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Packers Star Extends With Green Bay Despite Recent ACL Surgery

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GREEN BAY, Wis. — The Green Bay Packers have retained deep-threat Christian Watson on a one-year extension, keeping the two sides tied through the end of the 2026 season. The decision comes as the 26-year-old wide receiver recovers from ACL surgery and remains on the PUP list, which means he will miss at least the first four games.

The move signals a clear direction from Green Bay: be patient with the rehab timeline while preserving speed and vertical juice in the receiver room for Jordan Love. With a 16.9 yards-per-reception average since 2022 (among the league’s best for players with ≥75 catches), Watson is still the field-stretcher who forces defenses deep, opens the middle for TE/slot targets, and creates play-action shot opportunities.

Watson tore his ACL in the final regular-season game last year against the Bears. Although his recovery has been described as “ahead of schedule,” the Packers’ medical and coaching staffs are sticking to a cautious plan: prioritize long-term health, then open the practice window and ramp up his snap count once he’s ready.

Tactically, even a gradual return is expected to restore the vertical threat Green Bay has lacked in his absence. In the early phase, 4–6 targets per game could still swing outcomes through explosive plays (≥20 yards), forcing opponents to keep a safety high and respect the deep ball.

This extension is more than short-term security; it’s a cultural statement. Green Bay continues to bet on speed, discipline, and a proper rehab process. For Watson, the comeback starts in the training room—but the destination is still the far sideline, where go and post routes can change a game in a single stride.

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Ravens Update Quarterback Depth Amid Controversies - Re-signed Pro Bowl Star to QB2
Baltimore, MD – October 7, 2025 Following Cooper Rush's disappointing performance in the humiliating 10-44 loss to the Houston Texans on Saturday (October 6), the Baltimore Ravens are facing intense debates about their quarterback room depth. With Lamar Jackson still nursing a hamstring injury and potentially missing the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Rams (scheduled for Week 6), the big question arises: Should Tyler Huntley – the former Ravens Pro Bowl star – get the starting nod over Rush? Huntley, 27 years old, was re-signed by the Ravens to the practice squad at the end of August 2025 and quickly elevated to QB2 for Week 5. He served as the Ravens' backup QB from 2020-2024, leading the team to the playoffs in 2022 and earning a Pro Bowl replacement spot thanks to his impressive performances filling in for Jackson. With experience in 9 starts (3-6 record), Huntley brings familiarity to the Ravens' offensive system, particularly his mobility and game-reading skills – something Rush seemed to lack in the Texans loss, where he completed only 18/34 passes with 1 TD and 2 INTs, resulting in the offense scoring just 10 points. The controversy exploded on social media, with the hashtag #RavensFlock divided. Many fans support Huntley: "Rush has proven he's not the solution. Huntley knows the system, knows how to win games – put him in!" (from account @RavensFanatic on X). Meanwhile, others defend Rush, arguing he needs time to adapt after transferring from the Dallas Cowboys: "Rush just started his first game for us. Don't rush to conclusions – he has playoff experience!" However, Rush's performance (only 189 passing yards, no big plays) has raised concerns about the depth chart, especially with Jackson possibly out for another 1-2 weeks. Head coach John Harbaugh hasn't commented directly, but in the post-Texans press conference, he hinted at a reevaluation: "We have multiple quality options at QB. Tyler is ready, and we'll choose the one best suited to win." ESPN insiders report that Huntley has been practicing fully and performing well, potentially being promoted to official QB2 if Jackson misses the Rams game – a crucial matchup for the Ravens (currently 1-4) to salvage their season. Signing Huntley – a Pro Bowl star – is seen as a smart move amid the controversies, boosting the Ravens' depth and flexibility. If Huntley gets "the nod" to start, it could be his chance to prove his value, just like his previous fill-ins for Jackson. Ravens fans are awaiting the decision – will "Snoop" (Huntley's nickname) return to save the team? Follow updates from baltimoreravens.com for more details. #RavensFlock #QBControversy