Green Bay Packers’ newly acquired defensive end Micah Parsons is managing an L4/L5 facet joint sprain in his back and may get an injection before the upcoming game against the Detroit Lions if necessary to play, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter citing sources.
Prior to his trade from the Dallas Cowboys last week, Parsons was given a five-day course of prednisone, an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid, to address back tightness, along with a physical therapy regimen.
He participated in his first practice with the Packers on Monday, where he was noted as a limited participant by several teammates.
Micah Parsons is aiming to play in the Green Bay Packers’ regular-season opener against the Detroit Lions at Lambeau Field, though a source told ESPN’s Adam Schefter that his participation remains uncertain. If he plays, it would be eight days after his trade from the Dallas Cowboys to the Packers for two first-round picks and defensive tackle Kenny Clark.
Following the trade, Green Bay signed Parsons to a four-year, $188 million contract extension with $120 million fully guaranteed at signing and $136 million in total guarantees, making him the NFL’s highest-paid non-quarterback, according to sources.
The trade came after Parsons held in during Cowboys’ training camp, sitting out practices due to back tightness. His presence at Monday’s practice brought heightened energy and excitement to the Packers’ locker room.
After the trade was announced, left tackle Rasheed Walker, a former Penn State teammate of Parsons, posted on social media that the Packers are now Super Bowl-bound.
“I believe it significantly boosts our chances,” Rasheed Walker said on Monday. “Our pass rush is strong across the entire defensive line. I don’t think teams will be able to pass easily against us. It’ll create more opportunities for our defensive backs and offense. Micah’s presence on the field will be a big advantage for us.”
Walker also noted that he expects Parsons to ramp up his practice participation as the week progresses, adding, “He took a few reps today, but he mentioned he’ll be more active on Wednesday and Thursday, so he’s coming for me.”
Rashan Gary, a Packers defensive end with 39 career sacks over six seasons but no double-digit sack year, was thrilled about Micah Parsons’ arrival, as it could reduce the double teams he faces.
“We’ll see on the 7th,” Gary said.
When asked if Parsons makes Green Bay’s defense the NFL’s best, Gary replied, “It’s scary. Definitely scary with the players we have and our mindsets. Talking to Micah today, we’re alike in how we think. It’s going to be tough for other teams.”
Cornerback Nate Hobbs described Parsons as “a generational talent,” noting that his presence will likely force quarterbacks to release the ball faster due to pressure. “With Rashan, our strong interior rushers, and great linebackers who can blitz, adding Micah on the edge means opponents are at a disadvantage before the play even starts. As a defensive back, it boosts your confidence,” Hobbs said.
