Whitney Mercilus started his season on the Houston Texans. However, in week 7 he arrived in Green Bay and started making an impact fast. He played 31 snaps in his first game in Green Bay and was effective as a pass rusher. He recorded a sack against Seattle before tearing his bicep and going on the IR. Everyone assumed he would not return, but Mercilus always thought he would be back. Defensive coordinater Joe Barry said that Mercilus had been telling the team he would be back. Today he took the practice field for the first time since his injury.
What Mercilus’ Return Means
Just to clarify, Whitney Mercilus has not been activated from the IR onto the active roster. However, his return to practice means the beginning of his 21 day window to be activated onto the 53 man roster.
The Packers are getting Za’Darius Smith back and adding Mercilus would give them four true pass rushers who can all make an impact. He has 58.0 career sacks and 4.0 this year. Three of those came in Houston and one in Green Bay. If Mercilus becomes a rotational player it is an upgrade to Jonathan Gravin or Tipa Galeai. Mercilus took to social media to show his excitement for getting back to football. Against all odds, it looks like the Packers might have four elite pass rushing linebackers for the playoffs.
As Always
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