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Parsons is currently placed on the physically unable to perform list as he continues his rehabilitation from a torn ACL and meniscus injury sustained last season. Although there remains an internal hope that he could return to action at some point this month, his absence from practice sessions this week confirms he will not be available for the high-profile matchup against his former club.
Recovery timeline and impact on the Packers defense
The star defender had previously expressed optimism in August, suggesting that a return for the Week 6 game against Dallas was a realistic goal. However, the current status of his recovery indicates that the team is taking a cautious approach to his return to full-contact training.
The Packers' reliance on Parsons is well-documented following his acquisition from the Cowboys in a significant trade last year. During the 2025 season, the team posted a 9-3-1 record with him in the lineup. His individual impact was substantial, as he tallied 12.5 sacks and led the NFL with 64 quarterback pressures. The team's defensive performance notably dipped following his injury, as they failed to secure another victory for the remainder of the campaign.
As the Packers prepare for this week's contest with a 3-2 record, they will have to navigate the challenge of facing the Cowboys without their primary pass-rushing threat. The focus for the coaching staff remains on managing the roster as they look to build on their current standing in the league.
