As the Green Bay Packers gear up for the 2026 season, the buzz around Lambeau Field is palpable. With aspirations not just for a playoff berth but a serious Super Bowl run, the Packers are looking to put last year's injury-riddled and inconsistent campaign behind them. Key players like Jordan Love, Tucker Kraft, and Micah Parsons were sidelined, and the loss of Pro Bowl offensive lineman Elgton Jenkins to an ankle fracture only added to their woes.
Now, the team is reshaping itself, and one linebacker is ready to make his mark.
Barryn Sorrell: The Packers' Speed Demon
Packers fans are buzzing about second-year linebacker Barryn Sorrell after a jaw-dropping workout video surfaced on social media. In the clip, Sorrell, standing at 6'3" and weighing 256 pounds, clocks an astounding 21.5 mph on the treadmill. That's the kind of speed that turns heads in the NFL.
With Rashan Gary now with the Cowboys and Kingsley Enagbare joining the Jets, the Packers have some gaps to fill. Micah Parsons is also expected to miss the start of the season as he recovers from a torn ACL. This shuffle leaves Lukas Van Ness as the primary edge rusher, opening up opportunities for Sorrell to step up.
The Journey of Barryn Sorrell
Sorrell's journey to the NFL began at the University of Texas, where he played a total of 49 games over four years. He racked up 132 tackles, 15.5 sacks, and a forced fumble, showcasing his knack for disrupting offenses. His standout senior year in 2024 saw him tally 44 tackles and 6 sacks, catching the Packers' eye and earning him a fourth-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Sorrell made his NFL debut in week two against the Washington Commanders, contributing with half a sack and a tackle in a 27-18 victory. His first start came in the final week against the Vikings, where he impressed with eight tackles, a sack, and a fumble recovery despite the team's loss.
His rookie season stats included:
- 14 appearances
- 15 total tackles
- 1.5 sacks
- 1 fumble recovery
- 3 quarterback hits
Sorrell's raw talent is undeniable. The question now is whether he can translate that potential into consistent on-field performance. With the stage set for 2026, Packers fans are eager to see if Sorrell can become a defensive cornerstone.