Sunday vs. Detroit Lions, 4:25 p.m. ET (CBS)
As the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, Parsons must play at a gold-jacket level for his production to match his compensation. Although 52.5 career sacks, 63 tackles for loss, nine forced fumbles and four fumble recoveries in 63 games is a stellar stat line, Green Bay will expect even more from a playmaker with a disruptive game and hybrid capabilities. Whether destroying the run as a sideline-to-sideline defender or harassing quarterbacks with a relentless pass rush, the perennial Pro Bowler should immediately make his mark as the centerpiece of a turnover-obsessed defense. DC Jeff Hafley creates chaos with aggressive blitzes and simulated pressures backed by a vision-and-break scheme. If Parsons thrives in his role as a designated playmaker, Packer backers can start thinking about planning a trip out west in February for Super Bowl LX.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Parsons (back) was listed as questionable on the Packers’ injury report from Friday.