Packers rave about rookie WR Watson: 'He's going to be a problem'

The Green Bay Packers likely aren't expecting Christian Watson to immediately replace departed star receiver Davante Adams, but the rookie is already making a strong impression on his new team.

"His combination of size and speed is great," Packers offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich told The Athletic's Matt Schneidman. "He's a big guy. He can move. He's going to be a problem once he figures things out."

Randall Cobb, the veteran wideout left in Green Bay following Adams' blockbuster trade to the Las Vegas Raiders and Marquez Valdes-Scantling's exit to the Kansas City Chiefs in free agency, also hyped up the second-round pick following the start of offseason workouts.

"He has the total package," said Cobb. "Just being around him for the past week and seeing some of the things he can do, he has all the tools. He's very gifted."

The 6-foot-4, 208-pound Watson starred in his final season at North Dakota State in 2021, racking up 43 catches for 801 yards with seven touchdowns to establish himself as one of the 2022 draft's most explosive playmakers.

While Watson is viewed as a relatively raw prospect, he could take on a significant role from Day 1 to help fill the void left by Adams, who led Green Bay in targets, catches, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns in each of the last five seasons.

Allen Lazard and free-agent addition Sammy Watkins round out the Packers' projected top four receivers, with 2021 third-rounder Amari Rodgers - who had just four catches as a rookie - and 2022 fourth-rounder Romeo Doubs set to compete for playing time.