In a surprising move, Jerry Jones, the owner of the Dallas Cowboys, expressed confidence that the team has improved following the trade of generational talent Micah Parsons to a conference rival. Jones highlighted several reasons for this optimism, including the significant cap space gained, the draft picks acquired, and the inclusion of defensive tackle Kenny Clark in the trade. The Cowboys successfully freed up $19 million in salary cap space, bringing their total to $42 million for the 2025 season, thereby creating opportunities for contract extensions for key players like cornerback DaRon Bland and left guard Tyler Smith.
“We got a lot of capital that is required to build a team,” Jones stated, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive roster in the NFL. He noted that it takes a minimum of 30 to 40 players to effectively manage both offensive and defensive duties, not accounting for special teams. “You do have to allocate your resources, whether it be draft picks or finances,” he added. Jones indicated that the decision to trade Parsons was influenced by the potential resources that could be gained, a strategy he had considered since hiring offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer.
Jones and executive vice president Stephen Jones discussed the potential of utilizing the two first-round draft picks acquired from the trade. They suggested that these picks could be used to either trade for a star player or to draft anywhere from “three to five” impactful players. Although the draft picks from the Packers are expected to fall in the 20s or 30s, Jones remains optimistic about their potential. “Those draft picks could get top, Pro Bowl-type players,” he asserted, acknowledging that while success isn’t guaranteed, the odds of acquiring high-quality players increase with more picks.
Defensive tackle Kenny Clark, a three-time Pro Bowler, is expected to address a significant weakness in the Cowboys’ run defense. Last season, the Cowboys allowed more than 100 rushing yards in 12 games, with eight of those exceeding 140 yards. As noted by Todd Archer of ESPN, the Cowboys have struggled against the run in their past three playoff losses, allowing 425 rushing yards and six touchdowns on 103 carries against the 49ers and Packers. “Kenny Clark is a big part of this,” Stephen Jones remarked, highlighting Clark’s role in improving the team’s defensive capabilities.
The Dallas Cowboys have made the playoffs three times in the past four seasons but have a disappointing 1-3 record in those games. With Parsons gone, some may question the team’s direction, yet Jerry Jones remains resolute. “In our judgment, this gives us a better chance to be a better team than we have been in the last several years,” he stated confidently. Despite a challenging 7-10 season last year, the Cowboys previously enjoyed success with 12 wins in three consecutive seasons, and Jones believes this trade could set the foundation for future success.
