Packers WR Jayden Reed Ruled Out After Neck Injury on Week 2's Second Play

Q: With Reed carted off on a spine board, who will step up to save the Packers' passing game from a devastating collapse?

Christian Watson is the clear candidate to carry Green Bay’s passing game if Jayden Reed misses time, with Matthew Golden next in line for a bigger role. Watson entered 2026 as Jordan Love’s No. 1 receiver and has the strongest case to absorb Reed’s lost volume. He already led the Packers’ wideout room in preseason and early-season production, and outside analysis around the team has consistently identified him as the offense’s top target. His size and big-play ability make him the most proven option to stabilize the passing attack. Golden is the player most likely to benefit from expanded opportunities opposite Watson. Green Bay has been counting on a Year 2 jump from the former first-round pick, and coaches have praised his route work and growth in camp. If Reed is sidelined beyond Sunday, Golden’s snap share and target total should rise quickly. The Packers also have secondary answers, but they are more complementary than transformational. Bo Melton can add speed and occasional explosive plays, while Skyy Moore offers slot and return-game versatility. Tight ends Tucker Kraft and Jonnu Smith should also see a larger share of targets, especially on intermediate throws that Reed often helps create. So the practical answer is not one savior, but a reshaped hierarchy: Watson as the centerpiece, Golden as the likely breakout beneficiary, and Kraft and Smith helping Love keep the offense functional while Green Bay awaits clarity on Reed’s neck injury.

3 articles · Updated · Yahoo Sports · Sep 20

Jayden Reed was carted off on a backboard and ruled out after suffering a neck injury on Green Bay's second offensive play against the Jets.
MetLife Stadium trainers called for the cart after Reed landed hard on a swing pass from Jordan Love and stayed down following the tackle.
Packers teammates surrounded Reed as he left the field, while Green Bay later broke a scoreless start with Jordan Love's 6-yard touchdown pass to MarShawn Lloyd.
The injury adds to Reed's durability concerns after he missed 10 games last season, though no further update on his condition was provided.