Determined to show that sometimes the best is truly saved for last, former North Dakota State University (NDSU) standout wide receiver Christian Watson has officially signed his rookie contract with the Green Bay Packers.
The last remaining rookie from the Packers’ 2022 draft class to sign his deal, Green Bay announced on Wednesday that Watson, the 34th overall pick by the team in the second round, agreed to terms on a four-year deal worth just over $9 million, with $6.57 million guaranteed. According to Spotrac, Watson also took home a signing bonus totaling $3.9 million.
As a three-year starter at wide receiver for the Bison, Watson accrued a stellar collection of national and Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC) honors and accomplishments.
Along with being a multi-year FCS All-American, Watson was a part of four MVFC championship teams in five years, during which time he earned five All-Missouri Valley Football Conference selections in his final three seasons.
Based on his NDSU career totals, Watson ranks eighth in Bison history with 2,140 receiving yards and tenth all-time with 105 receptions. His wide receiver play earned him status as a Second Team AP All-American, First Team HERO Sports All-American, Third Team Phil Steele All-American, and a spot on the All-MVFC First Team.
Nevertheless, Watson’s contributions on the field during his time at NDSU went beyond his impact as a top-tier receiver. Utilizing his athleticism and versatility, Watson was also a key component of the Bison special teams unit.
Ninth in school history with 686 career kickoff return yards, Watson is also tied for the top spot in kickoff return touchdowns at NDSU with two, both occurring during his junior season of 2020-21.
Watson’s electrifying special teams talents didn’t go unnoticed, as he was named to the Phil Steele All-America First Team, Athlon Sports All-America First Team, HERO Sports All-America First Team, and Stats Perform All-America First Team for his kickoff return acumen.
The 6’5″, 208-pound native of Tampa, Florida will make his preseason debut in an away game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium on August 12.