The Dallas Cowboys traded star linebacker Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers on Thursday, a move that signifies a major shift in the team’s strategy as they seek to reshape their roster. Parsons trade and acquired two future first-round draft picks plus defensive tackle Kenny Clark. This trade maximizes their future potential, even while they depart with one of their future cornerstones.
Micah Parsons, a Pro Bowl, two-time All-Pro edge rusher, has been making his mark since entering the NFL. Between his recent behavior and continued health issues, there’s become a much bigger circus going on with the Cowboys. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer was asked repeatedly about Parsons’ availability. The rookie linebacker made it to training camp but was unable to practice due to persistent tightness in his back.
The trade seems more like an owner’s strategic play than a smart football move by Cowboys owner Jerry Jones. He focused on making a change, not just for the sake of making one, but for the improvement of the team’s collective play.
“Come on, let’s change something up. Let’s do something a little different here,” – Jerry Jones
So let’s say the Cowboys have made up their mind to trade Parsons. This draft day move comes after other short sighted decisions that shocked supporters and pundits alike. Instead, Parsons was filmed chewing on nachos in the AT&T Stadium tunnel. This week leading up to the preseason finale against the Atlanta Falcons really drove home his disconnect from the team’s preparations.
Despite these issues, Schottenheimer made efforts to connect with Parsons, engaging him in team activities such as a crawfish boil and a paintball game. He personally conducted special sessions with Parsons in efforts to promote understanding and awareness. Parsons’ participation was limited. He stuck around for the first two days of the league’s optional offseason program. He failed to really participate due to recurring back problems.
“No, because I’m in communication with everybody. I mean I’m talking to the players all the time. I’m talking to ownership all the time. Stephen and Jerry and I talk all the time, Will McClay,” – Brian Schottenheimer
Jones identified Parsons’ trade as part of a broader initiative to rethink the team’s approach.
“Well, how about Brian Schottenheimer? How about loading up with some resources called cap room and draft picks?” – Jerry Jones
He told the crowd that a philosophical change is on the way. In particular, this transformation will emphasize the stabilization of blocking on the offensive line and development of a more cohesive defensive / offensive unit team environment.
With Parsons heading off to greener pastures, this would be a huge loss for the National Football League Cowboys. Of course, this creates an opportunity for him to reset his career success by thriving with another organization. The Green Bay Packers should be very happy to have him as they need all the help they can get in upgrading their defense.
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