The Green Bay Packers pulled off one of the biggest moves of the 21st century on Thursday, as they sent two first-round picks and defensive tackle Kenny Clark to the Dallas Cowboys for Micah Parsons. The move to acquire a superstar pass-rusher in the prime of his career has solidified the franchise's status as one of the NFL's true contenders in 2025.
Parsons has been one of the premier pass-rushers in the league since the Cowboys selected him 12th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft. In four seasons, he has recorded 256 total tackles, 172 solo tackles, 63 tackles for loss, 52.5 sacks, 112 quarterback hits, nine forced fumbles, four fumble recoveries, nine passes defended, and one defensive touchdown.
The move to acquire Parsons -- who has already earned four Pro Bowl nods and three All-Pro selections -- has led many to predict that the Packers will be legitimate contenders in 2025. A former league MVP, however, does not believe in Green Bay.
Former NFL MVP Cam Newton claims Packers are not true contenders despite Micah Parsons deal
While many believe the Parsons trade launches the Packers into becoming a true contender, former NFL MVP Cam Newton questioned the team's ability to compete for a Super Bowl.
Speaking on ESPN's First Take, the former league MVP stated:
"I don't even think that they're the best team in their division. They're not better than Detroit even after this Micah Parsons (deal)," said Newton. "Are the Green Bay Packers the youngest team or one of the youngest teams in the NFL? Absolutely. Is Micah Parsons still a young player? Absolutely. These are things that you can grow and build upon. But when you're saying they're instant Super Bowl contenders? No, not so fast."
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Newton did note that he believes the Packers will contend for Super Bowl titles within the next three seasons. It is difficult, however, to agree with his assessment about this season, as the Packers should be one of the league's elite teams.
In 2024, they ranked eighth in scoring offense, fifth in total yards, sixth in scoring defense, and sixth in total yards allowed. The addition of Parsons should transform their defensive unit into one of the best in the league, which, combined with an elite offense, makes the Packers contenders.