The 2026 NFL season is at the halfway point, Week 9, so that means some of the top players who have dealt with long-term injuries are ready to begin their returns to action. Green Bay Packers coach Matt LaFleur told reporters that Micah Parsons' 21-day practice window to return from the torn ACL and torn meniscus is now open. That means Parsons will begin practicing with the Packers for the first time this season, with the goal of returning for the Thanksgiving week game against the Los Angeles Rams.
"He put a lot of effort and work into this. Having him out there will be a big boost for our team," LaFleur said, via ESPN. LaFleur also indicated Parsons will begin practicing as a limited participant in individual position drills while ramping him up to be full throttle in a couple of weeks.
The New Orleans Saints could also get a key piece of theirs back as well: 2026 eighth overall pick wide receiver Jordyn Tyson. The rookie out of Arizona State dealt with hamstring issues in college, which have delayed his NFL debut. However, New Orleans Football Network reported Tyson will return to practice.
While that is positive news for the Packers and Saints, many injury situations aren't as optimistic in Week 9. The Rams got bad news on Jaylen Watson on Wednesday, with the cornerback requiring season-ending shoulder surgery. He missed a game earlier this year after dislocating the shoulder and reaggravated the injury in last week's game against the Chargers.
He's been such a stud for us. He wanted to be able to play through it, but just kind of understanding the totality of it all, it was recommended for him to get that surgery, and he'll be on IR," coach Sean McVay said. Bhayshul Tuten suffered an ankle injury last week and played through it.
He is officially questionable after not practicing all week. Chris Rodriguez would likely see more touches if Tuten is ruled out or limited in any way. DE Travon Walker (rib) is also questionable and was limited on Tuesday and Wednesday after not practicing on Monday.
Extract — continue reading at the source.
