Packers rookie injured badly at OTAs, could miss entire season

Jun 7, 2025

Green Bay, WI – A devastating blow has struck the Green Bay Packers as promising rookie Barryn Sorrell, the team’s fourth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, suffered a severe injury during a recent Organized Team Activities (OTA) session. Sources close to the team indicate that Sorrell may miss the entire 2025 season, dealing a significant setback to the Packers’ plans to bolster their defensive front.

Injury During Practice

Sorrell, a former standout at Texas Longhorns, was expected to bring power and versatility to the Packers’ defensive end position. However, during a non-contact drill at OTAs, Sorrell reportedly suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee following an awkward collision. If confirmed, this injury typically requires surgery and a recovery period of 9 to 12 months, making it highly unlikely for Sorrell to play in the upcoming season.

Head coach Matt LaFleur declined to provide detailed comments on Sorrell’s condition, stating only, “We’re evaluating the situation and will support Barryn in every way possible. He’s an important part of this team, and we hope to see him back soon.” However, the mood in the press room suggested palpable concern from the coaching staff.

Journey to the Packers

Barryn Sorrell emerged as one of the most heartwarming stories of the 2025 NFL Draft. Not invited to the draft event in Green Bay, Sorrell self-funded his trip to be present, eagerly awaiting the moment his name was called. When the Packers selected him with the 124th overall pick, Sorrell erupted in celebration alongside fans and family, even performing a “Lambeau Leap” on draft day, instantly winning over Packers faithful.

At Texas, Sorrell was a leader on the field, amassing 15½ sacks and 29 quarterback pressures over 43 games (40 starts). With a 4.68-second 40-yard dash and explosive traits showcased at the NFL Scouting Combine, he was seen as a raw talent with the potential to develop into a top-tier pass rusher under defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley’s guidance.

Impact on the Packers’ Defense

Sorrell’s injury is a major loss for a defensive unit in need of depth. The Packers had high hopes that he would complement stars Rashan Gary and Preston Smith while addressing the team’s pass-rush deficiencies from the previous season. With Sorrell likely sidelined, the Packers may turn to the free-agent market or rely on other rookies, such as 2025 draftee Collin Oliver, to fill the void.

Football operations executive Milt Hendrickson previously praised Sorrell as “a smart, powerful guy who needs football.” His absence will not only affect the team’s strategy but also its morale, as teammates described Sorrell as an inspirational presence both on and off the field.

Road to Recovery

While the injury is a significant setback, Sorrell’s story is one of resilience. A 3.5-year graduate from the University of Texas with a 4.6 high school GPA, Sorrell has demonstrated a relentless work ethic. His economics professor at Texas, Michael Brandl, once said, “When Barryn faces challenges, he works hard to overcome them. It’s not just talk—he puts in the effort.”

Packers fans have rallied around Sorrell on social media, with the hashtag #GetWellBarryn gaining traction. Many believe that with his determination and the support of the Packers’ top-tier medical staff, Sorrell will make a strong comeback.

Looking Ahead

The Packers have yet to release an official statement on Sorrell’s status, but early reports suggest the team is bracing for the worst. If Sorrell is ruled out for the season, he could be placed on the Injured Reserve list, creating opportunities for other young players to shine during the upcoming training camp.

Though Sorrell’s immediate future on the field is uncertain, his story of perseverance and passion continues to inspire Packers fans. As he said during his post-draft press conference, “I play this game for something bigger than myself—for my family.” With that mindset, there’s little doubt he’ll fight to return to the hallowed turf of Lambeau Field.

Stay tuned to packers.com for updates on Barryn Sorrell’s condition and the latest news from the Green Bay Packers.

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Pittsburgh, PA — September 18, 2025 The Pittsburgh Steelers’ offensive line took another hit on Wednesday when guard Max Scharping suffered a significant knee injury during practice, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. The injury, feared to be serious, adds to the team’s mounting challenges as they prepare for a pivotal Week 3 matchup against the New England Patriots. Scharping, who was limited in practice before the injury, will undergo an MRI to determine the extent of the damage. While it remains unclear whether this is a new injury or an aggravation of a prior issue, early reports suggest he will miss a substantial period, likely ruling him out for Sunday’s game. The Steelers, sitting at 1-1 after a 31-17 loss to the Seattle Seahawks, are already grappling with a struggling offensive line that has allowed seven sacks on quarterback Aaron Rodgers through two weeks. Scharping, a second-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft out of Northern Illinois, has yet to play in a game for Pittsburgh this season. As one of 10 offensive linemen on the roster, he has been a gameday inactive, serving as a versatile depth piece capable of playing multiple positions. The Steelers signed Scharping in October 2024 from the Washington Commanders’ practice squad after injuries decimated their offensive line. His ability to fill in at guard or tackle made him a valuable asset, though he primarily served as the ninth lineman and first-team inactive last season. Before joining Pittsburgh, Scharping started 33 games in the NFL, mostly with the Houston Texans from 2019 to 2021. When a new regime led by former Patriots executive Nick Caserio took over in Houston, Scharping was released after training camp in 2022. The Cincinnati Bengals claimed him off waivers, and he spent two seasons there before signing with the Philadelphia Eagles in June 2024, only to be cut before the final roster was set. The loss of Scharping exacerbates concerns about Pittsburgh’s offensive line, already criticized for its inconsistency. Players like Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu have struggled, while veteran Isaac Seumalo appears to be regressing. The unit’s woes have left Rodgers, the NFL’s most-sacked quarterback (578 career sacks), vulnerable, and the team’s run game, led by Jaylen Warren and Kaleb Johnson, has been stifled. With injuries also plaguing the defense—linebacker Patrick Queen (ribs), Alex Highsmith (ankle), Joey Porter Jr. (hamstring), and DeShon Elliott (MCL sprain)—the Steelers are leaning on recent additions like linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley and safety Jabrill Peppers to bolster depth. Fans on X expressed frustration, with one post stating, “Another injury? This O-line is a disaster!” Head coach Mike Tomlin remained stoic, saying, “We adapt and move forward. No excuses.” As the Steelers face the Patriots, who ran for 122 yards in their Week 2 win, Scharping’s absence could force rookies like Zach Frazier to step up. With the AFC North race heating up, Pittsburgh must navigate this latest setback to keep their playoff hopes alive.