The Green Bay Packers closed out their season with a narrow 25-24 loss to the Chicago Bears, finishing with an 11-6 record. While they secured a playoff berth, the loss was a disappointing end to the regular season. Despite several chances to win, the Packers couldn’t pull through with Malik Willis at quarterback. To make matters worse, star wide receiver Christian Watson suffered a potentially serious leg injury, and head coach Matt LaFleur’s update sounded grim.
During his press conference, LaFleur addressed the severity of Watson’s knee injury, saying, *“I’m not super confident about that right now,”* as reported by Tom Silverstein of the *Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.*
The injury occurred early in the second quarter when Watson went down on a non-contact play. Later in the game, quarterback Jordan Love also exited with a hand injury but was seen on the sideline by the end of the contest. The Packers were vying for the sixth seed in the NFC playoffs, needing a win and a loss by the Washington Commanders. However, the Commanders’ victory made the game inconsequential.
Watson is a critical part of Green Bay’s offense, serving as the team’s top deep threat. While the Packers have a talented group of young receivers and tight ends, losing Watson could be a significant blow as they prepare for Wild Card Weekend.
### Packers Need to Adjust Without Watson
This season, the Packers had four players, including Watson, surpass 600 receiving yards. Jayden Reed led the group with 809 yards, six touchdowns, and an additional 160 rushing yards. Though Watson is essential, Green Bay’s offense is built to distribute the ball rather than rely on a traditional number-one receiver.
The Packers are set to face the Philadelphia Eagles in the Wild Card round, a rematch of their Week 1 showdown in Brazil, which Philadelphia won. Reed was the standout in that game, recording 171 total yards and two touchdowns. While the temptation to lean on Reed is high, Green Bay must spread the ball around to maintain balance.
The playoff matchup will also feature star running backs Josh Jacobs and Saquon Barkley, who have been pivotal to their teams’ success. However, for the Packers, the performance of their wide receivers could ultimately decide the game.
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