ReNFL training camp is usually the time when rosters begin to gel and teams prepare collectively for the season ahead. But in the NFC East, that typical narrative has taken a backseat for the Dallas Cowboys and Washington Commanders, who are each dealing with major off-field distractions: trade demands from two of their top players.
Both Cowboys’ edge rusher Micah Parsons and Commanders’ wide receiver Terry McLaurin have requested trades during camp. At first glance, the situations appear alike—each player is heading into the final year of their contract, both want more guaranteed money, and both are leveraging their importance to the team. However, beneath the surface, their demands stem from different circumstances.
Parsons Wants to Reset the Market or Be Moved
At 26, Micah Parsons is aiming to become the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. In a public statement, Parsons explained he initially approached the Cowboys for an extension after his third season, but the front office preferred to wait. That delay gave Parsons more time to build an elite résumé—one that now justifies a historic payday.
Statistically, Parsons has been a force of nature. He’s the first player in NFL history to record 12+ sacks in each of his first four seasons since sacks became an official stat in 1982. He shares the league lead in total quarterback pressures (330) since 2021 and ranks first in pressure rate (20.3%) among players with at least 1,000 pass rushes during that time.
His impact goes beyond stats: Dallas’ defense performs at an elite level with him on the field, and plummets when he’s absent. The Cowboys’ defensive expected points added (EPA) per play is the best in the NFL since 2021 when Parsons plays, and the worst when he doesn’t, according to CBS Sports Research.
The timing of his request also coincides with a rapidly escalating market. Other edge rushers like Maxx Crosby have recently raised the ceiling for pass rush salaries. Parsons, in his prime and arguably more productive than those older players, believes he’s worth even more. As he put it: “It’s not just about the money—it’s about your true value.”
Dallas essentially has two long-term choices: pay him at the top of the market or trade him. Using the franchise tag multiple times isn’t sustainable for their salary cap. If they were to seriously consider moving him, teams would flood Jerry Jones with calls instantly.
McLaurin’s Situation Is About Security, Not Resetting the Market
Terry McLaurin’s trade demand has different motivations. While Parsons’ prime years are just beginning, McLaurin, about to turn 30, is likely looking at his last major contract opportunity. He’s entering the final season of a three-year, $68.4 million extension and coming off a career year in 2024, setting a franchise record with 13 touchdown receptions.
His performance helped lead Washington to the NFC Championship game and brought long-awaited quarterback stability in the form of 2024 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, Jayden Daniels. After years of quarterback uncertainty, McLaurin flourished with Daniels, forming an elite connection Washington hadn’t seen in years.
Still, age is a looming factor. NFL data shows most wide receivers see a significant decline after age 30. McLaurin knows the clock is ticking, especially after watching other receivers like DK Metcalf land a four-year, $132 million extension after a trade to Pittsburgh. McLaurin had a better 2024 season than Metcalf, and he wants that reflected in a new deal.
What gives McLaurin leverage is not just his production, but how vital he is to Daniels’ growth. Without him, the offense would lack a reliable No. 1 option. In 2024, McLaurin joined a rare group of receivers to post a 70% catch rate with 1,000+ yards and 13+ TDs in a season. His absence would risk stunting Daniels’ progress.
While McLaurin’s trade request is legitimate, it’s more of a calculated move to secure an extension. He’s not necessarily seeking a way out—he wants to continue catching passes from Daniels but with long-term financial assurance.
The Key Differences
- Age and Timeline: Parsons is 26 and entering his physical prime; McLaurin is nearly 30, trying to cash in before decline sets in.
- Market Objective: Parsons wants to reset the non-QB market; McLaurin wants one final extension to ride into his early 30s.
- Team Fit: Parsons is a defensive cornerstone no matter where he plays; McLaurin’s value is amplified by his rapport with a young QB still learning the pro game.
- Risk Level: Losing Parsons would instantly downgrade Dallas’ entire defense; Washington losing McLaurin could derail Daniels’ development.
Both players are using trade demands to push for new deals, but their motivations and contexts couldn’t be more different
