Packers wide receiver Christian Watson and cornerback Eric Stokes have suffered multiple hamstring injuries in their brief NFL careers. This offseason, they consulted experts in an attempt to resolve their ongoing issues.
Along with members of the Packers’ training staff, Watson and Stokes went to Badger Athletic Performance, which in 2021 received a $4 million grant from the NFL to study treatment and prevention of hamstring injuries. According to Packers.com, Watson and Stokes underwent high-tech tests who discovered that asymmetries in leg strength could be contributing to hamstring problems.
Watson said he and Stokes adjusted their training and felt the difference in spring training.
“At this level of any sport, I think you have to know your body,” Watson said. “Just being able to learn about it and understand how it all works has helped me a lot in terms of what I’m doing. I’m not just doing this because they’re telling me to. I’m doing this because I understand what it’s going to do for me.”
Packers coach Matt LaFleur said Watson and Stokes “look like they’re probably in the best shape I’ve ever seen them in.” Keeping them in good shape through the entire 2024 season would be a huge win for the Packers.
