The Dallas Cowboys enjoyed a strong performance on Sunday, December 15, with star pass rusher Micah Parsons leading the team to a decisive victory over the Carolina Panthers. However, as the 2024 regular season winds down, several important issues remain unresolved for the franchise. While questions about quarterback Dak Prescott’s health and head coach Mike McCarthy’s future are significant, one of the most intriguing concerns involves the trade rumors surrounding Parsons. The standout linebacker is in the final year of his rookie contract and will likely seek a new deal either through an extension with Dallas or by testing free agency in March 2025.
Given that the Cowboys can’t afford to let Parsons walk without compensation, they face a critical decision: either offer him the substantial contract he deserves or consider trading him for a strong return before he becomes a free agent. On December 15, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport shed light on new developments in the trade speculation, reporting a conversation with Cowboys executive Stephen Jones earlier in the week. Jones mentioned that the team may rethink its approach to paying top-tier players in the offseason, particularly after several key players like Prescott have struggled with injuries. When asked about Parsons, Jones didn’t completely dismiss the possibility of a trade but noted, “We’re fully committed to CeeDee Lamb and Dak Prescott. Beyond that, we’ll assess everything, including Micah. He’s a great player, and you don’t succeed in this league by letting great players go.”
Dallas has another option to manage the Parsons situation: the franchise tag. This would extend his contract by one year but would come with a significant salary increase for the 2025 season. However, the tag wouldn’t resolve the long-term issue, as the Cowboys would still need to make a decision on Parsons’ future before the 2026 season. Currently, Parsons has posted 61 QB pressures, 39 QB hurries, and 10 sacks in 11 games during the 2024 season.
