Packers hand Christian Watson one-year, $13.25M extension despite ACL recovery

Green Bay Packers wide receiver Christian Watson has agreed to a one-year, $13.25 million contract extension, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

The 26-year-old remains on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list as he recovers from a torn right ACL suffered against the Chicago Bears on Jan. 6, ruling him out for at least the first four games of the season.

A second-round pick out of North Dakota State in 2022, Watson was entering the final year of his rookie deal and was set to hit free agency in 2026. The extension signals the Packers’ faith in his recovery and long-term potential.

Green Bay has historically been cautious with players returning from ACL injuries, but both general manager Brian Gutekunst and the coaching staff have praised Watson’s steady progress in rehab.

In his three-plus seasons with the team, Watson has recorded 98 receptions for 1,653 yards and 14 touchdowns in 38 games (35 starts). His 16.9 yards per catch ranks third in the NFL among players with at least 75 receptions since 2022.

SportsLigue