Packers LB Nick Niemann answered the call after Ty’Ron Hopper’s illness, stepping into a key defensive role vs. the Patriots

Nick Niemann did not need long notice to contribute for the Packers when Ty’Ron Hopper’s illness forced a rapid reshuffle. Green Bay began preparing for the Minnesota Vikings with the same question answered in the previous week’s game: the special-teams standout could step into a larger linebacker role on short notice.

Niemann had been limited earlier in the season at linebacker, playing just two defensive snaps through the first eight games while the Packers used deep depth at the position. But in Week 9 against the New England Patriots, the circumstances changed quickly.

The Packers were already missing Edgerrin Cooper (season-ending Achilles tear) and Zaire Franklin (shin injury). Then, in Foxborough, Hopper reported chest issues during pregame warmups, tried to go, and exited after two snaps. Niemann stepped in alongside veteran Isaiah McDuffie for a matchup that the Packers described as one of the biggest of the season to date.

Niemann’s workload in that game reflected how fully he was trusted. He played 59 defensive snaps, recorded six tackles and a pass breakup, and also made a tackle on 25 additional special-teams snaps. He also took over the communication headset from McDuffie for brief moments while McDuffie was checked out on the sideline and then returned to action.

Special teams coordinator Cam Achord gave Niemann an option to scale back responsibilities in the third phase, but Niemann declined, describing the moment as owning his role. Afterward, head coach Matt LaFleur awarded him a game ball. Defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon later credited Niemann’s readiness to play a full game and handle fourth-down responsibilities despite limited week-to-week reps.

Beyond that Week 9 performance, Niemann’s role on punt protection remained central. Green Bay emphasized that he serves as the personal protector for punter Daniel Whelan, including communication responsibilities that Achord described as akin to being the “quarterback” on the punt team. The Packers also noted Niemann re-signed in the offseason after an injury ended his 2025 season early.