Packers are encouraged to make a return of ex-starter due to Christian Watson Injury

One of the numerous issues that arose in the Green Bay Packers’ dismal 24-22 loss to the New York Giants on Monday night was an issue that has fuelled Packers rumors all season: a lack of experience at wide receiver.

Without a question, Jordan Love was not at his best, but dropped passes, missed footwork, and bad route-running from the wide receivers all played a role, particularly with Christian Watson out.

With that in mind, it may not be too late to bring in a veteran to aid the Packers’ wide receiver position. Love clearly missed Watson, who had his two finest games before the injury in Weeks 12 and 13.

In the game, the Packers relied largely on slot receiver Jayden Reed, who had eight catches but only 27 yards. Love attempted several deep balls, but the long passing game was less effective without Watson’s pace and knowledge.

With that in mind, Bleacher Report has a new log for the Packers rumors fire, and it’s an interesting one: Bring back veteran wide receiver Sammy Watkins, who appeared in nine games for Green Bay last season, including three starts. He was dismissed by the Packers almost a year ago after struggling to remain healthy.

Christian Watson Injury Still a Problem

However, considering his experience with Green Bay and coach Matt LaFleur’s playbook, Sammy Watkins makes sense as the focus of Packers speculations. Watkins did have a three-catch, 93-yard game in Week 2 of last season, but that was the high point of his Packers career. He strained his hamstring and was placed on injured reserve the next week.

Here’s the case B/R makes for the Packers to land Watkins:

“Christian Watson suffered a hamstring injury against the Kansas City Chiefs last week, and the timeline for his return remains unclear. Head coach Matt LaFleur said he’d hopefully be back ‘sooner rather than later’ when speaking to the media on Thursday.

“It could be good to have a veteran wideout on hand for the late-season playoff push, and Watkins has a similar profile to Watson as a bigger receiver who can win down the field. The nine-year pro spent a good portion of the 2022 campaign in Green Bay, meaning he should have some familiarity/chemistry with Jordan Love.”

Packers Rumors Swirled Around WRs All Season

All season, there have been speculations about prospective experienced wide receivers who could bring depth and experience to a youthful bunch, ranging from stars like ex-Packer Davante Adams and Bills’ Stefon Diggs to moderate depth pieces like Raiders’ Hunter Renfrow. Sammy Watkins would be a late addition, but one that is arguably solid.

After all, the Packers are dealing with injuries and have minimal margin for error in making the playoffs after their loss to the Giants.

However, Jordan Love deserves praise. He could have blamed the loss in New York on the lack of running back Aaron Jones or the injury to Christian Watson. He did not, however.

“I think we have a lot of weapons on offense,” Love said following the game. “When guys have been out, guys have stepped up and made some big-time plays.” So it’s definitely not something I consider. As I previously stated, our offense has a plethora of weapons, and players are stepping up and making big plays.”