Micah Parsons not cleared for practice yet, LaFleur says; Packers weigh injuries and rookie kicker struggles
Micah Parsons has not been medically cleared to return to practice for the Green Bay Packers, Packers coach Matt LaFleur said Monday. Parsons remains on the physically unable to perform list as he recovers from last winter’s reconstructive knee surgery after a mid-December ACL tear in Denver that also required a meniscus repair. LaFleur said the team is making progress toward his availability but must complete testing and receive medical clearance before he can practice.
LaFleur said a key focus of Parsons’ rehabilitation is restoring balance and parity between the surgically repaired leg and the other leg, emphasizing strength and stamina. He noted that the Packers play at Detroit on Ford Field’s artificial surface after a home game against Dallas but said the surface would not automatically rule out a return. LaFleur added that players coming off major injuries typically require time to ramp up after medical clearance and urged patience.
LaFleur provided no update on running back Josh Jacobs’ stint on the commissioner’s exempt list. He confirmed Javon Hargrave suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in Sunday’s win over the Bears, a development that thins the Packers’ depth at defensive tackle. LaFleur said Warren Brinson remains on injured reserve and Jordon Riley remains on PUP, and the team hopes to get Anthony Campbell back this week after he missed two games with an ankle injury.
LaFleur said Skyy Moore’s ankle issue could cause a short absence but is not expected to be long term. He indicated that Savion Williams could be activated this week in his return from injured reserve. Those potential returns would provide additional options for the receiving corps as the team manages short- and long-term absences. LaFleur called the situation manageable but fluid as the Packers monitor recovery timelines.
Rookie kicker Trey Smack missed three kicks in Sunday’s victory, two field goals and an extra point, and LaFleur suggested swirling winds inside the Lambeau Field bowl likely played a role. He expressed confidence in Smack’s mindset and said he expects the young kicker to learn to adjust to wind conditions. LaFleur noted he has seen Smack attempt long-range kicks in practice and does not believe the miss will shake the team’s trust. Special teams will remain a focus as the club prepares for upcoming games.
NFL Sports Blog Take
Parsons’ recovery timeline will shape the Green Bay Packers’ pass rush in the coming weeks. With him still on the physically unable to perform list and Javon Hargrave lost for the season, the defensive front must rely on depth and returning players such as Anthony Campbell. The Packers are right to proceed cautiously with Parsons, and potential receiver activations plus continued confidence in rookie kicker Trey Smack give the club internal options while it manages short- and long-term absences.