Packers open 21-day clock for Micah Parsons return
The linebacker aims to suit up for Thanksgiving, while the Rams lost corner Jaylen Watson to a shoulder injury.
By Nia Foster ·
Green Bay Packers linebacker Micah Parsons began his 21-day practice window on Wednesday, November 4, marking the start of his return from a torn ACL and meniscus. This move sets the stage for his potential debut in the Thanksgiving week matchup against the Los Angeles Rams. Parsons, who has not practiced since the injury occurred earlier in the season, is the first player in the 2026 NFL season to enter this final phase of the return protocol.
Coach Matt LaFleur told reporters that Parsons will start as a limited participant in individual position drills. The coaching staff plans to ramp up his activity level over the next few weeks to reach full intensity. LaFleur noted that the player has put substantial effort into his rehabilitation. "Having him out there will be a big boost for our team," LaFleur said via ESPN.
While the Packers receive a boost, the Rams suffered a setback on Wednesday. Cornerback Jaylen Watson will undergo season-ending shoulder surgery. He originally dislocated the shoulder earlier in the season and re-aggravated the injury during last week's game against the Los Angeles Chargers. Watson had been a key defender for the team before the injury forced his exit.
Head coach Sean McVay confirmed that Watson will be placed on injured reserve. McVay described the loss as a major blow to the defense. "He's been such a stud for us," McVay said. The coach explained that Watson wanted to play through the pain, but medical staff recommended the procedure to address the full extent of the damage.
The New Orleans Saints also saw movement in their roster on Wednesday. Rookie wide receiver Jordyn Tyson, the team's eighth overall pick in the 2026 draft, is expected to return to practice. Tyson, who played college football at Arizona State, has been held out of NFL action due to hamstring issues carried over from his collegiate career. New Orleans Football Network reported that he will rejoin the team's drills.
Across the league, other teams managed their injury lists ahead of Week 9 games. The Baltimore Ravens will start Joe Fagnano at quarterback. Fagnano takes over after Lamar Jackson suffered a thumb injury and backup Tyler Huntley was sidelined with a turf toe injury. Both quarterbacks are now on injured reserve. Fagnano practiced fully on Tuesday and Wednesday after being limited on Monday.
The Cleveland Browns placed quarterback Deshaun Watson in concussion protocol on Wednesday. He did not participate in practice. The New York Jets have running back Breece Hall trending toward a return after he missed several games with a quad injury. Hall was a limited participant in Wednesday's session.
The Los Angeles Rams will face the Washington Commanders on Sunday. The Commanders placed running back Jeremy McNichols and defensive tackles Daron Payne and Javon Kinlaw on injured reserve. Quarterback Jayden Daniels practiced fully despite a left elbow issue. The game is scheduled for 4:25 p.m. ET at the Commanders' home stadium.
