Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur's non-update on Christian Watson's chest and shoulder injuries following the team's 34-26 loss to the Denver Broncos sounded alarms. However, things have ostensibly changed quite drastically since then, if the latest information on the talented fourth-year wide receiver is any indication.
LaFleur boldly stated that Watson was expected to return to practice in a limited capacity for the Packers' second practice of Week 16. The former's pleasantly surprising news proved true, with the latter subsequently being spotted running routes, catching passes, and lightly jogging.
Wow! Talk about a massive development. Watson left the Packers' defeat in Denver in an ambulance and is miraculously back on the field just a few days later.
Christian Watson pleasantly surprises Packers fans with improbably quick return to practice
Packers fans will rightfully be astounded to see Watson in the mix so soon after seeming destined to miss time. He's been more prone to getting hurt than most players throughout his NFL career, only adding to the shock factor.
Of course, Green Bay's well aware of Watson's history and has accordingly erred on the side of caution with him in the past. Yet, when addressing the media, LaFleur didn't seem to understand why there was so much intrigue surrounding the quick turnaround:
"No," LaFleur said when asked whether he was caught off guard by Watson expeditiously rejoining the Packers. "He's fighting to play, for sure, but ultimately it's just going through the process and kind of seeing where he's at. Then he's got to prove it."
Watson's status is especially imperative with the Packers set to face the Chicago Bears in a must-win game with monumental ramifications for both clubs. This NFC North clash may decide who claims divisional supremacy, and the loser could ultimately miss the playoffs entirely in a loaded conference.
The Packers appear to have dodged a season-altering bullet; they can ill afford to lose Watson. He's been among the most productive pass-catchers in football upon coming back from an ACL tear suffered this past January. His 481 receiving yards and 17.18 yards per reception both rank 14th in the league since Week 8 (minimum 50 routes run).
It remains unclear if Watson will suit up against the Bears, where he notably went down with the mentioned non-contact knee issue last season. Nevertheless, Watson reportedly acknowledged this is the time of year "where [you've got to] fight through some stuff," adding that the wideout "should be good."
Note: Stats courtesy of Fantasy Points' data suite ($).