Packers WR Christian Watson Returns to Play After Hospital Trip for Chest Injury

Christian Watson recorded 113 receiving yards in a 27-19 win over the Panthers after being transported to a hospital for a chest injury.

The Green Bay Packers defeated the Carolina Panthers 27-19 on Thursday night at Lambeau Field. Wide receiver Christian Watson finished the contest with eight receptions for 113 yards on 10 targets, despite being transported to a local hospital during the first half. Watson sustained a chest injury at the conclusion of a 53-yard reception when he landed awkwardly on the ball. The 53-yard catch marked his third reception of at least 50 yards this season, which leads the NFL.

Following the injury, Watson walked to the locker room and entered an ambulance without assistance. At the hospital, he underwent a CT scan that revealed a broken rib. After being cleared by medical staff, the receiver returned to the stadium and jogged onto the sideline with 6:56 remaining in the third quarter. He reentered the game with 4:01 left in the period and recorded a five-yard catch on the opening play of the fourth quarter.

According to ESPN, Watson experienced difficulty breathing and was spitting up blood immediately after the hit. This incident follows a similar hospital visit for the receiver on Dec. 15 of last season in Denver, though tests were negative on that occasion. In other injury news from the victory, Packers tight end Josh Whyle was ruled out of the game after sustaining a concussion.