Micah Parsons may have only recently arrived in Green Bay Packers colors, but the star linebacker is already thinking about what comes next.
With free agency approaching, Parsons, who joined the Green Bay Packers ahead of the 2025 season in a blockbuster trade from the Dallas Cowboys, outlined a condition for a potential future departure.
Interestingly, that scenario would not hinge on contract negotiations or locker room dynamics. Instead, it would depend on whether the NFL creates an international franchise.
Appearing at a recent event, Parsons was asked about the prospect of the NFL establishing a permanent team overseas. His answer was emphatic.
“I almost think we should create an international team,” Parsons shared this strong message for the league.
“I know it’d be uneven in divisions, but I look at it like, make it like the Notre Dame of the NFL. Yeah, really. I’ll be the first one on board to go over.”
The comment immediately fueled speculation about how serious the league is about global expansion, and whether a 33rd franchise could eventually materialize outside the United States.
NFL expansion gaining traction
The NFL has accelerated its international growth strategy in recent seasons. After hosting a record-breaking seven regular-season games outside the U.S., the league has already committed to nine international games in 2026.
Commissioner Roger Goodell has publicly floated the idea of expanding that number to 16: “I think at some point, if our international growth continues the way it is, I can see international growth on an international basis and in some of these markets, which they’re undoubtedly even today,” he said.
“I think there are cities out there that could support an NFL team, and we’re at the early stages. So you know. I don’t take international expansion off the table. I think it is very possible someday.”
While expansion remains theoretical, Parsons‘ willingness to anchor such a project shows his stature within the league.
On the field, his value remains unquestioned. Despite suffering a torn ACL late in the season against the Denver Broncos, the edge rusher still finished among the league’s elite defenders.
Parsons one of the best behind Garrett
The 2025 AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year honor went unanimously to Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns, who set a season record with 23 sacks and received all 50 first-place votes.
Houston Texans edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. finished second in voting with 77 points, while Parsons placed third with 63.
In limited action, Parsons compiled 19 solo tackles, 22 assists and 12.5 sacks, production that reinforced what the Dallas Cowboys relinquished in the trade.
At just 26 years old, Parsons remains in his prime. Whether his long-term future stays in Green Bay or aligns with an ambitious international franchise is yet to be determined, but he has made it clear he wishes to play some part in it if it comes to fruition.
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