Patience has finally paid off for the Packers and Ty’ron Hopper.

The former 2024 3rd round pick from Missouri has made an impact on the Packers defense as the defense battles a few injuries.

Obviously, we all know that Edgerrin Cooper was a big loss for the defense.

But perhaps the loss of Zaire Franklin gave Hopper the opportunity to show what he can do on the field.

Hopper was primarily play special teams before receiving the opportunity to play with the first team defense.

In two seasons with the Packers, Hopper had 27 total tackles, a sack and two interceptions in seven games.

But the Packers next man up mentality has really been the story so far of the 2026 Packers.

Last weeks game against Carolina proved that as the defense was without their two starting middle Linebackers.

Hopper Shines against the Panthers

Ty’ron Hopper had probably his best game as a Packer.

He recorded 8 tackles, good for third on the team behind Evan Williams and fellow lineback Isaiah McDuffie.

Perhaps the biggest play from Hopper who forced a turnover in the 2nd quarter.

That set up the Packers in prime field position and helped them go up 10 point going into halftime.

Additionally Hopper had three pass break ups.

This made him the first Green Bay linebacker since 2000 to post three-plus passes defensed, a sack and a pick in a single game.

Following the game Hopper received the game ball from Head Coach Matt LeFleur to recognize his perfomance.

“This guy, the road that you’ve gone through, to get to where you are now, that’s a credit to you,” LaFleur said after the game.

His teammates seem to agree as well with LaFleur.

“He never got that shot coming in and for him to step up to the plate and do what he’s doing is big for our defense.” said Evan Williams.

Conclusion

Ty’ron Hooper performance against the Panthers, may have earned him some playing time.

Whether that is taking McDuffies spot or if he’ll see time along side Franklin, Hopper deserves some playing time.

His performance against the Panthers has built up his confidence as we’ve seen him on the field more.

If he can keep improving with more playing time and opportunities, the Packers might have a bring future at inside linebacker with Edgerrin Cooper and Ty’ron Hopper.