After watching Team USA dominate all matchups, the star defender took to social media and wrote: “Team USA giving us belt I guess they will be in the Olympics lol.” The comment quickly gained traction as fans began discussing who should represent the United States at Los Angeles 2028.

Team USA won comfortably in three games against high-profile names, including Tom Brady, Joe Burrow, Rob Gronkowski, Davante Adams, and Saquon Barkley. Despite the star power, the exhibition highlighted the speed, spacing, and chemistry of experienced flag football players. The results fueled the growing argument that specialized athletes, rather than current NFL stars, may be better suited for Olympic competition.

Why flag football is different from the NFL?

Micah Parsons expanded on that idea in another post, explaining why NFL quarterbacks in particular struggled during the event. “I’m honestly not surprised NFL QBs are struggling in Olympic play. The majority of explosive plays in the NFL come off unscheduled plays where the play is extended!!” His point emphasized how flag football relies more on timing, quick reads, and structured spacing than broken-play improvisation.

Will NFL players participate in 2028 Olympics flag football?

That contrast may ultimately shape Team USA’s Olympic roster decisions. While NFL stars bring talent and recognition, experienced flag football players operate within a different rhythm and strategy. With Los Angeles 2028 approaching, the debate over who should represent the United States is already underway, and Parsons’ comments have only added fuel to the conversation.

The discussion has intensified as flag football prepares for its Olympic debut in Los Angeles 2028. Many assumed active NFL talent would easily dominate the format, but the Fanatics event showed a different reality. Parsons’ reaction echoed a broader sentiment: the transition from tackle football to flag football is not as simple as putting elite NFL players on the field.

Now, after Pickens’ numbers playing alongside Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb, there is no room for hesitation for Jerry Jones. Either he pays him more than $35 million per season, or George will walk out the door as a free agent.

This scenario will lead Jones to once again face David Mulugheta, the agent with whom he had many issues while trying to secure a deal for Micah Parsons. A few months ago, the owner said he had a verbal agreement with the defensive star, but when Mulugheta saw that the terms were not favorable for his client, the negotiations fell apart and Jerry chose to send Micah to Green Bay.

George Pickens’ contract extension with Dallas Cowboys

During the Pro Bowl Games ahead of the Super Bowl, Micah Parsons and George Pickens were interviewed by Clarence Hill Jr. and DLLS Sports. This was the wide receiver’s response when he was asked if it was likely that the money Jerry Jones saved with Parsons would end up in Pickens’ pockets.

“I mean, it’s a possibility. Everything in life is a possibility. We definitely could have used Micah Parsons. We could have used his talents. He was in Dallas for a long time. He loved it. But all I can say it’s a very high possibility (Jones using Parsons’ money for him).”

The interesting part of the situation is whether Jones will be willing to give Pickens a better contract than CeeDee Lamb, who signed a four-year, $136 million deal in 2024. It does not seem likely that Mulugheta will accept less, and that could create major controversy inside the locker room.

Both LaFleur and General Manager Brian Gutekunst are entering the final year of their contracts, prompting many to question whether they will actually return to the team given what’s ahead.

According to NFL reporter Adam Schefter on his X account, both are hoping for a positive meeting with the franchise, and it’s expected that they could extend their contracts with the Packers for a few more years.

Evidently, the main goal is to continue on this path, aiming for Love and his teammates to achieve results in the short term and eventually return to the Super Bowl.

Building a competitive team

The Green Bay Packers are fully committed to building a powerhouse around Jordan Love for a 2026 title run, headlined by their latest blockbuster acquisition of Micah Parsons.

To secure the elite pass rusher, Green Bay traded its 2026 and 2027 first-round picks along with Kenny Clark to the Cowboys, a high-stakes move intended to transform its defense into a championship-caliber unit once Parsons returns from his late-2025 ACL injury.

Offensively, the team is banking on the explosive trio of Josh Jacobs, Christian Watson, and rising star Matthew Golden to provide Love with the weapons needed to lead a high-octane attack.

By pairing a generational defensive talent with a versatile group of playmakers, the Packers have signaled to the rest of the league that they are officially in “win-now” mode for the 2026 season.

“Y’all want me to feel bad? Jerry Jones slandered my name to Cowboys media and national media for months. So, I do think I can react to comment if I want to! Respectfully.”

According to Jones, the plan to build a Super Bowl contender was to trade Parsons, free up salary cap space, and, with the first-round picks he obtained, rebuild the team by acquiring several players via trades or the draft.

What was the Micah Parsons trade?

The Micah Parsons trade was the move that sent the star defensive player to the Green Bay Packers. In return, the Cowboys received two first-round picks and Kenny Clark. Weeks later, using part of that capital, Jerry Jones acquired Quinnen Williams and Logan Wilson.

Why did the Cowboys trade Micah Parsons?

The Cowboys traded Micah Parsons because Jerry Jones was not willing to pay him $48 million on a four-year contract. Now, following the defensive end’s controversial comments, the owner responded in an interview with 105.3 The Fan by saying that his plan was precisely to acquire more players to strengthen the roster.

“Well, I wish Micah the very best. Micah just outgrew our ability to pay. He’s a great player. I’d love to have Micah on the team, but we just couldn’t afford him. We wanted four or five players more than we did him. But he’s outstanding. I understand his sensitivity and can even understand these comments, but, the facts are the facts. When you just put it on one player, that player can get hurt. If you got it on four or five players, the chances of all them getting hurt are not there. It never was personal with Micah.”

Diggs joined the Packers earlier this week after being released by the Dallas Cowboys. Shortly after the move, a Cowboys fan criticized Diggs on social media, pointing to his declining Pro Football Focus grades over the past few seasons as evidence of regression.

That criticism draws a response from Pro Bowl edge rusher Micah Parsons, who quickly comes to Diggs’ defense. Parsons replies publicly, questioning the need to disparage a player who is no longer part of the organization. “I feel like what point is there in trying to publicly disrespect someone?” Parsons writes. “He’s not representing the star anymore, just give the man a farewell and wish him the best.”

Parsons continues by emphasizing Diggs’ opportunity for a fresh start. “I don’t know why everything has to be negative every time a breakup happens. He’s in a better situation right now, trust me. He’s going to be great again,” Parsons adds. Both players previously played key roles on Dallas’ defense before Parsons was traded to Green Bay prior to the season in a move that shocked the league.

Trevon Diggs close to debut vs Vikings

The Packers add Diggs as defensive reinforcement late in the NFL season, following an injury-filled year that limited his availability in Dallas. Now, Diggs moves closer to making his debut with Green Bay, potentially as soon as Week 18 against Minnesota.

Head coach Matt LaFleur provides an update on Diggs’ status, highlighting the cornerback’s experience and playmaking ability. “He’s a guy who certainly has a ton of experience and has played at a really high level. He has incredible talent and a great ability to take the ball away,” LaFleur said, according to reporter Weston Hodkiewicz.

LaFleur notes that Diggs could play this week, though his availability remains uncertain. Diggs appears in only eight games this season due to a concussion and a right knee injury. He does not record an interception or pass breakup, finishing with one tackle, which comes against Green Bay in Week 4, adding another layer of intrigue ahead of his potential debut against the Vikings.

In Week 15, Parsons tore his ACL during the Packers’ matchup against the Denver Broncos. The devastating injury officially ended his season, drawing reactions from several NFL figures—including Jones—following the unfortunate news surrounding one of the league’s top defensive players.

“I’m sad for Micah. That’s quite a challenge,” Jerry Jones said on 105.3 The Fan, per Jon Machota. “I wish him the very best on his recovery. Michael Irvin said when he had his big surgery during, I think, his second year with the Cowboys, he said he realized what football really did mean to him.

“And he said the surgery really launched him into the best part of his career, because he got to feel what it might look like not to play again. There’s a lot of ways you can couch this thing. But, Micah, I wish you the very best.“

A major blow for the Packers

When Green Bay acquired Micah Parsons, the move was made with one clear goal in mind: strengthening the defense for a Super Bowl run. Unfortunately, the Packers will now have to pursue that ambition without their defensive star.

Parsons was enjoying an outstanding season in Green Bay following his trade from Dallas. He finished his campaign with 12.5 sacks, just 1.5 shy of his career-high mark in a single season—production that played a significant role in the Packers’ defensive success.

Injuries have plagued Green Bay throughout the season, and the loss of Parsons is among the most significant. During the same game against Denver, the Packers also lost wide receiver Christian Watson. Fortunately, his injury is not expected to sideline him for more than one game, depending on his recovery.

Can the Packers make the 2026 playoffs?

Following their Week 15 loss to the Broncos, the Packers surrendered the NFC North lead to the Chicago Bears. Although Green Bay defeated Chicago in Week 14, the loss dropped the club back into second place in the division.

The two teams will meet again in Week 16, giving the Packers a chance to reclaim first place with a victory. As it stands, Green Bay is currently the No. 7 seed in the NFC, holding the final Wild Card spot as the playoff race tightens.

Still, Parsons framed the injury as more than just a temporary halt to his season. He spoke openly about the emotional and mental toll of being unable to help his teammates on the field, while also emphasizing that the support he has received inside the locker room has helped him navigate this period.

“I may be sidelined, but I am not defeated. This injury is my greatest test—a moment God allowed to strengthen my testimony. I believe He walks with me through this storm and chose me for this fight because He knew my heart could carry it. I’m deeply grateful to the Packers organization and my teammates for their unwavering support, love, and belief in me during this season. I trust His timing, His plan, and His purpose. I will rise again.” Parsons wrote on his X account (@micahhparsons11).

Fans rally behind Parsons

Following his message, it was obvious that not only Packers fans but football fans everywhere would respond to Parsons. Most people wished him well, with even some Bears fans expressing hope to see him back next season.

“We love you brother. Gonna miss seeing you this year. You brought me a different level of excitement I haven’t felt watching a packers defense in a long time. Can’t wait to see you back out there one day. -much love all packers fans,” wrote Titletowntalks on X (@titletowntalks).

Even Dez Bryant reposted Parsons’ message with a folded hands emoji, and Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel wrote: “….He’s still a strong all-pro candidate and the most dominant defensive player the Packers have had since Reggie White.”

According to Jordan Schultz on X, an MRI confirmed a torn ACL for the talented pass rusher, who had been putting together an All-Pro–caliber season in his first year with the team. The former Cowboys star’s season has officially come to an end.

The Packers made a major bet by bringing in Parsons, making this setback a tough blow for Matt LaFleur and the rest of the team. With their playoff chances still intact, it now becomes a matter of how they will truly replace him on the field.

With only three games remaining on Green Bay’s schedule (Bears, Ravens and Vikings), being without its biggest stars on the field could prove to be a major disadvantage. Now is the time for Jordan Love to elevate the offense and push past this setback.

How much will the Packers miss Parsons?

The season-ending injury to star edge rusher Micah Parsons is a catastrophic loss for the Packers. In his dominant 2025 campaign, Parsons was having a phenomenal year, recording 19 solo tackles, leading the team with 12.5 sacks, and adding 2 forced fumbles (with 0 interceptions).

The former Dallas Cowboys star was the most crucial piece of the Green Bay Packers’ pass rush, often drawing double teams, which allowed other players to pressure the quarterback.

Who could replace Parsons?

The loss of Micah Parsons necessitates an immediate shuffle in the Packers’ pass-rushing rotation. Stepping up to fill the void are current depth chart defensive ends Kingsley Enagbare and Arron Mosby, who will be asked to significantly increase their snap counts and production.

Crucially, the burden of generating pressure now falls heavily onto established rushers like Rashan Gary, Lukas Van Ness, and Barryn Sorrell, provided they remain healthy and available.

Seeing the WR go down holding one of his shoulders suggested the worst-case scenario. However, according to insider Ian Rapoport on X, Watson did not suffer a major injury, making the outlook more positive than initially feared.

One of Love’s key weapons exited the game after taking a hard hit on his left side while attempting to catch a deep pass from his quarterback in the third quarter, and he was shortly thereafter ruled out with a chest injury.

Had he suffered a more serious injury, it would have been a major blow for Matt LaFleur, who had already received terrible news regarding Micah Parsons’ status following the loss to the Broncos.

What happened to Micah Parsons?

Last night, star edge rusher Micah Parsons went down with a severe injury. The non-contact incident occurred late in the third quarter when Parsons planted his leg awkwardly while pursuing the quarterback and immediately grabbed his left knee.

He was quickly ruled out for the remainder of the game, and unfortunately, initial fears suggest the injury is a torn ACL. Head Coach Matt LaFleur commented that the outlook “doesn’t look good,” indicating a potential season-ending injury that would be a tremendous loss for the Packers’ defense.

A painful loss for the Packers

After falling at Empower Field Stadium, the Packers dropped to a 9–4–1 record and, following the Bears’ victory over the Browns, lost their lead in the NFC North. Despite this, according to the NFL’s official website, their chances of making the playoffs stand at 88 percent heading into Week 16.

The Packers still have three games remaining to secure their playoff goal: the Bears at Soldier Field, the Ravens at Lambeau Field, and finally the Minnesota Vikings on the road.

NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport reported on X: “Packers edge Micah Parsons, believed to have suffered a torn ACL, finished his season with 12.5 sacks and a significant piece of one of the NFL’s best defenses. But his injury knocks him out for the end of the regular season and beyond.”

Regarding the Parsons injury and its potential benefit to the Bears, Jacob Infante of Windy City Gridiron stated on X: “I feel bad for Micah Parsons on a human level for his injury. Never good to see guys get hurt. I don’t give a s— about how it pertains to the Bears, their playoff chances, or their game next week. Playoffs are on the line. None of this ‘beat them at their best’ c—.”

Packers lose another player to ACL tear

Parsons is not the only Packers player with a torn ACL. It’s worth remembering that Tucker Kraft had already suffered the same injury in November, making him an important starter for the team.

Furthermore, during the same game against the Broncos where Parsons was injured, it is suspected that other players may have also suffered injuries, including Christian Watson, Zach Tom, and Quay Walker, according to information shared by SleeperPackers.

Packers edge rusher Rashan Gary spoke about the potential season-ending injury for Parsons, saying, “I told him to keep his head up, and we’re going to finish strong for him,” in a message also intended to encourage his other teammates.

Packers’ playoff situation

Currently, the Packers, with a 9-4-1 record, have an 88% playoff probability. This is strong, as they are the second-best team in the NFC North. They still have games scheduled against the Bears, Ravens, and Vikings. It is highly probable that they will at least secure a Wild Card spot.

Garrett is on pace to break the single-season sacks record. He is four sacks away and there are five games to go. This puts him over Parsons in the Defensive Player of the Year odds. Parsons spoke about it.

“I think it’ll be a nice accolade if I’m able to achieve that once in my career, but for right now, I just been playing for respect,” Parsons said to Matt Schneidman of TheAthletic.com. “I think that’s kind of what’s making me go.” He also said Garrett is “his own different specimen, and he has his own team, and what they do and what they do is special.“

Garrett is entering historical levels of dominance

Myles Garrett is a four-time first-team All Pro, a one-time DPOY, and a six-time Pro Bowler. During his nine years in the NFL, he’s had double-digit sacks in every single season except for his rookie year.

He commands two or three men from the opposing team to try and control him and he still dominates the trenches. If he retired today, Myles Garrett is likely to go to the Hall of Fame. If he is able to break the sacks record, it’s just confirmation of how good he is despite playing with Shedeur Sanders in a dysfunctional franchise like the Browns.

Parsons could be the heir to Garrett’s throne

Garrett is 30-years old, while Parsons is just 26, entering his prime. Parsons has 65 sacks already in his career and his lowest number of sacks in a season is 12, a number he already overcame in 2025.

He is a four-time Pro Bowler and a two-time first team All Pro. When Garrett’s time passes, he is undoubtedly the guy who could become a Hall of Famer one day. For now, it’s all about respect, as Parsons said.