A devastating blow to the Green Bay Packers came when star pass rusher Micah Parsons tore his ACL in the final moments of a 34-26 loss to the Denver Broncos.
Parsons’ Injury
In a text message to the Associated Press, Parsons said, “I’m sickened.” The injury was discovered when he was steps away from another sack, pulled up abruptly, fell to the ground, and grabbed his left knee. Trainers and teammates rushed to check on him, and the play was halted as Surtain tapped him on the shoulder pads before he headed to the locker room.
The severity of the injury was not confirmed by tests, but a source with knowledge of the pass rusher’s condition told the AP that he is believed to have suffered a torn ACL. Coach Matt LaFleur, speaking about the possibility, said, “It doesn’t look good. I’ll leave it at that.”
Parsons was having a big game, forcing an early fumble and earning a pass breakup. He has accumulated 12 ½ sacks this season after the Packers acquired him from Dallas in late August for two first‑round picks and three‑time Pro Bowl defensive lineman Kenny Clark. The team signed him to a four‑year, $188 million contract with $136 million guaranteed, making him the highest‑paid non‑quarterback in league history.
Packers’ Response
LaFleur addressed the impact on the team, stating, “I told the guys, ‘Nobody is going to feel sorry for us,’” and added, “Everybody’s going to have to elevate their play.” He also noted, “It’s obviously tough,” and described the loss of Parsons as a significant blow to the defense.
The coach emphasized the need for unity, saying, “We’ve got to find a way. Guys have to rally around one another.” He later reflected on the team’s resilience, adding, “We’ll come up with a plan.”
Defensive end Rashan Gary echoed the sentiment, saying, “Hurt to see,” and that Parsons “Will be missed on this defense. You all know his impact.” Gary also spoke to the player’s morale, telling him to keep his head up and finish strong for the team.
Game Impact
Green Bay was clinging to a 23‑21 lead when Parsons was hurt. Soon after, Broncos quarterback Bo Nix connected with Troy Franklin for the go‑ahead score, allowing Denver to extend their winning streak to 11 games. The injury forced the Packers to abandon their defensive strategy at a critical juncture.
The loss also ended the Packers’ four‑game win streak, leaving the team a half‑game behind the NFC North‑leading Chicago Bears. The 9‑4‑1 record now reflects a setback that could affect playoff positioning.
Additional Injuries
Parsons was not the only key player sidelined. Receiver Christian Watson suffered a chest injury after All‑Pro cornerback Pat Surtain II fell on him during a third‑quarter interception. LaFleur confirmed that Watson went to a hospital for tests. Watson, a 26‑year‑old, had previously missed the start of the season recovering from a torn ACL in Green Bay’s 2024 regular‑season finale and returned on Oct. 26 at Pittsburgh.
The dual injuries represent a “double whammy” for the Packers, according to LaFleur, highlighting the loss of critical pieces for the team’s success.
Season Context
Parsons’ contract and performance have positioned him as a cornerstone of the Packers’ defensive unit. His 12 ½ sacks this season underscore his impact, and the injury raises questions about the team’s depth moving forward.
The Packers’ schedule now includes a home game against the Chicago Bears on Saturday, a matchup that will test the team’s ability to regroup after the injuries.
Looking Ahead
Coach LaFleur remains focused on the immediate next steps, stating, “We’ll come up with a plan.” He emphasized that the team must rally around one another to overcome the loss of key players.
Gary’s remarks—“You see your star player like that go down … trying to finish the game strong for him. Trying to finish the game strong for us”—capture the emotional tone within the locker room.
The Packers will need to evaluate their defensive strategy, potentially relying on depth players and adjustments to compensate for Parsons’ absence.
Key Takeaways
- Micah Parsons is believed to have torn his ACL in the final moments of the 34‑26 loss to the Broncos.
- The injury halted the Packers’ four‑game win streak and left them a half‑game behind the Bears.
- Christian Watson also sustained a chest injury, adding to the team’s roster challenges.
The Packers’ season will now hinge on how quickly they can adapt to these setbacks and prepare for the upcoming game against the Chicago Bears.
Morgan J. Carter is a Texas-based journalist covering breaking news, local government, public safety, and community developments across Austin. With more than six years of reporting experience, Morgan focuses on delivering accurate, clear, and timely stories that reflect the fast-moving pulse of the city.
At newsofaustin.com, Morgan reports on everything from severe weather alerts and traffic updates to city council decisions, crime reports, and the issues shaping daily life in Austin. Known for reliable fact-checking and a strong commitment to public-interest journalism, Morgan brings readers the information they need to stay informed and engaged.
When not tracking a developing story, Morgan enjoys exploring Austin’s neighborhoods, attending local events, and connecting with residents to share the voices and experiences that define the community.
