Green Bay Packers: Christian Watson explains why Sunday in Tampa is personal

Green Bay Packers wide receiver Christian Watson will play his first game at Raymond James Stadium on Sunday when his team visits the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Watson, who grew up in Tampa and attended high school there, last played in Tampa during his rookie season in 2022 after suffering a hamstring injury. "It was definitely tough to not be able to play back then, but it is what it is," Watson said. "We get an opportunity to go back there now and obviously, hopefully, make some plays in front of the crib."

The Packers are currently 1-2, while the Buccaneers are 0-3. Watson has been a standout performer so far this season, recording 17 catches for 284 yards and four touchdowns in three games. He opened the season with six catches for 147 yards and two scores against the Minnesota Vikings, and scored on a three-yard touchdown in the second half of a 20-17 overtime victory over the New York Jets.

Watson does not know precisely how many people will attend his game in Tampa, but he expects a significant turnout from family, friends, and former schoolmates. "Honestly, I have no idea," Watson said. "But I know there will be 15 to 20 people that I personally know who will be at the game. I'm sure it'll be even more than that."

Watson also expressed sympathy for his teammate Jayden Reed, who will be out for the season after undergoing neck surgery. "It's super tough to have a brother going through something like that," Watson said. "I made sure to keep him in my thoughts and prayed for him." Skyy Moore, who has been watching Reed closely throughout his career, is expected to take over Reed's role moving forward.