Green Bay Packers wide receiver Christian Watson returned to the Week 8 Thursday Night Football game against the Carolina Panthers in the third quarter after being hospitalized for a chest injury sustained in the first half.
Watson was transported to a hospital near Lambeau Field for precautionary tests after a 53-yard reception on which he collided with Panthers cornerback Will Lee III. The Packers' medical staff took him to the hospital after he spit up blood, but tests ruled out internal bleeding, clearing him to return.
Watson arrived back at the stadium in an ambulance, spent a few minutes in the locker room, and reentered the game with additional padding around his ribs. He added two receptions in the fourth quarter, including a crucial third-down conversion that helped seal the victory.
Before the injury, Watson led all receivers with six catches for 100 yards in the first half, playing a key role in quarterback Jordan Love's strong start. In Watson's absence, rookie Matthew Golden caught a touchdown pass, and Tucker Kraft also contributed a touchdown.
The injury continues a pattern for Watson, who has missed 20 games over five NFL seasons due to various ailments, including a previous chest injury, three hamstring strains, an ankle sprain, three knee bruises, an ACL tear, and a concussion during his rookie year in 2022.
