As the Super Bowl season comes to a close, the Dallas Cowboys are making headlines once again. No matter the time of year, the team consistently finds itself in the spotlight of sports media coverage for good or bad reasons. This time, the situation might not be favorable.
Less than a week ago, Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network reported that the Cowboys have had internal discussions regarding Micah Parsons. Recognized as one of the NFL's top defensive players, Parsons is expected to sign a lucrative contract extension this offseason. Although the Cowboys aim for a long-term commitment with Parsons, rumors have swarmed that they might go in a different direction.
The former Penn State Nittany Lion is expected to earn over $22 million on his fifth-year option in 2025. Typically, players eligible for a fifth-year option tend to sign long-term deals before taking effect. Additionally, Parsons is projected to enter unrestricted free agency in 2026. According to pSpotrac, Parsons' contract value is nearly over $30, which puts him in the Nick Bosa range in annual salary. The San Francisco 49ers superstar currently makes $34 million per season.
The market for Cowboys star Micah Parsons could be enormous
Statistically, Parsons has achieved 53 sacks over four seasons, reaching double digits each year, with three All-Pro selections and four Pro Bowl appearances. Most of all, his play, personality, and demeanor are perfect for any big-market organization.
If the Cowboys were to flirt with the idea of sending Parsons packing, securing a significant return could impact their team's future. Heck, it might even give the Cowboys' 1988 Hershel Walker trade a run for its money in terms of the value Dallas could get in return for Micah.
Many would argue that the trade value for Parsons could mirror or exceed the value of Myles Garrett and Maxx Crosby, both of whom are even further intertwined in the NFL trade rumor mill. At just 25 years old, the best is yet to come for Parsons and most teams could be willing to throw the kitchen sink at the Cowboys in exchange for the star linebacker.
It is well known that Dallas must address their lack of depth at wide receiver and running back in one way or another. Judging by the new coaching staff, strengthening the offensive line could also be a focus as the months progress. With a clear vision of their needs, they could quickly find a trade partner. Any team would jump at the chance to acquire a player of Parsons' stature.
The Cowboys add more speed on offense from an AFC powerhouse
Another NFL franchise that could be willing to make a deal during their short Super Bowl window is the Baltimore Ravens. Given their current situation, they could be the best trade partner for the Cowboys.
The Ravens continue to struggle in the playoffs despite having one of the top rosters in the league. Adding a player like Parsons to their defensive line could help them secure crucial defensive stops in late-game situations. On the other hand, Dallas could acquire the dynamic Zay Flowers, who recently had his first Pro Bowl season and recorded 1,000 receiving yards.
Parsons-Ravens
With Flowers, additional draft capital, and improved depth on the offensive line, the Cowboys could finally gain the momentum they need to contend for the playoffs. In the worst-case scenario, Dallas’ passing attack would still be among the best in the NFL.
Cowboys steal Jayden Reed from Packers' crowded offense
This deal resembles the one made by the Ravens, as the Cowboys acquire another young and speedy receiver to complement CeeDee Lamb. Specifically, Jayden Reed mirrors Lamb with his reliable hands and ability to handle many receptions each season. The combination of Lamb and Reed could become the most formidable duo in the NFC. Safety Javon Bullard is a young hard-hitter and could bring depth to a team that is expected to lose a handful of defensive backs before the new season begins.
Parsons-Packers
Additionally, the extra draft capital provides new head coach Brian Schottenheimer with more resources to work with for the future, especially if he is retained long-term.
For the Packers, parting ways with Reed seems like a questionable decision. Rumors suggest, however, that a veteran receiver like Davante Adams could join the team soon. This could make it easier for the Packers to let Reed go. All-Pro running back Josh Jacobs has been vocal lately, encouraging Green Bay to do whatever it takes to secure a solidified receiver. Is this a slight jab towards Reed and his capabilities? It could be and as a result, Dallas could take advantage of this potential bombshell and give Prescott an elite 1-2 receiving punch with Reed and Lamb.
On the other hand, Parsons fits perfectly into the Packers' defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley's preferred style of hard-nosed defense. The fan base of Cheeseheads is large enough to support a player of Parsons' stature, and the media coverage in Green Bay is something he would thrive under. Transitioning from one storied franchise to another makes perfect sense for everyone involved.
Looking Ahead
During his popular podcast, Parsons repeatedly stated that his main goal is to win games. Parsons even let it be known that he would be willing to accept a smaller deal to make cap space for the team to sign further talent. While this sentiment is commendable and portrays humility, it is important to note that every star player ultimately wants to maximize their earnings. So, while his statement sounds nice, you can be sure that he would strive for the highest possible contract when it comes down to it.
If Parsons receives a long-term deal with the Cowboys, the team will have significant funds committed to three key players: Dak Prescott, Lamb, and Parsons. These three seem like they are the trio the Cowboys want to build around. Although, with the quiet discussions about possible trading Parsons has come out to the media, this shows that Jones could be trying to bring back the "all-in" motto that failed him in 2024.
Could Jones turn back the clock and make a blockbuster deal to improve a struggling Cowboys team? Chances are, this is just another outlandish report about the team. In a few months, we might see headlines about Parsons re-signing that would make these reports seem like mere drama for the Cowboys.
But hey, it would not feel right without some Dallas Cowboys shenanigans going around.
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