Green Bay Packers star Micah Parsons spoke to media for the first time since tearing his ACL in the team's Week 15 loss to the Denver Broncos last season, revealing details about his extended rehabilitation process.
Parsons had his 21-day practice window opened on Wednesday, but he refused to set a specific return date. "I just want it to be a surprise," he said. "I just want it to be a fulfilling moment for myself, the staff — just to enjoy that day and not put too much pressure on that day."
The linebacker explained that his surgery included a full repair of both the medial and lateral menisci, which kept him non-weight-bearing for two months. That, he said, is why his recovery has taken longer than many other ACL tears in recent years.
Parsons acknowledged his conditioning is "probably the worst it's been in my career" and that he does not expect to play 50-60 snaps immediately. "I'm not going to be the All-Pro Micah, the person I once was, this year," he said. "But I think what people will see is they'll see this guy is ready to play football. He's going to play hard, and he's going to boost this defense that's already doing a great job."
Despite the long road, Parsons believes the patience was worth it and hopes to contribute during a Packers playoff push. Green Bay has gone 4-1 since a 1-2 start, with the only loss a three-point defeat to the Detroit Lions. "I came back for the greatest time of football," Parsons said. "And that's November football and December football. Let the show begin."
