Micah Parsons is in line for a massive payday, but the Dallas Cowboys star isn’t stressing over when it will happen. Extension talks have stalled, but the three-time Pro Bowler and two-time First-Team All-Pro isn’t sweating it.
“One day,” Parsons said at a mandatory minicamp on June 4. “Time will tell. I can’t really put a timetable on mine. All I gotta do is keep getting sacks and that stuff will handle itself.”
Parsons has excelled at piling up sacks and highlight plays, amassing 40.5 sacks in three years. With the market for top defenders rising, waiting might actually benefit him. The Cowboys aren’t in a rush either. Parsons is under contract through 2025, and the team picked up his fifth-year option, costing $21.324 million. By designating him as a defensive end rather than a linebacker, the Cowboys saved around $3 million.
Explaining His OTA Absence
Parsons skipped OTAs earlier this offseason but attended mandatory minicamp. He cited former Defensive Player of the Year Aaron Donald as an inspiration for managing his offseason differently.
“You know, I think the more years you have, the more you understand that there’s also like the business side to it,” Parsons told NFL Network’s Jane Slater. “There was a time where Aaron Donald didn’t even go to camp and he won Defensive Player of the Year and then went to the playoffs. Are we forgetting these times? I’m just letting my body heal. I’m just trying to grow, strengthen, and really just get ready for the year.”
With defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer taking over, the Cowboys are easing into a new scheme. Zimmer replaces Dan Quinn, who is now the Washington Commanders’ head coach.
Advocating for CeeDee Lamb
While content with his contract situation, Parsons didn’t hesitate to advocate for star receiver CeeDee Lamb, who missed the mandatory minicamp.
“CeeDee is about to hit the Brink’s truck,” Parsons said. “He is about to get his. I can’t think of someone more deserving. I think CeeDee is the best receiver in the league if you ever want to argue the top three. Seeing his mindset and how he comes in every day, I think he deserves every penny.”
Lamb set team records with 135 catches and 1,749 yards last season. Parsons believes Lamb’s contract should surpass Minnesota Vikings receiver Justin Jefferson’s recent four-year, $140 million extension.
“If I’m his agent, CeeDee is getting about $36 million per year,” Parsons stated. “Numbers aside, I think you could argue CeeDee is better [than Jefferson]. CeeDee should be right there with him.”
The Cowboys also face a decision on quarterback Dak Prescott, who is entering the final year of his contract.
