OXNARD, Calif. — Micah Parsons, the standout linebacker for the Dallas Cowboys, has been a key figure throughout the team's 25-day training camp in California. Despite his significant role, Parsons has only addressed reporters once, following the first practice. Since then, he has maintained a low profile, particularly after posting a trade request on social media. This trend continued on Wednesday during the Cowboys' penultimate practice in California, where Parsons, when approached by reporters, simply stated, “My mouth’s closed.”
Following Parsons, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones took a moment to speak with the media, but there were no updates regarding ongoing contract negotiations with Parsons or his agent, David Mulugheta. When asked if discussions would resume upon the team's return to Dallas, Jones replied, “I don’t know that necessarily talks will,” adding, “but we got a game coming and he’s under contract.” With the Cowboys set to kick off their season in just 22 days with a Thursday night showdown in Philadelphia, the urgency for a resolution is palpable.
As Parsons enters the fifth year of his rookie contract, Jones expressed confidence in the star pass rusher's presence on the field. “You don’t have deadlines when you’re playing under a contract,” he remarked. Throughout training camp, Parsons has been a consistent participant, attending nearly all practices, missing just two out of 15 due to back treatment. When present, however, he has often been seen standing off to the side, leading to questions about his engagement.
Cowboys offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer has praised Parsons for being “really good” in team meetings and “very engaged” during off-field activities. Yet, the question remains: what is preventing Jones from initiating contract discussions with Parsons and his agent? Jones responded, “nothing,” but when pressed further, he remarked, “We might or might not talk. The rest of that gets into what we do every day.”
With four impressive seasons under his belt, Parsons is emerging as a contender for the title of the NFL’s highest-paid non-quarterback. Acknowledging Parsons’ exceptional talent, Jones previously made a contract extension offer back in March, which both sides tentatively agreed upon. The hurdle seems to be that Parsons wanted Jones to finalize the deal with Mulugheta, a step that has yet to occur. As each day passes without resolution, the likelihood grows that Parsons may indeed play out the final year of his rookie deal.
Looking ahead, the Cowboys may seek to re-sign Parsons in the offseason or consider using the franchise tag. “All you got to go on are contracts,” Jones stated. “We are negotiating for a contract. When you do a contract, you would hope that after a negotiation, that’s what both the team and player look to see what our obligations are. I have a lot of respect for a contract.” The future remains uncertain, but the Cowboys are keenly aware of the stakes involved with their talented linebacker.
