He was named both 4-A lineman and Wyoming Athlete of the Year as a senior while leading the team to a 9–1 record and a 4-A state title.

He finished third on the team in tackles with 79 (35 solo), also accumulating six sacks and one forced fumble, and for the third time in his career was selected for first-team All-MWC honors.

Green Bay's coaching staff was impressed by Poppinga's high motor and relentlessness on every play.

Though the play resulted in an Atlanta touchdown, Poppinga displayed his range and quickness by nearly running down superstar quarterback Michael Vick on a one-yard scramble into the end-zone.

The fact that Poppinga had begun the play at the left side of the formation displayed his unrelenting attitude and sharp instincts.

In August 2006 packers' linebackers coach Winston Moss said "I'll bet he sleeps with his eyes open,", referring to Poppinga's endless energy.

Though some athletes who suffer this particular injury never regain their former speed or mobility, doctors who performed surgery on Poppinga and those working on his rehabilitation were optimistic about his chances for a full recovery.

Poppinga won a starting job despite limited action in training camp due to his continuing rehabilitation from injury in 2006.

Poppinga currently works as an NFL sideline reporter and analyst for Fox Deportes, utilizing his fluency in Spanish.

On February 15, 2008, Poppinga appeared with Senator Barack Obama in support of his presidential campaign in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

On August 31, 2023, Poppinga's 17-year-old son Julius died from a severe asthma attack a week prior.

[9] Poppinga was the Packers' 2007 nominee, and one of 32 finalists, for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award, honoring contributions for both humanitarianism and performance on the field.

Poppinga has supported the Boy Scouts of America by way of a public service announcement, for which he recorded both an English and Spanish version.

In the same way, he has lent his support to the American Family Insurance Military Cap Campaign[10] by shooting various promos.

Poppinga also recorded an intro for one of the units included in the Green Bay Packers Fit Kids program.

He donated hundreds of dollars worth of new toys to a local nursery, as well as autographed items to an event that benefited the memorial of a fallen Green Bay Fire Fighter.