The Dallas Cowboys and star edge rusher are reportedly having difficulty reaching an agreement on a new contract. Selected in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft out of Penn State, he quickly established himself as one of the NFL’s top all-around players and brightest stars. Over four impressive seasons, he has amassed 52.5 sacks, 256 tackles, 112 quarterback hits, four Pro Bowl selections, and two First-Team All-Pro honors. As an elite talent at a crucial position, he is expected to land a massive payday when a deal is eventually finalized.
However, that agreement may not happen anytime soon. According to WFAA’s Ed Werder, the Cowboys and Parsons remain far apart in contract negotiations, with his market value only expected to increase over time. Despite being the NFL’s most valuable franchise, Dallas has shown a tendency to be cautious when extending its own stars, previously delaying deals for Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb. With limited salary cap space, could the Cowboys consider trading Parsons if a long-term extension remains out of reach?
Could Dallas Cowboys Trade Micah Parsons Following Stalled Contract Talks?
Edge rushers come at a premium, and the price to keep an elite one has surged recently. With massive deals signed by Maxx Crosby, Myles Garrett, and Danielle Hunter, Micah Parsons’ next contract could surpass $40 million per year. That’s an eye-popping figure, especially considering Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb have already landed market-setting contracts. The big question is whether the Cowboys can afford to keep all three stars while maintaining a competitive roster.
If Jerry Jones believes the answer is “no,” it wouldn’t be shocking to see the Cowboys explore trade options for Parsons. Every team in the league would love to have a player of his caliber, but a few destinations stand out as ideal fits.
Potential Trade Destinations
New England Patriots
The Patriots have invested heavily in their defense, but fixing one of the least talented rosters in football requires more than just free agency. Despite adding Milton Williams and Harold Landry, the team could still use a premier pass rusher. With a franchise quarterback on a rookie deal, New England has the flexibility to trade for Parsons and offer him a lucrative contract. Pairing Parsons with Williams would create a dominant pass-rushing duo, while Landry and Keion White would add valuable depth to a fearsome front four.
Carolina Panthers
Bryce Young’s late-season surge gave the Panthers hope for the future, but now it’s time to bolster the defense to help him lead the team to the playoffs. General Manager Dan Morgan has strengthened the interior defensive line, but the team still needs an elite edge rusher. Parsons would be a significant upgrade over the departed Brian Burns, and his addition, combined with an improved secondary, could give the Panthers the defensive strength needed to win a weak NFC South.
Los Angeles Chargers
Head coach Jim Harbaugh values winning in the trenches, and with Joey Bosa now in Buffalo after a disappointing 2024, the Chargers need a difference-maker on the edge. Khalil Mack remains a key piece, but pairing him with Parsons would provide the firepower needed to challenge the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC West. With $42.3 million in cap space, Los Angeles could afford Parsons’ massive contract without sacrificing the ability to build a competitive roster.