Packers risk major mistake with $110.5 million Christian Watson contract decision

Christian Watson got himself paid.

Did the Green Bay Packers actually have to give him such a big contract? That'll only play itself out over time, but there is at least a risk this was a mistake.

ESPN's Adam Schefter reported Thursday that Watson's new deal is a four-year extension worth $110.5 million.

Watson, who has dealt with some injury issues during his NFL career, did close the 2025 season strong. He had 35 catches for 611 yards and six TDs in the final 10 games of the season.

He was a down-the-field threat, averaging 17.5 yards per catch from Weeks 8 through 18, according to ESPN.

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Watson has 133 career catches for 2,264 yards and 20 touchdowns in four seasons since the Packers made him a second-round pick in 2022.

His average money on the new deal comes in at $27.6 million. That figure likely comes in part from the current franchise tag value, recently signed by Cowboys WR George Pickens, at $27.3 million for a year.

The Packers have made clear their wideout preferences this offseason. They've signed both Watson and Jayden Reed to extensions, while letting Romeo Doubs leave for the Patriots in free agency and trading Dontayvion Wicks to the Philadelphia Eagles. Green Bay also has Matthew Golden back for his second season after being a first-round pick in 2025.

Jordan Love does seem to be fond of Watson, and if he can keep making plays down the field, this deal will age just fine.

But if injuries or inconsistencies follow the signing of this contract, there's a chance it doesn't look as good in a few seasons.

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