Parsons sustained an injury to his left knee in Week 15 of the 2025 season against the Denver Broncos. He subsequently underwent ACL surgery, which also included a meniscus procedure. The Packers have taken a cautious approach to his rehabilitation.
During training camp, the 27-year-old indicated that Week 6 was his most optimistic target for a return to game action. Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst also indicated last week that the team expected Parsons to be close to returning once he completed the required four-game absence.
There is optimism that Parsons could return for the Week 5 matchup against the Chicago Bears when Green Bay hosts the Bears, according to NFL insider Tom Pelissero. If Week 5 does not materialize, Week 6 against the Dallas Cowboys remains a realistic target.
The Packers travel to Lambeau Field to face the Bears on Oct. 11 before hosting Dallas on Oct. 18. Parsons spent his first four NFL seasons with the Cowboys before being acquired by Green Bay in a 2025 trade.
A Week 6 return would bring Parsons back onto the field against his former team, making that matchup one of the most anticipated early-season games for Green Bay.
Last season, Parsons recorded 12.5 sacks and 19 tackles for the Packers, earning his fourth career All-Pro selection. His return timeline will depend on his recovery progress and clearance from Green Bay’s medical staff.
