After being picked in the first round of the 2012 by the Green Bay Packers, things went south for outside linebacker Nick Perry.
Perry had to deal with injury problems during his first two seasons, which meant he failed to meet the high expectations of a top pick.
Perry played in just six games as a rookie before a wrist injury forced him into season ending surgery. Then in year number two, Perry missed five games after suffering a foot injury against Baltimore (Oct. 13). He returned to play that season, but struggled to make any impact.
Perry is hoping to change his poor fortune in 2014. After missing all of the offseason and starting Training Camp on the P.U.P. list with foot and knee issues, Perry returned to practice for first time today (Thursday).
Just where Perry will fit into the picture this season is unclear. The signing of Julius Peppers adds to the mix and Mike Neal played well in his new OLB role last season, is returning to that spot again this year.
AUDIO: Perry is asked if he’s humbled by the experience :21
The most important thing for Perry is to stay healthy. The only way he can put his injury history behind him and start to live up to the billing of a first round pick is to be available.
Perry looks to be off to a good start. He played fast on defense during his first practice and won some battles during 1-on-1 pass rush drills.
Check out the following video. Perry is the final in the sequence of three 1-on-1 matchups and he handled starting left tackle David Bahktiari in this particular matchup.