After weeks of speculation about Micah Parsons' future with the Dallas Cowboys, the answer was finally revealed, and it's news that the Detroit Lions fans least wanted.
With the NFL season set to kick off in a week, the Green Bay Packers rocked NFL headlines by acquiring Micah Parsons from the Cowboys.
In return, the Cowboys received 2026 and 2027 first-round picks and defensive tackle Kenny Clark. Parsons' addition to the Packers makes Green Bay a true threat not only to win the NFC North, but to compete for a Super Bowl.
How Micah Parsons trade affects Lions' division title defense
With Parsons now on the Packers, it makes the Lions' chances of winning their third straight NFC North title a whole lot more difficult. The trade also makes the Lions' Week 1 matchup at Lambeau Field more important as they will get to face Parsons and the Packers' defense right away.
Many Lions fans were shocked when the news broke that the Packers had acquired Parsons and were wondering why the Lions didn't make a move to land him, knowing that putting another edge rusher next to Aidan Hutchinson would benefit their team, especially with new defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard.
Along with the addition of Parsons, the Packers' defensive front is built to create havoc this season with Rashan Gary and Edgerrin Cooper. Much like the Philadelphia Eagles last season, the Packers are built to compete for an NFC Championship, and beyond, thanks to their defense.
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The Packers are now the favorites to dethrone the Lions in the NFC North, according to multiple sportsbooks. They also have an advantage in terms of their schedule being easier than the Lions'.
Detroit will most likely need to split the series with Green Bay, do well against the other two division opponents, and win key road games against the Cincinnati Bengals, Kansas City Chiefs, Baltimore Ravens, Washington Commanders, Philadelphia Eagles, and Los Angeles Rams.
As much as Lions fans are panicking right now, the team is still very capable of winning the division. The running back duo of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery will present some problems for Parsons and the Packers' defense in Week 1.
Even with new offensive coordinator John Morton, the Lions still have one of the most talented offenses in the league with quarterback Jared Goff, tight end Sam LaPorta, and wide receivers Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Kalif Raymond, and rookie Isaac TeSlaa.
The Lions going on the road and beating the Packers at Lambeau would help set the tone for their division title defense. Detroit will host the Packers at Ford Field on Thanksgiving.