GREEN BAY, Wis. – Despite a challenging season that saw him sidelined for the final three games due to a torn ACL, Green Bay Packers defensive end Micah Parsons has achieved recognition as a first-team All-Pro, a significant honor awarded Saturday. Xavier McKinney also received accolades, earning a spot on the second-team.
“This is great. I really needed that,” Parsons shared with The Associated Press, expressing enthusiasm for the upcoming offseason. “I look forward to working hard to regain that status.”
The All-Pro selections are made by a panel of 50 national voters, where first-place votes carry three points and second-place votes are worth one.
In addition to Parsons, nine Packers players garnered at least a second-place vote in various categories. Among them was wide receiver Christian Watson, who made his return from a torn ACL to play in 10 games with notable statistics: 35 receptions for 611 yards (averaging 17.5 yards per catch) and six touchdowns. His performance earned him one second-place vote, placing him among the top six receivers in the league.
Defensive statistics highlighted on the team included Zach Tom, who, despite injuries that limited him to 12 games this season, received votes for right tackle. Last year, Tom ranked third in points during voting, but this season he slipped down the list. The second-team honor was secured by Chicago’s Darnell Wright, who performed admirably.
Parsons showcased impressive skills on the field, finishing third in the NFL with pressures counted by Next Gen Stats, even after his injury sidelined him for the concluding games. Despite the challenges, he received substantial recognition with 17 first-place votes, demonstrating his significant impact in games prior to his injury.
Rookie linebacker Edgerrin Cooper also made headlines with his strong performance, recording 117 tackles. He picked up a second-place vote as recognition of his efforts.
The secondary saw Keisean Nixon earn a second-place vote among cornerbacks, indicating his solid defensive contributions throughout the season.
Additionally, punter Daniel Whelan had an outstanding year, leading the NFL in gross average and finishing fourth in net average, prompting accolades that include finishing fifth in voting among punters with three first-place votes.
The team’s long snapper, Matt Orzech, also received recognition, joining the list of players who collected votes for their positions.
The Packers organization’s ability to continue showcasing talent, even in challenging circumstances, reflects a promising future. As many players recover and build upon their experiences from this season, there is hope for a strong return in the next NFL campaign.