On Thanksgiving Day, Micah Parsons and the Green Bay Packers took down the Detroit Lions by a score of 31-24. In the game, Parsons finished with three tackles for loss, four quarterback hits, and 2.5 sacks.
As a Penn State Football alumnus, he’s also commented on the team’s coaching search after firing head coach James Franklin earlier this season, who landed a job at Virginia Tech a few weeks ago. Here’s what Parsons had to say.
Micah Parsons Comments on Penn State Football Coaching Search
When talking to the media, Parsons sent a strong message to the Penn State administration, one that will undoubtedly catch their eyes and could play a role in their search.
Parsons said the following, “If we do find a coach, I’m with my guy Terry Smith. You know, I’ve been with him since I was 14 years old, and that’s how long he’s been there, continuing to put his faith and passion towards Penn State. If we have any common sense, if they ever want me to come back there, they better put Terry there, Imma be honest with you. That’s who I’m rooting for, my guy Terry Smith.”
Micah Parsons with a strong endorsement for Terry Smith as Penn State’s next head coach: “If we have any common sense, if they ever want me to come back, they better put Terry there. Imma be honest with you.” pic.twitter.com/YVs3420QNW
— Matt Schneidman (@mattschneidman) December 4, 2025
Terry Smith is currently the interim head coach of Penn State Football, boasting a 3-3 record. Before he became a coach, Smith played wide receiver at the school, and over four years, he recorded 108 receptions for 1,825 yards and 15 touchdowns, which led to his being drafted in the 11th round of the 1992 NFL Draft. He also played in the Canadian Football League and the Arena Football League.
He’s in his 12th year as the Nittany Lions’ defensive recruiting coordinator and cornerbacks coach, also serving in his fifth year as associate head coach. Before that, he also coached at Hempfield High School, Duquesne University, Gateway High School, and Temple University.
Penn State should hold Parsons’ statement in high regard. The threat of Parsons not returning to the school or to any games is significant, but more importantly, it speaks to the love and respect he has for Smith.
To see more of Parsons, you can catch him on Sunday when the 8-3-1 Packers take on the 9-3 Chicago Bears at 4:25 p.m. EST in an intra-divisional match-up that is sure to have playoff implications.

