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SHOCKER IN GREEN BAY: Packers Rookie Makes Heartbreaking Decision to Withdraw From Season to Care for His Mother Battling Cancer

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Green Bay, WI – Just days before final cuts, Green Bay Packers rookie running back Amar Johnson has decided to step away from the 53-man roster battle to return home and care for his seriously ill parents.

 

 

Johnson, 22, joined Green Bay as an undrafted free agent after the 2025 NFL Draft. In the preseason, he made his mark with 67 yards on 7 carries and a 39-yard touchdown run against the New York Jets—capped by his first Lambeau Leap—showing depth potential behind Josh Jacobs, Emanuel Wilson, MarShawn Lloyd, and Chris Brooks.

Head coach Matt LaFleur praised him after the game: “Amar has speed and toughness. He’s the type of player we want to build with.”

Within hours, Johnson issued a statement mirroring the heartfelt message fans have seen in other “family-first” moments around the league:

“Thank you Green Bay Packers for the incredible opportunity to chase my NFL dream. But right now, my parents—who sacrificed everything for me—are fighting illness. My father has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and my mother is recovering from breast cancer surgery. I need to be with them. The NFL is a dream, but family is my foundation. Thank you, Cheesehead Nation, and I hope to be back soon. #GoPackGo

 

 

General manager Brian Gutekunst offered support : “Amar is a young talent with a big heart. We respect his decision to put family first, and the door is always open for his return.”

Johnson’s choice doesn’t significantly disrupt the Packers’ RB depth—anchored by Jacobs and Wilson while awaiting Lloyd’s full return—but it underscores that football is more than touchdowns and tackles; it’s about human values.

On social media, fans began rallying around the hashtag #AmarStrong. If his family situation stabilizes, Johnson could pursue another NFL shot in 2026—perhaps even rejoining Green Bay’s practice squad—with his preseason tape giving him a real chance.

Tre'von Moehrig Lavishes Praise on the One Who Replaced Him in His Absence
Can you believe it? A veteran star of the Carolina Panthers, Tre'von Moehrig, was suspended for a notorious "punch below the belt," but instead of being jealous, he's showering praise on his "replacement"! What's going on with this team? Read now for the "hot off the press" details from Week 13! The Carolina Panthers just caused an earthquake by defeating the Los Angeles Rams in Week 13, despite missing a slew of key players. Under the "wizardry" of head coach Dave Canales, the team showcased incredible resilience. But the real spotlight belongs to Tre'von Moehrig – the Panthers' top safety, who's sidelined due to a suspension after punching wide receiver Jauan Jennings from the San Francisco 49ers below the belt. Yet, instead of sulking, Moehrig watched from home and... "went wild" over the performance of the rookie who stepped in for him! That's none other than Lathan Ransom, the young gun selected in the 4th round of the draft, who "stole" Moehrig's spot and turned it into his own stage. Ransom not only led the team with 11 tackles but also made his mark with a "top-notch" sack! Moehrig, with his wealth of experience, couldn't hide his excitement: "Man, I was hype (for Lathan Ransom's sack). I could see it all as the play was happening. I was like, Oh, there you go. I could see it all the way. So I was happy for him to get his first sack. He had a great game, and I'm just excited. Sky's the limit for him." (Translation: "Oh man, I was so hyped (for Lathan Ransom's sack). I could see everything as the play unfolded. I was like, Oh, there you go. I saw it all the way. So I was happy for him to get his first sack. He had a great game, and I'm just excited. The sky's the limit for him." This "sweet as honey" praise from Moehrig not only affirms Ransom's talent but also raises the question: Is this "replacement" threatening the starting positions of Moehrig and Nick Scott – the current starting safety duo? Panthers fans have been "whispering" about this for a while, after witnessing Ransom shine in summer practices and his flashy cameo appearances. With this impressive performance, Ransom is sure to get more opportunities, especially as the Panthers are "heating up" in the race for the NFC South championship! At 23 years old, Ransom is seen as a "rough diamond" with explosive potential, thanks to the Panthers' sharp personnel strategy. And Moehrig? This guy was signed as a "bargain" from the free agent market, and his leadership and positive attitude have completely transformed the team's defense in just his first season. That influence is spreading strongly to Ransom – the kid who shares many similarities and is gradually "transforming" into a future star. But that's not all – the lesson from Moehrig is accelerating the "youth revolution" at the Panthers! With this public praise, Moehrig isn't just acknowledging Ransom's growth but also igniting ambition for the entire team. Will the Panthers continue to "soar high" with this new generation? Don't miss out – follow now for the next drama in the NFL!