Despite Micah Parsons' exceptional performance during his three NFL seasons, his absence from the Dallas Cowboys' practice complex has raised concerns about his potential contract negotiations. Head coach Mike McCarthy has expressed disappointment over Parsons' missed opportunity to improve, while the player's absence mirrors the contract-related standoff last season.
Micah Parsons, the Dallas Cowboys' star pass rusher and a three-time top-three Defensive Player of the Year finalist, has been notably absent from the team's practice complex during offseason workouts. This comes amidst ongoing contract negotiations and has raised concerns within the organization.
Head coach Mike McCarthy acknowledged Parsons' presence at the complex on Wednesday but suggested that he had missed a valuable opportunity to improve. "I think anytime you have a chance to be together, it's an opportunity to improve, whether it's in the mental realm, the physical realm, which is limited obviously this time of year, and the emotional connection and so forth," McCarthy said. "But, you know, it's a long year. Training camp is really the heightened focus for all of that. But, yeah, it's definitely an opportunity that's been missed."
Parsons' absence echoes a similar situation last season when he and fellow star receiver CeeDee Lamb held out of voluntary workouts while seeking new contracts. Lamb eventually signed a four-year, $75 million extension in August, but Parsons' negotiations remained unresolved.
Parsons has been one of the most dominant defensive players in the NFL since entering the league in 2021. He has recorded 13, 13½, and 14 sacks in his first three seasons, earning first-team All-Pro honors in 2021 and 2022 and second-team honors last season. He finished behind T.J. Watt for Defensive Player of the Year in 2021, Nick Bosa in 2022, and Myles Garrett and Watt in 2023.
The Cowboys are eager to retain Parsons, who is a key part of their defensive core. However, the team is also mindful of its salary cap constraints and must balance its spending wisely. Parsons' absence from practice may be a signal that he is prepared to hold out for a lucrative long-term deal.
The Cowboys have a history of rewarding their star players with big contracts. Quarterback Dak Prescott signed a four-year, $160 million extension in 2021, while cornerback Trevon Diggs signed a three-year, $40 million extension last season. It remains to be seen whether Parsons will be able to command a similar level of compensation.
The Cowboys are scheduled to open training camp in late July, and it is unclear whether Parsons will be present for the start of camp. His absence would be a significant setback for the team as it prepares for the upcoming season. The organization will hope that the two sides can come to an agreement soon and avoid a prolonged contract dispute.
