The Green Bay Packers entered the 2025 season with a new identity on defense, led by star pass rusher Micah Parsons. Acquired from the Dallas Cowboys in a blockbuster move before the season, Parsons immediately emerged as the centerpiece of Green Bay’s defense and one of the league’s most disruptive players before his season ended prematurely with a torn ACL.
Parsons delivered a dominant first season in Green Bay, finishing with 12.5 sacks, which led the Packers’ defense in 2025. His relentless pass rush helped elevate a defense that quickly became one of the strongest units in the conference. Under his leadership, the Packers ranked 12th in total defense, allowing 194.1 passing yards per game. The unit also ranked 11th in points allowed (21.2).
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However, the defensive unit Parsons helped transform will look different in 2026. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Packers are finalizing a deal that would send defensive tackle Rashan Gary to the Cowboys in exchange for a late-round 2027 draft pick.
The move would represent a major alteration for Green Bay’s defensive front and remove one of Parsons’ most trusted partners on the line.
Gary was a key contributor for the Packers during the 2025 season. The veteran defensive lineman recorded 45 total tackles, 25 solo stops, and 7.5 sacks across 16 games, while also forcing a fumble and adding consistent pressure in the pass rush.
Since entering the league as the 12th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, Gary has been one of Green Bay’s most dependable defensive players. Over seven seasons with the franchise, he accumulated 46.5 career sacks and 271 tackles, earning a reputation as both a strong pass rusher and run defender.
Losing Gary is a significant blow for Parsons and the Packers’ defensive front. The duo formed one of the more disruptive pass-rushing tandems in the NFC and frequently forced opposing offenses to adjust their protections.
Now, Green Bay must determine how to replace Gary’s production. The Packers could turn to Devonte Wyatt, who recorded four sacks in 2025, as a potential internal option to take on a larger role along the defensive line. Other possibilities include adding help through free agency or the draft.
