sports, the team placed Watson on the active/Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list as he continues to recover from a torn ACL suffered in Week 18 of last season. While expected, this move raises concerns about his readiness for the season opener against the Detroit Lions on September 7.

This step allows the Packers to closely track Watson’s rehabilitation progress. If he’s not cleared by the August 26 roster cutdown deadline, the team may move him to the reserve/PUP list, which would force him to miss at least the first four games of the season.

Watson is just over six months into his recovery from an injury that typically requires 9–12 months for a full return. Given his explosive playing style, a Week 1 comeback seems improbable, as rushing his return could lead to setbacks for the dynamic offensive weapon.

While Watson’s rehab is moving forward steadily, the Packers are expected to prioritize his long-term health over an early return. The active/PUP list designation keeps Watson out of training camp but allows activation before the regular season begins.

However, if he remains on the list after the final 53-man roster is set, he’ll be shifted to the reserve/PUP list, delaying his return until at least Week 5.

Without Watson, quarterback Jordan Love would miss a key deep threat whose speed and size open up the field for Green Bay’s young receiving corps. In his absence, rookie wide receivers and tight ends may take on larger roles early in the season.

Though the Packers haven’t ruled Watson out for the opener, a September return appears unlikely unless his recovery takes a significant leap forward in training camp. Watson’s status will be a critical storyline to follow as Green Bay kicks off training camp and prepares for their divisional clash with the Lions.