In a dramatic turn of events, Green Bay Packers star edge rusher Micah Parsons suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) late in the third quarter of the 34-26 road loss to the Denver Broncos.
Parsons’ Injury Details
Parsons was facing right tackle Mike McGlinchey on his way to Bo Nix when he suddenly pulled up on his left knee without any contact. He went down and clutched his left knee as trainers and medical staff arrived. The injury was recorded in the third quarter and Parsons was helped off the field. He was initially listed as questionable for a return with a knee injury.
Impact on the Packers
The loss drops the Packers to a 9‑4‑1 record. Despite the setback, the team remains in the race for both the NFC North title and a playoff spot. Micah Parsons’ absence will be felt on the defensive front, as he was a key contributor to the team’s pass rush.
Other Packers Injuries
Starting wide receiver Christian Watson also suffered a chest issue earlier in the game. Tight end Tucker Kraft had a season‑ending ACL tear in early November. These injuries add to the team’s growing injury crisis.
Parsons’ Season Performance
Before the injury, Parsons forced a fumble and had a pass breakup. He has accumulated 12.5 sacks this season, the highest total for a player who arrived via trade from the Dallas Cowboys. The trade also involved defensive tackle Kenny Clark and two first‑round picks going to Dallas.
Contract and Trade Details
Shortly after the trade became official, the Packers inked Parsons to a four‑year, $188 million deal. The contract makes him the highest‑paid non‑quarterback in league history.
Confirmation and Recovery
Parsons will undergo an MRI to confirm the diagnosis. If the tests confirm a torn ACL, he will miss the rest of the season and likely the early stages of the 2026 campaign.
Chiefs Update
Earlier in the day, Kansas City Chiefs star quarterback Patrick Mahomes tore his ACL in a loss that sealed the franchise’s fate as a non‑playoff team for the first time in the 30‑year‑old’s career.
Key Takeaways
- Micah Parsons tore an ACL in the 34‑26 loss to the Broncos.
- The injury will sideline him for the remainder of the season and likely early 2026.
- The Packers remain in the NFC North race at 9‑4‑1.
- Patrick Mahomes also suffered a season‑ending ACL tear.
The Packers will have to navigate the remainder of the season without one of their most disruptive defenders, while the Chiefs face an unexpected setback in their quarterback’s availability. Both teams will look to adjust their strategies as the season progresses.
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