SouthernWorldwide.com – Christian Watson expressed his gratitude for the trust the Green Bay Packers placed in him, even during times he felt he hadn’t fully earned it.
Now that he has secured a contract extension, Watson is motivated to repay that faith by remaining healthy and delivering his most impactful season to date.
“I try not to focus too much on the numbers,” Watson shared with reporters on Tuesday, marking his first public comments since signing his four-year extension last week. “I approach it on a week-to-week basis. However, if I’m setting personal goals, I definitely aim for double-digit touchdowns and over 1,100 receiving yards.”
Watson, aged 27, has yet to surpass 41 receptions or 620 receiving yards in any of his four seasons. Nevertheless, his performance last year demonstrated his significant potential when he can stay on the field.
Following a torn right ACL in the Packers’ final game of the 2024 regular season, Watson missed the first six contests. He returned to record 35 catches for 611 yards and six touchdowns across 10 games.
His new deal includes a $31 million signing bonus as part of a four-year extension that could reach up to $110.5 million with incentives. The contract’s guaranteed base value is approximately $92 million.
“They gave me numerous opportunities when it seemed like I might not have had them anymore,” Watson stated. “I’m not saying it’s about paying them back, as I believe this is a win-win situation for both sides. I have the chance to still earn that money, whether guaranteed or not. I feel I’m in a solid position.”
Indeed, Watson’s journey since being drafted by the Packers in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of North Dakota State has been a mix of triumphs and setbacks.
His career began with a dropped potential touchdown pass from Aaron Rodgers. However, Watson bounced back to score eight touchdowns in a four-game span later in his rookie season. The 2023 season saw him miss eight games due to hamstring injuries, limiting him to a total of 48 games over his first four years.
Despite these challenges, he never lost faith in his ability to secure a long-term deal.
“There were certainly difficult moments, in the heat of the play,” Watson recalled. “Dropping a pass or dealing with a hamstring injury. In those instances, I admit I felt sorry for myself a bit. But I believe I’ve always been good at bouncing back. I’ve had excellent people around me who helped me recover. I never stayed down for too long. A positive mindset was always present.”
Watson’s extension was met with strong approval from his teammates.
“It’s a reflection of his dedication, the caliber of player he is, and his character within this locker room,” commented quarterback Jordan Love.
Watson has earned the respect of his teammates and coaches through his resilience in overcoming adversity, particularly his remarkable recovery to regain peak form shortly after tearing his ACL.
“He embodies what we aspire to be,” said Packers coach Matt LaFleur. “I see him as a team-first individual. In four years, I’ve never heard him complain about not receiving the ball. He consistently does the small things correctly.”
Watson’s contract extension comes at a time when the Packers have solidified their wide receiver hierarchy.
With Romeo Doubs now with New England and Dontayvion Wicks traded to Philadelphia, the Packers’ top three wide receivers for the upcoming season are clearly Watson, Jayden Reed, and 2025 first-round draft pick Matthew Golden. Reed himself agreed to a three-year, $50.25 million extension in April.
“Having the core of our offense secured for the next few years will be incredibly beneficial for us in terms of establishing consistency,” Watson remarked. “And having those reliable playmakers available long-term will undoubtedly be a significant advantage for our offense’s momentum.”
Watson is determined to be a central figure in that foundation for years to come.
“Honestly, I will be thankful every single day that I get to step onto that field,” Watson expressed. “I will approach each day with the mindset of continuing to earn that contract, every single day.”
Reporting by the Associated Press.
