The Green Bay Packers may be on the rise, but not every former Packer is eager to jump back into the green and gold. In a bold and unexpectedly candid statement, former midseason pickup and edge rusher Whitney Mercilus, who played a crucial role during the team’s 2023 playoff push, has spoken out about speculation linking him to a return to Lambeau Field.
Mercilus, who was scooped up midseason during the Packers’ injury crisis two years ago, quickly became a fan favorite for his on-field tenacity and leadership in the locker room. Though he only spent a brief stint with the team, his impact was undeniable. The veteran linebacker notched 3.5 sacks in six games and delivered one of the most crucial quarterback pressures in the NFC Wild Card game that season.
Now 34, Mercilus remains a free agent after recovering from offseason shoulder surgery and has been rumored to be in casual talks with multiple teams, including the Packers. However, during a recent interview on a national sports podcast, the former Houston Texans standout didn’t mince words when asked about a possible return to Green Bay.
“I loved my time in Green Bay, the fans were electric, and the culture was serious about winning. But let’s be honest — I’m not trying to be anyone’s insurance policy,” Mercilus said. “They have young guys in that locker room who need reps, and I’m not coming back just to ride the bench until someone gets hurt again.”
His words sent shockwaves through Packers Nation, many of whom had hoped for a potential reunion, especially with uncertainty still lingering over the pass rush depth behind Rashan Gary and Lukas Van Ness.
Mercilus also hinted that he’s in talks with two AFC playoff contenders and suggested he’ll only suit up again “if the fit is perfect and the role is real.”
Packers GM Brian Gutekunst was asked about the comments during a press availability after OTAs and kept his response diplomatic.
“Whitney is a pro. He helped us tremendously in a tough stretch. But right now, we’re focused on developing the group we have. That said, the door’s never closed.”
Still, Mercilus’ remarks paint a clear picture: any return to the Packers won’t be on a whim. He’s not interested in nostalgia — he wants meaningful football.
Whether that opportunity lies in Green Bay or elsewhere remains to be seen. But for now, it’s clear that this midseason steal from the past isn’t jumping back into the present without full commitment from both sides.
One thing is certain: the Packers are building something special, but not everyone from the past will be part of the next chapter.