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Sammy Watkins goes on IR with hamstring injury, will miss four games starting with Week 3

We break down the news that Sammy Watkins is dealing with a hamstring injury and what it means for Week 3 and beyond.

Sammy Watkins #11 of the Green Bay Packers runs with the ball after a reception against the Chicago Bears at Lambeau Field on September 18, 2022 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images

Saturday update: The Packers have placed Watkins on injured reserve, meaning he’s going to miss at least the next four games with the hamstring injury. That means more touches and snaps for Allen Lazard and Romeo Doubs, with the latter being the high-upside play in fantasy football formats.


Friday update: The Packers have officially ruled Watkins out for Sunday’s game. Receivers Christian Watson and Randall Cobb are questionable, so the Packers could rely more on the ground game against Tampa Bay.


Friday update: Watkins did not practice on Friday ahead of Sunday’s matchup against the Buccaneers, per Rob Demovsky. This is a concerning development for the veteran receiver as he’ll most likely carry a questionable designation at best heading into the weekend.


The Green Bay Packers have some concerning injuries that have popped up on the injury report on Thursday, September 22. Wide receiver Sammy Watkins was part of a long list of wideouts that are dealing with an injury and did not practice on Thursday. This is cause for concern as the Packers will play the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, September 25.

Fantasy football implications

Watkins is listed behind Allen Lazard on the Green Bay depth chart, but both players are banged up. He practiced in a limited fashion on Wednesday but was downgraded to missing practice on Thursday. Trending in the wrong direction is obviously not how Watkins wanted to see his week progress. Watkins has played in both of Green Bay’s games this season and has brought in six of his seven targets for 111 yards, which leads the team.

Aaron Rodgers is desperately trying to find a receiver he can rely on. Watkins and the rookie Romeo Doubs lead the way with six receptions, but this season, Lazard has the only touchdown for a Packers wide receiver. Lazard typically is a flex dart throw, and if he is inactive, good luck trying to pick the correct Green Bay wide receiver against a tough Tampa Bay defense.