Christian Watson hints at Week 8 availability — ‘That’s my plan’

Green Bay Packers wide receiver Christian Watson is closing in on his season debut after missing the first six games of the 2025 season Watson is recovering from a torn ACL suffered in Week 18 of the 2024 season against the Chicago Bears that ended his previous campaign. He spent the entire training camp on the physically disabled list (PUP).

The 26-year-old began his 21-day training period on October 6 and took part in three consecutive weeks of team training. Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Watson was optimistic about the suit for Sunday Night Football against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 8.

“That’s my plan,” Watson said Wednesday, per Zach Cruz of Packers Wire . “I say that every week. Obviously, leave it up to the coaches. But my goal and my plan is to play this week.”

Green Bay must activate Watson by 3 p.m. Sunday; otherwise he would go back to injured reserve.

Watson’s a potential comeback is coming at a crucial time for the Packers’ receiving corps. Jaden Reed remains on injured reserve after foot surgery and a broken collarbone, and Dontaevion Weeks has missed the last two games with a calf injury, including not participating in Wednesday’s practice.

Veteran Romeo Daubs leads the team with 24 catches for 306 yards and four touchdowns, while tight end Tucker Kraft has 23 receptions for 326 yards and four scores. Rookie Matthew Golden mostly played a role in the slot without receiving a touchdown.

Adding Watson would bolster the offense with his size, speed and deep threat ability. In 2024, Watson averaged 21.4 yards per catch and 17.8 yards per target, totaling 29 receptions for 620 yards and two touchdowns.

Several other Packers were limited in Wednesday’s practice, including offensive linemen Aaron Banks (groin) and Zach Thome (back), running back Josh Jacobs (calf) and safety Xavier McKinney (ankle/knee). Defensive end Devonte Wyatt is back on a limited basis after missing two games with a knee injury.

While the turf at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh is a concern following complaints earlier this monthWatson expressed no hesitation about returning to the field. If activated, he could provide quarterback Jordan Love with a key weapon in the Packers offense, especially as the team looks to regain consistency on offense.