Packers Coach LaFleur Hints At Parsons Return After Months Of Silence

Green Bay Packers defensive end Micah Parsons, sidelined with a torn left knee and meniscus injury sustained in December, may return to practice soon, according to head coach Matt LaFleur. This shift in perspective comes after weeks of LaFleur firmly denying any possibility of Parsons' return. LaFleur expressed his eagerness, stating, "I'm itching for it, though, for sure."

He emphasized that the final decision rests with the medical staff. Parsons, who tore his ACL and meniscus during the holiday season and underwent surgery two weeks later, remains on the physically unable to perform list. The Packers, facing the Panthers on Thursday, will not hold regular practices this week, with their next game against the Vikings scheduled for Week 10.

If the team brings Parsons in next week, they must decide his roster spot within three weeks. Parsons' potential return is contingent on his ability to withstand NFL-level speed. Meanwhile, Chicago Bears defensive end Montez Sweat, who served a two-game suspension for an accidental positive drug test, has already returned to the field.

Sweat made his return on October 23, the day following Chicago's win over New England, and is set to play in Week 8 against the Seahawks. Sweat acknowledged the suspension as "devastating" to his reputation and the team, noting that he forfeited $2.3 million of his 2026 base salary. Despite the setback, Sweat remains committed to his career, signing a four-year, $98 million deal with the Bears in 2023 and recording 12.5 sacks in his previous season.