Micah Parsons, the Dallas Cowboys' star pass rusher, is aiming to remain with the team for the entirety of his career. In real time, he’s in the last year of that initial, rookie contract of his. So, understandably, discussions about what lies ahead for him in Dallas have gone nuclear recently. If a franchise tag were to be utilized, the team would have control over Parsons through at least the 2028 season. Both sides are negotiating a long-term extension that would make him a foundation piece for the team.
Parsons’ agent is going to try and get him paid as the highest-paid defensive player in the league. This demand underscores Parsons’ vital importance to the Cowboys. Parsons failed to intercept a single pass last season, but in his first two seasons, he put up numbers that would make him a household name. He proved it by intercepting 14 passes over that span. He’s been in the last two Pro Bowls and made it as a second-team All-Pro in 2023. Beyond his history making accomplishments, this is evidence of his incredible value on the field.
The Cowboys see Parsons as that kind of foundational player, especially after the recent retirement of longtime star guard Zack Martin. He was hugely instrumental in helping to build a perennially strong offensive line. His impact would be similar to that of recent linemen mainstays Tyron Smith, Travis Frederick and yes, even Martin himself. Parsons’ team is concerned that Parsons goes into the last year of his rookie deal. This worry underlies their desire to get him signed to a long-term deal as soon as possible.
An extension for Parsons would further entrench him as a primary player on the roster. It would reduce his salary cap hit for the Cowboys, thereby providing the team with additional salary cap relief. This strategic and unprecedented move will allow them to build a much more competitive team around him. It provides important continuity and stability in their generally older defensive unit.
Parsons' role as a pass rusher makes him an essential asset for the Cowboys' defense. His disruptive presence has singled him out during his career and garnered him major awards and honors. The Cowboys want to get him signed to a long-term deal as soon as possible. They all understand his ability to guide and motivate the team long-term.
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