Packers: Top 10 players to watch at training camp 2022

2. WR Christian Watson

Elite size, speed, and athleticism. That’s what Christian Watson brings to Green Bay.

According to NFL Next Gen Stats, Watson earned an athleticism score of 99, which was by far the best in the wide receiver class. The next closest was Kevin Austin Jr. with a score of 90.

Watson also earned a near-perfect Relative Athletic Score of 9.96 out of 10.

In other words, Watson is a world-class athlete. He also has great potential as a wide receiver. Watson dominated the competition at North Dakota State and then impressed at the Senior Bowl, which helped his draft stock rise.

The Packers will hope Watson can become their next star second-round wide receiver, following the likes of Jordy Nelson, Davante Adams, and Greg Jennings. Like the other three, Watson might not become that player in year one. It could take time.

But Watson has great size and speed and can fly past defenders in the open field. Whether on gadget plays like jet sweeps or even on shots deep downfield, Watson can help this offense right away.

By trading up to select him at No. 34 overall, Watson becomes the Packers’ highest pick at wide receiver since Javon Walker in 2002.

Given the team’s need for a true WR1 and Watson’s potential, he will be one of the top players to watch this summer.