Packers' Micah Parsons, Tucker Kraft Share Updates As Both Recover From Torn ACL

Green Bay’s Micah Parsons calls his torn anterior cruciate ligament "the most challenging thing that I think I’ve ever faced as a human."

But the All-Pro defensive end believes he can recover in time to play early next season.

Speaking to reporters for the first time since his Dec. 14 injury, Parsons said Monday that he hopes to be back for the start of the season, but added that a more realistic goal is "probably like Week 3, Week 4."

"I wouldn’t wish this on anyone," Parsons said. "I don’t think people realize how much the knee is. It’s the most challenging thing that I think I’ve ever faced as a human. When you talk about pain, can’t sleep, can’t move around. … I can’t remember the last time I slept through the night. My body’s tired. My mind’s tired. I’m exhausted, man. But it’s going to be worth it once I’m going to be able to move and play again."

Packers star Micah Parsons compiled 12.5 sacks this season to earn All-Pro honors despite missing the Packers’ final four games after teating his ACL in Week 15. (Photo by John McGloughlin/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Parsons and tight end Tucker Kraft both discussed their recoveries from torn ACLs as the Packers packed up their lockers two days after blowing a 15-point, fourth-quarter lead in a 31-27 wild-card playoff loss at Chicago.

Kraft, who tore his right ACL on Nov. 2, compared this injury to the torn pectoral muscle that caused him to spend part of the 2024 preseason on the physically unable to perform list. Kraft returned in time to play all 17 games that season.

"By the time Week 1 rolls around, I’ll be 10 months post-surgery and hopefully bulletproof by then," Kraft said.

The Packers were leading the Denver Broncos in the second half when Parsons hurt his