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Micah Parsons' Encore Could Be Legendary
Packers writer discusses the potential of the young linebacker's return from injury
Feb. 17, 2026 at 6:31am
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Packers writer Wes Hodkiewicz discusses the impressive debut of linebacker Micah Parsons and the possibility of an even more legendary encore performance in 2026 after recovering from an ACL tear. The article also touches on the importance of the NFL Draft, the talent gap after the first round, and the impact of recent kickoff rule changes.
Why it matters
Parsons' potential return to All-Pro form would be a major storyline for the Packers and the NFL, as he has already shown the ability to be a dominant defensive force. The discussion around draft talent and rule changes also provides insight into the evolving landscape of the league.
The details
In the article, Hodkiewicz responds to reader questions on a variety of NFL topics. He notes that Parsons' debut was impressive and that his encore could be legendary if he bounces back from the ACL tear. Hodkiewicz also discusses the difficulty of finding true difference-makers after the first 10-15 picks in the draft, as well as the impact of recent kickoff rule changes that have brought the play back into the game.
- Micah Parsons suffered an ACL tear during the 2025 season.
The players
Micah Parsons
A linebacker for the Green Bay Packers who had an impressive debut season but suffered an ACL tear in 2025.
John Schneider
The general manager of the Seattle Seahawks who has built a successful team through strong draft picks.
Jordyn Brooks
A linebacker drafted by the Seahawks in 2020 who made the All-Pro team in 2025 with the Miami Dolphins.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba
A wide receiver who Hodkiewicz believes could be the face of the NFL for a time.
Malik Willis
A quarterback who is set to be a free agent and could be a good fit for a team looking to move on from their franchise QB.
What they’re saying
“The beautiful thing about what John Schneider accomplished this year in Seattle is that he copied the same blueprint of how he built the Seahawks in the first place: Draft well and the rest typically takes care of itself.”
— Wes Hodkiewicz
“Even Jordyn Brooks, the 2020 first-rounder who didn't make a Pro Bowl in Seattle, fashioned an All-Pro season in 2025 with Miami.”
— Wes Hodkiewicz
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This article highlights the importance of strong drafting in the NFL, as well as the potential for players to break out and become stars even after being overlooked early in their careers. Micah Parsons' recovery from injury will be a key storyline to follow in the 2026 season.
