Parsons, by the way, is expected to make his debut for the Packers on Sunday against the Lions, sources say, despite a facet joint sprain in his back that left him limited in practice this week and questionable on Friday’s injury report.
It won’t be a full compliment of plays, however, and Parsons likely will focus on rushing the passer (as opposed to moving around the defense). There will be a ramp-up period to make sure when he does play fully and is integrated, his body is ready.
The Packers have been thrilled with Parsons’ contributions already, viewing him as a smart, savvy player whose leadership and effort are evident.
Landing Parsons’ was the Packers’ No. 1 goal this offseason, despite so many times when it seemed far-fetched. Green Bay views Parsons as a generational player, and the trade compensation — two first-round picks and Clark — shows that. It’s why they were willing to deal Clark — because of the player they were getting back in Parsons.
Parsons spoke to reporters this week and glowed about his initiation impressions of Green Bay.
“I’ve never been in a locker room with guys like this,” Parsons said on Thursday. “I came in Tuesday for treatment, and I saw almost every guy in the locker room. This is the first time I’ve ever seen this. That shows just how much these guys want to be here. … They just want to be around each other and hang out. That’s important to have guys that want to come into the building. When you’re around guys like that, it makes it exciting to come to work.”
