Cory’s Corner: The Packers Have a WR1 Whether You Like It Or Not

In the world of NFL wide receivers, the title of “WR1” is often reserved for the elite—those who can consistently put up big numbers, create separation with ease, and act as the primary playmaker on offense. But here’s the thing: the Green Bay Packers have a WR1, whether some fans are willing to admit it or not.

For the past few seasons, the Packers’ receiving corps has undergone a transformation. With the departure of Davante Adams in 2022, the Packers were left with a glaring hole at the top of their wide receiver depth chart. Many questioned whether quarterback Jordan Love would have a go-to target in the same way Aaron Rodgers had relied on Adams for years. However, if you’ve been paying attention to the Packers’ offense this season, it’s becoming clear that they have a legitimate WR1—and his name is *Christian Watson*.

The Packers drafted Watson in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft, and while his rookie campaign was marred by injuries and inconsistency, there was always potential. Watson’s combination of size, speed, and raw athleticism made him a tantalizing prospect, and through the first half of the 2024 season, he’s begun to show that potential in spades.

Yes, I know, there’s been a lot of talk about the Packers’ other receiving options. Players like Romeo Doubs and rookie Jayden Reed have been flashes of brilliance, and their growth has been encouraging. But make no mistake—Watson is the guy the Packers turn to when they need a big play. He’s the player defenses have to game-plan for, and that’s the definition of a WR1.

Through Week 9 of the season, Watson leads the Packers in receiving yards, touchdowns, and targets. In fact, his numbers are almost identical to those of top-tier receivers in the league, and while he may not yet have the all-around polish of a veteran like Adams, the talent is undeniable. Watson has the ability to stretch the field, win contested catches, and show off his elite speed after the catch. And most importantly, Love has developed a strong connection with him.

Watson’s breakout game came in Week 5, when he posted 150 yards and two touchdowns in a win over the Las Vegas Raiders. That performance wasn’t just a fluke—it was a sign that Watson was ready to become the primary weapon in the Packers’ offense. Since then, he’s been a consistent threat, with several key plays helping the Packers stay competitive in games that could have easily slipped away.

What makes Watson even more intriguing is his versatility. The Packers have moved him around the formation, using him both outside and in the slot, creating mismatches for opposing defenses. He’s capable of being both a vertical threat and a reliable option on short and intermediate routes. Watson has shown the ability to be a true focal point of an offense, and that’s what every team wants from their WR1.

It’s also worth noting that Love’s development as the Packers’ starting quarterback has been crucial to Watson’s emergence. The trust and chemistry between the two are growing, and it’s clear that Love looks to Watson as his primary option when the game is on the line. In fact, it’s no coincidence that Watson’s best games have come when Love has been playing with confidence and assertiveness. The connection between the two has allowed the Packers to stretch the field and give defenses headaches.

I can already hear the skeptics. Some will point to Watson’s inconsistencies in his rookie season and claim he’s still too raw to be considered a true WR1. Others may look at his relatively modest statistics compared to some of the league’s top receivers and argue that he’s not quite on that level yet. But the reality is, Watson is exactly what the Packers need right now—a young, dynamic playmaker who has the potential to be one of the league’s top wideouts in the coming years.

The Packers may not have a traditional “superstar” WR1 like Adams was, but they don’t need one. Watson has all the tools to be a legitimate top receiver, and his development will be a key factor in the Packers’ success moving forward. With Watson leading the way, the Packers have the makings of a dangerous passing attack that will only improve as Love gains more experience.

So, let’s put the debate to rest: **the Packers have a WR1 in Christian Watson, whether you like it or not. He’s the guy. He’s the future. And if his current trajectory is any indication, he’s going to be one of the most electrifying players in the NFL for years to come. It’s time for Packers fans—and the league at large—to start taking him seriously as a true No. 1 wideout. The potential is there, and it’s only a matter of time before the rest of the league realizes it too.