Packers linebacker Micah Parsons provided a key update on his injury recovery during team OTAs. Parsons tore his ACL in a game against the Broncos last December. The injury happened in the third quarter as he closed in on Denver quarterback Bo Nix.

Parsons recently opened up about his rehab and the timeline for a possible return in 2026, reported by Yahoo Sports via X post.

“Micah Parsons told reporters today that he's due to start the season on the PUP list, as the Packers have a strict nine-month recovery policy for players who have had multiple ACL tears.”

Parsons revealed that he underwent surgery on December 29 to repair his latest ACL tear. He also shared that the procedure included work on a meniscus issue that had been bothering him.

Parsons is expected to begin the season on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, which would make him sit out for the first four games of the 2026 season.

Though Parsons said he is completely healthy, the Packers wanted him to get back only when he is 100% healthy and after the recovery period of nine months post-surgery.

“It's about knowing when to go. And it's all about feeling great,” Parsons said during the OTA media session.

The Packers are set to host the Chicago Bears in Week 5 on Oct 11 and play against the Dallas Cowboys on October 18, with his nine-month recovery window closing in late September.

As per the timeline, he is expected to return for the Bears game by mid-October. His potential return for the following week's clash with the Cowboys adds further intrigue to his comeback.

Micah Parsons Focused on Winning After Injury Comeback

Parsons, during the OTAs media session, also revealed that he doesn't want to rush the recovery phase and risk being injured again. His main goal is to reach the playoffs and complete a full season, as per Packers.com.

"The goal for me is to complete the season – not no relapse – and playoffs and pushing towards a championship," Parsons said. "The goal isn't for me to go out there and re-hurt myself trying to force myself to get back the first few games. The goal has always been playoffs."

Before his ACL tear last year, he provided an immediate impact with the Packers after being traded from the Cowboys. He recorded 12.5 sacks, 41 tackles (19 solo), one pass defended, 12 tackles for loss, and 27 QB hits for 14 games played.

While Parsons admitted that he had a hard time accepting the reality of his injury, his motivation and mindset to win could define his comeback in 2026.

What are your thoughts on Micah Parsons' return this season? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Archana Ramakrishnan

Edited by

Rudra Dubey