It's the nightmare Green Bay Packers fans had feared after Christian Watson went down in Week 18.
Watson had to be carted off the field due to a non-contact knee injury, made even more brutal as it was a meaningless game for the Packers. Unfortunately, it's the worst-case scenario.
According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, Watson tore his ACL and may have "suffered additional damage." Due to the timing of the injury, it could impact his status for the start of next season.
It's an awful break for Watson, who has dealt with terrible injury luck since entering the NFL. Not only does it end his 2024 season, but he may miss further time next year. It's a brutal update for Watson and the Packers.
Heartbreaking Christian Watson injury could derail Packers' Super Bowl hopes
In the short term, the Packers must adjust without Watson, which they failed to do in their Week 17 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. They missed him badly in that game, lacking explosive plays in the passing game. Minnesota didn't have to worry about Watson hurting them deep, which impacted the entire game plan.
What does it mean for 2025?
Watson has one year left on his rookie deal and could miss time next season. The Packers may need to consider adding another wide receiver in the spring, especially to give them another capable deep threat. It's the brutal reality of the NFL.
The Packers have already lost Jaire Alexander for the playoffs, and Watson's absence could have just as big an impact.
Green Bay adjusted well when Watson missed games last season but has struggled to adapt this year. There's no denying the impact he makes, even when the ball isn't going his way. It will take a collective effort, and the Packers will need more contributions from Bo Melton and Malik Heath — Heath made a game-changing 41-yard catch against the Chicago Bears.
It's never easy to lose a star player to a significant knee injury, but the timing couldn't be any worse. Not only does losing Watson impact the Packers' playoff run, but it raises further questions for the upcoming offseason.
Hopefully, Watson makes a speedy recovery. He is a star receiver and an incredible teammate, and few players have endured worse injury luck than the former second-round pick over the past few seasons.