The Green Bay Packers had their fans in an uproar during the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Desperately needing a wide receiver, they sat by idly as other teams moved up the board to select prospects they liked. A few veterans in A.J. Brown and Marquise “Hollywood” Brown were even traded that fans would have been happy to see the team acquire.
Instead, the Packers selected two Georgia Bulldog defenders, linebacker Quay Walker and defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt, with their first-round picks. It shocked a lot of people, but near the start of Day 2 of the NFL Draft, Green Bay finally made their move for a wide receiver.
The Packers traded up with their NFC North division rivals the Minnesota Vikings, who acquired the No. 34 pick via the Detroit Lions, to land North Dakota State wide receiver, Christian Watson. Many people thought the Packers would pull the trigger on Watson with one of their first-round picks, but they filled other needs and still landed their guy atop the second round.
Watson is exactly what Green Bay was looking for at the wide receiver spot. The size and speed combination, as he stands 6’4” and ran a 4.36-second 40-yard dash, provides plenty of upside.
There is still some work to do, as Watson is a relatively raw prospect. But, there is plenty to like and he is someone that Aaron Rodgers should take a liking to very quickly. One NFL scout that talked to NFL Analysis Network is expecting big things from Watson right away should the opportunity present itself.
“This is the perfect fit for Christian (Watson). There was no other place that would have been a better fit for him. I’m expecting a massive rookie season for him and if the Packers don’t pick up another veteran wideout, he’ll end the year as their clear-cut No. 1 target.”
Right now the Packers have Allen Lazard and Sammy Watkins atop their depth chart. Veteran Randall Cobb and 2021 third-round pick Amari Rodgers could also factor into the mix. None of those players should keep Watson from earning a big role unless he shows during offseason workouts and training camp that he isn’t ready to handle No. 1 wide receiver duties.
It is hard to see that happening, as Watson already has some tools that will help him succeed in the early going. If the Packers can add another veteran to the mix, there should be enough firepower to try and overcome the loss of Davante Adams, who was traded to the Las Vegas Raiders.
