Green Bay Packers Rookie Ready To Make NFL Debut In Week 17
After a long and frustrating journey marked by injury, Green Bay Packers rookie defensive end Collin Oliver may finally be set to make his NFL debut. The highly-touted pass rusher has been activated from the physically unable to perform list and is generating considerable buzz among his teammates as he prepares for a potential role in the team’s critical Week 17 game.
A Difficult Road to Recovery For The Green Bay Packers Rookie
Oliver’s rookie season has been a test of patience. The former Oklahoma State standout, who was drafted in the fifth round, has spent the entire year recovering from a complex hamstring injury. The issue originated at the NFL Combine, where he tore a tendon off the bone, requiring surgery in March.
His rehabilitation was complicated by several setbacks. After feeling good during rookie minicamp, he re-injured the hamstring, which sidelined him for all of OTAs, minicamp, and the entirety of training camp. The process involved his body adjusting to the surgical repair, leading to frustrating but necessary delays. Now, after a successful three-week practice window, Oliver is healthy, confident, and eager to contribute.
The ‘Baby Micah’ Comparison
Collin Oliver’s return to the practice field has clearly made an impression. Teammates have taken notice of his talent, with some bestowing him with the nickname “Baby Micah,” a direct and flattering comparison to All-Pro linebacker Micah Parsons.
While Oliver reacted to the comparison with a humble smile, calling it “crazy,” the nickname speaks volumes about the potential the Packers see in him. General manager Brian Gutekunst drafted Oliver with the vision of a versatile defender who could rush the passer with elite speed while also having the ability to play off-the-ball linebacker and contribute on special teams.
Potential Impact on the Packers
With his 21-day practice window closing, the Packers activated Oliver, signaling their belief that he is ready to join the 53-man roster. While head coach Matt LaFleur has noted it may be “a little premature” to guarantee game action, he acknowledged that the “early showings are promising.”
For now, Oliver is focused on his role as a defensive end and on special teams. After a difficult year of leaning on family and teammates for support, he is prepared to make an impact wherever he is needed. If he gets the call to play against the Baltimore Ravens, it will be the culmination of a long-awaited journey and a chance for the Green Bay Packers to unleash a player they believe can be a dynamic part of their defense for years to come.
