Packers' Christian Watson returns against Panthers after chest injury, hospital visit

The Packers wide receiver was injured on a 53-yard reception in the first half

Christian Watson caught six passes for 100 yards before leaving Thursday night Green Bay Packers wide receiver Christian Watson returned to the Week 8 "Thursday Night Football" matchup against the Carolina Panthers in the third quarter after departing in the first half with a chest injury. Watson was transported to a hospital near Lambeau Field for precautionary tests and returned to the stadium shortly after halftime. The team initially deemed him questionable to play, and upon his clearance, he reentered the contest. Watson arrived back at Lambeau Field in an ambulance and ran into the locker room, where he spent about three minutes preparing for a return to action. He emerged onto the sideline with additional padding around his ribs and pointed to the lower right side of his chest when teammates inquired about the injury, according to Prime Video's Kaylee Hartung.

The injury occurred on the biggest play of the first half: A 53-yard reception that set up the Packers' second touchdown of the night. Watson collided with Panthers cornerback Will Lee III, who was also injured on the play. Carolina ruled Lee doubtful to return with a hamstring injury. Jordan Love ➡️ Christian Watson for a 53-yard gain!CARvsGB on Prime VideoStream on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/tNglqbJ3ZI Watson was in the midst of a massive performance when he departed from the