- Justin Watson
- #84
- Team KC
- Pos WR
- Status AActive
-
Re-ups with Chiefs
Kansas City re-signed Watson on a two-year contract Friday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: Watson put together a career-best 15-315-2 receiving line on 34 targets across 17 regular-season appearances in 2022, his first year paired with quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Now back with the Chiefs on a two-year deal, Watson figures to reprise his role as a rotational deep threat, one that mostly limits his fantasy value to best ball formats or extremely deep leagues.
Published: Fri, Apr 14 at 7:33am by Rotowire.com
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Healthy to start Super Bowl prep
Watson (illness) was listed as a full participant on the Chiefs' estimated injury report Wednesday.
Analysis: Watson was inactive for the Chiefs' AFC Championship Game victory over the Bengals due to an illness that surfaced late in the week, but he appears to have cleared the aliment and should be full go for Kansas City's Super Bowl prep. The fifth-year wideout played 37 snaps during the Chiefs' divisional-round win over the Jaguars and secured his lone target for 12 yards. He also appeared in all 17 of Kansas City's regular-season contests, totaling 15 receptions on 34 targets for 315 yards and two…read more
Published: Wed, Feb 1 at 12:54pm by Rotowire.com
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Inactive for AFC Championship Game
Watson (illness) is inactive for Sunday's AFC Championship Game against the Bengals.
Analysis: Watson caught his lone target for 12 yards across 37 offensive snaps during the Chiefs' divisional-round win over the Jaguars, but he won't be able to play Sunday due to an illness that surfaced late in the week. In Watson's absence, Skyy Moore will be a candidate for increased snaps behind JuJu Smith-Schuster, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Kadarius Toney and Mecole Hardman.
Published: Sun, Jan 29 at 2:20pm by Rotowire.com
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Questionable for Sunday
Watson (illness) is listed as questionable for Sunday's AFC Championship Game against the Bengals after not practicing Friday, Matt McMullen of the Chiefs' official site reports.
Analysis: Watson's status will thus be worth monitoring as Sunday's 6:30 p.m. ET kickoff approaches, but on the heels of recording a 15-315-2 stat line on 34 targets in 17 games this past season, the wideout is only a fantasy option in deeper formats.
Published: Fri, Jan 27 at 1:45pm by Rotowire.com
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Small contribution in 2022
Watson gathered in one of two targets for 67 yards during the Week 18 victory against the Raiders.
Analysis: Watson beat his defender down the left sideline to reel in a perfectly placed deep shot from Patrick Mahomes on just the second play of the game, giving the Chiefs a first and goal inside the five-yard line. While it was an excellent way to start his day, Watson didn't contribute anything more to the box score. He's been targeted two or fewer times in six of the last seven games and has just three total catches in the last six. Despite logging north of 50 percent of the snaps most weeks of the…read more
Published: Tue, Jan 17 at 8:38am by Rotowire.com
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Minimal involvement in passing game
Watson caught one of two targets for 27 yards during Sunday's 27-24 win against Denver.
Analysis: Watson made his first catch since Week 13 in this one and played only 22 offensive snaps (37 percent), falling well below his snap counts over the last three weeks. Even big snap counts don't tend to result in much fantasy production from Watson, who can be left on the waiver wire in most formats.
Published: Tue, Jan 3 at 10:24am by Rotowire.com
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Another blank effort
Watson hauled in zero of two targets for zero yards during Sunday's 30-24 overtime victory versus the Texans.
Analysis: Watson hasn't hauled in a pass in either of the last two games despite playing 60-plus percent of the snaps in each of them. He hasn't drawn more than two targets since Week 11, and there's little reason to roster him in any format at this point.
Published: Tue, Dec 20 at 9:05am by Rotowire.com
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Comes up empty in Week 14
Watson didn't haul in either of his targets during Sunday's 34-28 win versus the Broncos.
Analysis: Despite playing 64 percent of the offensive snaps, Watson drew just two targets and couldn't reel in either of them, finishing the day with an empty stat line for the first time since Week 6. That being said, Watson hasn't topped three catches in a game this season and has just two receiving touchdowns, so there isn't a ton to like from a fantasy perspective.
Published: Tue, Dec 13 at 8:41am by Rotowire.com
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Minimal impact against Bengals
Watson hauled in his only target for 15 yards during Sunday's 27-24 loss against the Bengals.
Analysis: Watson's snap count dipped to just 62 percent (34 snaps) in this one, his lowest mark since Week 9 aginst the Titans. Even when he's seen more playing time, Watson hasn't tallied more than three catches in a game and has just one touchdown on the ledger, so he's not much of a fantasy asset.
Published: Tue, Dec 6 at 8:57am by Rotowire.com
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Snares two passses
Watson gathered in all two targets for 26 yards during Sunday's 26-10 win against the Rams.
Analysis: Watson has seen the largest uptick in his snap count over the last three weeks with Mecole Hardman (abdomen) and JuJu Smith-Schuster (concussion) either sidelined or limited, while rookie Skyy Moore has also enjoyed an increased snap count. Once Smith-Schuster is back in full, the pair could see their workloads reduced a bit, though Hardman's continued absence should open the door for additional snaps. Even so, Watson hasn't reeled in more than three passes in a game this season, so he's not on…read more
Published: Tue, Nov 29 at 9:17am by Rotowire.com
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Nabs three passes
Watson recorded three receptions (on four targets) for 67 yards during Sunday's 30-27 win versus the Chargers.
Analysis: Watson logged a season-high 57 offensive snaps (88 percent) in this contest, which isn't shocking following the news that JuJu Smith-Schuster (concussion) and Mecole Hardman (abdomen) would be sidelined for the game and Kadarius Toney (hamstring) also left early and didn't return. If Toney and Smith-Schuster remain sidelined next week, Watson could be worth a look in daily fantasy and some season-long formats.
Published: Tue, Nov 22 at 3:27pm by Rotowire.com
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Could have prominent role on SNF
Watson is in line for an expanded role Sunday against the Chargers, as Adam Teicher of ESPN.com reports that both JuJu Smith-Schuster (concussion) and Mecole Hardman (abdomen, IR) will miss the game.
Analysis: Kansas City's top four wide receivers will be Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Watson, Kadarius Toney and Skyy Moore. Valdes-Scantling has been battling an illness this week, Moore's an unproven rookie who hasn't made much of an impact on offense, and Toney has been with the team for less than a month. Meanwhile, Watson has built up a rapport with Patrick Mahomes, albeit in a depth role, but he'll have some upside on Sunday night given the lack of healthy alternatives in Kansas City's high-powered…read more
Published: Fri, Nov 18 at 11:29am by Rotowire.com
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Gets big snap count Week 10
Watson turned his lone target into a 12-yard reception in Sunday's 27-17 win over the Jaguars.
Analysis: With Mecole Hardman (abdomen) inactive for the Week 10 contest and with JuJu Smith-Schuster (concussion) exiting early, Watson played a season-high 45 snaps on offense (73 percent share). That snap count actually handily outpaced Kadarius Toney (28, 45 percent) for third among Kansas City wideouts, but Toney (four receptions for 57 yards and a touchdown, two carries for 33 yards) was far more involved than Watson. Given how Toney was able to capitalize on his touches, it wouldn't be surprising…read more
Published: Tue, Nov 15 at 12:48pm by Rotowire.com
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Targeted once in win
Watson failed to secure his lone target in Sunday's 41-31 win over the Buccaneers.
Analysis: Watson was held without a catch on one target for the second straight week, playing just 14 of the Chiefs' 80 offensive snaps Sunday. With so many mouths to feed in Kansas City, the veteran wideout find himself as an afterthought in the offense behind fellow receivers Marquez Valdes-Scantling, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Mecole Hardman and Skyy Moore. Watson should remain out of fantasy lineups when the Chiefs host the Raiders in Week 5.
Published: Wed, Oct 5 at 3:15am by Rotowire.com
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Gets just one target
Watson failed to corral his lone target while playing nine snaps on offense in Sunday's 20-17 loss to the Colts.
Analysis: After recording a 41-yard touchdown reception in last week's win over the Chargers, Watson was unable to come through with a splash play Sunday while taking the field for just 15 percent of the Chiefs' snaps on offense. So long as Kansas City has all of JuJu Smith-Schuster, Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Mecole Hardman available at receiver, Watson will be unlikely to find himself on the field for even a third of the Chiefs' offensive plays in most games.
Published: Tue, Sep 27 at 9:11am by Rotowire.com
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Logs full practice
Watson (chest) was a full participant at practice Wednesday.
Analysis: Watson picked up a minor injury on his touchdown reception during Kansas City's 27-24 victory over the Chargers in Week 2, but it doesn't appear that it's going to hold him out of Sunday's game at Indianapolis. Through his first two games with the Chiefs, Watson has recorded two receptions for 50 yards and a score on three targets.
Published: Wed, Sep 21 at 2:42pm by Rotowire.com
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Catches first TD since 2019
Watson caught both of his targets for 50 yards and a touchdown during Thursday's 27-24 win over the Chargers, but Chiefs head coach Andy Reid said after the game that the wideout also picked up a shoulder injury, Pete Sweeney of ArrowheadPride.com reports.
Analysis: Watson's first catch of the season was a 41-yard strike from Patrick Mahomes that cut the Chiefs' deficit to three. The score marked the veteran wideout's first touchdown since 2019, when he caught 15 passes for 159 yards and two scores -- all career highs -- for the Buccaneers. Watson added a nine-yard catch at the end of the third and was pushed out of bounds by Asante Samuel. It's unclear when Watson picked up the injury, but he'll have 10 days to clear the issue before Kansas City returns…read more
Published: Thu, Sep 15 at 9:41pm by Rotowire.com
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Good to go for Week 2
Watson (chest) was a full participant in Tuesday's practice.
Analysis: The Chiefs listed Watson as a limited participant on Monday's estimated report, but he didn't encounter any restrictions when the team held a more traditional practice session Tuesday. The 26-year-old receiver is in line to play Thursday against the Chargers, after he failed to catch his only target during last Sunday's season opener against the Cardinals.
Published: Tue, Sep 13 at 3:40pm by Rotowire.com
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Doesn't return to Sunday's game
Watson suffered a chest injury during Sunday's win over the Cardinals, James Palmer of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: Watson failed to secure his lone target during Sunday's season opener, and he was unable to return to the game after sustaining a chest injury during the second half. His availability for Thursday's matchup against the Chargers isn't yet clear.
Published: Sun, Sep 11 at 6:43pm by Rotowire.com
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Signs with Kansas City
Watson signed a contract with the Chiefs on Friday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
Analysis: Watson underwent knee surgery in July, which cost him the start of the 2021 campaign. He was activated off the PUP list at the end of December and played 19 special-teams snaps for the Buccaneers against the Panthers in Week 16. However, he suffered a quadriceps injury during the contest that sidelined him for the rest of the regular season. Watson was then waived and rejoined Tampa Bay's practice squad in the middle of January. The 2018 fifth-round pick has caught 23 passes for 258 yards and…read more
Published: Fri, Feb 4 at 1:52pm by Rotowire.com
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Back to Buccaneers' practice squad
Watson was signed to the Buccaneers' practice squad Tuesday, Scott Smith of the team's official website reports.
Analysis: The wide receiver was waived by the team Saturday but he was quickly returned to the practice squad just a few days later. Watson has only appeared in one game this season, operating as a special-teams option.
Published: Tue, Jan 18 at 2:26pm by Rotowire.com
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Waived by Tampa Bay
Watson (quadriceps) was waived by the Buccaneers on Saturday, Carmen Vitali of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
Analysis: Watson was questionable ahead of Sunday's wild-card matchup against the Eagles, but he'll now part ways with Tampa Bay. He made just one appearance for the Buccaneers during the regular season and played exclusively on special teams.
Published: Sat, Jan 15 at 1:28pm by Rotowire.com
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Logs full practice Friday
Watson (quadriceps) is questionable for Sunday's wild-card matchup with the Eagles.
Analysis: After being limited Wednesday and Thursday, Watson logged a full practice Friday, but his status for Sunday is still up in the air. He's made only one appearance for Tampa Bay this season, but with Cyril Grayson (hamstring) and Chris Godwin (knee) out and Antonio Brown dismissed from the team, there are certainly opportunities available for the Buccaneers' backup wideouts.
Published: Fri, Jan 14 at 1:06pm by Rotowire.com
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Still limited at practice
Watson (quadriceps) was a limited participant at Thursday's practice, Carmen Vitali of the Buccaneers' official website reports.
Analysis: The wide receiver was limited at practice for the second consecutive day to open the week. Watson has missed the Bucs' last two games while dealing with a quadriceps injury, but his ability to practice early in the week bodes well for his chances to play in Sunday's wild-card contest versus the Eagles.
Published: Thu, Jan 13 at 2:07pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited practice Wednesday
Watson (quadriceps) logged a limited practice Wednesday.
Analysis: Watson missed the Buccaneers' last two games of the regular season while dealing with a quadriceps injury. The wide receiver's ability to practice is a positive sign for his chances to play in Sunday's wild-card matchup with the Eagles.
Published: Wed, Jan 12 at 4:39pm by Rotowire.com
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Won't play Sunday
Watson (quadriceps) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Panthers, Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official site reports.
Analysis: Watson will be sidelined for the second consecutive contest due to the quadriceps injury. Jaelon Darden and Scotty Miller should be the depth options in Tampa Bay's receiving corps for Week 18.
Published: Fri, Jan 7 at 10:11am by Rotowire.com
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Doesn't practice Thursday
Watson (quadriceps) didn't participate in Thursday's practice session.
Analysis: Watson was sidelined for Sunday's win over the Jets and is still bothered by his quad issue ahead of Week 18. If he has a chance to play Sunday against Carolina, he'll likely need to practice in some capacity Friday.
Published: Thu, Jan 6 at 12:37pm by Rotowire.com
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Sitting out Week 17
Watson (quadriceps) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Jets, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: The reserve wideout was able to log 19 snaps on special teams in Week 16 against the Panthers, an appearance that represented his season debut after overcoming a knee injury. However, Watson picked up a quadriceps issue in that contest that will put him right back on the shelf Sunday. He'll have one more chance to tune up for postseason play in the Week 18 regular-season finale versus the Panthers.
Published: Sun, Jan 2 at 8:54am by Rotowire.com
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Questionable for Sunday
Watson (quadriceps) is questionable for Sunday's game against the Jets, Adam Caplan of SiriusXM NFL Radio reports.
Analysis: Watson played 19 snaps on special teams in his season debut last week after spending the first 15 weeks of the season on the PUP list, and he's now dealing with a quadriceps issue. If available, the 25-year-old could see more offensive action Sunday if Mike Evans (knee) or Antonio Brown (ankle) is sidelined.
Published: Fri, Dec 31 at 12:26pm by Rotowire.com
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Activated from PUP list
Watson (knee) was activated from the PUP list Friday.
Analysis: Watson returned to practice Dec. 8 and is now ready to rejoin the active roster after missing the first 15 weeks of the campaign. The 2018 fifth-round pick caught seven passes for 94 yards in 2020 and should fill a depth role in Tampa Bay's receiving corps.
Published: Fri, Dec 24 at 11:40am by Rotowire.com
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Cleared to practice
Watson (knee) was designated to return from the reserve/PUP list Wednesday.
Analysis: Coach Bruce Arians said Monday that he didn't expect Watson to return to the field in 2021, but he'll now be able to join the team for practice. If the receiver isn't activated from the PUP list within 21 days, he'll be forced to miss the remainder of the season.
Published: Wed, Dec 8 at 7:45am by Rotowire.com
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Unlikely to return in 2021
Coach Bruce Arians said Monday that he doubts Watson (knee) will be able to return from the reserve/PUP list this season, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Watson was initially expected to be sidelined until around November, but it appears as though he'll be forced to miss the entire 2021 campaign after he underwent knee surgery in late July. The 25-year-old is slated to become a free agent during the offseason after spending his first four professional seasons in Tampa Bay.
Published: Mon, Dec 6 at 9:51am by Rotowire.com
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Still yet to practice
Watson (knee) has yet to return to practice after being placed on the reserve/PUP list in August, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: The wide receiver sustained the knee injury in training camp and had surgery in July. The expectation was that Watson would be able to return at some point in November, but he hasn't returned to practice yet.
Published: Fri, Dec 3 at 4:15pm by Rotowire.com
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Hits PUP list
Watson (knee) has landed on the Buccaneers' reserve/PUP list, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Watson underwent knee surgery in July and is expected to be out until at least November. When the 25-year-old returns from injury, he likely won't receive any meaningful snaps, as Tampa Bay's receiving corps is pretty stacked. The former Pennsylvania receiver is slated to sneak in behind Tyler Johnson on the depth chart once he's fully recovered.
Published: Tue, Aug 31 at 11:23am by Rotowire.com
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Undergoes knee surgery
Watson will miss four months after undergoing knee surgery, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
Analysis: The news explains why Watson was placed on the active/PUP list earlier in the day. He's now expected to be out until late November at the earliest.
Published: Sat, Jul 24 at 5:04pm by Rotowire.com
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Moved to PUP list
Watson (undisclosed) was placed on the active/physically unable to perform list Saturday.
Analysis: The Buccaneers didn't list a specific injury with the designation, so it's unclear exactly why Watson was placed on the PUP list. The 25-year-old could be on the outside looking in when it comes to a roster spot, so any missed time will be crucial.
Published: Sat, Jul 24 at 1:20pm by Rotowire.com
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Could be victim of numbers game
Watson is trending downward for a roster spot as training camp approaches, per Greg Auman of The Athletic.
Analysis: It's not so much what Watson did or didn't do during offseason workouts and minicamp, but rather it's a product of Tampa Bay's depth at wide receiver and his minimal role for most of last year. Watson posted a 7-94 line over his first three 2020 contests but didn't see another target the rest of the way, and he was inactive for three of the Buccaneers' four postseason games. The fourth-year wideout will be on the final year of his rookie contact in 2021, and although he has been a steady force…read more
Published: Tue, Jul 13 at 9:59pm by Rotowire.com
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Buried on depth chart most of '20
Watson finished the 2020 regular season with seven receptions (11 targets) for 94 yards and compiled 19 yards on two kickoff returns across 11 games. He also logged 17 snaps but no statistics during the NFC Championship Game win over the Packers.
Analysis: The season started off encouragingly enough for Watson, considering the talent in front of him on the wideout depth chart. The third-year pro accumulated all of his stats from scrimmage for the campaign during the first three games, logging over 50 snaps in two of those contests while Chris Godwin battled multiple injuries. However, opportunity largely dried up for Watson once Antonio Brown was brought aboard in late October. How much of an uphill battle Watson faces for a roster spot this…read more
Published: Tue, Feb 9 at 5:19pm by Rotowire.com
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Healthy scratch for Week 15
Watson (coach's decision) is listed as inactive for Sunday's game against the Falcons.
Analysis: Watson kicked off the year with a combined seven receptions for 94 yards over three appearances between Weeks 1 and 4. Since that point, however, the 24-year-old has failed to post a single catch. When he's active over the latter half of the season, Watson's involvement has come primarily via special teams. The Penn product is averaging 17.8 snaps per game in that department since Week 8, compared to 13 total offensive snaps over the same span.
Published: Sun, Dec 20 at 8:53am by Rotowire.com
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Gets return opportunity in loss
Watson did not see a target on his one snap during the Buccaneers' 27-24 loss to the Chiefs on Sunday, but he did return one kickoff for six yards.
Analysis: Watson has been buried on the depth chart in recent weeks with Tampa Bay's top duo of Mike Evans and Chris Godwin healthy and Antonio Brown sliding into the No. 3 role. Watson hasn't recorded a reception since Week 4 and has logged a total of 10 snaps from scrimmage over the last four contests, leaving him a complete fantasy non-factor in all formats for the time being.
Published: Mon, Nov 30 at 9:05am by Rotowire.com
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Sticks to special teams Monday
Watson didn't play a snap on offense in Monday's 27-24 loss to the Rams.
Analysis: While Watson wasn't part of the offensive game plan, he should remain in the lineup after carving out a niche on special teams. The third-year wide receiver leads the team with six special-teams tackles after adding one more in Monday's loss.
Published: Tue, Nov 24 at 12:56pm by Rotowire.com
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Primarily limited to special teams
Watson did not log any statistics over four snaps from scrimmage during Sunday's 46-23 win over the Panthers on Sunday.
Analysis: The fourth-year receiver's snap count on offense was his lowest of the season, and he failed to log any offensive statistics for the fourth consecutive game as a result. Watson did see his second-highest level of participation on special teams (20 snaps) and had a key stop on yet another Panthers fake punt, and he's seems likely to remain limited to that role unless multiple injuries strike the receiver depth chart ahead of him.
Published: Mon, Nov 16 at 1:05pm by Rotowire.com
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Healthy scratch Week 9
Watson (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday night's game against the Saints.
Analysis: Watson now finds himself as the odd man out in a Tampa Bay receiving corps headlined by the likes of Mike Evans, Chris Godwin and Antonio Brown, with Rob Gronkowski occupying the tight end slot. Unless the Buccaneers' pass catching group suffers attrition, Watson could have a tough time earning snaps going forward.
Published: Sun, Nov 8 at 4:12pm by Rotowire.com
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Key onside recovery Week 8
Watson did not see any targets but returned one kickoff for 13 yards and had a key onside-kick recovery in the Buccaneers' 25-23 win over the Giants on Monday night.
Analysis: Watson rather surprisingly played just five snaps from scrimmage despite the absence of Chris Godwin (finger) and Antonio Brown's (suspension) unavailability, but he put in a robust 18 snaps on special teams. Watson made a notable contribution on his final play in that capacity, as he recovered Graham Gano's onside-kick attempt at the Giants' 44-yard line with 28 seconds left after New York had closed to within two points. Watson's fantasy outlook for the second half of the season appears bleak…read more
Published: Tue, Nov 3 at 8:45am by Rotowire.com
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No targets against Las Vegas
Watson was untargeted on 12 offensive snaps during Sunday's 45-20 win against the Raiders.
Analysis: Watson accumulated seven combined receptions for 94 yards between Weeks 1 and 4, but since sitting out a Thursday night loss to Chicago with injury he's attracted zero targets over Tampa Bay's past two games, as Tyler Johnson appears to have passed him on the depth chart. Watson registered 15 receptions for 159 yards in 16 appearances for the Jameis Winston-led Buccaneers last year, and so far his seven-catch, 94-yard stat line is on a similar trajectory through seven weeks of the 2020 campaign.
Published: Tue, Oct 27 at 5:54pm by Rotowire.com
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No targets in return
Watson (chest) logged zero targets over 13 snaps from scrimmage in the Buccaneers' 38-10 win over the Packers on Sunday.
Analysis: The third-year wideout came up empty for the first time this season in his return from a Week 5 absence. Watson had posted six receptions (on nine targets) for 88 yards over the prior two contests for which he'd suited up, so he'll look to bounce back from this blanking in a Week 7 Sunday night battle versus the Raiders. However with the pass-catching corps now back to full health in terms of short-term injuries, Watson looks set to be relegated to the complementary role a No. 4 receiver…read more
Published: Mon, Oct 19 at 5:46pm by Rotowire.com
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Puts in full practice
Watson (chest) practiced fully Wednesday.
Analysis: Watson has missed two of the past three games, but his most recent respite appears to have done the charm as he tends to a chest injury. As for his injured position mates, Mikes Evans (ankle) didn't practice Wednesday, while Chris Godwin (hamstring) and Scotty Miller (hip/groin) were limited participants. Considering how the respective situations play out this week, Watson could be in line for a decent snap share Sunday versus the Packers.
Published: Wed, Oct 14 at 2:38pm by Rotowire.com
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Present for practice
Watson (chest) was on the field Tuesday for the Buccaneers' practice session, Eduardo A. Encina of the Tampa Bay Times reports.
Analysis: Tampa Bay will release its first official Week 6 injury report Wednesday, so it won't be known until then whether Watson is practicing in a limited or full capacity. For what it's worth, Encina notes that Watson was donning a helmet Tuesday, suggesting the wideout will work out with the main group rather than off to the side. Watson and Chris Godwin (hamstring) both sat out the Week 5 loss to the Bears, resulting in Tyler Johnson picking up more work in three-receiver sets alongside Mike Evans…read more
Published: Tue, Oct 13 at 8:29am by Rotowire.com
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Ruled out for Thursday
Watson (chest) has been ruled out for Thursday's contest against the Bears.
Analysis: Watson missed a trio of practices this week, so it's not surprising to see him be ruled out for the Thursday night game. With Chris Godwin (hamstring) also sidelined and both Mike Evans (ankle) and Scotty Miller (hip/groin) listed as questionable, depth receivers like Tyler Johnson, Jaydon Mickens and Cyril Grayson could see expanded opportunities Thursday.
Published: Wed, Oct 7 at 12:49pm by Rotowire.com
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No practice reps Tuesday
Watson (chest) was held out of practice Tuesday, Eduardo A. Encina of the Tampa Bay Times reports.
Analysis: Watson has yet to take any on-field reps this week, which also is true of Mike Evans (ankle), Chris Godwin (hamstring) and Scotty Miller (hip/groin). The Bucs rolled with Evans, Miller and Watson this past Sunday against the Chargers, and the latter hauled in four of six passes for 40 yards. Assuming Watson is active Thursday at Chicago, a similar workload can be expected with Godwin slated to miss another game.
Published: Tue, Oct 6 at 3:42pm by Rotowire.com
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No participation Monday
Watson (chest) was listed as a non-participant on Monday's injury report.
Analysis: Watson led all Bucs wide receivers in offensive snap share (74 percent, or 56 of 76) this past Sunday against the Chargers, turning them into four receptions for 40 yards on six targets. He benefitted from the absence of Chris Godwin (hamstring) -- who isn't expected to play this Thursday in Chicago -- and Mike Evans left Sunday's game for a spell to tend to his ankle injury. If the Bucs have a similar situation Week 5 as they did last week, Watson will be the No. 3 WR behind Evans and Scotty…read more
Published: Mon, Oct 5 at 3:36pm by Rotowire.com
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Solid output in Week 4 win
Watson brought in four of six targets for 40 yards in the Buccaneers' 38-31 win over the Chargers on Sunday.
Analysis: Watson played on a robust 56 snaps overall with Chris Godwin (hamstring) sidelined and turned in a solid performance in the victory. The third-year pro has upped his production and targets in each of the three contests he's played in thus far, and he showed no ill effects Sunday from the shoulder injury that had cost him Week 3. Watson could line up for another heavy workload in Thursday night's matchup against the Bears, as Godwin is expected to be sidelined for that contest.
Published: Mon, Oct 5 at 9:18am by Rotowire.com
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Potential boost in volume on tap
Watson could be in line for a starting assignment in Sunday's Week 4 tilt against the Chargers with Chris Godwin (hamstring) already ruled out and Scotty Miller (hip/groin) questionable, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: The third-year wideout could find himself in a similar situation to the tail end of last season, when both Mike Evans and Godwin were felled by hamstring injuries. Watson was pressed into a pair of spot starts and brought in seven of 14 targets for 70 yards and a touchdown over those two games. Miller did practice fully Friday and therefore appears to be trending in the right direction, but it seems as if Watson will serve as no less than the No. 3 receiver against Los Angeles on Sunday.
Published: Fri, Oct 2 at 8:26pm by Rotowire.com
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Practices in full
Watson (shoulder) was a full participant in Wednesday's practice.
Analysis: Watson wasn't able to suit up in the Buccaneers' Week 3 win in Denver, but he now looks back to full health. With both Chris Godwin (hamstring) and and Scotty Miller (hip/groin) not practicing to begin the week, Watson could be in line to play a key role in Tampa Bay's receiving corps this weekend against the Chargers.
Published: Wed, Sep 30 at 2:28pm by Rotowire.com
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Won't play in Denver
Watson (shoulder) is out for Sunday's game in Denver, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Watson filled in for Chris Godwin (concussion) in last week's 31-17 win over the Panthers, catching two of three targets for 48 yards while playing 89 percent of snaps on offense. Godwin is back in the lineup for Week 3, while Watson will take his turn on the inactive list. Coach Bruce Arians suggested No. 3 receiver Scotty Miller (hip/groin) will be available Sunday.
Published: Fri, Sep 25 at 9:30am by Rotowire.com
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No practice Thursday
Watson (shoulder) didn't participate in Thursday's practice.
Analysis: On Wednesday, coach Bruce Arians called Watson's injury a hand/wrist issue, but the Buccaneers' practice report has termed it a shoulder concern. In any case, Watson hasn't made his presence felt on the practice field this week, hurting his chances to suit up Sunday in Denver. If he's unable to, Tampa Bay may turn to Tyler Johnson to serve as the No. 4 wide receiver behind Mike Evans, Chris Godwin and Scotty Miller (hip/groin).
Published: Thu, Sep 24 at 2:16pm by Rotowire.com
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Missing practice again
Watson (shoulder) isn't participating in the open portion of Thursday's practice, Eduardo A. Encina of the Tampa Bay Times reports.
Analysis: For the second straight day, Watson is destined to go down as a non-participant in practice. Unless he's able to fit in some activity during Friday's session, Watson would be at risk of missing Sunday's game against the Broncos. If that's the case, the Buccaneers could keep rookie Tyler Johnson active as the No. 4 receiver behind Mike Evans, Chris Godwin and Scotty Miller.
Published: Thu, Sep 24 at 8:41am by Rotowire.com
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Battling hand/wrist injury
Buccaneers head coach Bruce Arians labeled Watson as day-to-day after he missed practice Wednesday with a shoulder injury sustained in this past Sunday's win over the Panthers, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Watson's day-to-day label is encouraging, but he'll likely need to up his practice participation as the week progresses to have a realistic chance of suiting up this weekend in Denver. With Chris Godwin having cleared the concussion protocol earlier this week, Watson isnn't expected to play a major role Week 3, regardless of his health. Scotty Miller still appears locked in as Tampa Bay's No. 3 receiver behind Godwin and Mike Evans.
Published: Wed, Sep 23 at 11:35am by Rotowire.com
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Second-leading receiver in win
Watson secured two of three targets for 48 yards in the Buccaneers' 31-17 win over the Panthers on Sunday.
Analysis: The third-year pro was expected to see at least a slight bump in workload with the absence of Chris Godwin (concussion), and although that didn't truly materialize, Watson did make good use of the opportunities he was given. The 2018 fifth-round pick secured a 36-yard pass for one of his receptions and ultimately checked in second in receiving yardage on the team to Mike Evans. Watson could again be poised for potential expanded opportunity in Week 3 against the Broncos on the road if Godwin is…read more
Published: Sun, Sep 20 at 10:46pm by Rotowire.com
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Could have much larger role
Watson should see a large boost in playing time if Chris Godwin (concussion) doesn't play in Sunday's game against the Panthers, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Watson worked as the No. 4 receiver in last week's loss to the Saints, catching one of two targets on 16 percent snap share. Scotty Miller would be the better fantasy option after putting up a 5-73-0 receiving line on 61 percent snap share Week 1, but Watson would at least be in play as a desperation starter or a DFS punt. The Bucs listed Godwin as doubtful, albeit with the possibility of upgrading him to questionable after he undergoes testing Saturday.
Published: Fri, Sep 18 at 12:46pm by Rotowire.com
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Makes one grab in opener
Watson secured one of two catches for six yards in the Buccaneers' 34-23 loss to the Saints on Sunday.
Analysis: Watson was likely set for a spot start had Mike Evans been unable to overcome his questionable designation due to a hamstring injury. However, with his teammate suiting up and logging what appeared to be a normal workload, Watson essentially operated as the de facto No. 4 receiver while Scotty Miller took on a clear No. 3 role. That could well be the norm as long as Miller and his elite speed are at full health, leaving Watson with unreliable fantasy value on a week-to-week basis.
Published: Sun, Sep 13 at 8:58pm by Rotowire.com
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Could get Week 1 spot start
Watson, who's listed as Mike Evans' (hamstring) backup on the first edition of the Buccaneers' unofficial depth chart, could draw a spot start in Week 1 against the Saints if his teammate isn't able to suit up, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.
Analysis: Stroud adds Scotty Miller, who put together one of the best training camps of any Buccaneers skill player by all accounts, would also enjoy an enhanced role in the event of an Evans absence. As for Watson, it wouldn't be the first time he's called upon to help fill in for the team's top receivers if that indeed comes to pass; the third-year wideout saw plenty of playing time, including a start, in Weeks 14-17 last season when both Evans and Chris Godwin succumbed to hamstring injuries, bringing…read more
Published: Wed, Sep 9 at 6:10pm by Rotowire.com
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Stands out Tuesday
Watson stood out in Tuesday's padded practice, Carmen Vitali of the team's official site reports.
Analysis: Watson caught coach Bruce Arians' eye in last week's non-padded sessions by flashing improved speed courtesy of a slimmer physique, and on Tuesday the third-year wideout continued to make plays while facing defenders. Vitali reports the receiver recorded a red-zone touchdown grab that drew accolades from the coaches, and he subsequently made a highlight-reel catch in the second-to-last 7-on-7 period. Watson and Scotty Miller appear set to wage quite the battle for the No. 3 receiver role…read more
Published: Tue, Aug 18 at 11:38pm by Rotowire.com
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Catches coach's eye
Watson has impressed coach Bruce Arians as a candidate for the third receiver job in the early stages of training camp, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: The third-year pro reportedly dropped 10 pounds during this offseason, and Arians noted it's already paying dividends on the practice field. Watson hit 21 mph when running routes in a recent practice and has consistently shown more speed during early throwing sessions. The Penn product faces stiff competition on his bid for the third receiver role with fleet second-year man Scotty Miller and rookie fifth-round pick Tyler Johnson, who's thought to have the talent befitting a much higher draft…read more
Published: Sat, Aug 15 at 8:16am by Rotowire.com
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Faces competition from draft pick
Watson, who is expected to push for a No. 3 or No. 4 receiver job following the offseason departure of Breshad Perriman, will face competition from 2020 fifth-round pick Tyler Johnson.
Analysis: Watson and Johnson seemingly share many of the same traits, namely reliable hands and routes, as well as an impressive college history of red-zone success. Watson, a fifth-round selection himself back in 2018 who racked up 31 touchdown grabs over his last three seasons at Penn, began to make some strides on offense at the tail end of last season after spending his rookie campaign almost exclusively on special teams. The 25-year-old saw expanded opportunity due to the hamstring injuries that cut…read more
Published: Sun, Apr 26 at 2:09pm by Rotowire.com
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Makes strides in '19
Watson, who secured two of four targets for 27 yards in the Buccaneers' 28-22 overtime loss to the Falcons in Week 17, finished the 2019 season with 15 receptions (26 targets) for 149 yards and three additional yards on punt returns over 16 games.
Analysis: While those season numbers were decidedly modest, they represented career highs for Watson, who'd logged just a single reception over 12 games during his 2018 rookie campaign However, Watson wasn't really primed for a big boost in role until Mike Evans went down with a season-ending hamstring injury in Week 14 against the Colts, as he'd logged no more than 11 snaps from scrimmage in any game prior. The second-year wideout went on to gain some valuable experience over the final four contests of…read more
Published: Sat, Jan 4 at 7:33pm by Rotowire.com
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Scores TD in starting role
Watson caught five of 10 targets for 43 yards and a touchdown in Saturday's 23-20 loss to the Texans.
Analysis: Watson stepped into the No. 2 receiver role behind Breshad Perriman with both Mike Evans and Chris Godwin sidelined by hamstring injuries. He scored from eight yards out late in the first half, giving him two touchdowns in his last three games. Watson will be an appealing option in deeper formats if both Evans and Godwin remain out against the Falcons in Week 17.
Published: Sat, Dec 21 at 2:14pm by Rotowire.com
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Starting role awaits
Watson is expected to serve as a starting receiver for Saturday's game against the Texans, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Watson has caught seven passes for 86 yards and a touchdown on 10 targets over the past two games while handling near-identical 55 and 56 percent offensive snap shares in wins of the Colts and Lions, respectively. Expect his workload to take a more notable jump in Week 16, as the Buccaneers will be missing Chris Godwin, Mike Evans and Scott Miller to hamstring injuries, with the latter two receivers getting shut down for the season. After a big performance in Detroit (five catches for 113 yards…read more
Published: Thu, Dec 19 at 11:42am by Rotowire.com
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Pair of grabs in Week 15 win
Watson brought in both of his targets for 17 yards in the Buccaneers' 38-17 win over the Lions on Sunday.
Analysis: Watson was slated to see extra work with Mike Evans (hamstring) out of action, and the potential for an even bigger spike in workload was there when both Chris Godwin and Scott Miller also exited the contest due to the same issue. However, Watson still saw a disappointingly low target share. That could be poised to change Week 16 against the Texans, however, when the second-year wideout may be primed for volume akin to the eight looks he logged against the Colts in Week 14 as a result of the…read more
Published: Mon, Dec 16 at 11:54am by Rotowire.com
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Slated to fill in for Evans
Watson is expected to step into a regular role in the Buccaneers' three-receiver sets for as long as Mike Evans (hamstring) is sidelined, Jenna Laine of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: After Evans (hamstring) exited early in the Week 14 win over the Colts, Watson was pressed into a larger role and responded with the best stat line of his career, finishing the day with five catches for 59 yards and a touchdown on eight targets. The second-year pro's performance looks to have thrust him ahead of the banged-up Scott Miller (hamstring) on the depth chart, positioning Watson to work alongside Chris Godwin and Breshad Perriman in Week 15 against the Lions while Evans likely sits.…read more
Published: Wed, Dec 11 at 3:08pm by Rotowire.com
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First career touchdown grab in win
Watson secured five of eight targets for 59 yards and a touchdown in the Buccaneers' 38-35 win over the Colts on Sunday. He also returned two punts for three yards.
Analysis: The second-year receiver finally got an opportunity to show what he could do on offense after having been relegated to special teams the majority of the season. Injuries were responsible for Watson's opportunities Sunday, as the joint absences of Scott Miller (hamstring) and T.J. Logan (thumb) opened up the No. 4 receiver and top punt returner jobs, specifically. Watson was able to notch his first career score with a 17-yard grab late in the third quarter to cut into a 35-21 deficit. A prolific…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 8 at 7:56pm by Rotowire.com
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Set to return punts
Watson is expected to serve as the Buccaneers' top punt returner versus the Colts on Sunday, Eduardo A. Encina of the Tampa Bay Times reports.
Analysis: Watson's opportunity comes with T.J. Logan out for the season with a broken thumb and Scott Miller (hamstring) expected to miss Week 14. The second-year receiver is coming off a Week 13 showing in which he logged a season-high 11 snaps on offense but failed to catch his lone target.
Published: Fri, Dec 6 at 9:21am by Rotowire.com
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Season-high 11 offensive snaps
Watson logged a season-high 11 snaps on offense but failed to bring in his only target during the Buccaneers' 28-11 win over the Jaguars on Sunday.
Analysis: Watson saw a slight bump in playing time with Scott Miller (hamstring) out of action, but it didn't lead to any actual production. The second-year receiver has just one catch for 13 yards on the season, although with 28 snaps from scrimmage all year, it isn't as if he's been squandering an abundance of opportunities. Watson could see action as the No. 4 receiver again in Week 14 versus the Colts if Miller sits out that contest as well.
Published: Tue, Dec 3 at 10:30pm by Rotowire.com
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